Piedra Negra & Paso Del Cuadrado ascent
Day trek with camping option
Approach the north face of the Fitz Roy range, right to the base of its glaciers. If the weather is good, you might even be able to touch the wall of Aguja Guillaumet.
Duration
1 day (optional camp)
Distance
2 km from Piedra del Fraile
Elevation
3,500-4,200 ft
Difficulty
Challenging
Technical grade
Moderate–High
Itinerary
| Time* | Activity |
|---|---|
| 07:00 | Breakfast at the accommodation |
| 07:30 | Transfer to the start of the trail. |
| 08:00 | Start of the hike to Piedra del Fraile. |
| 11:00 | Arrival at the camp, rest and packed lunch. |
| 12:00 - 16:00 | Exploration towards Paso del Cuadrado and nearby glaciers (depending on conditions). |
| 17:00 | Return to camp. |
| 18:00 | Dinner and overnight stay at the campsite, or return to El Chaltén. |
* 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: rope, crampons, harness, ice axe, helmet.
- Full board during expedition days: Breakfast/Lunch and dinner.
- Fully equipped mountain tents for 2 people, with sleeping bags and foam mattress.
Not included
- Personal gear.
- 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.
- It is demanding and requires good physical condition.
- Hike over a small glacier or névé at high altitude
Recommended personal gear
- Sturdy, ankle-supporting trekking boots (already broken in).
- Comfortable daypack (minimum 35/40 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.
More mountaineering programs
Cerro Madsen
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Beautiful 3,000 m+ summit on the Fitz Roy skyline. Technical sections possible; ropes, crampons & ice axe may be used.
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- Difficulty: Challenging
- Technical grade: Moderate–High
Paso del Viento
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- Distance: 50 km round trip
- Difficulty: Challenging
- Technical grade: Medium-High
Cerro Huemul Loop
4 days + 3 nights
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.
- Distance: 60 km round trip
- Difficulty: Challenging
- Technical grade: Medium-High