A 4 day excursion to Paso Marconi

Majestic glacier-covered summits, infinite ice fields and incredible views of Fitz Roy and Cerro Torre. The Patagonian Icecap is certainly one of the most fascinating options to visit in this area.
Two days walking through beautiful beech forest, crossing glacial creeks, over moraines and glaciers will finally lead you to Marconi Pass. The view to the endless glacial extension and the ice covered mountain range will leave you breathless.

Day 1: An enjoyable two hour walk through the forest will bring you to Piedra del Fraile, the base camp for Fitz Roy ascents from the north side. From hereon, rock and ice dominates the scenery. Three more hours along the Lago Eléctrico and over moraines will lead you to your first camp close to this glacial lake.
Five hours walk with little ascent, somewhat off the beaten path.

Day 2: A short moraine traverse will lead you to the glacier. From hereon the ascent leads over this easy glacier to Marconi Pass. On the way, huge hanging glaciers, Mount Fitz Roy and the nearby granite peaks create overwhelming scenery. Close to the pass you will put up your camp with views of the magnificent Icecap and its glacier covered mountain range.
Seven hours walking on glacier and snow with 800 meters ascent.

Day 3: This day you will have a chance to walk onto the icecap or head down south for a close up look at the Cerro Torre West wall. Since you will be staying a second night at the same camp you will be enjoying the walk with just a light pack for the day.

Day 4: Walk back from Paso Marconi, along the Lago Eléctrico and Piedra del Fraile camp down into the valley. After a short transfer you will be back at El Chaltén.

Included services:
. Mountain-guide and guide-assistant during the tour (1 assistant up to 5 participants, 2 for 6 to 8 participants)
. Transportation from El Chaltén to Río Eléctrico and back.
. Safety-equipment and cooking-equipment.
. North Face-tents during the tour.
. Insulation-mat, crampons and harness.
. Full-board during the excursion.

Personal equipment:
A good and warm sleeping-bag, plastic-mountain-boots, gaiters, hiking/skiing-poles, head-light, warm clothes against rain and wind, (jacket, over-pants made of Goretex or similar material), warm pants, gloves, warm hat, high factor sun-screen and lip-protection, fleece, long underwear, water-bottle and big backpack.
Part of this gear you might be able to rent in El Chaltén (please ask in advance).

Some previous hiking experience and good stamina will surely help to enjoy this experience.