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Laguna Esmeralda Ushuaia

4.6
·491k reviews·Ushuaia, Argentina

A stunning glacial lake with vibrant turquoise waters, accessible via a moderate hike through Patagonian forests.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Summer mornings

Best light for photos

CrowdMedium
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Laguna Esmeralda - Image 1

Laguna Esmeralda Ushuaia

Best Time

Summer mornings

Best light for photos

CrowdMedium
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

A stunning glacial lake with vibrant turquoise waters, accessible via a moderate hike through Patagonian forests.

4.6
(491k reviews)

"The Emerald Lake Ushuaia is an absolute gem, a must-see for its unreal color and surrounding natural beauty!"

Vertical photo
TIP

🥾 Sturdy Footwear is Key

Essential for the muddy and uneven terrain. Waterproof boots are highly recommended!

💧 Pack Plenty of Water

Stay hydrated on the trail. Refill stations are non-existent, so bring enough for the round trip.

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Laguna Esmeralda

Laguna Esmeralda

Trailhead area

A stunning glacial lake with vibrant turquoise waters, nestled amidst the Patagonian Andes.

Patagonian Forest Trail

Patagonian Forest Trail

The hiking path

Wander through enchanting lenga forests, crossing streams and enjoying the crisp mountain air.

Panoramic Mountain Views

Panoramic Mountain Views

Along the hike

Breathtaking vistas of the surrounding peaks and valleys, offering incredible photo opportunities.

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Planning Your Visit

Trek Essentials for Laguna Esmeralda

The hike to Laguna Esmeralda Ushuaia is a moderate trek. Wear sturdy hiking boots and dress in layers, as Ushuaia's weather is unpredictable. Bring plenty of water and snacks, as there are no facilities on the trail. Check trail conditions before you go, especially outside of peak season.

Timing Your Emerald Lake Visit

To experience the best of the Emerald Lake Ushuaia, aim for clear weather. Mornings often offer calmer conditions and beautiful light for photos. Consider visiting during shoulder seasons (spring or fall) to potentially avoid the largest crowds and enjoy vibrant autumn colors or spring blooms.

Best Times

When
Summer mornings
Why
Best light for photos
Crowd
Medium
When
Fall afternoons
Why
Golden hour and colors
Crowd
Low

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

reddit.com

Tips on Ushuaia?

🥾 Sturdy Footwear is Key

Essential for the muddy and uneven terrain. Waterproof boots are highly recommended! Reddit

💧 Pack Plenty of Water

Stay hydrated on the trail. Refill stations are non-existent, so bring enough for the round trip. Reddit

reddit.com

Itinerary Advice: Am I Spending Too Much Time in Ushuaia?

reddit.com

Hace 1 año cumplí el objetivo de conocer Ushuaia y te lo muestro

🧥 Dress in Layers

Ushuaia's weather changes rapidly. Be prepared for sun, wind, and rain all in one hike. Reddit

⏰ Start Early to Avoid Crowds

Beat the rush and enjoy a more peaceful experience at the Emerald Lake Ushuaia. Reddit

reddit.com

How does my Ushuaia itinerary look?

Tips

from all over the internet

🥾 Sturdy Footwear is Key

Essential for the muddy and uneven terrain. Waterproof boots are highly recommended! Reddit

💧 Pack Plenty of Water

Stay hydrated on the trail. Refill stations are non-existent, so bring enough for the round trip. Reddit

🧥 Dress in Layers

Ushuaia's weather changes rapidly. Be prepared for sun, wind, and rain all in one hike. Reddit

⏰ Start Early to Avoid Crowds

Beat the rush and enjoy a more peaceful experience at the Emerald Lake Ushuaia. Reddit

📸 Capture the Views

Bring your camera! The Emerald Lake Ushuaia and surrounding landscapes are incredibly photogenic. Reddit

What Travellers Say

4.6
(491k reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors consistently praise the breathtaking beauty of Laguna Esmeralda, describing its vibrant turquoise waters as a natural wonder. The hike is considered a moderate challenge with rewarding views, though some find the trail muddy and uneven. It's a must-do for nature lovers and photographers visiting Ushuaia.

What People Like

Stunning turquoise lake
Beautiful forest hike
Panoramic mountain views

What People Dislike

Muddy trail sections
Unpredictable weather

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

The most common way to reach Laguna Esmeralda Ushuaia is by car or taxi to the trailhead, which is about a 20-30 minute drive from the city center. You can also arrange a tour that includes transportation. Some travelers opt for a taxi and arrange for pick-up later. Reddit

Public transportation directly to the Laguna Esmeralda trailhead is limited. It's generally recommended to rent a car, take a taxi, or join an organized tour for convenient access. Reddit

The drive from Ushuaia to the Laguna Esmeralda trailhead is approximately 18-20 kilometers (11-12 miles), taking around 20-30 minutes depending on road conditions. Reddit

Walking from Ushuaia to Laguna Esmeralda is not practical due to the distance and road conditions. It's best to use a vehicle or organized transport. Reddit

Yes, there is a parking area at the trailhead for Laguna Esmeralda Ushuaia, but it can fill up quickly, especially during peak season. Arriving early is advised. Reddit

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Currently, there is no entrance fee or ticket required to access Laguna Esmeralda Ushuaia. The trail is generally open to the public. Reddit

