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Hike the Majestic Fitzroy

Discover one of Patagonia's most iconic peaks - a stunning granite spire with breathtaking views of the Southern Patagonian Ice Field, Cerro Torre, and the Fitzroy massif

Elevation

3,405 m

Location

Monte Fitzroy, El Chaltén, Santa Cruz, Argentina

Fitzroy from El Chaltén, Argentina

Fitzroy Hiking Routes & Experiences

Laguna de los Tres Trail

From El Calafate: Full-Day Tour to El Chaltén

Discover El Chaltén, Argentina’s Trekking Capital, on a day trip from El Calafate. Hike scenic trails with views of Mount Fitz Roy, blue lakes, and the majestic Andes. A Patagonian adventure awaits!

11 hours Live tour guide Fitzroy views
$89
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Cerro Torre Trail

From El Calafate: Laguna de los Tres Trekking Tour

Join a trekking tour to Laguna de Los Tres, one of the most iconic hikes in Patagonia. Be amazed by spectacular views of Mount Fitz Roy towering above the lake.

15 hours Strenuous Glacier views
$169
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Loma del Pliegue Tumbado Trail

Full day in El Chaltén with trekking to Laguna de los Tres

Enjoy an unforgettable tour from El Calafate to El Chaltén, walking among majestic landscapes, including the imposing Mount Fitz Roy and Laguna de los Tres. Ideal for adventurers and nature lovers!

15 hours Moderate hike Panoramic views
$398
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About Fitzroy & Patagonia

Monte Fitzroy, rising 3,405 meters above the Patagonian steppe, stands as one of the most iconic and challenging peaks in South America. Its distinctive granite spires and dramatic silhouette have made it a symbol of Patagonian wilderness and mountaineering excellence.

The mountain is part of the Fitzroy massif, which includes Cerro Torre and other granite peaks. The area is home to Andean condors, guanacos, and unique Patagonian flora. The challenging terrain and unpredictable weather make it a destination for serious hikers and climbers from around the world.

Fitzroy lies within Los Glaciares National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage site that protects some of Argentina's most spectacular alpine scenery and the Southern Patagonian Ice Field.

Explore Mountain Features
Hiking in Patagonia near Fitzroy

Why Visit Fitzroy?

Iconic Patagonian Peak

Experience one of the most recognizable and photographed mountains in the world, with its distinctive granite spires and dramatic Patagonian setting.

Patagonian Wildlife

Spot Andean condors, guanacos, foxes, and unique Patagonian flora adapted to the harsh windswept environment of southern Argentina.

Glacial Landscapes

Witness the stunning Southern Patagonian Ice Field, glacial lakes, and the dramatic contrast between granite peaks and ice.

Photographer's Dream

Capture the ever-changing light on Fitzroy's granite faces, dramatic weather patterns, and the pristine Patagonian wilderness.

The Story of Fitzroy

Fitzroy has been a sacred landmark for the Tehuelche people for thousands of years, who called it "Chaltén" meaning "smoking mountain" due to the clouds that often surround its peaks. The mountain holds deep cultural and spiritual significance.

The first recorded European sighting was in 1877 by Francisco Moreno, who named it after Robert FitzRoy, captain of the HMS Beagle. The first successful ascent wasn't achieved until 1952 by French climbers Lionel Terray and Guido Magnone.

Now a world-renowned destination for hikers, climbers, and photographers, Fitzroy continues to inspire with its challenging terrain, unpredictable weather, and stunning beauty, embodying the wild spirit of Patagonia.

Learn more about Fitzroy's history

Mountain Features & Highlights

Fitzroy Summit Views

Granite Spires

The distinctive granite spires of Fitzroy offer some of the most dramatic and recognizable mountain profiles in the world, with sheer faces that challenge even the most experienced climbers.

Laguna de los Tres

Laguna de los Tres

The iconic glacial lake at the base of Fitzroy offers one of the most photographed views in Patagonia, with the granite spires reflected in its pristine waters and the Southern Patagonian Ice Field as backdrop.

Southern Patagonian Ice Field

Southern Patagonian Ice Field

The vast Southern Patagonian Ice Field, the third largest ice field in the world, provides a stunning backdrop to Fitzroy and feeds the numerous glaciers that surround the mountain.

Andean Condors in Patagonia

Patagonian Wildlife

Watch for Andean condors soaring above the peaks, guanacos grazing on the steppe, and foxes hunting in the valleys - an integral part of the Fitzroy experience in wild Patagonia.

Planning Your Fitzroy Adventure

Hikers on Fitzroy Trail

Prepare for your journey with these essential tips:

  • Check the weather – Patagonian weather is notoriously unpredictable. Only attempt hikes in good conditions with clear visibility.
  • Start early – Allow plenty of time for the long hikes, especially during shorter daylight hours in shoulder seasons.
  • Be prepared – Carry proper clothing for all weather conditions, food, water, and emergency gear. The Patagonian environment is challenging.
  • Know your limits – The trails are strenuous and require excellent fitness. Weather can change rapidly and dramatically.
  • Respect the environment – Stay on marked trails and follow Leave No Trace principles to protect this pristine Patagonian landscape.
  • Explore more – Discover the surrounding trails, El Chaltén, and the rich history of Los Glaciares National Park beyond the main routes.

Find Fitzroy & El Chaltén

Address: Monte Fitzroy, El Chaltén, Los Glaciares National Park, Santa Cruz, Argentina

Coordinates: 49.2713°S, 73.0432°W

Located near El Chaltén in Los Glaciares National Park, accessible by car or bus. The main trails start from the town of El Chaltén.

Frequently Asked Questions

Wear sturdy boots, layered clothing for all weather conditions, and waterproof gear. Patagonian weather is extremely unpredictable and can change rapidly.

Some shorter trails around El Chaltén are suitable for families. The main Fitzroy trails are strenuous and require excellent fitness. The summit is for experienced climbers only.

No fees are required to hike the trails around Fitzroy. However, you may need to pay for camping permits in certain areas of Los Glaciares National Park.

Absolutely. Fitzroy offers spectacular photo opportunities, especially at sunrise and sunset. Please stay on marked trails and respect the fragile Patagonian environment.

November to March offers the best conditions, though weather is always unpredictable. Winter hiking requires mountaineering experience due to snow and extreme conditions.

Some areas around El Chaltén have accessible paths, but the mountain trails themselves are not wheelchair accessible due to their steep and rocky terrain.

Look for Andean condors, guanacos, Patagonian foxes, and unique Patagonian flora adapted to the harsh windswept environment of southern Argentina.