1. Laguna de los Tres (Argentina – El Chaltén & Los Glaciares National Park)
- This is one of Patagonia’s most iconic hikes: you start from the village of El Chaltén and head up toward the lake with stunning views of Cerro Fitz Roy.
- Distance/time: Roughly ~20‑22 km (about 14 mi) round trip as a day hike.
- Difficulty: Moderate to difficult (last section is steep). But trail is well‑marked and popular.
- Why without a guide: Many hikers report the trail is clearly signed and easy to follow.
- Tip: Start early, aim for morning light on Fitz Roy, check weather (Patagonia weather changes fast).
2. Mirador Ventisquero Colgante / Queulat National Park (Chile)
- Located in Chilean Patagonia, this hike takes you through forest and river crossings to a hanging glacier (“ventisquero colgante”).
- Distance/time: ~5‑6 km one way (so ~10‑12 km return) for a day trip.
- Difficulty: Moderate (some muddy/wooded terrain), but no technical climbing.
- Why without a guide: Trail is defined and described as day‑hike friendly.
- Tip: Wear good traction shoes (mud/rain expected), and take time for the return.
3. Cerro Campanario (Argentina – near Bariloche)
- Near Bariloche in northern Patagonia, this is a shorter hike with panoramic views over the lakes and mountains.
- Distance/time: ~2.3 km (~1.5 mi) one way, so feasible as a half‑day or even short day trip.
- Difficulty: Moderate; steep in parts but quite accessible.
- Why without a guide: Easy access, clear trail, good for a less strenuous but scenic outing.
- Tip: Because it’s shorter, you could combine it with exploring Bariloche and the surrounding area.
4. Laguna Cerro Castillo (Chile–Cerro Castillo National Park)
- In Chilean Patagonia, this hike goes to a beautiful glacial lake at the base of dramatic peaks of Cerro Castillo.
- Distance/time: ~14.2 km (~9 mi) round‑trip.
- Difficulty: Difficult (steep ascent) but still manageable for regular hikers.
- Why without a guide: When the trail is clear and no technical gear is required, many hikers self‑navigate successfully.
- Tip: Check seasonal trail closures — snow may still affect access early/late in season.
5. Lagunas Altas Loop (Chile – Patagonia National Park)
- Located in the newly established Patagonia National Park in Chile, this trail offers solitude, scenic views, and less crowding.
- Distance/time: ~20.6 km (~13 mi) loop for a full‑day hike.
- Difficulty: Difficult (steep uphill, little shade).
- Why without a guide: It’s not so remote that it demands technical skills, but you do need good planning and self‑reliance.
- Tip: Because the trailhead requires access by vehicle (or taxi) from Cochrane, plan your logistics ahead.
General Tips for Hiking Unguided in Patagonia
Trails in many parts of Patagonia are well‑marked and maintained. However:
- Always check park/region official information: trail closures, permit requirements, weather alerts.
- Tell someone your plan (trail, start time, expected return).
- Carry a basic first‑aid kit, map/GPs device/offline map, layers for variable weather.
- Even for “non‑technical” hikes, weather in Patagonia can change fast: wind, rain, snow are possible.
For more remote or technical treks (glacier crossings, very long multi‑day routes) a guide may still be strongly recommended or required.
