What to expect
We start at the office with an introductory talk about the route, Cerro Castillo National Park, and safety tips for trekking.
15 MinutesWe begin the trail known as Las Horquetas, covering approximately 17 km. The route follows an old logging road for about two hours, passing through valleys and historic gaucho camps used for summer cattle grazing. The day ends at the first campsite, Río Turbio Camp. Elevation gain: 400 meters.
We follow the Río Turbio through the valley, then start ascending the mountains to reach Paso el Peñón at an altitude of 1,300 meters. The descent is somewhat technical due to loose rocks and steep slopes. We finish the day at El Bosque Camp. Distance: 12 km. Elevation gain: 887 meters; descent: 574 meters.
The day starts early with an ascent to the second pass of the journey. We’ll pass Camp La Tetera and pause at the famous Cerro Lagoon before climbing to Morro Negro at 1,700 meters. The day ends with a steep descent over rocky terrain to reach Porteadores Camp. Distance: 9 km. Elevation gain: 1,136 meters; descent: 912 meters.
We begin with a short hike to the Neozelandés Camp, where we’ll enjoy stunning views of the north face of Cerro Castillo and the glacial basin formed by Cerro Palo and Cerro Castillo. Optionally, we can visit Laguna Duff before returning to Porteadores Camp and descending to the park ranger's cabin, where the trek ends. Total distance: 10 km. Elevation gain: 285 meters from Porteadores to Neozelandés, 865 meters descent, and an additional 2.5 km to Laguna Duff.
Arrival at the trailhead, where we’ll be picked up for the return transfer to the agency in Villa Cerro Castillo.
30 MinutesWhat you should know
- Footwear: Sturdy trekking shoes.
- Clothing: Waterproof pants and jacket, base layers top and bottom, warm jacket, windbreaker.
- Accessories: Sandals for river crossings, headlamp, gloves, warm hat and sun hat, sunglasses, gaiters (if necessary).
- Equipment: Sleeping bag, trekking poles (optional).
- Animals.
- Age requirements: Minimum age of 12 years, although it can be negotiable depending on the participant's ability.
- Physical condition: Good physical condition is required, as up to 15 km per day will be walked with ascents and descents.
What is included
- Specialized trekking and nature guides.
- Transportation to and from the trailhead.
- Full meals during the 4 days (breakfast, lunch, dinner, and snacks).
- Tents and cooking equipment.
- Basic accident insurance.
What is not included
- Personal equipment, such as clothing, warm jackets, pants, sunscreen, etc.
- Sleeping bag.
- Sleeping pad.
- Trekking poles (optional, upon request).
