Estancia Cristina Trekking through the fossil canyon of El Calafate: a unique adventure in Patagonia

5.0/5 Stars - Based on 5 Reviews

Discover the Fossil Canyon Trek at Estancia Cristina, El Calafate. Book your adventure now!

A journey like no other . You will travel in 4x4 vehicles . A mountain road, once hidden by glaciers, leads to the Continental Ice Refuge, and from there, you can trek through some of the most breathtaking scenery you've ever seen.

With our tour At Estancia Cristina Trekking Cañadón de Fósiles , you can observe landmarks such as the imposing eastern face of the mountain, Lake Guillermo , the southern Patagonian ice cap , and Cerros Murallón and Don Bosco , culminating in the stunning Fossil Canyon.


Full day.
Every day
*Pick-up location: central hotels in El Calafate. *Time: 7:30 am
*Drop-off point: Central hotels in El Calafate. *Time: 7:30 PM

About this tour

The tour begins with passenger pick-up from their hotels in downtown El Calafate, followed by transport to the starting point of the excursion. The first stop is Puerto Punta Bandera , where we will board a modern boat that will take us to the Estancia area to begin the tour.

After disembarking, specially equipped 4x4 vehicles will be waiting to begin a 9.5 km journey through Cordón Feruglio , along a mountain road that, until recently, was traversed by glaciers. During the trip, we will have the pleasure of observing landscapes of great geological interest until we reach the Continental Ice Shelter .

From there, we will embark on an approximately 20-minute hike to the Upsala viewpoint, located at an altitude of 550 meters, from where we can admire Lake Guillermo. and the imposing eastern front of the Upsala Glacier, the southern Patagonian ice sheet, and the Murallón and Don Bosco hills.

After admiring the view from the lookout, we will begin another hike down towards the Cañadón de los Fósiles , an area where a high concentration of fossils can be seen, remnants of the last marine incursion exposed by glacial action.

Finally, we will travel one last stretch to reach Estancia Cristina Valley , from where we will begin the return to the boat which will take us back to Puerto Punta Bandera , and from there, to the passengers' hotels, ending the excursion.

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What's included

  • Transfer IN/OUT Punta Bandera – Hotels. *Professional guide. *Entrance ticket to Los Glaciares National Park. *Boxed lunch

Medium to high difficulty. Good physical condition is recommended.

Medium to high difficulty. Good physical condition is recommended.

*Bring a bottle of water. *Warm jacket. *Sunglasses. *Sunscreen. *Sports shoes.

*If the Estancia Cristina excursion coordinator determines that the passengers who have chosen this activity are not in good physical condition or do not have appropriate clothing for hiking, they will not be able to participate and no claims or refunds will be accepted. *Lunch will be taken during the trek, in the canyon; therefore, each passenger must bring their own packed lunch/food. *Pick-up is only available from hotels located in the city center. If your accommodation is outside this area, a meeting point will be arranged. *Pick-up times will be confirmed 24 hours before the tour. These times are approximate and may vary depending on traffic conditions and other factors.

Rates

From ARS 876,114 ARS 700,891

Estancia Cristina Navigation With Trekking (Full Day)

From ARS 881,373 ARS 705,098

Group Service. Includes: *Transfer IN/OUT Punta Bandera – Hotels *Professional guide

Starts 07:30 12 hours Español, English, Portugues
Operates: Every day
CANCELACION
48hs Before The Trip
COSTO
Average
DIFICULTAD
Moderate

Frequently asked questions

The Estancia Cristina excursion with trekking to the Fossil Canyon includes boat transportation from Puerto Bandera, entrance to Los Glaciares National Park, a guided tour of the estancia and its museum, and the trek to the Fossil Canyon. During the tour, you can appreciate the incredible geological formation and, weather permitting, stunning views of the Upsala Glacier. In addition, a specialized adventure tourism guide is provided to ensure a safe and educational experience highlighting the history and geology of the area.

The total duration of the Estancia Cristina excursion and the Fossil Canyon trek is approximately 12 hours, starting in the morning and ending in the afternoon. The trek is of moderate difficulty, so it is recommended for those in reasonable physical condition who enjoy adventure tourism. The tour includes hiking on uneven terrain, but no previous trekking experience is necessary. The guide will provide constant support throughout the tour, ensuring that participants feel comfortable at all times.

The best time to hike to Estancia Cristina and the Cañadón de los Fósiles trek is during the spring and summer months, between October and March. During this period, the weather in the Patagonian region is most favorable, allowing you to fully enjoy the landscape and outdoor activities. Temperatures are generally pleasant, although it is advisable to bring appropriate clothing to cope with possible weather changes. Furthermore, the greater availability of excursions and tourist services makes it easier to plan and enjoy a complete Patagonian experience.

Yes, it's highly recommended to book in advance to secure a spot on the Estancia Cristina excursion and the Cañadón de los Fósiles trek. Since this is a popular activity among tourists visiting El Calafate, spots often fill up quickly, especially during peak season. Booking in advance not only guarantees availability but also offers the opportunity to better organize your travel itinerary and take advantage of discounts or special promotions that some travel agencies offer for early bookings.

To fully enjoy the Estancia Cristina excursion and the Cañadón de los Fósiles trek, it's recommended to wear comfortable, outdoor-appropriate clothing, such as hiking pants, a waterproof jacket, and layered warm clothing to adapt to temperature changes. It's also advisable to wear comfortable, sturdy hiking shoes, a hat or cap for sun protection, sunglasses, sunscreen, and a water bottle. This equipment will ensure you enjoy the experience safely and comfortably while exploring the stunning Patagonian landscape.
5.0 5 reviews
5.0

Amazing tour in El Calafate

We visited El Calafate where we had a great time. We recommend the tour Estancia Cristina Trekking Cañadon De Fosiles. It´s a must!

Aug 29 2016 8:22AM
5.0

Passeios em El Calafate

Nós passamos as férias em El Calafate onde tivemos muita diversão com o passeio Estancia Cristina Trekking Cañadon De Fosiles. Recomendamos reservar esse passeio!

Aug 24 2016 8:30AM
5.0

naviguer entre les glaciers

tour d’aventure spectaculaire dans un endroit très hostile. Naviguer entre les icebergs du glacier est incroyable ... Ne convient pas aux petits enfants. Ne pas oublier d’emporter des vêtements, des lunettes de soleil et un écran solaire adéquats

erman s
5.0

Segeln zwischen den Gletschern

spektakuläre Abenteuertour an einem Ort mit viel Feindseligkeit. Zwischen den Eisbergen des Gletschers zu segeln ist unglaublich ... Nicht für kleine Kinder geeignet. Vergessen Sie nicht, angemessene Kleidung, Sonnenbrille und Sonnencreme mitzubringen!

erman s
5.0

navegando entre los glaciares

espectacular tour de aventura en un lugar con mucha hostoria. navegar entre los témpanos del glaciar es increible... No apto para ñiños pequeños. importante no olvidar llevar ropa adecuanda y anteojos de sol y protector solar!!!

erman s
From ARS 876,114 ARS 700,891

Price from, per person ARS 876,114.00 ARS 700,891.00

November 2026
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