The ascent of Cerro Madsen, in the Fitz Roy range area, is a perfect challenge for mountain beginners, or for those who want to reach their first summit in Patagonia, and delight in one of the most marvellous views in the world.
We start our approach from El Chaltén through amazing landscapes as far as the River Blanco area.
After a brief rest we start our real ascent of the day, enjoying spectacular panoramas on our way up to the famous Laguna de Los Tres. From here we continue the ascent, a moderate climb up the side of Mount Madsen. We transit over rock and snow, we’ll use crampons, helmet and harness. The guide will also use a rope to give assistance, if necessary.
After about 3 hours we arrive at the summit. The last few metres are on a vertical terrain and the climbing is of little difficulty (grade 4). On arriving at the summit we are rewarded with fantastic views of glaciers, lagoons of the area and right in front of us stands the majestic Mt Fitz Roy.
In the afternoon we start our descent towards El Chaltén, passing the famous Capri Lagoon.
– Meals: Packed lunch.
– Distance: 24 Km.
– Walking time aprox: 13 hours
– Height gain: 1400 m.
Optional: This ascent can also be done in 2 days and 1 night, overnighting in Poincenot camp. This increases the chances of reaching summit as you have 2 days in the park and it allows us choose the best day for the ascent (depending on the weather forecast and how the group feels physically when they arrive into El Chaltén.) Furthermore it allows you to see more of the national park. Ask for details.
