Vuelta Huemul
Get a glimpse of the impressive Southern Patagonia Icefield and its cascading glacial offspring along the Vuelta del Huemul.
La Vuelta Huemul is a 70 km (43mi) loop around Cerro Huemul which is completed in 3 to 4 days ascending to 1550 meters above sea level (5085ft). Nights are spent in sturdy dome tents to weather the harsh and inhospitable conditions.
Trek along swift rivers and one of the largest continental icefields slowly pouring into Lago Viedma where lonely blue icebergs float.
Itinerary
Day 1: El Chaltén/ Laguna Toro (650 msnm)
The trek begins from the Park Visitor Center. We then walk to Laguna Toro 16km (10mi) away.
>> This trail weaves through the changing countryside. It climbs through dense Lenga forest to reach what was once an ancient seabed. All the while with spectacular views of the Rio Tunel Valley circled by snow capped peaks.
>> Traveling upstream we will arrive at Campamento Toro where we will make camp and spend the night.
Tents, insulation, sleeping bags, breakfast, lunch, snack and dinner are included.
Day 2: Laguna Toro / Refugio Paso del Viento (926 msnm)
An early start with breakfast and breaking camp.
>> To begin, we will cross Rio Tunel, either by tyrolean traverse or by wading the river depending on conditions.
>> The trail then passes over Glacier Tunel Inferior, a memorable segment of the trek.
>> Upon crossing the glacier the trail slowly ascends to Paso del Viento over rocky terrain. Here, we will be able to see the expanse of the Southern Patagonian Icefield. A horizontal void rimmed with giant peaks like Cerro Mariano Moreno and Murallon, the Campo de Hielo is truly a sight to behold.
>> After well earned rest and photographs, we will continue along to a moss encircled, crystalline lake where the Refuge is located.
>> Here we will enjoy a hot meal and enjoy the environment.
Day 3: Refugio Paso del Viento / Paso Huemul (1005msnm) / Lago Viedma (350 msnm)
After breakfast and packing camp we will continue eastwards, traversing along Cerro Huemul’s southern flank.
>> Exposed but easy terrain is carefully passed before we then begin the long ascent to Paso Huemul. From here, we will have a grand view of Lago Viedma with its capricious icebergs and inspiring colors. How long we spend at Paso Huemul is at the mercy of the weather conditions.
>> The way continues steeply downhill through thick forest before arriving at Bahia de los Tempanos, which is where we will have our final camp.
Día 4: Lago Viedma / Bahía Túnel / El Chaltén
The final day is pure enjoyment!
>> After breakfast and packing camp we will walk over undulating patagonia steppe along Lago Viedma with the grand Glacier Viedma at our backs.
>> The trail gently rises and descends along the lake to arrive at the tyrolean traverse over Rio Tunel. A few more kilometers later we will arrive at Puerto de Bahia Tunel where our transportation will be waiting to take us back to El Chalten.
Food: Breakfast and Lunch
Personal Equipment
Necessary Clothing
Important
Included Services
Not Included Services
