Del Desierto Lake
Lake Remote Patagonian glacial lake near mountain passes
Glacial‑fed lake at the foot of the Patagonian Andes east of Mount Fitz Roy, accessed from El Chaltén for hikes, boat outings and forest trails.
Del Desierto Lake (Laguna del Desierto) is a glacially fed lake in the Patagonian region of Argentina, located in the Los Glaciares National Park in Santa Cruz Province. It is set amid forested valleys and glaciated peaks near the Argentina-Chile boundary.
The site is visited for its mountain and lake scenery, with trails and viewpoints that offer views across the lake toward surrounding granite peaks and glaciers. The approach is typically made from the small town of El Chaltén by road or by foot from nearby trails.
The area around the lake was the subject of a long-standing border dispute between Argentina and Chile that was resolved by international arbitration in the late 20th century. Since resolution the lake has been administered as part of Argentine national park territory.
Laguna del Desierto lies in southern Argentine Patagonia, north of the village of El Chaltén and within Los Glaciares National Park. It is set in a steep, forested valley near the border with Chile.
- Access and conditions: The lake sits inside Los Glaciares National Park and is reached by hiking trails from El Chaltén; weather can change quickly at this Patagonian site, so plan accordingly.
How to Get to Del Desierto Lake #
Lago del Desierto is accessed from the town of El Chaltén in Argentina or by routes from Chilean side approaches; road conditions are variable and seasonal. The nearest substantial service centers are El Chaltén and El Calafate; local 4x4 vehicles or guided tours are recommended for the final approach.
Tips for Visiting Del Desierto Lake #
- Weather on the Chilean-Argentine border can change fast; dress in windproof, layered clothing.
- If crossing borders while approaching the lake, ensure all permits and paperwork are in order.
- Bring charging power banks - there are limited services in the surrounding region.
Best Time to Visit Del Desierto Lake #
The austral summer (December-March) is the practical visiting window for Patagonia lakes.
Weather & Climate near Del Desierto Lake #
Del Desierto Lake's climate is classified as Tundra - Tundra climate with cool summers (peaking in January) and cold winters (coldest in July). Temperatures range from -2°C to 16°C. Moderate rainfall (869 mm/year).
January
January is cool with highs of 16°C and lows of 6°C. Moderate rainfall (66 mm) and breezy conditions.
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February
February is cool with highs of 16°C and lows of 6°C. Moderate rainfall (67 mm) and breezy conditions.
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March
March is cold with highs of 14°C and lows of 4°C. Moderate rainfall (76 mm) and breezy conditions.
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April
April is cold with highs of 12°C and lows of 2°C. The wettest month with 96 mm of rain.
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May
May is cold with highs of 7°C and lows of 0°C. Regular rainfall (91 mm).
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June
June is cold with highs of 5°C and lows of -2°C. Regular rainfall (90 mm).
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July
July is the coolest month with highs of 5°C and lows of -2°C. Moderate rainfall (77 mm).
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August
August is cold with highs of 6°C and lows of -2°C. Moderate rainfall (71 mm).
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September
September is cold with highs of 8°C and lows of 0°C. Moderate rainfall (56 mm).
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October
October is cold with highs of 12°C and lows of 3°C. Moderate rainfall (67 mm) and breezy conditions.
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November
November is cold with highs of 13°C and lows of 4°C. Moderate rainfall (55 mm) and breezy conditions.
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December
December is cool with highs of 15°C and lows of 6°C. Moderate rainfall (57 mm) and breezy conditions.
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