Lagunas Madre e Hija
Discover the breathtaking Lagunas Madre e Hija, a connector trail in El Chaltén offering unique Fitz Roy vistas and stunning twin lagoons.
Highlights
Must-see attractions

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From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Best light for Fitz Roy
Lagunas Madre e Hija
Best Time
Best light for Fitz Roy
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Discover the breathtaking Lagunas Madre e Hija, a connector trail in El Chaltén offering unique Fitz Roy vistas and stunning twin lagoons.
"For me this spot has one of the best views of Fitz Roy. The lagoon, the trees and the mountains in the bottom makes a unique landscape."
👟 Wear Sturdy Hiking Boots
The trails can be challenging, especially descents. Good footwear is crucial for comfort and safety.
💧 Pack Water & Snacks
Bring plenty of water and energy-boosting snacks for the trek. Refill stations are scarce.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Lagunas Madre e Hija Viewpoints
Trail connecting Laguna de los Tres and Laguna Torre
Stunning twin lagoons offering unique perspectives of Fitz Roy and surrounding peaks. A must-see for photographers!

Fitz Roy Vista
Mirador near Lagunas Madre e Hija
One of the best, often-missed views of Fitz Roy, framed by the lagoons and trees. Truly breathtaking.

Condor Spotting
Above the trails
Keep an eye out for majestic condors soaring overhead; this area is known for them.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing is Everything for Fitz Roy Views
Trail Connectivity & Difficulty
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
👟 Wear Sturdy Hiking Boots
The trails can be challenging, especially descents. Good footwear is crucial for comfort and safety.
💧 Pack Water & Snacks
Bring plenty of water and energy-boosting snacks for the trek. Refill stations are scarce.
🧥 Layer Up for Weather
Patagonian weather is unpredictable. Be prepared for sun, wind, and rain, even in summer.
📸 Capture the Views
Don't forget your camera! The scenery is spectacular, especially the unique Fitz Roy vistas.
Tips
from all over the internet
👟 Wear Sturdy Hiking Boots
The trails can be challenging, especially descents. Good footwear is crucial for comfort and safety.
💧 Pack Water & Snacks
Bring plenty of water and energy-boosting snacks for the trek. Refill stations are scarce.
🧥 Layer Up for Weather
Patagonian weather is unpredictable. Be prepared for sun, wind, and rain, even in summer.
📸 Capture the Views
Don't forget your camera! The scenery is spectacular, especially the unique Fitz Roy vistas.
🗺️ Connect Trails Wisely
This trail links Laguna de los Tres and Laguna Torre. Plan your route to see both!
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about the stunning, often-missed views of Fitz Roy from Lagunas Madre e Hija, calling it a beautiful and unique landscape. The trail's connectivity between major hiking routes is highly praised, though some find the descents challenging. It's considered a must-see for its picturesque scenery and potential for condor spotting.
"Very nice trail, very easy to do. It joins the hike coming from Laguna de los 3 to Laguna Torre. Has some viewpoints along the way to see the mother and daughter lagoons. Beautiful landscape."
Francisco Fernandez
"For me this spot has one of the best views of Fitz Roy. The lagoon, the trees and the mountains in the bottom makes a unique landscape, and many people miss this one"
Sebastian Giraldo
"Beautiful hike that interconnects the Fitzroy and Cerro Torre trails and enables you to go to the Miradors of both mountains in one day. 7km trek with max ascent of 100m with beautiful views over the two lagoons below. It’s also a good spot for spotting condors soaring above. Easily done and well recommended."
Kevin McMahon
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Lagunas Madre e Hija is accessed via hiking trails from El Chaltén. It's a popular segment connecting the Laguna de los Tres and Laguna Torre treks. You can start from various trailheads depending on your chosen route.
While there's no direct public transport to the specific trailhead, El Chaltén itself is accessible by bus from El Calafate. From El Chaltén town, you'll need to hike to reach the lagoons.
No, Lagunas Madre e Hija is only accessible by hiking. There are no roads leading directly to the lagoons.
While some longer hikes in El Chaltén require a park pass, the trails around Lagunas Madre e Hija are generally part of the national park system. It's always best to check current park regulations for any access fees.
Many photographers recommend approaching from the Laguna de los Tres side for the most dramatic light on Fitz Roy, especially in the morning. The viewpoints offer unique framing.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Lagunas Madre e Hija is located within Los Glaciares National Park. While some specific trails or areas might have associated fees, general access to the park and its main hiking routes is often free, especially for shorter day hikes. Always verify current park entry requirements.
