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A five-day expedition across one of the most remote corners of Los Glaciares National Park.
Cross hidden valleys, high mountain passes and untouched wilderness before arriving at the historic Estancia Cristina, with extraordinary views of the Southern Patagonian Ice Field and Upsala Glacier.
Some treks follow well-marked trails.
This one does not.
The Guanaco–Cristina Crossing is one of Patagonia’s least-traveled mountain expeditions, connecting the remote Guanaco Valley with the legendary Estancia Cristina through landscapes that few visitors ever experience.
For several days we move across broad valleys, glacial moraines, alpine passes and pristine mountain lakes where nature still dictates the rhythm of the journey.
There are no refuges. No crowds. Often not even a visible trail.
Only mountains, weather, silence and the experience of travelling with guides who have explored these valleys for decades.
For hikers looking beyond Patagonia’s classic routes, this is one of the region’s most rewarding expeditions.
Distance
Approx. 1 km
Hiking Time
20–30 minutes
Elevation Gain
+20 m
Elevation Loss
0 m
Highest Point
600 m
Accommodation
Wild Expedition Camp
Our expedition begins at Seccional Guanaco, a remote ranger station hidden deep within the eastern side of Los Glaciares National Park.
After meeting the team and organizing equipment, we cross a small suspension bridge before reaching our first riverside campsite beneath native lenga and ñire trees.
Far from roads and villages, this peaceful valley offers a gentle introduction to the isolation that defines the days ahead.
As evening settles over the mountains, Patagonia quickly reminds us how quiet the wilderness can be.
Leaving camp behind, we gradually enter one of the most isolated valleys of Los Glaciares National Park.
The trail winds through open grasslands, wetlands and native forest before the landscape becomes increasingly alpine. Rocky moraines replace vegetation while the towering walls surrounding Cerro Sombrero dominate the horizon.
By afternoon we establish camp beneath the first mountain pass, where silence and wide-open views remind us how remote this region truly is.
Weather permitting, there is time for a short walk towards viewpoints overlooking Laguna Azul.
Distance
Approx. 14 km
Hiking Time
6–7 hours
Elevation Gain
+650 m
Elevation Loss
-50 m
Highest Point
1,200 m
Accommodation
Expedition Camp
Distance
Approx. 13 km
Hiking Time
6–7 hours
Elevation Gain
+350 m
Elevation Loss
-650 m
Highest Point
1,500 m
Accommodation
Camp de los Toros
Today is the most spectacular stage of the expedition.
A steady climb brings us to Paso Sombrero, where the Southern Patagonian Ice Field suddenly appears beyond the mountains.
From the pass, Cerro Murallón, Cerro Cono and Cerro Don Bosco rise directly above the ice, creating one of Patagonia’s most dramatic mountain panoramas.
The descent follows glacial terrain towards Lake Tanhausser before reaching Camp de los Toros, beautifully located beside a mountain stream within a sheltered lenga forest.
The final trekking stage offers an easier walk through native forest before reaching Estancia Cristina on the shores of Lago Argentino.
After several days camping in complete wilderness, arriving at this historic estancia feels like stepping into another era of Patagonia.
Depending on logistics and availability, the final approach can also be completed on horseback.
Distance
Approx. 8 km
Hiking Time
3–4 hours
Elevation Gain
+100 m
Elevation Loss
-400 m
Highest Point
900 m
Accommodation
Estancia Cristina Lodge
Before returning to El Calafate, we explore one of the geological treasures of Southern Patagonia.
A 4×4 vehicle climbs into the Feruglio Range, where a short hike reaches spectacular viewpoints overlooking Upsala Glacier, Guillermo Lake and the Southern Patagonian Ice Field.
The route then descends through the remarkable Fossil Canyon, where ancient marine fossils tell the story of a landscape shaped millions of years before the glaciers arrived.
Finally, we return to Estancia Cristina and navigate across Lago Argentino, bringing this unforgettable expedition to its conclusion.
Distance
Approx. 14 km trekking
Hiking Time
4–5 hours
Elevation Gain
+250 m
Elevation Loss
-700 m
Highest Point
Approx. 900 m
Transport
4×4 + Boat Navigation
From remote valleys and high mountain passes to Estancia Cristina and Upsala Glacier, every stage of the Guanaco–Cristina Crossing reveals a different side of Patagonia, where wilderness, history and mountain landscapes come together in a single expedition.
The Guanaco–Cristina Crossing belongs to the latter.
For five days, we travel through one of the most remote sectors of Los Glaciares National Park, crossing wide valleys, alpine passes and glacial landscapes where there are no mountain huts and, for much of the journey, no marked trails to follow.
Every expedition is shaped by the mountains themselves. Weather, wind and terrain determine the rhythm of each day, and our guides adapt the route and choose each campsite according to the conditions, always placing safety and respect for the environment first.
Reaching Estancia Cristina after crossing the mountains on foot is more than the end of the trek. It is the reward for travelling through a part of Patagonia that very few people have the opportunity to experience.
Since 1985, we have been guiding people through these mountains with the same philosophy: travel thoughtfully, move at the pace of the landscape, and let Patagonia reveal itself one step at a time.
Every Guanaco–Cristina Crossing is planned according to the season, mountain conditions and the experience of each group.
Complete the form and we’ll get back to you with availability, expedition details, recommended equipment and everything you need to prepare for this journey through one of Patagonia’s most remote landscapes.
Everything required for a safe, day in Patagonia.
Optional Add-ons
Patagonia is best enjoyed without rushing.
If you’re planning to spend a few extra days in El Calafate, El Chaltén or Estancia Cristina, we’re happy to help you choose a good place to stay and make the most of your time here.
Everything you need to know before joining this adventure.
Patagonian weather is famously unpredictable and conditions can change rapidly, even during the summer months. We recommend dressing in layers and carrying waterproof clothing throughout the day to ensure a comfortable and enjoyable experience.
