Best Hikes in Los Glaciares National Park, Argentina

Los Glaciares National Park covers an area of 726, 927 hectares in the rugged landscape of Argentine Patagonia, Los Glaciares National Park is a true outdoor lover’s paradise. An impressive collection of 47 glaciers - 13 of which flow into the Pacific Ocean - and the dramatic peaks of the Andes Mountain range set the perfect backdrop for a remote adventure that will truly allow you to disconnect from the outside world.

The terrain within Los Glaciares National Park, which was designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1981, is made up of the above mentioned mountains, Magellanic subpolar forest, and Patagonian steppe, making for a diverse and strikingly beautiful place to experience. If you are looking to hike through some of the most magical landscapes that can be found on earth, then you could certainly do worse than planning an adventure in Los Glaciares National Park.

While exploring Patagonia, you have the choice of lots of incredible trekking tours. Most visitors to guided tours in Patagonia will also choose a trip to guided tours in Chile. The most popular trekking tours are the classic El Chalten and El Calafate Trekking Tour, while in Torres del Paine you can do the self-guided O-Circuit Trek or the self-guided W-Trek.
Check out this article on the best treks in Patagonia.

What’s New in Los Glaciares National Park for 2026

Planning a trip to Los Glaciares National Park in 2026? Here is what to keep in mind:

• Best season: November to March is the Southern Hemisphere summer and the best time to visit, with the most stable weather and longest daylight hours. January and February are peak season — trails and accommodation fill up fast. The shoulder months of November and March offer a good balance of conditions and fewer crowds.
• Book in advance: Accommodation in El Chaltén and El Calafate fills up months ahead for the peak summer season. If you are visiting between December and February, book as early as possible.
• Perito Moreno Glacier: The boardwalk network around Perito Moreno remains one of the most accessible and spectacular attractions in the park. Access is managed and timed entry may apply during peak season — check with the park authority before visiting.
• Park entrance fees: Entrance fees for Los Glaciares National Park are payable in Argentine pesos at the gate. Fees are subject to change — check current rates with the Argentine National Parks Administration (Administración de Parques Nacionales) before travelling.

Best Hiking Routes in Los Glaciares National Park

Dramatic mountain peaks, an impressive collection of glaciers, pristine turquoise lakes, and a true feeling of remoteness all sum up the amazing experience of hiking in Los Glaciares National Park. Featuring a good mixture of challenging outdoor treks and day hikes suitable for visitors, this is an exceptional place to explore if you want to take in the beauty of the Patagonian landscape. Whether you are just looking for inspiration or are in the midst of planning in incredible adventure, we’ve put together this list of spectacular hiking route in Los Glaciares National Park to get you started:

• Perito Moreno Glacier Hike: This easy-going adventure will take you along paths and boardwalks to a series of viewpoints that overlook an impressive glacier. This route is likely to see a good amount of foot traffic.
• Laguna Capri Hike: Setting out from El Chaltén, this moderate length hike climbs up a fairly steep path to a stunning lake with incredible mountain views.
• Laguna Torre Hike: A bit of a longer adventure, the Laguna Torre Hike will lead you alongside the banks of the Río Fitz Roy to arrive at a lakeshore with incredible mountain views.
• Laguna de los Tres and Laguna Capri Hike: An extension of the above-mentioned Laguna Capri Hike, this trail provides more of a challenge, climbing even further uphill to a secluded lake in the mountains.
• Laguna Torre and Cerro Torre Viewpoint Hike: Another long trek, the Laguna Torre and Cerro Torre Viewpoint Hike climbs uphill through a valley with scenic viewpoints, before exploring the rocky shoreline of the lake for glacier views.
• Laguna de los Tres and Cerro Madsen Hike: The most challenging of the hikes listed here, this adventure will lead you up into the mountains to visit the shores of Laguna de los Tres, before pushing up to the summit of Cerro Madsen for incredible views of the Patagonian landscape.

When is the Best Time to Hike in Los Glaciares National Park?

Although it is accessible year-round, the best time to hike in Los Glaciares National Park is during the summer season of November to March. During this time you will experience the most favourable weather conditions and temperatures; however, you will also experience the park at its busiest. If you want to take in the natural beauty of Los Glaciares National Park without the crowds, consider visiting in the shoulder seasons.

Other Outdoor Activities in Los Glaciares National Park

Many people travel to Patagonia for its world class trekking opportunities, but you might be wondering what other outdoor activities are on offer in Los Glaciares National Park? Lucky for you, there are plenty of exceptional adventures to take part in, including glacier treks, mountaineering, biking, and horseback riding. Additionally, the many glaciers in the region ensure that there are plenty of waterways to explore, providing great opportunities for rafting, kayaking, and boat trips. Whether you want to travel by land or water, there will always be an awesome adventure waiting around the corner in Los Glaciares National Park. . For those looking to explore by bike, browse South America bike tours for cycling adventures across the region.

Adventure Tours in Los Glaciares National Park

While you can certainly make your way down to Los Glaciares National Park for your own hiking expedition, sometimes it’s easier to leave all of the planning and logistics to the professionals. If you are wanting to experience the breathtaking landscapes and rugged terrain of Los Glaciares National Park without the hassle of planning an entire trip, then be sure to check out these guided adventure tours in Patagonia. For hiking-focused trips, browse guided hiking tours in Patagonia or cross the border to explore guided hiking tours in Chilean Patagonia including the iconic Torres del Paine W Trek and O Circuit.

Frequently Asked Questions About Los Glaciares National Park

Why is Los Glaciares National Park famous?

Los Glaciares National Park is famous for its impressive collection of 47 glaciers, 13 of which flow out into the Pacific Ocean.

What animals can be found in Los Glaciares National Park?

A variety of wildlife species can be found within the boundary of Los Glaciares National Park, including rheas, condors, chinchillas, guanacos, pudu, and guemal.

What is the closest city to Los Glaciares National Park?

The closest city to Los Glaciares National Park is El Calafate in the Santa Cruz Province of Argentina.

Other Hiking Regions in South America

Explore more of South America’s best hiking destinations, or browse all hikes in Argentina for more routes across the country:

• hiking in Huaraz
• Torres del Paine National Park