Why do this tour?
The journey to the Circo de los Altares represents Patagonia at its most raw:
- Endless ice horizons
- Massive crevasse systems
- Direct exposure to Pacific storm systems
- Complete environmental immersion
This expedition develops:
- Technical glacier travel efficiency
- Snow-anchor and high-wind camp construction
- Decision-making under weather pressure
- Team cohesion in exposed terrain
Few routes allow you to stand beneath the west face of Cerro Torre while arriving entirely under your own power.
Overview
Location
Patagonia, Chile
Duration
5-6 days
Level
Intermediate
Highest Point
1,500 M
Season
Nov-March
Grupo Size
2-10 people
Price From
€ 2,500 per person
Dates
To be confirmed
Departing from El Chaltén, this expedition accesses the northern edge of the Southern Patagonian Icefield, crossing via Paso Marconi and traversing vast glacial terrain toward the dramatic Circo de los Altares, beneath the western faces of Cerro Torre and its surrounding granite spires.
This program combines:
- Rope-team glacier progression
- Crevasse field navigation
- Ice camp construction
- Whiteout navigation strategy
- Full expedition load carrying
The route offers one of the most immersive glacier experiences in Patagonia within a compact 5–6 day format, while still requiring serious endurance and expedition discipline.
Trip Details
Day 1 — El Chaltén → Paso Marconi Approach
Distance: ~15 km
Elevation gain: +1,200 m
- Expedition briefing and final gear check
- Trek through Río Eléctrico valley
- Ascent toward Paso Marconi
- Establish high mountain camp
- Rope and rescue systems review
Day 2 — Entry onto the Icefield
Distance: ~8–10 km
- Climb over Paso Marconi
- Transition onto the Southern Icefield plateau
- Rope-team glacier travel begins
- Establish first glacier camp
- Navigation planning toward Altares basin
Day 3 — Traverse to Circo de los Altares
Distance: ~12–15 km
- 6–8 hours glacier travel
- Crevasse field navigation
- Arrival at Circo de los Altares
- Camp with panoramic views of Cerro Torre (weather permitting)
Day 4 — Altares Exploration & Return Traverse
Distance: ~10–12 km
- Short exploration around Altares basin
- Optional minor ice dome ascent (conditions dependent)
- Begin return traverse across plateau
- Establish intermediate glacier camp
Day 5 — Exit via Paso Marconi
Distance: ~10–12 km
- Glacier travel toward Marconi Pass
- Descent off the icefield
- Camp below pass or continue toward valley
Day 6 — Return to El Chaltén
Distance: ~15 km
- Descent through Río Eléctrico valley
- Return to trailhead
- Transfer to El Chaltén
- Expedition debrief and end of program
5-Day Fast Version
The 5-day version compresses the Altares exploration and removes the weather buffer. Recommended only for experienced glacier travelers with strong load-carry capacity.
Included
- Certified UIAGM Mountain Guide
- 2 nights in mountain huts with half board (dinner, overnight stay and breakfast on days 3 & 4)
- Kitchen and Camp Assitence
- Group glacier equipment (Rope, Snow anchors, Crevasse rescue systems)
- Full expedition camp setup (tents, stoves, fuel)
- All expedition meals
- Satellite communication device (Inreach + Radio VHF)
- Park permits and logistics coordination
Not Included
- International flights
- Accommodation in El Chaltén (before/after expedition)
- Personal glacier equipment (harness, crampons, ice axe)
- Travel & rescue insurance (mandatory, must cover remote evacuation)
- Personal porter services (participants carry expedition loads)
- Alcoholic beverages
- Tips for guides
An Unforgettable First
Ski Experience in Chile
Our first time in Chile — and our first ski experience in South America — became an unforgettable journey. The professionalism, warmth, and local knowledge of the guides made these days in the Chilean Andes truly exceptional. We came for the mountains, but we’ll remember the people most.
Practical
Info
Requirements
- Prior glacier and rope-team experience mandatory, 18-25 kg load carry, high wind and whiteout exposure
Additional Notes
- Circo de los Altares is fully exposed to Pacific weather systems — flexibility is essential.
- Whiteout navigation and strong teamwork are critical.
- This expedition is physically and mentally demanding.
- Extended versions available (deeper Icefield penetration or Chilean exit).
- Full expedition equipment list provided upon confirmation.
Equipment
A complete alpine equipment kit is required, including mountaineering boots, crampons, ice axe, harness, helmet, and proper layering for high-altitude conditions. A detailed packing list is provided after booking confirmation.
Payment Conditions
A 50% deposit is required to secure your booking. The remaining balance must be paid 60 days before departure. Deposits are non-refundable and services are only confirmed once full payment has been received.
For full details, please refer to our Terms & Conditions.
Cancellation
Client cancellations more than 60 days before departure are eligible for an 80% refund. Cancellations within 60 days are non-refundable. Weather, safety, or force majeure events do not generate refunds, but alternative programs may be offered.
See full policy in our Terms & Conditions.
Insurance
This is a physically demanding expedition. Participants must have strong endurance, previous basic alpine experience (crampons and ice axe), and the ability to sustain long days in exposed terrain.
F.A.Q.
Have questions about preparation, acclimatization, route conditions, or difficulty level? Visit our FAQ section or contact us directly — we are happy to guide you through the process.
