Family-Friendly Adventures in !

Lago Roca

Why Visit?

Embark on a captivating family adventure to Lago Roca, a serene hidden gem nestled in the southern reaches of Argentina, near the bustling town of El Calafate. Renowned for its dazzling emerald waters and breathtaking vistas of the Andes, this destination offers a peaceful escape into nature.

### Day 1: Arrival and Exploration

Start your journey in El Calafate, a charming town that serves as your gateway to Lago Roca. Rent a car for a scenic 50-kilometer drive south from El Calafate, which provides flexibility and ease for family travel. Upon arrival, check into one of the cozy, family-friendly lodges or campgrounds near the lake.

Spend your afternoon acquainting yourself with the area. Take a leisurely stroll along the lake"s shore, where the kids can play and explore the abundant flora and fauna. Don’t miss the chance to spot diverse bird species, including the majestic Andean Condor.

### Day 2: Outdoor Adventures

After a hearty breakfast, gear up for a day of outdoor activities. The lake is perfect for kayaking or canoeing, providing a unique perspective of the stunning landscape. Rental facilities are available nearby, offering equipment suitable for all ages.

For hiking enthusiasts, the area around Lago Roca is dotted with accessible trails. Opt for a guided walk through the lush forests to learn about local wildlife and plants, making it educational and fun for children.

### Day 3: Picnic and Departure

Conclude your visit with a relaxing picnic by the lakeside, enjoying homemade sandwiches and local treats while soaking in the serene views. Before heading back to El Calargate, take a final walk or snap some family photos against the picturesque backdrop of Lago Roca.

Lago Roca not only captivates with its natural beauty but also offers a tranquil retreat where families can connect with nature and each other. Make sure to carry back not just souvenirs but plenty of wonderful memories.

Family-Friendly Tips: Check for specific amenities and accessibility features relevant to family-friendly travelers.

Argentino Lake (Lago Argentino)

Why Visit?

Day 1: Arrival and Exploring El Calafate

Arrive in El Calafate, the gateway to Lago Argentino. After settling into your accommodation, spend your day exploring this charming town. Visit the Laguna Nimez Reserve, a perfect spot for a family walk while watching flamingos and other birds. Learn about the local ecosystem and the importance of conservation. Dinner can be enjoyed in one of the local restaurants, where you can try Patagonian lamb, a regional specialty.

Day 2: Perito Moreno Glacier

No visit to Lago Argentino is complete without seeing the Perito Moreno Glacier. Tour buses depart from El Calafate, taking about 1.5 hours to reach the glacier. The glacier is renowned for its dynamic changes and dramatic ice calvings into the lake. Walk along the boardwalks to get various viewpoints of the glacier, an educational and thrilling experience for all ages. Boat tours are also available, offering a closer look at the towering ice walls — a truly unforgettable experience!

Day 3: Boat Tour to Upsala and Spegazzini Glaciers

Embark on a boat tour from Puerto Bandera, 47km from El Calafate, to explore more of Lago Argentino"s icy wonders. Visit Upsala and Spegazzini Glaciers, where you"ll see icebergs and stunning scenery that make this area a UNESCO World Heritage site. The boat provides panoramic views and is equipped with facilities to ensure a comfortable journey for families.

Day 4: Leisure Day and Departure

Spend your last day at leisure. Consider a horseback ride around the lake or a visit to the Ice Museum in El Calafate, which offers interactive exhibits that are fun and educational for children. Depart with incredible memories of Lago Argentino, a jewel of Argentine Patagonia.

This itinerary offers a perfect mix of educational content, adventure, and relaxation, tailored to provide a family-friendly experience in one of Argentina’s most beautiful landscapes.

Family-Friendly Tips: Check for specific amenities and accessibility features relevant to family-friendly travelers.

Upsala Glacier

Why Visit?

Embark on an unforgettable family adventure to the captivating Upsala Glacier, nestled in the icy expanse of Argentine Patagonia. To kick off your journey, make your way to El Calafate, a charming town that serves as the gateway to Los Glaciares National Park. Here, adventure and serene landscapes await your family!

Day 1: Arrival in El Calafate

- Arrive in El Calafate via Aeropuerto Internacional Comandante Armando Tola, accessible from major Argentine cities. Settle into one of the family-friendly hotels in town. Spend your evening exploring the quaint streets of El Calafate, and don"t miss trying the local ice cream flavored with Calafate berry, which according to legend, ensures your return to Patagonia!

Day 2: Upsala Glacier by Boat

- Start your day early and head to Puerto Bandera, located about 47 kilometers from El Calafate, where you"ll embark on a boat cruise through Lago Argentino. Sail past icebergs of mesmerizing blues and whites on your way to Upsala Glacier. This glacier is one of the largest in Los Glaciares National Park and is known for its striking beauty and vast ice field.

