22 Feb The Desert Lake
El Chaltén, a tourist destination known for its stunning Patagonian landscapes, hosts a natural gem yet to be discovered by many: Lake del Desierto. Located in the province of Santa Cruz, Argentina, this lake is a true paradise for nature lovers and adventurers seeking unique experiences in a wild and pristine environment.
Location and Access
Lago del Desierto is located about 37 kilometers north of El Chaltén, a picturesque town known as the “National Capital of Trekking”. To reach this spectacular lake, visitors can choose to travel a scenic route by private vehicle, hiring a shuttle service or, for the more adventurous, take a hike along well-marked trails that cross virgin forests and offer panoramic views of the surrounding mountains.
Lush Nature
Once at Lago del Desierto, visitors are immersed in an environment of indescribable natural beauty. The lake, of a deep and crystalline blue, is surrounded by imposing mountain peaks covered by glaciers and forests of lenga and ñire. The landscape offers an unparalleled visual spectacle at any time of the year, from the lush greenery of summer to the immaculate white of winter.
Recreational Activities
Lago del Desierto is an ideal destination for a wide variety of outdoor activities. Trekking enthusiasts will find trails that wind through the area, allowing them to explore the surroundings and discover hidden waterfalls, panoramic viewpoints and natural corners of unparalleled beauty.
Fishing enthusiasts will also find Lago del Desierto a perfect place to enjoy their favorite pastime. Its waters are home to a diversity of trout species, offering the opportunity to fish in a calm and peaceful environment.
Huemul Glacier
From the free parking area at the South Point of Lago del Desierto, you must walk to the nearby post that marks the beginning of the trail. There you will have to pay an entrance fee, as the entire trail runs through privately owned land.
The trail soon takes you through a lenga forest and, in a matter of minutes, begins to climb along a clearly marked path. After about 1 hour of ascent, you reach a ridge from where you can enjoy spectacular views of the De las Vueltas River valley and Fitz Roy. When you reach the end, you will find the beautiful Huemul Lagoon, fed by the glacier of the same name.
Conservation and Preservation
Given its importance as a unique ecosystem and its value as a tourist destination, Lago del Desierto is the subject of conservation and preservation measures by local authorities and environmental organizations. Responsible tourism and care for the natural environment are promoted, with the aim of ensuring that future generations can enjoy this natural treasure in all its fullness.
Lago del Desierto, in El Chaltén, is much more than just a body of water. It is a place where nature shows itself in all its splendor, where adventure awaits at every step and where peace and serenity are found in abundance.
For those looking to escape the hustle and bustle of everyday life and connect with the purest and wildest of the world, this magical corner of Argentine Patagonia is definitely a destination not to be missed.