The trails are generally accessible year-round during daylight hours. However, winter conditions can make access difficult or impossible. Summer offers the longest daylight and best conditions.
Access to the trails leading to Lagunas Madre e Hija is typically part of the Los Glaciares National Park. While there isn't a separate fee for the lagoons themselves, there might be an entrance fee for the national park, depending on current regulations.
Yes, many tour operators in El Chaltén offer guided treks that include Lagunas Madre e Hija as part of longer itineraries, such as the Fitz Roy or Cerro Torre treks.
Standard national park rules apply, including no camping in undesignated areas, no fires, and packing out all trash. Respecting the fragile environment is paramount.
🎫 🚶 Onsite Experience
The immediate area around the lagoons is relatively easy, but it's often part of longer, more challenging treks. The descent from the Fitz Roy area towards Laguna Torre can be steep and demanding.
If visited as a viewpoint along the Laguna de los Tres or Laguna Torre trails, it adds to the overall hike time. A dedicated trek to see the lagoons as a connector might take 2-4 hours round trip, depending on your starting point and pace.
Wear comfortable, broken-in hiking boots. Dress in layers, including a waterproof and windproof outer shell, as Patagonian weather changes rapidly.
Basic facilities might be available at major trail junctions or viewpoints, but it's not guaranteed. It's best to use facilities in El Chaltén before you start your hike.
While the viewpoints themselves are stunning, the trails can be long and challenging. It's best suited for families with older children who are accustomed to hiking.
📸 📸 Photography Tips
Early morning or late afternoon offers the best light for capturing Fitz Roy and the lagoons. The 'golden hour' can create magical shots.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive landscapes. A telephoto lens can be useful for isolating Fitz Roy. Don't forget a sturdy tripod for low-light conditions.
Yes, the trail offers several designated viewpoints that provide unobstructed, iconic views of Fitz Roy, often with the lagoons in the foreground.
Visit during the shoulder seasons (spring or fall) or very early in the morning during peak season. Weekdays are generally less crowded than weekends.
The reflections of Fitz Roy in the calm waters of the lagoons, the unique framing of the mountains by trees, and the chance to spot condors are prime photo subjects.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Tips for families:
* Pack extra snacks and entertainment for the trail.
* Prioritize safety and be aware of the changing weather conditions.
* Consider a guided tour that can cater to a family's pace and needs.
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
Photography tips:
* Bring a wide-angle lens to capture the expansive scenery.
* A telephoto lens can help isolate Fitz Roy and other peaks.
* A tripod is useful for low-light conditions and capturing reflections.
* Be patient to wait for the perfect light and to avoid crowds in your shots.
🚶 Budget Travelers
Budget tips:
* Pack your own food and water to save on costs.
* Stay in hostels or budget guesthouses in El Chaltén.
* Utilize free hiking trails like the one to Lagunas Madre e Hija.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Iconic Fitz Roy Connection
The views from Lagunas Madre e Hija are particularly special because they offer a different perspective of Fitz Roy. Unlike the direct, imposing view from Laguna de los Tres, here you get a more intimate framing of the mountain, often with the twin lagoons mirroring the peaks and surrounding trees. This creates a postcard-perfect scene that many travelers find incredibly rewarding, especially after a strenuous hike.
For those seeking to maximize their El Chaltén experience, incorporating Lagunas Madre e Hija is highly recommended. It provides a sense of accomplishment and offers photographic opportunities that are distinct from the more popular, crowded viewpoints. The trail itself, while sometimes narrow and winding, is well-maintained and offers a true immersion into the Patagonian wilderness.
Navigating the Trails: Difficulty and Tips
Key considerations for hikers:
* Footwear: Sturdy, broken-in hiking boots are non-negotiable. The varied terrain, from rocky paths to potentially muddy sections, demands good ankle support and grip.
* Layers: Patagonian weather is notoriously fickle. Be prepared for rapid changes, from bright sunshine to strong winds and rain, even in summer. Waterproof and windproof outer layers are essential.
* Hydration and Nutrition: Carry ample water and high-energy snacks. There are limited opportunities to refill water bottles or purchase food along the trails.
* Trail Conditions: While generally well-marked, trails can be affected by weather. Check local conditions before setting out.
Many visitors find that the effort is more than worth it. The unique perspectives and the feeling of discovering a slightly less-trodden path contribute to a memorable experience. Planning your route to include Lagunas Madre e Hija can enhance your overall trekking adventure in El Chaltén.
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