Piedra del Fraile and Río Eléctrico Valley
A remote Patagonian campsite and trekking hub in the Río Eléctrico Valley, offering basic amenities and delicious homemade food.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
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Best Time
Clearer views, less wind
Piedra del Fraile and Río Eléctrico Valley
Best Time
Clearer views, less wind
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A remote Patagonian campsite and trekking hub in the Río Eléctrico Valley, offering basic amenities and delicious homemade food.
"A lovely campsite safe from wind, with lovely and super delicious apple crumble cake!"
🏕️ Camping Fees
Camping costs around 3500 CLP per person per night. Inquire about road conditions and pet policies.
🛏️ Dormitory Basics
Dorms are basic; bring your own sleeping bag for a comfortable stay.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Piedra del Fraile Campsite
Río Eléctrico Valley
A remote camping spot with basic facilities and a surprisingly good restaurant, perfect for trekkers.
Gateway to Iconic Treks
Río Eléctrico Valley
Access point for renowned hikes like Laguna Torre and Laguna de los Tres, offering breathtaking Patagonian landscapes.
Homemade Delights
Piedra del Fraile Campsite Restaurant
Enjoy delicious homemade cakes, pasta, and pizzas prepared with care by the campsite staff.
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Planning Your Visit
Camping & Trekking Hub
Trekker's Paradise
Best Times
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🏕️ Camping Fees
Camping costs around 3500 CLP per person per night. Inquire about road conditions and pet policies.
🛏️ Dormitory Basics
Dorms are basic; bring your own sleeping bag for a comfortable stay.
El Chalten 2-day hikes
🍰 Delicious Homemade Food
Don't miss the amazing homemade cakes, pasta, and pizzas at the campsite restaurant.
💧 No Showers Available
Be prepared for limited facilities; there are toilets but no showers at the campsite.
Free El Chalten Hike Recommendations?
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🏕️ Camping Fees
Camping costs around 3500 CLP per person per night. Inquire about road conditions and pet policies.
🛏️ Dormitory Basics
Dorms are basic; bring your own sleeping bag for a comfortable stay.
🍰 Delicious Homemade Food
Don't miss the amazing homemade cakes, pasta, and pizzas at the campsite restaurant.
💧 No Showers Available
Be prepared for limited facilities; there are toilets but no showers at the campsite.
💰 Cost Considerations
Camping and food can be expensive. Compare prices with hostels in El Chaltén.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Piedra del Fraile is praised as a remote camping hub with surprisingly delicious homemade food, offering a great base for Patagonian treks. While facilities are basic, with no showers, the friendly atmosphere and scenic location are highlights. Some visitors find it expensive compared to El Chaltén, particularly for food and drinks.
"A nice little place for camping in the middle of nowhere, with bunk beds to sleep and a restaurant. This camping is a hub from which to go to different great treks around the area.
The girl that was running the place was really nice and prepared great food, all made by her: cakes, pasta, pizzas (all much better quality than you would expect in a place like that)."
Ruben Ruiz
"Lovely campsite 🏕️ safe from wind 💨 lovely and super delicious apple crumble cake 🍰
Toilets and a common room. No showers…
Still lovely people and a great stay!"
Leo Fotografie
"Very expencive site. You can get food there and so on but staying in the tents will cost the double price of the hostel in Chalten. They pretend to charge you as well for going up the trail to Paso Marconi and Piedra Negra but there are no info about prices and all that looks like a fraud. We did not pay."
Alex Trubachev
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Piedra del Fraile is located in the Río Eléctrico Valley, accessible by car or bus from El Chaltén. The journey offers scenic Patagonian landscapes.
The road condition can vary. It's advisable to check with locals or the campsite for the latest updates, especially after heavy rain or snow.
Some TikTok videos suggest inquiring about pet policies beforehand, as it's a natural reserve.
While private transport is common, inquire about local bus services or shared shuttles from El Chaltén for access to the Río Eléctrico Valley.
Piedra del Fraile is approximately 20-30 kilometers from El Chaltén, a manageable drive or a longer bike ride.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Camping fees are around 3500 CLP per person per night. It's recommended to confirm current prices upon arrival.