Laguna Esmeralda is an outdoor natural attraction and does not have set opening or closing hours. However, it's best to hike during daylight hours for safety and visibility. Reddit

No, there is no admission fee for the Emerald Lake Ushuaia. Access to the trail and the lake is free. Reddit

Visiting on weekdays, especially outside of the main summer holiday period (December-February), can help you avoid the largest crowds. Early mornings are also less busy. Reddit

While there are no strict entry restrictions, visitors are encouraged to practice Leave No Trace principles, stay on marked trails, and not disturb the wildlife. Reddit

🎫 🥾 Onsite Experience

The hike to Laguna Esmeralda is generally considered moderate. It involves some uphill sections and can be muddy or rocky in parts, requiring good stamina. Reddit

The round trip hike typically takes between 3 to 4 hours, depending on your pace and how much time you spend at the lake. Reddit

Wear sturdy, waterproof hiking boots. Dress in layers, including a waterproof and windproof outer layer, as the weather can change quickly. Reddit

There are no facilities, including restrooms or trash bins, at Laguna Esmeralda. Be prepared to pack out everything you pack in. Reddit

The trail is manageable for older children who are accustomed to hiking. Younger children might find some sections challenging due to mud and uneven terrain. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

Early morning or late afternoon often provides the best light for photography, creating a magical glow on the Emerald Lake Ushuaia and surrounding mountains. Reddit

A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive landscapes. A polarizing filter can help enhance the vibrant colors of the lake and reduce glare. Reddit

Drone regulations can vary and are subject to change. It's advisable to check local regulations before flying a drone in the area to avoid any issues. Reddit

Besides the lake itself, look for opportunities to photograph the lenga forests, small streams, and the panoramic mountain views as you ascend. Reddit

The unique color is best captured in good lighting. Ensure your camera's white balance is set correctly, and consider editing to bring out the natural turquoise hues. Reddit

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

The hike to Laguna Esmeralda can be a rewarding adventure for families with children who enjoy walking. While the trail is moderate, younger children might find the muddy sections and uphill climbs challenging. Sturdy, waterproof footwear is essential for everyone to prevent slips and keep feet dry. Consider bringing extra snacks and drinks as there are no facilities along the way. The stunning views and the unique color of the lake are often a big hit with kids, making the effort worthwhile. Reddit

For families with very young children or those seeking a less strenuous experience, exploring other accessible viewpoints in Ushuaia or opting for shorter, flatter trails might be more suitable. However, if your children are up for a moderate trek, the sense of accomplishment upon reaching the Emerald Lake Ushuaia can be a fantastic motivator. Remember to supervise children closely, especially near water and on uneven terrain. Reddit

🚶 Budget Travelers

Laguna Esmeralda is an excellent option for budget travelers as there is no entrance fee. The primary costs will be transportation to the trailhead and any food or water you bring. Renting a car for a day or sharing a taxi with other travelers can be cost-effective ways to reach the starting point. Reddit

Packing your own picnic lunch and plenty of water is crucial, as purchasing anything on the trail is impossible. This significantly cuts down on expenses compared to dining at restaurants. The hike itself is a free, immersive experience in nature, offering incredible value for money. Reddit

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Hike to Laguna Esmeralda

The trek to Laguna Esmeralda is a quintessential Ushuaia experience, offering a moderate challenge with a spectacular reward. The trail begins near the main road and winds through the Patagonian steppe before entering a beautiful lenga forest. Expect to encounter muddy sections, especially after rain, and small stream crossings. The path is generally well-defined, but sturdy hiking boots are a must to navigate the uneven terrain. The ascent is gradual but persistent, leading you through diverse landscapes that showcase the raw beauty of Tierra del Fuego. Reddit

As you climb, keep an eye out for the unique flora and fauna of the region. The air is crisp and clean, and the sounds of nature accompany your journey. The final approach to the lake offers increasingly dramatic views of the surrounding mountains, building anticipation for the main attraction. Many visitors recommend taking your time, pausing to appreciate the scenery, and enjoying the sense of accomplishment as you near the Emerald Lake Ushuaia. Reddit

Upon reaching Laguna Esmeralda, you'll be greeted by its breathtaking, almost surreal, turquoise waters. The vibrant color is a result of glacial silt suspended in the water, reflecting the sky and surrounding peaks. It's a perfect spot for a picnic lunch or simply to sit and soak in the magnificent Patagonian panorama. Remember to pack out all your trash to preserve this pristine environment for future visitors. Reddit

Understanding the Emerald Hue

The striking emerald or turquoise color of Laguna Esmeralda is a natural phenomenon that captivates visitors. This vibrant hue is primarily due to the presence of rock flour, also known as glacial silt. As glaciers move and grind against bedrock, they create fine particles of rock that are then carried into the lake by meltwater. Reddit

These microscopic rock particles are suspended in the water and have the ability to reflect sunlight. Different wavelengths of light are absorbed and scattered differently by these particles. The fine glacial silt in Laguna Esmeralda is particularly effective at reflecting blue and green light, while absorbing other colors. This selective reflection is what gives the lake its characteristic, almost luminous, emerald appearance. The intensity of the color can also vary depending on the season, the amount of glacial meltwater, and the angle of the sun. Reddit

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