Ushuaia: Escondido and Fagnano Lakes with transfer

Discovering Patagonia’s Lakes: A Full-Day Tour from Ushuaia

If you’re heading to Ushuaia, the southernmost tip of Argentina, and eager to see some of the most breathtaking scenery in Patagonia, the Escondido and Fagnano Lakes tour offers a compelling day out. For around $112 per person, you’ll spend approximately 8 hours exploring the region’s rugged mountains, expansive lakes, and rustic history. The tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off, making it a hassle-free way to learn about this remote part of the world.

What we really love about this experience is how the guided narration brings the landscape to life — learning about the geology, wildlife, and human history adds an enriching layer to the scenery. Plus, the opportunity to enjoy a local lamb feast at Las Cotorras Valley gives a taste of regional cuisine you won’t forget. On the flip side, some travelers find the day a bit too packed or the scenery somewhat limited if the weather isn’t cooperating, so it’s best for those who love outdoor views and don’t mind long drives.

This tour suits travelers who appreciate comfortable transportation and want a structured overview of Patagonia’s lakes and mountains without the effort of planning. If your time is limited but you still want a taste of the region’s natural beauty and local culture, this could be a good fit. But keep in mind, if you prefer more walking or a more intimate wildlife experience, other options might serve you better.

Key Points

• Comfortable Guided Experience: Round-trip hotel pickup and a knowledgeable guide make it easy to enjoy the day.
• Stunning Views: Cross the Garibaldi Pass with vistas of Lake Fagnano and Lake Escondido, plus alpine scenery.
• Historical Stops: Visit the defunct Martinez Sawmill for insight into local industry history.
• Regional Cuisine: Opportunity to enjoy a traditional Feugian lamb lunch (own expense).
• Limited Walking: Mostly a scenic drive with brief stops — not ideal if you’re seeking extensive hiking.
• Mixed Reviews: Some travelers rave about the scenery and guide, others find the day too long or the stops too brief.

An In-Depth Look at the Ushuaia Lakes Tour

Starting Point and Logistics

The adventure begins early at 8:00 am with hotel pickup in Ushuaia, a thoughtful touch that eliminates the hassle of transportation. The group size is capped at 15 travelers, ensuring a more personalized experience, which most reviews find beneficial. From there, you’ll board a comfortable coach, ready for a day of scenic driving through the Feugian Andes.

You’ll pass through various valleys such as Huskies, Carbajal, and Las Cotorras, each offering glimpses of Patagonia’s rugged terrain and natural beauty. The coach journey itself is a highlight, with plenty of commentary from your guide about the region’s geology, wildlife, and history. Expect a mix of panoramic views and informative tidbits that give depth to the landscape.

Crossing the Andes: Garibaldi Pass

One of the most memorable parts of the trip is crossing the Garibaldi Pass at 1,476 feet (around 450 meters). Here, you’re treated to your first clear views of Lake Fagnano and Lake Escondido. The altitude and expansive vistas make this a highlight for most travelers, providing that “wow” moment that makes the long drive worthwhile.

A few reviews mention that weather conditions can obscure the views, especially if it’s cloudy — so if the weather isn’t perfect, don’t be discouraged. Even then, the drive through this remote area has its own appeal, with the chance to see how hardy the local residents are who live in this rugged landscape.

Visiting Lake Fagnano and Lake Escondido

Once at Lake Fagnano, you’ll stop at the Martinez Sawmill, a relic of the area’s logging past. The abandoned mill sparks curiosity and offers insights into how people once sustained their livelihoods here. Many guests appreciated the brief walk around the lake, with some quoting how they “enjoyed the views” and appreciated the chance to stretch their legs.

The visit to Lake Escondido might be somewhat subdued depending on the weather. Some travelers, like LiQi, point out that bad weather can hide the lake behind clouds, reducing visibility. However, even in less-than-ideal conditions, the experience of being in such a pristine, remote environment makes it worthwhile.

Lunch and Leisure at Las Cotorras Valley

The next stop is at Las Cotorras, where many guests indulge in a traditional Feugian lamb (own expense). This regional dish is often described as delicious and a highlight of the trip, especially for those who love authentic local cuisine. The setting is rustic, and the meal provides a welcome break after several hours on the bus.

Some reviews mention that lunch can feel rushed or that there is a significant amount of time spent in the bus, with only short stops for scenery and food. If you’re seeking more extensive outdoor activity or hiking, this tour might not satisfy that desire. Instead, it’s best suited for those who want a well-rounded overview with minimal physical exertion.