While not always mandatory, booking in advance is recommended during peak season to secure a spot, especially if you plan to use the dorms.
Generally, there are no specific entrance fees for the main trails originating from Piedra del Fraile, but some users have reported unclear pricing for certain routes.
The campsite is typically open year-round, but the restaurant hours may vary seasonally. It's best to check on-site or with previous visitors.
It's advisable to carry cash (Chilean Pesos) as card facilities might be limited or unreliable in such a remote location.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
The campsite offers basic flushing toilets and a common room. There are no showers available, so be prepared for a rustic experience.
Yes, the campsite has a restaurant that serves delicious homemade food, including cakes, pasta, and pizzas. However, prices can be higher than in town.
Piedra del Fraile is a hub for several stunning treks, including routes to Laguna Torre, Laguna de los Tres, and towards Paso Marconi and Piedra Negra.
Yes, overnight camping is a popular option for trekkers looking to extend their hikes and experience the Patagonian wilderness.
Pack essentials like a warm sleeping bag, layers of clothing, rain gear, sturdy hiking boots, and any personal medications. Cash is also recommended.
📸 📸 Photography
The valley offers dramatic mountain vistas, glacial rivers, and lush forests. Early morning and late afternoon light provide the best conditions for landscape photography.
While not the primary viewpoint, the surrounding peaks and the valley itself offer stunning photographic subjects. For direct Fitz Roy views, treks like Laguna de los Tres are more renowned.
Sunrise and sunset offer dramatic lighting for the surrounding mountains and the valley. Midday can be harsh but still offers opportunities for capturing the river and flora.
Drone usage regulations can be strict in national parks. It's crucial to check local rules and obtain any necessary permits before flying a drone.
A wide-angle lens is great for landscapes, while a telephoto lens can capture distant peaks. A sturdy tripod is essential for low-light conditions and long exposures.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider the limited facilities, especially the lack of showers, when planning for younger children. Packing extra entertainment and comfortable sleeping arrangements (like a warm sleeping bag) is key. The on-site restaurant offering familiar options like pizza can be a plus for picky eaters. Ensure children are well-equipped with appropriate clothing for variable weather conditions.
💰 Budget Travelers
To save money, consider bringing your own food supplies for meals and snacks. This allows you to enjoy the convenience of the campsite without the higher restaurant prices. If you plan to do extensive trekking, factor in potential costs for park fees or transport if applicable.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Trekking from Piedra del Fraile
For those seeking multi-day adventures, Piedra del Fraile is a starting point for longer expeditions. Trekkers can head towards Paso Marconi and Piedra Negra, routes that offer a more remote and rugged Patagonian experience. These longer treks often involve overnight camping, allowing for a deeper immersion in the wilderness. It's crucial to be well-prepared with appropriate gear, navigation skills, and knowledge of weather conditions, which can change rapidly in Patagonia.
When planning your treks, consider the time of year. Summer (December to February) offers the most stable weather, but also the highest number of visitors. Shoulder seasons (spring and autumn) can provide a more tranquil experience with beautiful autumn colors or blooming wildflowers, but with more unpredictable weather. Always check trail conditions and weather forecasts before setting out.
The Piedra del Fraile Camping Experience
A standout feature of the campsite is its on-site restaurant, which receives high praise for its delicious homemade food. Visitors often rave about the quality of the cakes, pasta, and pizzas, noting that the culinary offerings far exceed expectations for such a remote location. This makes it a convenient and enjoyable option for refueling and relaxing. However, it's important to note that prices for food and drinks can be higher than in El Chaltén, and some visitors have expressed concerns about the overall cost.
While the campsite provides a roof over your head and a place to rest, it's essential to be aware of its limitations. There are no shower facilities available, so visitors should be prepared for a more basic camping experience. Dormitory beds are simple, and bringing your own sleeping bag is a must for comfort. Despite these rustic elements, the friendly atmosphere and the quality of the homemade food contribute to a memorable stay for many adventurers.
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