Fitz Roy Hike
Overall, the Fitz Roy day hike is our favorite hike we have done. Many hikers go for this one though as to its length, stunning views, and enjoyable experience. If you have limited time, we do strongly recommend this hike - it will not disappoint. The Fitz Roy day hike in Patagonia is a 20.4km (12.7 miles) round trip that takes approximately 8-9 hours to complete.
It is considered a difficult hike due to its length and numerous uphill sections. The hike offers breathtaking views along the way and at the end, making it the most beautiful hike in Patagonia.
The initial part of the hike is steep but levels out until the last hour, where you gain 400m of elevation very quickly. Throughout the hike, you are treated to amazing views, with the view at the end being particularly stunning. Many find the view of Mt. Fitz Roy more impressive than that of Los Torres in Torres del Paine. To prepare for the hike, it is important to bring plenty of water and food.
The first three kilometers of the hike are mostly uphill, gradually becoming less steep afterward. At around 2.5 kilometers, the terrain begins to flatten out. Between kilometers 3-5, you hike through flat wooded areas and get your first view of Fitz Roy mountain.Continuing through the woods, you reach a split in the trail around the 5km mark. Both paths are easy and flat, and they converge later on.
Kilometer 5-6 remains in the woods, with some downhill sections and a view of Mt. Fitz Roy at the end.For the next kilometer, you walk on flat ground with beautiful views, leaving the forest behind.
The Fitz Roy hike stands out because unlike the Torres del Paine hike, you can see the mountain throughout the journey.
Between kilometers 7-8, there is a change of scenery as you walk on a flat and open path with different views. At kilometer 8-9, you enter the woods again, reaching the Poincenot camping site. Here, you can rest and use the portable bathroom before embarking on the steep uphill section.
The final part of the hike is the most challenging, gaining an elevation of 400m. The path is steep, with loose gravel, making it difficult to descend. However, the motivation to see Mt. Fitz Roy up close keeps you going. The reward is an incredible view from the top.