El Chaltén County was founded in 1985 and recently became the National Trekking Capital. It nestles at the base of Mount Fitz Roy in a Valley called Rio de las Vueltas.

Mount Fitz Roy was originally called "Chaltén" which means "Smoking Mountain" in Tehuelche language. Its high peaks are mostly covered by clouds giving the impression of an active volcano.

Numerous hikes start in this town leading to several nature wonders such as Lake Torre and homonym Glacier, Lake Capri, Piedras Blancas Glacier and Chorrillo del Salto.

Laguna de los Tres deserves a special mention. You will reach this lake after a 4 1/2 to 5 hours steep hike surrounded by one of the most spectacular views.

Related links

• Expedition: 4x4 Route 40
• Expedition: Riding Patagonia