Argentina is a spectacular hiking destination for a variety of reasons. Its large size and varied topography mean that you have loads of options: mountains, glaciers, lakes, volcanoes, and beyond.
You can hike in Argentina year-round and it’s easy to combine popular activities, such as wine-tasting in Mendoza or skiing in Bariloche, with a day hike or multi-day trek. While Patagonia may be the most popular hiking destination, don’t miss out on the north of the country or Tierra del Fuego National Park, less popular but equally stunning.
We’ve compiled some of the most popular hikes in Argentina below. No matter what skill level you are, you’re guaranteed to find an incredible trail to explore!
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Contents
Best Hikes in Argentina
1. Perito Moreno Glacier Hike, Patagonia
- Duration: 2-4 hours
- Best time to go: Year-round
- Difficulty level: Easy
- Starting point: Parque Nacional Los Glaciares
If you’ve ever dreamed of being an arctic explorer (or a polar bear), walking on a glacier is the ultimate experience. The Perito Moreno Glacier is one of the most breathtaking and accessible glaciers in the world, and its wide, flat surface makes it ideal for trekking at a variety of activity levels.
When you enter the park, make your way down to the boat docks. The boat takes you across the lake to the glacier, and you’re given crampons and pickaxes for your hike. This is always done with a guide, and safety precautions are definitely taken into account.
You have a few options for trekking here. Most people go for a ‘mini-trek’ that lasts about 1.5 hours, but you can also opt for a 3.5-hour option. Be sure to layer up, even in summer, as the weather can be very fickle.
Lastly, note that basically everything in and around Perito Moreno is quite pricey. If this is a bucket list item for you, be sure to budget accordingly, including the price of transportation to the park, entry fees, the boat ride, and the guided trek. Investigating different combination prices is always a good idea too.
Also read: Visiting Perito Moreno Glacier on an ‘alternative tour’.
2. Laguna de los Tres, Patagonia
- Duration: 20-24 km out-and-back, 1-2 days
- Best time to go: October to April
- Difficulty level: Moderate
- Starting point: El Chaltén
El Chaltén is known as the ‘trekking capital of Argentina’ for good reason – many of the most popular hikes in Patagonia start here.
One of the most popular day hikes in the area is the Laguna de los Tres hike. It starts in El Chaltén, winding through beautiful forests, meadows, and viewpoints. Don’t miss the beautiful viewpoint of Mount Fitz Roy, about four kilometers in! This hike is a great alternative for those who don’t have the time or inclination to do the full Fitz Roy trek but still want stunning views of its peaks.
While this trek is overall fairly moderate and doable in one day, note that the final summit to the laguna can be a bit challenging, with some rock scramble and uneven terrain. Be sure to pack a lunch and bring lots of snacks and water.
If you prefer to split the hike over two days, or tack on another hike like Lagunas Madre e Hija, consider stopping at Poincenot campground, located about eight kilometers in.
Also read: Suggested Patagonia Itinerary.
3. Mount Fitz Roy Trek, Patagonia
- Duration: 30 km, 1-3 days
- Best time to go: October to April
- Difficulty level: Easy to Moderate
- Starting point: El Chaltén
The emblem of the Patagonia region (and the clothing brand), the ascent to Mount Fitz Roy is one of the most popular treks in the world. Covering about 30 kilometers total, it’s doable to do the trek in one day if you start really early, but it can be more enjoyable to budget 2-3 days for this hike so you can add on other trails in the area.
There are a variety of spectacular lagoons as well, including Laguna Madre, Laguna Hija, and Laguna Nieta. Many people also choose to combine Laguna de los Tres (above) with Fitz Roy for a 3-4 day trek, or you can hike via Laguna Torre for a 1-2 day option.
Remember that the weather can be extremely unpredictable here – this is often the biggest risk of the hike. Otherwise, it is considered fairly easy: there are no huge elevation jumps, the trail is mostly relatively flat, and there are lots of ranger stations, making it doable self-guided.
4. Refugio Frey, Parque Nacional Nahuel Huapi, Lake District
- Duration: 12 km one-way, 2 days
- Best time to go: October to April
- Difficulty level: Moderate
- Starting point: Bariloche
Bariloche is known for its skiing and chocolate, but it is also home to one of Argentina’s most popular hikes: Refugio Frey. While a ski lift can get you up there, it is an amazing hiking destination in its own right.
