Discover La Leona Petrified Forest: Guided Hiking Tour

Discover La Leona Petrified Forest: Guided Hiking Tour

This full-day adventure from El Calafate takes you beyond the glaciers and turquoise lakes to a landscape that looks almost otherworldly. For about eight hours, you’ll visit the La Leona Petrified Forest, a place where ancient trees turned to stone, and fossils of dinosaurs still whisper stories of millions of years ago. The tour, priced at roughly $253 per person, includes hotel pickup, air-conditioned transport, and a boxed lunch—a practical and comfortable way to experience some of Patagonia’s most intriguing geological sights.

What we really love about this tour is the combination of scenic driving and gentle hiking—it’s accessible for most fitness levels and offers a good balance of education, adventure, and remarkable views. The stop at Hotel La Leona adds a dash of history, with stories of Butch Cassidy and the old roadhouse that once served as a rest stop for travelers. Plus, the chance to walk among petrified logs and dinosaur bones in a landscape that feels almost lunar is genuinely memorable.

One thing to keep in mind is that the walk can take up to 3 hours, depending on weather conditions, so a basic level of fitness and comfortable shoes are recommended. This tour is ideal for those who appreciate geology, love wild landscapes, and want a break from the more touristy glacier visits with a more authentic Patagonian experience.

Key Points

• Unique geological site: Petrified trees and dinosaur fossils.
• Historical stop: Visit Hotel La Leona, a legendary roadhouse.
• Scenic views: Capture stunning vistas of Argentino Lake, Mt Fitz Roy, and the Andes.
• All-inclusive: Transport, guide, lunch, and hotel pickup are covered.
• Accessible adventure: Suitable for most ages and moderate fitness levels.
• Expert-guided: Knowledgeable guides enrich the experience with stories and insights.

Exploring the La Leona Petrified Forest Tour

This tour offers a rare chance to step into a landscape where millions of years have been frozen in time. It’s a mix of natural wonders, history, and Patagonian scenery, making it a compelling choice for travelers looking to diversify their Patagonia experience.

Starting Out: From El Calafate to the Scenery of Patagonia

Your day begins at 9:00 am with hotel pickup in El Calafate. The guide, often praised for friendliness and knowledge, will lead you aboard a comfortable air-conditioned coach for a roughly 33-kilometer drive along Route 40. This route is renowned for its stunning scenery—on a clear day, you’ll see the jagged peaks of Mt Fitz Roy and the vast expanse of Argentino Lake. Several reviews highlight how the journey itself is a highlight, with travelers appreciating the informative commentary and the chance to soak in the landscape.

First Stop: Argentino Lake and Surroundings

After about an hour of driving, the first stop is Argentino Lake, where the views of snow-capped mountains and meandering rivers are breathtaking. Here, you’ll get a broad perspective of the region’s dramatic terrain—perfect for photos and just soaking in the vastness of Patagonia.

The Historic Hotel La Leona

Next, the tour makes a brief 15-minute stop at Hotel La Leona. This historic roadhouse has seen its fair share of stories—famous outlaws, travelers, and explorers passing through. Many reviews mention how the small museum and the stories shared here add a layer of authenticity to the experience. It’s a good opportunity to stretch your legs, browse souvenirs, or simply imagine the historical travelers who rested here.

Main Event: The Petrified Forest and Dinosaur Fossils

The highlight of the day is the walk through La Leona’s petrified forest. Once you step out of the vehicle, you’ll walk into an arid, moon-like landscape filled with petrified logs—some up to 1.2 meters in diameter. The landscape is stunning, with fossilized trees lying on the surface, offering a real sense of prehistoric life. Guides are typically very knowledgeable, explaining how these trees turned to stone over millions of years, and pointing out fossilized bones of dinosaurs that once roamed this land.

Travelers often comment that the walks are easy but informative. One reviewer noted they could literally hold a piece of petrified wood, which is a surreal experience that sticks with you. The 3-hour trek (which can vary depending on weather and group pace) is a relaxed exploration rather than a strenuous hike, making it suitable for most visitors who are comfortable walking outdoors.

Scenic Return and Final Stop

After the walk, you’ll head back to the bus and make your way towards El Calafate, stopping once more at La Leona before the return journey. Expect to arrive back at your hotel around 5 pm, tired but with a head full of incredible stories and images.

Why This Tour Stands Out

This experience is praised for knowledgeable guides, often described as friendly and informative, making complex geological processes accessible and engaging. The scenery, both during the drive and in the quarry-like landscape of the petrified forest, leaves many travelers in awe. The historic connection at Hotel La Leona adds a layered dimension, blending natural history with cultural intrigue.

The value of this tour lies in the fact that it offers a comprehensive, well-organized day that combines scenic beauty, history, and educational content. The inclusion of lunch and transport simplifies planning and ensures a hassle-free experience.

Possible Drawbacks

Some travelers note that the walk can be on uneven terrain, so those with walking difficulties should consider this. Also, since the trek depends on weather conditions, rain or wind can slow the pace or reduce visibility, but guides are typically flexible and adapt accordingly.

Who Should Take This Tour?

This tour is perfect for geology enthusiasts, history buffs, or anyone interested in Patagonian landscapes beyond glaciers. It’s also suitable for families with children over 6 years old, thanks to its easy walking and engaging sights. Travelers who want a comfortable, guided experience that includes scenic drives, historical stops, and outdoor exploration will find it particularly appealing.

Final Thoughts

The Discover La Leona Petrified Forest tour offers an authentic peek into Patagonia’s ancient past, set against a backdrop of stunning mountain scenery. With expert guides, a relaxing pace, and unique geological sights, it balances adventure with education. For those seeking a less crowded, more natural experience outside the glaciers, this is a fantastic choice.

If you’re eager to add a geological marvel and wild landscape to your Patagonia itinerary, this tour will reward your curiosity and provide plenty of memorable moments. It’s especially valuable for travelers who appreciate informative guides and scenic landscapes that make you feel like you’ve stepped back in time.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is transportation included in the tour?
Yes, all round-trip transportation from your hotel in El Calafate is included in the tour price, making for a stress-free day.

How long is the drive to the petrified forest?
The drive is approximately 33 kilometers (around 21 miles) along Route 40, providing scenic views of the Patagonian steppe and mountains.

What should I bring for the hike?
Comfortable shoes suitable for walking on uneven terrain are recommended, along with sunblock, a hat, and water. The walk can last up to 3 hours depending on weather.

Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, the minimum age is 6 years old, and the walk is easy enough for most children and family groups.

What does the tour include?
The tour includes a professional guide, bottled water, a boxed lunch, hotel pickup and drop-off, and air-conditioned transport.

What are the main highlights?
Expect scenic vistas of Argentino Lake and the Andes, a historic stop at Hotel La Leona, and an engaging walk among petrified logs and dinosaur fossils.

Can I cancel this tour?
Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before the tour start time, allowing flexible planning.

By choosing this guided hike, you’re not just ticking off another sightseeing stop—you’re stepping into a landscape that tells an ancient story, led by guides who bring the region’s geology and history vividly to life. It’s a memorable, educational experience that enriches your understanding of Patagonia’s incredible natural history.