Argentino Lake

Introduction

Lago Argentino, nestled in the stunning Argentine Patagonia, is a captivating destination renowned for its extraordinary natural landscapes and adventurous opportunities. As the third-largest lake in South America, it is an essential stop for travelers eager to immerse themselves in the breathtaking beauty and unique experiences that Patagonia has to offer.

History

This remarkable lake serves as the source of the Santa Cruz River and is positioned at an elevation of 185 meters above sea level. Lago Argentino extends 60 kilometers in length, with widths ranging from 14 to 20 kilometers. Its depths vary significantly, reaching up to 1,000 meters in some areas, particularly along the central and southern shores where depths can reach 300 meters. The lake’s striking turquoise color is attributed to the fine sediment produced by glacial erosion, commonly referred to as “”glacial meltwater.””

How to Get There

The closest town to Lago Argentino is El Calafate, which acts as the main gateway for most visitors. Travelers can fly into El Calafate Airport or take a bus from nearby cities. From El Calafate, access to the lake is straightforward via Provincial Route N°11, which runs alongside the lake for 40 kilometers, providing stunning panoramic views of the Patagonian steppe.

Things to See

• Perito Moreno Glacier: A highlight of Los Glaciares National Park, the Perito Moreno Glacier is a must-see. Visitors can stroll along the viewing platforms for breathtaking perspectives of the glacier.
• Upsala Glacier: Found at the northwest end of Lago Argentino, the Upsala Glacier is one of South America’s longest glaciers. The Upsala-Onelli glacier cruise offers a full-day adventure on a catamaran to witness this magnificent glacier.
• Laguna Torre: Hiking to Laguna Torre rewards adventurers with stunning views of the valley and the Torre glacier. The trek to Obena for a panoramic view of the Torre glacier and Cerro Torre is challenging but immensely rewarding.
• Bird Sanctuary: A small bird sanctuary near the lake provides an excellent opportunity to observe various bird species up close, with a nominal entrance fee of 150 pesos.
• Estancia Alice’s “”El Galpon””: This estancia offers insights into sheep farming, featuring a sheep shearing demonstration and a traditional Argentine BBQ to conclude the experience.

Ticket Information

• Upsala-Onelli Glacier Cruise: Departing from Punta Bandera, this modern catamaran cruise offers a thrilling ride to the Upsala Glacier, with stops at Glacier Spegazinni and Bahia Onelli for a scenic walk through a lovely forest to Lago Onelli. The ticket includes access to a snack bar and facilities.
• Perito Moreno Glacier Tour: This tour begins with hotel pickup in El Calafate around 7:00 AM. The journey includes a boat trip through the north arm of Lago Argentino, crossing into Boca del Diablo, with stops at the Upsala and Spegazzini channels for glacier views. The ticket covers a guided day trip by boat and access to the glacier’s viewing platforms and walkways.

Tips for Visiting

• Arrive Early: To avoid crowds and capture the best views, it’s advisable to arrive at the lake early.
• Hiking Gear: For hikes like the one to Laguna Torre, ensure you have appropriate hiking gear, including a head torch if you plan to start early.
• Weather Awareness: Check the weather forecast before your visit, as Patagonia’s weather can be unpredictable.
• Glacier Safety: Always adhere to the instructions of licensed guides when trekking on glaciers.
• Respect Wildlife: While visiting the bird sanctuary, be sure to respect the birds and their natural habitat.
• Cultural Experience: Don’t miss the chance to enjoy a traditional Argentine BBQ at Estancia Alice’s “”El Galpon”” for a unique cultural experience.

Lago Argentino is a treasure trove of experiences for nature enthusiasts and adventure seekers alike. Whether you’re trekking on glaciers, exploring bird sanctuaries, or savoring traditional Argentine cuisine, this destination promises to create unforgettable memories.