Laguna Esmeralda hike from Ushuaia: Ojo del Albino glacier

A 4.7 km forest walk ends at a turquoise lake fed by glacier melt.

A guided hike from Ushuaia to Laguna Esmeralda through Argentine Patagonia's forests and valleys, with a certified Spanish-speaking guide, snacks and trekking poles included. The trail crosses spongy peat soil and beaver-built dams before reaching the emerald-colored lake, which sits beneath the Ojo del Albino glacier. The round trip takes six hours with rest stops built in.

The experience

You leave Ushuaia along Ruta 3 and drive to the trailhead, where your guide gives instructions before the walk begins. The 4.7 km route crosses a forest of Lengas trees on spongy soil called turbas, following streams with unusual coloring. Beaver dams appear along the banks: your guide stops to explain how the animals engineer them and what they reveal about the region's ecology and history.

After two hours of walking with rest stops, you reach Laguna Esmeralda. The lake's turquoise water comes from melt off the Ojo del Albino glacier, which rises above the far shore. You sit for a snack break while the guide shares facts about the landscape, the glacier and the Andes peaks surrounding the valley. The return follows the same trail downhill.

The tour runs six hours total, including the drive, walk and breaks. An air-conditioned vehicle picks you up in Ushuaia and brings you back. Trekking poles and crampons (if snow or ice requires them) are provided, along with snacks during the break at the lake. The guide speaks Spanish and leads groups small enough to move at a steady pace.

What’s included

• Certified and experienced guide who speaks Spanish.
• snacks at the lake.
• trekking poles and crampons if needed.
• air-conditioned vehicle transport from Ushuaia to the trailhead and back.

Before you book

Days and timesEvery dayDeparts at 08:00

AgesAdult (18 to 60 years) · Youth (12 to 17 years) · Child (10 to 11 years) · Under 10: can't be booked

GroupUp to 18

Live guideSpanish

Meeting point and pickupHotel pickup included.You can choose from 28 pickup points.

Cancellation and refundsFree cancellation up to 24 h before the start. After that, no refund.It may be canceled due to bad weather. If that happens, you're offered another date or a refund.

Prices and times updated 3 days ago

Good to know

Moderate physical effortNot recommended during pregnancyNot recommended with heart problemsNot recommended with back problems

Operated by Ciatrip

Is this one for you?The six-hour commitment and moderate fitness requirement suit travelers with a free afternoon and solid stamina for forest walking on wet ground. Children from age 10 can join if they meet the fitness level. The tour is not suitable for anyone over 60 or with the health conditions noted in the additional info.

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Top questions

Can children come?

Yes. Ticket types: Youth (12 to 17 years); Child (10 to 11 years). Children under 10 can't be included in the booking.

What happens if it rains?

It may be canceled due to bad weather. If that happens, you're offered another date or a refund. Free cancellation up to 24 h before the start.

What is Laguna Esmeralda and why is it famous?

Laguna Esmeralda is a turquoise glacial lake in Argentine Patagonia, fed by melt from the Ojo del Albino glacier. Its unusual color and setting beneath the glacier make it one of the most photographed landscapes in the region.

How difficult is the 4.7 km walk to the lake?

The trail crosses spongy peat soil and follows forest streams with two hours of walking and rest stops built in. You need at least a moderate level of fitness. The tour is not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries, poor cardiovascular health, or pregnancy.

What wildlife or natural features will I see along the trail?

You'll see beaver dams built along the stream banks, forests of Lengas trees, and the uniquely colored streams that feed into the lake. Your guide explains the ecology and history of each feature during stops along the way.

What gear and supplies are included?

The tour includes trekking poles, crampons if necessary for snow or ice, snacks during the break at the lake, and an air-conditioned vehicle for transport to and from the trailhead in Ushuaia.

What should I bring or wear for this hike?

Waterproof clothing and footwear are essential, as the terrain is wet and the weather in Patagonia changes quickly. Bring layers, as temperatures can shift during the day.