Refugio Cerro Lindo

"Rustic, comfortable refugio in picturesque location!

The hike to the refugio is very tough and steep but shaded by trees and almost deserted so you can enjoy the forest. The hike took us 4 hours from the pasarela at Camping Rio Azul with some stops to look at miradors, rest by the arroyo, watch woodpeckers up close and refresh ourselves in waterfalls. We are fast hikers so allow 5 hours to be sure. It is also quite a distance from El Bolson to the start so that could add another hour.

Cross the pasarela and head under the Los Banderos sign. Turn right at the hut and then left following the path. The entire route is marked with yellow or red tin can lids so it is easily to follow. You can ask at the kiosco at camping Rio Azul if unsure.

The first part of the hike is very steep. After about an hour and a half you will reach the arroyo after a downhill section. It's is a nice place to sit and rest and refill water if you need. There is another steep section of a similar length to reach a lagoon. After the the lagoon the trail flattens out. In the forest we saw several woodpeckers that were unafraid of us and flew around us. You will cross another arroyo. To the right before you cross there is a small trail to waterfall. There is a pool and natural shower it you are hot. Not long after the forest opens into a marsh area. You are close to the refugio here. Follow the last of the markers to cross the marsh or you could get wet. There is another waterfall and pool just to the left before the refugio.

The refugio is basic but warm and comfortable. Tomas and Julio are super friendly and helpful. They made us a pizza on arrival and then we had the plato fuerte in the evening. You can also take your own food to cook. There is more space in the sleeping area than other refugios as it is quieter. It is 500 pesos per person in the refugio or 350 to camp.

The next morning we wanted to explore the cumbre (summit) and lakes before heading down. I cannot recommend going with the guide Julio enough. We simple wouldn't have been able to find the route without him. It is 500 pesos per person for the guide and definitely worth it. Julio took us on a route climbing the waterfall, up to the look out points of Lago tricolour and Lago Lindo. We then went up to the cumbre for mate and a snack. Part of the way down we slide on snow on plastic sheet for sleds which was hilarious. We saw another lake and snow and lookout points over El Bolson. It was very cold in the wind at the cumbre so take plenty of warm clothes. In all it took us about 5 hours. Leaving at 9am we got back to the refugio for 2pm.

We headed back down that afternoon. It only took about 2 and a half hours to get back to Camping Rio Azul but the steep slopes down are really hard on the knees and legs.

I would definite recommend this hike as it is beautiful and a unique experience. A certain level of fitness and hiking experience is needed. Comfortable, strong walking shoes, plenty of water and snacks, a warm sleeping and warm clothes are all needed."

Nicola Freeth

"The refugio is located in the middle of the Cerro lindo trek. It's quite expensive (costs about 350 ars) for sleeping at the refugio and 150 for camping, but the atmosphere is amazing, and julio will take you to a nice trip for about 300ars. There is also an option for food in the refugio. Overall the views are amazing and it's totally worth it."

Natan P

"The climb is tough, but you reach a very beautiful spot. The service was excellent. I must return in the summer to reach the summit."

Mauro De Vita