Part of our Argentina guide.
Hiking in Argentina spans jungle waterfalls, Patagonian glaciers, and Andean peaks. The five sections below cover the Devil's Throat Walkway, hidden cascades, El Calafate, El Chaltén, and a packing list for trekking in Patagonia.
Related travel guides: Travel Highlights In Argentina, Things To Do In Argentina, Secrets Of Argentina's Patagonia Dinosaur Fossils, How To Walk From Villa O'Higgins, Chile To El Chaltén, Argentina, and Hiking And The Outdoors In Chile.
Unveiling the Mystery of Iguazu's Devil's Throat Walkway Hike
Stand on the Devil's Throat Walkway at Iguazu Falls, on the border of Argentina and Brazil, and you face the falls' most powerful section, where water plunges over 80 meters. The walkway takes you directly above the chasm, with mist and rainbows common. It is one of the most direct encounters with the falls' force. The walkway is part of the broader Iguazu National Park circuit, and the roar of the water builds as you approach the railing.
Spectacular Waterfalls Hidden In Lush Jungles
Beyond Iguazu, Argentina holds many waterfalls hidden in lush jungles, often reached by short treks through dense greenery. These range from the Moconá Falls in Misiones, where the river drops in a straight line along the Argentina-Brazil border, to smaller cascades in the Sierras de Córdoba. Each requires a hike, and the reward is a quiet pool or a thundering curtain of water. For travelers seeking less-crowded spots, these are among the true hidden gems in Argentina, though they demand a bit of effort to find.
A Quick Guide To El Calafate - The Gateway To Los Glaciares National Park
El Calafate, in Santa Cruz Province on the southern shores of Lake Argentino, is the gateway to Los Glaciares National Park. The town itself is compact, with a main avenue lined with outfitters and restaurants. From here, you can reach the Perito Moreno Glacier, a 30-minute drive away, where the ice face rises up to 60 meters above the water. El Calafate also serves as a base for boat tours on Lake Argentino and for trips into the park's southern sector. It is a practical hub, not a scenic highlight in its own right.
The Best Hiking In El Chaltén, Argentina
El Chaltén, in the southern region of Patagonia, is the "Hiking Capital of Argentina" and sits inside Los Glaciares National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The village is the trailhead for two classic day hikes: the Laguna de los Tres, which offers a close view of Mount Fitz Roy, and the Laguna Torre, leading to Cerro Torre's spire. Both trails are well-marked, and the park's glaciers and towering peaks dominate the skyline. For those looking to avoid crowds, the Huemul Circuit, a multi-day trek, starts here too, though it requires camping permits and route planning.
The Complete Hiking Packing List For Trekking In Patagonia, Argentina
Patagonia's weather changes fast, so pack layers: a moisture-wicking base layer, an insulating mid-layer, and a waterproof shell. For your feet, bring broken-in hiking boots with good ankle support, plus gaiters for muddy or snowy sections. A daypack should carry at least two liters of water, high-energy snacks, a map or GPS, sun protection (hat, sunglasses, SPF 30+), and an emergency blanket. In the colder months, a down jacket and gloves are essential, even in summer. For longer treks, add a headlamp, a first-aid kit, and a water filter, as streams may be safe but not guaranteed. This list covers the essentials for day hikes and multi-day trips alike, and it applies to both El Calafate and El Chaltén.
