Loma del Pliegue Tumbado
A challenging yet rewarding hike in El Chaltén offering breathtaking 360° panoramic views of iconic Patagonian peaks.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Views often clear up
Loma del Pliegue Tumbado
Best Time
Views often clear up
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A challenging yet rewarding hike in El Chaltén offering breathtaking 360° panoramic views of iconic Patagonian peaks.
"THE MOST AMAZING PLACE IN CHALTEN. For me this was the most beautiful location."
Check the Wind Forecast 🌬️
High winds can make this hike challenging and less enjoyable. Always check conditions before setting out.
Hydration is Key 💧
Carry at least 2 liters of water per person, as there are no refill points on the trail.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Panoramic Summit Views
Summit of Loma del Pliegue Tumbado
Witness a breathtaking 360° panorama of Fitz Roy, Cerro Torre, and Lago Viedma. Truly unforgettable.
Fitz Roy and Cerro Torre Vista
Mirador de la Loma del Pliegue Tumbado
Catch iconic views of the majestic Fitz Roy and Cerro Torre massifs, especially stunning at sunrise.
Lago Viedma and Glacial Scenery
Higher viewpoints
Gaze upon the vastness of Lago Viedma and its glaciers, offering a different perspective of Patagonia's grandeur.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing is Everything
Pace Yourself for the Summit
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Check the Wind Forecast 🌬️
High winds can make this hike challenging and less enjoyable. Always check conditions before setting out.
Hydration is Key 💧
Carry at least 2 liters of water per person, as there are no refill points on the trail.
Layer Up for All Weather 🧥
Bring a light jacket, hat, and gloves. The weather can change quickly, and wind protection is crucial.
Pace Yourself on the Ascent 🚶♀️
It's a constant climb. Go slow, breathe, and enjoy the journey to the viewpoints.
Tips
from all over the internet
Check the Wind Forecast 🌬️
High winds can make this hike challenging and less enjoyable. Always check conditions before setting out.
Hydration is Key 💧
Carry at least 2 liters of water per person, as there are no refill points on the trail.
Layer Up for All Weather 🧥
Bring a light jacket, hat, and gloves. The weather can change quickly, and wind protection is crucial.
Pace Yourself on the Ascent 🚶♀️
It's a constant climb. Go slow, breathe, and enjoy the journey to the viewpoints.
Don't Skip the Higher Viewpoint ⬆️
The extra 30-60 minute climb to the highest point offers a spectacular 360° view. Worth the effort!
Watch Out for Cows! 🐄
Be mindful of livestock on the trail; a close encounter with a protective mother cow was reported.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about the unparalleled panoramic views from Loma del Pliegue Tumbado, often calling it the most beautiful spot in El Chaltén. While challenging due to its constant ascent, the hike is considered manageable with proper preparation and pacing. Some find the views repetitive until the summit, but the higher viewpoint is consistently praised as a must-see. Wind can be a factor, but many report favorable conditions.
"Nice hike! Not too hard, although the views are pretty much the same the whole trip. Once you finish the track there's a nice view. But if you week walking towards right you migh find a big group of boulders and rocks, and there, there's an even better view to the river and Cerro Torre."
Francisco Fernandez
"Amazing hike! We did it in 7 hours including taking pictures and rest!
We went to both the viewpoints! And the 2nd one and the higher one is definitely worth hiking up for!"
Charlie C
"Out of the three main trails (Torre, fitz roy, tumbado), it is very close to the fitz roy in difficulty. So it's like the second hardest but not by much.
There are two Miradors and the top. The higher one requires 30-60min extra steep hill but gives a 360° view of the area. Definitely worth it.
Lot of people warn about the wind, maybe I got lucky on the weather but it really wasn't that bad. A small windbreaker was enough.
No need for big boots or sticks either.
Watch out for the cows tho, I accidentally got too close to a baby and mama wasn't happy. Tried charging me. Would not recommend."
Laurent H
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The trailhead for Loma del Pliegue Tumbado is conveniently located near the entrance of El Chaltén, making it accessible by foot. You can start the hike directly from town.
While specific parking details aren't widely mentioned, starting from El Chaltén means you can likely walk to the trailhead if you're staying in town. If driving, inquire locally about designated parking areas.
The trail starts close to town, so a bus might not be necessary. However, if arriving in El Chaltén by bus, you can easily walk to the trailhead from the bus station.
The hike is approximately 10.5 to 21 kilometers round trip, depending on how far you explore to the higher viewpoints.
Expect to spend a full day on this hike, typically around 7 to 8 hours, including time for breaks and photography.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, access to the Loma del Pliegue Tumbado trail is generally free, as it's part of the natural landscape around El Chaltén.
There are no specific entrance fees for this hike. It's a public trail within the national park area.
