Summer ToursVinciguerra Glacier Trekking

Explore the Andorra Valley and ascend the mountain to discover this great mass of ice, its glacial lagoon, and the spectacular landscapes of the End of the World.

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Summer : October to March

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The Vinciguerra Glacier trek is an excursion of moderate/high difficulty that takes you along a trail with a steep ascent to spectacular landscapes. The route passes through the Andorra Valley, a native forest, and culminates above the treeline, where you'll be surprised by unique views of the glacial lagoon and the fascinating ice caves.

The excursion begins in the morning with a transfer from your hotel to the picturesque Andorra Valley, an area of unique settlements. We leave the vehicle to begin the ascent on foot, following a meandering meltwater river that crosses the peat bog covering the valley.

It is important to note that the trail can be wet and slippery in this first stage, so it is essential to have appropriate mountain trekking footwear.

Once in the forest, the ascent is constant and becomes less demanding as we approach 600 meters (1,968 feet) above sea level, where the treeline is located. Once above the treeline, you'll be surprised by the views of the craggy peaks of the mountain range surrounding the valley.

The ascent continues along a stream fed by a glacial lagoon. At this location, the Vinciguerra Glacier used to calve icebergs a few decades ago. Although the glacier has retreated, it is now even more interesting due to the impressive caves that are formed and its imposing presence in the area.

Itinerary

08:00 am / 08:30 am: Pick-up from hotels in Ushuaia.
09:00 am: We arrive at the Andorra Valley to begin the hike.
10:30 am: We reach the treeline, where the panoramic views begin to appear.
12:00 pm: We arrive at and explore the Laguna de los Témpanos, with views of the Vinciguerra Glacier.
12:30 pm: A break for lunch at the base of the glacier. Ice trekking with crampons on the glacier.
01:30 pm: The descent begins.
04:00 pm: We arrive at the vehicle for the return to the city.
04:30 pm: Final arrival in Ushuaia.

*All descriptions and itineraries are illustrative: the start time, activity times, the order of activities, and the attractions visited may vary depending on the time of year, the guide's assessment, and the group's characteristics.

Activities

Hiking:

Intensity: Moderate/High.
Duration: 5:00 - 5:30 hours total.
Elevation Gain: 750 meters / 2,400 feet.
Elevation Change: 550 meters / 1,800 feet.
Distance: Approx. 12 km / 7 miles.

Please Note: This policy applies to all our excursions, but is especially relevant for tours of moderate-to-high difficulty like this one. If a guide determines that a participant cannot safely complete the excursion due to their physical condition or inadequate attire, the activity will be canceled and no refund will be offered.

Meals

Box Lunch: Sandwich, sweet treat, and beverage.

Includes

Transfers, English/Spanish speaking guides, personal insurance, crampons, trekking pole, helmet, packed lunch and a hot beverage.

Does not include

Passengers must have the appropriate equipment: mid-height trekking boots (no sneakers), sunglasses and sunscreen, medium backpack, gloves and hat, warm clothing, and a rain jacket, a screw-top water bottle.

Recommendations

The climate in Tierra del Fuego is famously unpredictable; it is possible to experience sun, rain, and wind all in a single day. The rains are rarely torrential. In summer, average temperatures are around 10°C (with variations between 5°C and 15°C), while in winter they are usually close to 0°C. The key to enjoying your trip is to be well-prepared.

Essential Clothing: The "Onion" Method
To ensure comfort during outdoor activities, dressing in layers is crucial. The "onion" system allows you to adapt your clothes to changing weather conditions and your level of physical activity.

Layers: Wear several thin garments that can be easily put on or taken off to regulate your body temperature in response to wind or sun.
Footwear: This is the highest priority. It is vital to have waterproof footwear that offers robust protection, ideal for walking on wet, muddy, or snowy terrain.
Jacket: Indispensable. A waterproof or water-resistant jacket will effectively protect you from rain and wind.

Recommended Clothing:

Thermal undergarments (shirt and leggings for those who are particularly sensitive to the cold).
Comfortable long pants for trekking.
Waterproof trekking boots for walking on mountainous terrain.
A fleece or microfleece jacket/sweatshirt.
A rain/windproof jacket. Ideal: Gore-tex or softshell.
A warm hat and neck warmer (buff); gloves.
Sunglasses and sunscreen.
Bringing your own reusable bottle helps us avoid using disposable plastics.