The summit of Cerro Eléctrico gives us the chance to appreciate the granite massif of Fitz Roy, spectacular glaciers and the amazing valley of the De Las Vueltas River. This ascent includes the experience of crossing an area of ice with crampons and ropes.
The activity starts with a transfer from El Chaltén to the starting point – the bridge over the River Eléctrico – from where we commence a beautiful approach trek. We hike through a leafy lenga beech forest before turning to follow the course of the river flowing down from the Eléctrico Glacier. After a trek of around 5 hours, we enjoy a nice afternoon tea, and we train some of the progress methods on snow fields, making use of crampons and piolets. We then pitch camp to rest and gather our energy for the next day’s major challenge.
– Overnight: Tents
– Meals: Lunch, afternoon tea and dinner.
– Distance: 8 Km.
– Walking time: 5/6 hours.
– Height gain: 1200 m.
After a substantial breakfast at first light, we begin our final ascent over the glacier using progression techniques and suitable equipment (harnesses, crampons and ropes, etc.). A tough climb takes us to the main ridge, which finally leads us to the sought-after summit.
After enjoying the marvellous views from the top of this spectacular peak, we descend retracing our steps along the same route to the bridge over the River Eléctrico, where transport to El Chaltén will await us.
– Meals: Breakfast and lunch.
– Distance: 13 Km.
– Walking time: 5/6 hours.
– Height gain: 1060 m.
