Cerro Huemul loop
4 days + 3 nights of camping
The complete circumnavigation of Cerro Huemul – a true Patagonian wilderness expedition that gets you right to the edge of the Southern Patagonian Ice Field. Three nights of remote camping, roped glacier walking, and a tyrolean traverse across a glacial river.
Duration
4 days
Distance
60 km round trip
Elevation
4,000 ft
Difficulty
Challenging
Technical grade
Medium-High
Itinerary
Day 1
| Time* | Activity |
|---|---|
| 07:00 | Breakfast at the accommodation |
| 07:30 | Hike to Laguna Toro. |
| 12:30 | Packed lunch. |
| 13:30 | Continue towards camp 1 with views of Cerro Huemul. |
| 15:00 | Arrival at Laguna Toro and setting up camp. |
Day 2
| Time* | Activity |
|---|---|
| 07:00 | Breakfast at camp |
| 08:00 | Crossing the Tunnel River via zip line and ascending to Paso del Viento. |
| 12:30 | Packed lunch. |
| 13:30 | Continue towards Paso del Viento Refuge (Camp 2). |
| 17:00 | Arrival and setting up of the camp. |
Day 3
| Time* | Activity |
|---|---|
| 07:00 | Breakfast at camp |
| 08:00 | Ascent to Paso Huemul. |
| 12:00 | Packed lunch. |
| 15:00 | Descent to Camp 3 / Intermediate Shelter. |
Day 4
| Time* | Activity |
|---|---|
| 07:00 | Breakfast |
| 08:00 | Final descent towards Bahía Túnel and El Chaltén. |
| 15:00 a 16:00 | Arrival at the village. |
* Important: Times are approximate and may vary depending on weather conditions, group pace and trail conditions.
Program details
Included
- Certified mountain guide.
- VHF radio.
- National Park permit included.
- Technical equipment: harness and rope for zip line crossing.
- Full board during expedition days: Breakfast/Lunch and dinner.
- High mountain tents, double base, gas heaters and tableware.
Not included
- Personal gear.
- Alcoholic beverages; Drinks and food not described.
- Entrance fee to the National Park.
- Personal travel medical insurance.
- Services not described.
- Tips.
Trail conditions
- The terrain may include areas with mud, roots, rocks and steep slopes, and glacial moraines.
- It is demanding and requires good physical condition.
- Hike over a small glacier or névé at high altitude.
- Wading across streams.
Recommended personal gear
- Sturdy, ankle-supporting trekking boots (already broken in).
- Comfortable daypack (minimum 45/50 L).
- Layered clothing system: moisture-wicking base layer, mid-layer fleece, waterproof and windproof shell jacket.
- Sun hat or cap, warm gloves, and high-SPF sunscreen
- Reusable water bottle or hydration system (at least 1.5 L per person).
- Packed lunch and high-energy snacks (nuts, bars, fruit, etc.).
- Trekking poles.
Need-to-Know
Registration required
All visitors must complete our registration form before departure, providing personal details, emergency contact information, and relevant health conditions. This form is completed online.
The Infamous Patagonian Weather
- It changes suddenly; strong winds, rain, or even snow may occur, even in summer.
- The itinerary may vary depending on weather conditions.
Safety & Responsibility
- Always follow the guide's instructions.
- Do not leave the marked path.
- Respect marching times to maintain group cohesion.
- Fires are not allowed in the National Park.
Leave No Trace
- Take all the waste back to the village.
- Do not feed or disturb the local wildlife.
- Take care of the flora and respect the conservation rules.
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