Tour Overview

A fully guided backcountry ski touring expedition in the Fitz Roy massif — remote glacier terrain, iconic Patagonian summits, and untouched descents in one of the most dramatic mountain environments on earth.

Led by Esnativa Ski South America — certified local mountain guides with deep expertise in the Fitz Roy region and Los Glaciares National Park.

        
        El Chaltén, Patagonia
      
        1–4 guests
      
        7 days
      
        Glacier & summit objectives

Level & Trip Type

Intermediate to advanced ski tourers. Previous backcountry or touring experience required.

Groups: 1–4 guests
1 guide per 4 guests
Daily objectives set by conditions and group level

Backcountry Ski Touring Expedition

Included

6 nights accommodation in El Chaltén
1 night base camp — Río Blanco / Cerro Madsen
Airport transfer El Calafate → El Chaltén on arrival
Certified mountain guide throughout
All local transportation during the trip
Daily weather, snowpack & plan briefings

Add-Ons

Gear rental (touring skis, splitboard, avy kit) — arrange in advance
Extra acclimatization day in El Chaltén on request
Custom itinerary extensions available

Not Included

Flights to El Calafate
Travel & mountain rescue insurance (required)
Meals — dinners and lunches in El Chaltén
Base camp food and fuel (coordinated with guide)
Personal gear and clothing
National park entrance fee
Snacks and personal purchases

Guiding & Operations

All expeditions are led by certified mountain guides with direct experience in the Fitz Roy massif. Daily objectives — summits, glaciers, descents — are selected in real time based on weather windows, snowpack, and group readiness. Esnativa is a fully licensed and certified travel company.

Guide ratio: 1 guide per 4 guests
Full avy kit required for all participants — beacon, shovel, probe
Glacier travel protocols followed on all relevant objectives

Our Commitment

Patagonia has some of the most unpredictable weather on earth — that's part of what makes it extraordinary. Our guides monitor conditions daily and build each day's plan around the best available window. When conditions don't allow a summit, we find the best terrain that does.

Esnativa is not liable for conditions beyond our control, including weather, snowpack, or access closures. What we commit to is proactive communication and doing everything in our power to keep you moving in the mountains.

Required Equipment

This is a backcountry expedition. All participants must carry and know how to use avalanche safety equipment throughout the trip.

Touring skis or splitboard with climbing skins
Avalanche beacon, shovel, and probe
Touring backpack 30–40L
Layering system appropriate for Patagonian conditions
Crampons and ice axe — required for summit objectives

Some equipment can be rented locally if arranged in advance with the guide team.

FAQs

When is the best season?

July through October. August and September typically offer the most stable windows for summit objectives, with good snowpack and longer daylight hours.

Do I need glacier or mountaineering experience?

Previous ski touring experience is required. Glacier travel and crampon use on summit days will be fully briefed by the guide. Full mountaineering certification is not required, but comfort on steep and committing terrain is essential.

What if weather prevents summit objectives?

Patagonian weather is notoriously variable. Your guide will always have alternative objectives ready. The priority is keeping you on snow and in quality terrain — even on weather days, the Fitz Roy valley offers exceptional touring options.

Is travel insurance mandatory?

Yes — travel and mountain rescue insurance is required for all participants. Your policy must cover backcountry skiing and helicopter evacuation. The guide team can recommend providers if needed.

How much spending money should I plan for?

Budget around $40–$60 USD per day for meals and personal expenses in El Chaltén. The village has good restaurant options at a range of price points. Base camp days require your own food, coordinated with the guide team in advance.

Where are guests from and what level do they ski?

Guests come from around the world — commonly North America, Europe, and Australia. All participants have previous backcountry or ski touring experience. This is not a beginner trip.