Emplacement et comment s'y rendre

Cañadon de las Vueltas is a scenic natural attraction located along the Río de las Vueltas, approximately 15 kilometers northwest of El Chaltén in Southern Patagonia, Argentina. The area is accessible via Ruta Provincial 41, a gravel road that connects El Chaltén to Lago del Desierto. Visitors often stop at the Mirador Río de las Vueltas, a viewpoint along the route, before continuing to the canyon.

• By Car: From El Chaltén, drive northwest on RP41 for about 20-30 minutes. The road is unpaved but well-traveled; a 4x4 vehicle is not strictly necessary but recommended for comfort.
• By Tour: Several local operators in El Chaltén offer guided excursions to the area, often combined with visits to nearby viewpoints or Lago del Desierto.
• On Foot: While possible for experienced hikers, the distance from El Chaltén makes this impractical for most visitors.

Heures d'ouverture et billets

The attraction is an open natural area with no formal entrance gates or operating hours. Access is free of charge year-round, though weather conditions may affect visibility and safety.

Meilleur moment pour visiter

The canyon is most striking in the early morning or late afternoon when the light accentuates its rugged contours. Summer (December to February) offers the most stable weather, though Patagonian winds can be strong. Spring and autumn provide fewer crowds and vibrant seasonal colors.

Durée de la visite

A stop at Cañadon de las Vueltas typically requires 30 minutes to an hour, depending on whether visitors choose to explore the surrounding trails or simply admire the view from the roadside.

Activités

• Photography, particularly of the canyon’s layered rock formations and the turquoise Río de las Vueltas.
• Short walks along informal paths near the riverbank.
• Birdwatching, with chances to spot Andean condors and other native species.

Installations

There are no formal facilities at the canyon itself. The nearest restrooms and cafes are in El Chaltén or at the Mirador Río de las Vueltas viewpoint, which has basic amenities.

Ce qu'il faut apporter/vêtir

• Layered clothing to adapt to Patagonia’s unpredictable winds and temperature shifts.
• Sturdy footwear for uneven terrain.
• Sun protection (hat, sunglasses, sunscreen) due to strong UV exposure.
• Water and snacks, as services are limited en route.

Règles et règlements

• Respect the fragile ecosystem; stay on established paths and avoid disturbing wildlife.
• No littering—pack out all waste.
• Drones may require permits; check local regulations before flying.