Laguna Esmeralda Trekking

OVERVIEW

Hike the spectacularly scenic trail to Laguna Esmeralda, whose vibrant green water looks even more startling against the reddish peat moss that surrounds it. The 5.5-mile trail winds through an absolutely gorgeous landscape of towering mountains, vast peat bogs, hanging glaciers and forests of native lenga beeches and coihues, two of the most prevalent species of trees in this part of Patagonia. Few settings are quite so breathtaking, especially as you gaze out over the alpine Tierra Major and Carvajal valleys. The emerald lagoon at the end of the trail is stunning in its own right. It greenish color is from dissolved minerals and sediment from the Albino Eye Glacier that looms over one end of the lagoon. The mountains flanking the lagoon are Las Torres and Cordón Toribio, whose soaring peaks are typically covered in snow. Keep an eye out for wildlife, especially birds, which the guide will describe in detail.

HIGHLIGHTS

• Follow an incredibly scenic trail through the Patagonian wilds to the Emerald Lagoon.
• Pass through an ever-changing landscape of alpine forests, mountains and peat bogs.
• Enjoy lunch at the lagoon, which soaring peaks and an ancient glacier surround.
• Look for birds such as condors and Magellanic woodpeckers.

HELPFUL HINTS

• Dress in weather-appropriate clothing.
• Wear flat comfortable walking shoes.