You have two options here: the faster, but more challenging ‘ridge’ ascent requires some bouldering knowledge, which is not for everyone. The more popular route is longer but meanders through beautiful forests with cute wooden bridges and lots of opportunities to stop for photos at various viewpoints.
If you want to stay overnight, make sure to book in advance, as it gets quite busy. You can also camp nearby free of charge, and pay to use their bathroom facilities.
5. Paso de Las Nubes, Parque Nacional Nahuel Huapi, Lake District
- Duration: 23 km, 2 days
- Best time to go: October to April
- Difficulty level: Moderate
- Starting point: Bariloche
A less popular (but equally stunning) option in the Lake District is the Paso de las Nubes, which covers a lot of ground in the area, including Pampa Linda, Laguna Frias, and Puerto Blest.
If you want to stay another day, you can also add on a trek to Castaño Overo Glacier. You’ll be able to see (and hear!) Mount Tronador from a variety of viewpoints, straddling the border between Argentina and Chile.
Note that there are stricter forest fire regulations in this area, so you’ll only be able to camp in two places: the Agostino Rocca Hut or Pampa Linda area. To get back to Bariloche at the end of your trek, you can take a boat from Puerto Frias.
6. Cascadas Del Río Colorado, Cafayate
- Duration: 11 km, 1 day
- Best time to go: Year-round
- Difficulty level: Moderate
- Starting point: Cafayate
Along this rugged terrain, there are lush forests, beautiful vistas, and almost a dozen waterfalls, including the eponymous Cascada Del Río Colorado, for which the hike is named.
The red rocks are unusual and the desert-like landscape is quite a departure from other hiking spots in Argentina, perfect for those seeking a bit of variety. Note that this hike is a bit more challenging than it looks. It is very exposed, so be sure to pack a hat and lots of water.
While overall well-marked, sometimes you can lose the trail, so while it’s possible to do self-guided, some folks may feel more comfortable hiking with a guide. There are many touts offering guided hikes at the entrance to the hike, but it may be wise to book a guide in advance.
7. Paseo Superior or Paseo Inferior, Iguazú Falls
- Duration: 1 day
- Best time to go: Year-round
- Difficulty level: Easy
- Starting point: Argentine side of Iguazú Falls
Iguazú Falls is without a doubt one of the coolest things to see in South America. You may not know that there are several hiking options in the area as well.
The two most popular options are the Paseo Superior and the Paseo Inferior, which offer stunning views from above and below, respectively. Both take about 1-2 hours to complete and are very easy, with wide boardwalks and lots of signage. They are also largely (but not completely) wheelchair accessible.
The Paseo Superior treks through the forest, offering an amazing view of the Garganta del Diablo. The Paseo Inferior stops at 8 viewpoints with varied views of the falls from below. While Iguazú isn’t an off-the-beaten-path destination by any means, it is still absolutely worth a visit.
8. Cerro de los Siete Colores, Quebrada de Humahuaca, Jujuy Province
- Duration: 3 km
- Best time to go: Year-round, but shoulder season is best
- Difficulty level: Easy (if adjusted to altitude!)
- Starting point: Purmamarca
Located way up in the northwest near the border with Bolivia is the high-altitude, almost other-worldly Humahuaca area. Designated as a UNESCO World Heritage site in 2003 for its splendid colored hills, it’s a fantastic hiking area with several trail options.
The easy, out-and-back trail to the Cerro de los Siete Colores (or 7-Colored Hill) has consistently stunning views, and it’s a particularly special treat to visit at sunrise or sunset.
While this trail is quite easy, keep in mind that the area sits at about 2300 m above sea level, which is a fairly high altitude. Make sure you’re not pushing yourself too much before you’ve acclimated, as you can get quite ill. Although some travelers choose to take altitude sickness medication, it is not usually needed if you allow yourself time to get used to the altitude.
9. Cerro Aconcagua, near Mendoza
- Duration: 13-15 days
- Best time to go: November to March
- Difficulty level: Extremely hard
- Starting point: Mendoza
Mount Aconcagua has the honor of being the highest peak in the Americas and one of the ‘7 Summits’. These seven mountains are a group of the highest mountains on each of the seven continents.
