Are you looking for the most authentic and spectacular Patagonia trekking experience, far from the crowds of Torres del Paine? The Las Horquetas Traverse is the definitive 4-day circuit in Cerro Castillo National Park. This route is a total immersion into hanging glaciers, turquoise lagoons, and untouched peaks. Get ready for the challenge and the incredible rewards of the deep Patagonia wilderness.

Key Highlights of the Traverse

• Total Duration: 4 Days | Total Distance (Approx.): 45.5 km
• Overall Difficulty: High (Requires mountain experience and good physical condition).
• The Reward: Unrivaled views of the Cerro Castillo Massif and its glacial lakes.

The Route: Day by Day Breakdown

We’ve broken down the traverse so you know exactly what to expect from the challenge:

Day 1: Las Horquetas Checkpoint to Rio Turbio Campsite

• Distance: 15.4 km
• Difficulty: Low
• Challenge: This is your acclimatization day. The trail is gentle, with a net elevation gain of +440m and a descent of -250m. It’s the perfect start to warm up for the adventure ahead.

Day 2: Rio Turbio Campsite to El Bosque Campsite

• Distance: 9.8 km
• Difficulty: HIGH
• Challenge: The true vertical challenge begins. Prepare for a significant ascent of +570m and a descent of -554m through challenging Patagonian terrain. This day tests your stamina.

Day 3: El Bosque Campsite to Porteadores Campsite

• Distance: 9.0 km
• Difficulty: HIGH
• Challenge: Expect another demanding day. We tackle a major climb of +440m followed by a descent of -374m. This section offers some of the most spectacular, high-mountain views of the entire circuit.

Day 4: Porteadores Campsite to Estero Parada

• Distance: 11.3 km
• Difficulty: Medium
• Challenge: The final push is a test of endurance. While the ascent is manageable at +285m, you will face a massive and sustained final descent of -1150m to complete the circuit and reach the valley floor.

Key Details:

• Gentle Start (Day 1): A 15.4 km acclimatization day with Low difficulty, perfect for warming up.
• Demanding Days (Day 2 & 3): Two consecutive days of HIGH Difficulty where the challenge is constant, including ascents totaling over 1,000 meters of positive elevation gain.
• The Epic Descent (Day 4): The final day combines Medium difficulty with a massive 1,150-meter descent, a test of endurance to complete the circuit.

Accept the Cerro Castillo Circuit Challenge!

If you are seeking the pinnacle of Patagonia trekking and the security of our certified local guides, the Las Horquetas Traverse is your next great adventure. Book your spot and prepare for one of the most intense and beautiful experiences on the Carretera Austral.