Southern / Austral Patagonia
Laguna Esmeralda Trek
Valle de Tierra Mayor - Laguna Esmeralda, Ushuaia, Tierra del Fuego, Argentina
Laguna Esmeralda Trek is a hiking, trekking, snowshoeing and wildlife-spotting experience in Valle de Tierra Mayor - Laguna Esmeralda, Ushuaia, Tierra del Fuego, Argentina, available in summer and winter. It is offered by Tierra Turismo, a member provider of the Asociación Argentina de Ecoturismo y Turismo Aventura (AAETAV). Includes hotel – trailhead – hotel transfer, box lunch (sandwich + alfajor or chocolate + water), trekking poles (if needed) and snowshoes in winter (weather permitting).
About the experience
A 9 km trek to the most famous turquoise lake in Tierra del Fuego, through sub-Antarctic forest, peat valleys and beaver dams. Available in both summer and winter snowshoe versions.
A hike through a unique and wonderful corner of Tierra del Fuego, alive with colour: from the green of the forest and the red of the peat to the turquoise of the lake. Guests enjoy a morning in nature walking through a mountain valley of striking formations and breathtaking scenery.
The journey begins from the city along Ruta Nacional N.° 3 to the trailhead. It takes approximately 2 hours to reach the lake, passing through sub-Antarctic forest, peat valleys and rivers dotted with beaver dams. At the lake, there is time to take in its remarkable colour and recharge with a box lunch before heading back along the same trail.
- Distance: 9 km | Elevation gain: 300 m
Winter version: the same valley blanketed in snow, with snow-covered peat bogs and frozen rivers; snowshoes are provided when needed and the packed lunch is accompanied by a hot drink.
Suggested itinerary (summer):
- 8:00 Departure from Ushuaia
- 8:30 Start of the hike
- 10:30 Arrival at the lake and lunch
- 11:30 Begin return journey
- 13:45 Arrival back in the city
Participants must be in good physical condition for hiking and wear appropriate clothing and footwear (waterproof boots with good grip, warm layers and a waterproof outer layer).
What's included and what's not
Includes
- Hotel – trailhead – hotel transfer
- Box lunch (sandwich + alfajor or chocolate + water)
- Trekking poles (if needed)
- Snowshoes in winter (weather permitting)
Frequently asked questions
Where does Laguna Esmeralda Trek take place?
It takes place in Valle de Tierra Mayor - Laguna Esmeralda, Ushuaia, Tierra del Fuego, Argentina (Southern / Austral Patagonia region).
What activities does the experience include?
The activities are: hiking and trekking, snowshoeing and wildlife watching.
In which season is it available?
It is available in summer and winter.
What is included?
Included: Hotel – trailhead – hotel transfer; Box lunch (sandwich + alfajor or chocolate + water); Trekking poles (if needed); Snowshoes in winter (weather permitting).
How can I check availability and rates?
Rates and availability are checked directly with Tierra Turismo, an AAETAV member, via WhatsApp using the "More information" button.
Last updated: October 21, 2026
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