While reaching the top of the ‘roof of the Americas’ is one of the world’s most sought-after hiking experiences, this hike is not for first-time trekkers. While you don’t need technical hiking experience per se, the combination of uneven terrain, high altitude, and volatile weather makes this a very challenging hike.
It’s definitely recommended that you go with a guide, and give your body lots of time to acclimatize to the altitude, even if you’ve hiked in high altitudes before.
10. Cerro Guanaco, Parque Nacional Tierra del Fuego, near Ushuaia
- Duration: 9 km, 1 day
- Best time to go: October to March
- Difficulty level: Moderate, challenging in some parts
- Starting point: Ushuaia
Parque Nacional Tierra del Fuego is known for its beguiling landscape of forests, bogs, and vast tundra, but also as a premier place to see all sorts of beautiful birds. It has a wide variety of hiking trails available for day trekkers, including a 3-km trek to the Chilean border and an 8-km flat trail along Senda Costera, with beautiful water views.
Arguably most popular is the 9-km hike up Cerro Guanaco, whose summit offers panoramic views of the Andes and Lago Roca. It can be challenging, but the summit is jaw-dropping and absolutely worth the steep hike.
It’s recommended to wear waterproof shoes with good tread, as the peat bog area gets very muddy and the final ascent is very steep and uneven.
11. Martial Glacier, Ushuaia
- Duration: 1 day
- Best time to go: October to April
- Difficulty level: Easy to moderate
- Starting point: Ushuaia
If you’d rather stay in Ushuaia proper, never fear! There is still a really neat hike within city limits for you to enjoy.
The trail begins in the center of town and ascends to the top of the Martial Glacier, Ushuaia’s main source of drinking water. This works out to be a nice, half-day hike.
Keep in mind that while it’s relatively rocky in the summer, in the other three seasons it can be snowy – so make sure your shoes are waterproof and warm. When you reach the top, you’ll have splendid views of the Beagle Channel.
Hiking in Argentina FAQs
What’s the best time of year to go hiking in Argentina?
Argentina is a huge country, so the weather will vary quite a bit depending on where you are.
Remember that the two sides of the Equator have opposite seasons, so summertime in Argentina is December to February. This time of year is extremely popular (and can get quite hot!) so many people may prefer the shoulder seasons bracketing these months.
While winter hiking is possible in many places (and beautiful), it won’t be possible everywhere – while you can hike some areas, like Perito Moreno, year-round, be sure to double-check while you’re planning.
How safe is hiking in Argentina?
Hiking is overall very safe, especially on the more popular trails. Signage is high-quality and frequent, and trails are well-maintained with at least one ranger station available. Of course, the more remote areas may be less well-marked, and you should always do your research beforehand to see if it’s best to hire a guide.
The biggest safety issue is the weather – especially in areas like Patagonia and Tierra del Fuego, the weather is very unpredictable year-round. Be sure to check the forecasts and try to keep some flexibility around your plans if conditions seem like they’re going to be dangerous that day.
What to wear for hiking in Argentina?
As in many other outdoor spaces, it’s best to be prepared for a variety of weather scenarios year-round. Pack lots of breathable layers, a hat, and sunscreen, and make sure you bring lots of water and energizing snacks with you. It’s good to have at least one waterproof layer, and it may be good to bring foldable sticks depending on the trail.
For glacier hiking, you’ll need crampons, but those should be provided inclusive of your tour. Of course, good shoes are a must – sneakers with good tread will be sufficient for many trails, but it may be good to have hiking boots for some of the more challenging routes.
Argentina is a hiker’s paradise. Whether you’re seeking to stretch your legs a bit one afternoon or tackle one of the world’s premier peaks, there are all sorts of hikes to consider.
Most hiking fans are eager to check Mount Fitz Roy off their bucket list, but you should absolutely add more hikes in Argentina to your list if you have the time and inclination.
Hiking in Argentina is safe and accessible for a variety of skill levels, and trails are generally well-marked. While a guide is recommended for many of the more challenging hikes, many of the shorter ones can be tackled on your own. Always be sure to check the weather, and enjoy!
Have you tackled any of these hikes in Argentina? Tell us about your experience in the comments!