The trail is open year-round during daylight hours. However, it's best to start early to maximize your time and avoid hiking in the dark.
Yes, many local tour operators in El Chaltén offer guided hikes to Loma del Pliegue Tumbado, which can be beneficial for navigation and local insights.
While technically possible, hiking at night is not recommended due to safety concerns and the loss of the spectacular daytime views.
🎫 🥾 Onsite Experience
The hike is generally considered medium to high difficulty due to its constant ascent and length. It requires good physical condition.
The trail features varied terrain including sandy paths, rocks, forests, and open meadows. The final ascent to the summit is steeper.
Restroom facilities are not commonly mentioned along the trail, so it's best to use facilities in El Chaltén before you start your hike.
While doable for determined beginners, it's recommended to have some hiking experience due to the sustained climb and length.
There are multiple viewpoints, with the first main mirador offering great views. The higher summit viewpoint provides a more expansive 360° panorama and is highly recommended.
📸 📸 Photography
The summit offers unparalleled 360° views of iconic peaks like Fitz Roy and Cerro Torre, as well as Lago Viedma. Sunrise and sunset can provide dramatic lighting.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the vast landscapes. Consider a telephoto lens for distant peaks. A sturdy tripod can be useful for low-light conditions.
Yes, the trail offers excellent vantage points for photographing the Fitz Roy massif, especially from the higher viewpoints.
Early mornings for sunrise light on the mountains and late afternoons for golden hour offer the most dramatic photographic opportunities.
Absolutely! Modern smartphones are capable of capturing stunning landscape photos, especially with good lighting.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
This section still provides beautiful scenery and a good taste of the Patagonian landscape without the full commitment of the summit climb. Ensure children are well-prepared with appropriate footwear, snacks, and plenty of water. Consider the weather conditions carefully, as strong winds can be difficult for children to manage.
If your family enjoys longer, more strenuous hikes and has prior experience, the full trek to the summit can be a rewarding accomplishment. However, always prioritize safety and be prepared to turn back if conditions become too challenging for the youngest members of your group. 💰 Budget Travelers
Consider camping or staying in hostels in El Chaltén to keep accommodation costs down.
Many travelers find that the incredible views and experience of this hike are more than worth the effort, offering a high-value adventure without significant expenses. 💑 Couples and Adventure Seekers
+1 Consider tackling the hike together, supporting each other through the ascent, and celebrating the breathtaking views from the summit. This trek is perfect for adventure-seeking couples who appreciate natural beauty and a good physical challenge. The sense of accomplishment after completing the hike and witnessing the vast Patagonian landscape together can be a truly bonding experience.
Remember to pack layers and be prepared for changing weather, as this adds to the adventurous spirit of the trek. Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Challenge and Reward of the Ascent
This means that even though it's not technically difficult in terms of scrambling, the sheer elevation gain requires stamina and a good pace. Many hikers recommend taking it slow, breathing deeply, and enjoying the journey rather than rushing to the top. The reward for this effort is immense, with panoramic views that are considered by some to be the most beautiful in El Chaltén. For those seeking an even more spectacular vista, pushing on to the higher summit viewpoint is highly recommended. This additional 30-60 minute climb, though steep, unlocks a breathtaking 360° panorama.
+1 It's a truly immersive experience that makes the challenging ascent feel entirely worthwhile. It's important to note that while the hike is challenging, it's often described as less crowded than other popular trails in El Chaltén, such as Laguna de los Tres.
Navigating El Chaltén's Infamous Wind
The exposed nature of the trail, especially as you gain elevation, means that strong gusts can make the hike uncomfortable and even dangerous. Checking the weather forecast diligently before you set out is crucial.
Being prepared with appropriate layers, including windproof and waterproof gear, is essential, even on seemingly clear days. The unpredictable nature of Patagonian weather means that conditions can change rapidly, so it's always wise to be overprepared rather than underprepared. The Photographic Splendor of Loma del Pliegue Tumbado
From its summit, you can capture iconic landmarks like the Fitz Roy massif, Cerro Torre, and the expansive Lago Viedma all in a single frame. +1 The trail itself provides evolving scenery, from forests and meadows to rocky outcrops, offering diverse photographic opportunities along the way. For the best photographic results, consider visiting during the golden hours of sunrise or sunset. The soft, warm light can dramatically enhance the colors of the mountains and the sky.
Early mornings are particularly recommended for capturing the sunrise light hitting the peaks, creating a magical atmosphere. Even if you're not a professional photographer, your smartphone can capture stunning images here.
The sheer scale and beauty of the landscape are awe-inspiring, and you'll find plenty of opportunities to document your adventure. Remember to bring extra batteries or a power bank, as you'll likely be taking many photos throughout the day. 
Social
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