End of the Day and Return to Ushuaia

The journey wraps up with a return drive, often ending around 4-5 pm back at your hotel. Most travelers agree that the scenery, guide, and comfort make the long hours worthwhile, although a few note that some stops could be longer or more engaging.

What the Reviews Tell Us

The positive reviews focus on the spectacular scenery, the knowledge of the guide, and the value of seeing two beautiful lakes without much hassle. Heather B describes it as a “very enjoyable trip,” citing the “spectacular scenery” and “many stops.” Lindsay_C echoes this, calling it an “excellent trip” with “delicious lunch” and “beautiful lakes.”

On the other hand, some less enthusiastic reviews mention that the tour feels somewhat rushed, with limited time at each stop. Jan_B found it “really lost time,” feeling that the experience was mostly driving along highways with minimal exploration. Others, like LiQi, advise that bad weather can significantly diminish the views, especially at Lake Escondido, and some critics say the long bus rides limit outdoor activity.

Guide quality also varies. While many praise the knowledgeable and friendly guidance, a few feel the guides can be a bit impersonal or less engaged, which might impact your overall enjoyment.

Cost versus value is generally viewed as fair, especially considering the included transportation and the opportunity to see remote lakes that are otherwise hard to access without a car. But, some travelers felt they could replicate parts of the experience on their own, especially if they prefer more freedom and less structured tours.

Transportation, Duration, and Group Size

The coach is well-suited for this type of journey — comfortable and scenic. The 8-hour duration suits most travelers, giving plenty of time for sightseeing and breaks. The small group size (up to 15) helps foster a more intimate experience, as opposed to large bus tours.

Timing-wise, the 8:00 am start is ideal for making the most of the daylight, especially in Patagonia’s unpredictable weather. The round-trip hotel pickup is a big advantage, removing the need to navigate unfamiliar areas on your own.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This full-day trip is best for nature lovers who want a comfortable, guided overview of Patagonia’s lakes and mountains. If you’re keen on scenic drives with informative commentary and don’t mind the long hours in the van, you’ll appreciate the views and local insights. It’s particularly suitable for those with limited time in Ushuaia who want to see some of the region’s highlights without strenuous activity.

However, if your ideal trip involves extensive walking, hiking, or close wildlife encounters, you might find this tour a bit too constrained. Also, keep your expectations in check if the weather forecast predicts clouds or rain; views of Lake Escondido, in particular, can be obscured.

Final Thoughts

The Ushuaia: Escondido and Fagnano Lakes tour offers a solid introduction to Patagonia’s stunning landscapes, combining scenic drives, local history, and the chance to try regional cuisine. While it may not satisfy those seeking active outdoor experiences, it does deliver beautiful vistas and a window into the rugged southernmost part of Argentina.

Most travelers find the guidance and comfort to be highlights, and the value for money reasonable given the remote destinations covered. If you’re a lover of panoramic views and want an easy way to see Patagonia’s lakes, this tour will likely meet your expectations — especially if you’re prepared for a long day on the road.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is included in the tour?
The tour provides guided visits to Lake Escondido and Lake Fagnano, hotel pickup and drop-off, and a local guide who shares insights about the landscape and history.

Is food included?
No, meals are not included, but there is an opportunity to enjoy a regional lamb feast at Las Cotorras Valley at your own expense.

How long is the drive?
Expect around 8 hours total, with most time spent on the coach traveling through the mountains and valleys, including the crossing of Garibaldi Pass.

What is the group size?
The tour is limited to 15 travelers, which helps ensure a more personalized experience.

Can I book this tour last-minute?
Most travelers book about 47 days in advance on average, but last-minute availability may depend on the season and demand.

What should I wear?
Dress in layers, as weather can change quickly in Patagonia. Waterproof clothing is a good idea in case of rain or wind.

Is there much walking involved?
The stops involve brief walks, but most of the time is spent in the coach. It’s suitable for those who prefer minimal walking.

Is this tour suitable for children or those with mobility issues?
Most travelers with mobility challenges have found it manageable, but consider the weather and the short walks at certain stops.

To sum it up, this tour offers a balanced mix of scenic beauty, local history, and comfortable transportation. It’s an excellent choice for those wanting a highlight reel of Patagonia’s lakes without the fuss of self-driving — especially if they enjoy guided explanations and easy access to remote landscapes. Just keep an eye on the weather forecast, and you’ll find yourself with plenty of memorable vistas and stories to tell back home.