- The boat provides a safe, comfortable viewing platform, ideal for children to witness the glacier"s grandeur up close. Learn from the onboard guide about the glacier"s dynamics and its retreat, which is a clear indicator of climate change.

Day 3: Estancia Cristina

- Opt for a day trip to Estancia Cristina, accessible only by boat. This remote ranch offers a unique insight into the history of settlers in Patagonia and provides different activities like horse riding or a 4x4 ride to the viewing point facing the Southern Patagonian Ice Field.

Day 4: Departure

- Enjoy a leisurely morning in El Calafate before your departure, perhaps visiting the Glaciarium, a glaciology museum, to deepen your understanding of the region’s glaciers.

This family-friendly itinerary combines education, adventure, and natural beauty, making your visit to Upsala Glacier a memorable journey through the heart of Patagonia.

Family-Friendly Tips: Check for specific amenities and accessibility features relevant to family-friendly travelers.

Mt. Fitz Roy

Why Visit?

Embark on an unforgettable family adventure to the majestic Mt. Fitz Roy, located in the stunning Patagonia region, primarily in Argentina’s Los Glaciares National Park. Here’s a detailed, family-friendly itinerary:

Day 1: Arrival in El Chaltén

- Travel: Fly into El Calafate Airport and take a 3-hour scenic bus ride to El Chaltén, the trekking capital near Mt. Fitz Roy.

- Activity: After checking into your accommodation, enjoy a light walk around the quaint town. Visit the informative visitor center to learn about the area’s geography and history.

- Dining: Have dinner at a local restaurant, trying regional specialties like lamb or calafate berry ice cream.

Day 2: Hiking to Laguna Capri

- Travel: Start early and hike the well-marked trail to Laguna Capri, about a 2-hour trek suitable for families.

- Activity: Witness breathtaking views of Mt. Fitz Roy mirrored in the tranquil waters of Laguna Capri. Pack a picnic to enjoy by the lake, and keep an eye out for the elusive Andean condor.

- Fun Fact: Mt. Fitz Roy is also known as Cerro Chaltén, which means "smoking mountain" in the Tehuelche language, due to the clouds that usually form around its peak.

Day 3: Horseback Riding and Departure

- Activity: Book a family-friendly horseback riding tour through the rugged Patagonian landscape. It’s a relaxing way to explore the area’s beauty without the exertion of hiking.

- Travel: Ride through forest trails and along rivers, capturing panoramic views and possibly spotting wildlife.

- Departure: Head back to El Calafate by bus in the afternoon for your departure flight, or stay an extra night in El Chaltén for more exploration.

This itinerary to Mt. Fitz Roy offers a mix of adventure, relaxation, and educational opportunities, making it perfect for a family trip filled with nature and awe-inspiring landscapes.

Family-Friendly Tips: Check for specific amenities and accessibility features relevant to family-friendly travelers.

Laguna de los Tres

Why Visit?

Family-Friendly Itinerary to Laguna de los Tres, Patagonia

Day 1: Arrival in El Chaltén

Start your adventure in El Chaltén, a small town in Argentina known as the trekking capital of the country. Reach El Chaltén via a scenic 3-hour bus ride from El Calafate. Check into a family-friendly lodge and spend the afternoon exploring local shops and eateries. Don"t miss the informative visitor center where you can learn about the area"s geography and wildlife, making it an educational experience for kids.

Day 2: Trek to Laguna de los Tres

Begin your day early with a packed lunch. The trail to Laguna de los Tres is well-marked and starts from the northern edge of El Chaltén. The hike is challenging (about 8-10 hours round trip), so consider the fitness level of your family. Children can enjoy spotting various birds and the occasional guanaco, while learning about the native flora.

The trail offers breathtaking views of Mount Fitz Roy, a stunning granite mountain that"s famously tough to climb. The last kilometer is steep and rocky, which might be a fun challenge for older kids. Reaching Laguna de los Tres, you"re rewarded with the mesmerizing turquoise water and spectacular mountain views, a perfect spot for a family photo.

Day 3: Relax and Explore

After the demanding hike, dedicate this day to relaxing. Visit the nearby Laguna Capri for a shorter, more leisurely walk, or explore other child-friendly trails. Enjoy a picnic while taking in the serene landscapes.

Interesting Facts

- Laguna de los Tres is named for its magnificent view of the three peaks: Fitz Roy, Poincenot, and Saint Exupéry.

- El Chaltén means "smoking mountain" in the Tehuelche language, referring to the cloud cover that often shrouds the peaks.

End your trip with beautiful memories of one of Patagonia"s most iconic landscapes, promising an enriching experience for the whole family.

Family-Friendly Tips: Check for specific amenities and accessibility features relevant to family-friendly travelers.