El Chalten
El Chalten is a charming village that is also lovingly called the National Capital of Trekking. This place attracts a large number of foreign visitors because of its superb natural circumstances for outdoor enthusiasts, particularly hikers. Located right near Argentina’s border with Chile in the heart of Los Glaciares National Park, the landscape around this town is rugged, dramatic, and impressive. There are lots of routes, outdoor activities, and hostels here to cater to a guest list of trekkers and backpackers.
In March, the town hosts a National Trekking Festival, which attracts a wide range of outdoor enthusiasts. Because the weather can be fickle, you should plan on spending at least a few days here to soak in all of the spectacular mountain views. El Chalten has a population of less than 2,000 people, but during peak season (November to February), when hikers flock to the town, it can swell to 20 times that.
- Highlights: Trek out to Mount Fitz Roy and catch a glimpse of Laguna de Los Tres & Take a glacier boat trip to Lago Viedma
- Recommended hotel: Destino Sur Hotel & Spa de Montaña, Restaurante - Phone number: +54 2962 49-3360
- Location: El Chalten, Santa Cruz, Argentina
