Patagonia Traveler
Two hikers trek through Patagonian wilderness toward snow-capped peaks and turquoise lakes near Estancia Cristina.
Boats docked at a turquoise glacial lake with snow-capped Patagonian mountains and green valleys in the background.
Glacial lake with icebergs and snow-capped mountains at Estancia Cristina, Patagonia.
Two hikers trek across rocky terrain toward snow-capped peaks at Estancia Cristina in Patagonia.
Dramatic mountainside scree slope and exposed rock formations along the Estancia Cristina trekking trail in Patagonia.
Hiker stands on rocky shore of turquoise lake with snow-capped mountain peak and autumn foliage at Estancia Cristina, Patagonia.

Estancia Cristina Trekking

Summary
El Calafate
January, February, March, April, October, November, December
8 hours
Easy

This unforgettable experience begins with a navigation from Puerto Punta Bandera to Estancia Cristina, passing by the western front of Glaciar Upsala. Upon arrival, a 9.5 km mountain route in 4x4 vehicles takes visitors to the Refugio de Hielos Continentales. From there, a 20-minute hike leads to Mirador del Upsala, offering spectacular views of the glacier's eastern front, Lago Guillermo, and Cerros Don Bosco and Murallón.

The trek continues downhill to Cañadón de los Fósiles, where marine fossils exposed by glacial action can be observed, followed by flat terrain through grasslands, forests and lagoons. The excursion concludes at the estancia's dock to board the return to Puerto Punta Bandera (arrival approx. 20:00). A box lunch is included during the tour.

Important note:
This excursion requires excellent physical condition and proper trekking gear due to challenging, uneven terrain. The coordinator may exclude participants who don't meet these requirements or lack appropriate equipment.