Safari Azul Calafate: exploring the glacial lakes on foot
For lovers of adventure and hiking in nature, the Blue Safari in El Calafate is a truly unforgettable experience. This type of excursion allows you to hike into the vast Patagonian steppe and discover up close the dazzling glacial lakes with their intense turquoise hues that adorn this remote region.
A tour to the origins of the glaciers
Unlike the traditional safari in 4×4 vehicles, the Blue Safari Trekking is a trek conducted exclusively on foot along ancient mule and tehuelche trails. This is the only way to really get in touch with the glacial origins that shaped this landscape.
The hikes start in the outskirts of El Calafate and gradually lead into the vast expanse of the Patagonian steppe, following the footsteps of local experts. These authentic hiking guides pass on valuable knowledge about the region’s flora, fauna and glaciers at every stage of the hike.
The secret turquoise wonders of nature
After a few kilometers over slightly hilly terrain, the first glimpses of the glacier lagoons are a true spectacle. The small Laguna Nimez appears out of nowhere in the middle of the semi-desert and displays its characteristic, intense turquoise color, which contrasts with the surrounding dryness.
As the hike continues, the group reaches the impressive Laguna Frias, a huge expanse of turquoise glacial water that seems to have sprung from a dream. Its banks are the perfect place to take off your rucksacks, cool your feet in the ice-cold water and enjoy the fantastic panoramic view.
An intact natural environment
But the turquoise lakes are not the only thing this hike has to offer. As this is a hike through terrain that is practically inaccessible to vehicles, the Patagonian wilderness is revealed here in all its untouched splendor. The paths wind through lush thickets of calafate and ñire trees and cross thawing streams of absolute transparency.
You will also frequently encounter a wide variety of wildlife in their natural habitat. Flocks of small and large nandus often roam the area, while more than one Andean condor hovers overhead. With a bit of luck, hikers may even spot the occasional huemul, the endangered native deer.
Moments of encounter and connection
What sets the Safari Azul apart from other trekking tours is the opportunity to take numerous breaks to explain all the features of this glacial landscape. The guides will explain the erosion and erosion processes that have shaped this land and created valleys, gorges and turquoise lagoons.
There will even be an opportunity to come into contact with some of the last remnants of the Tehuelche culture, the nomadic peoples who inhabited these Patagonian wastelands thousands of years before the arrival of the white man. Some of their cave paintings can be admired from spectacular natural viewpoints.
Trekking in Calafate: a moderate challenge
In general, the Blue Safari treks are moderately strenuous, with distances of around 15 to 20 km spread over a whole day, and at a good pace. However, you do not need to be an experienced hiker to undertake these tours.
The important thing is that you are in good physical condition to walk long distances over uneven and somewhat rugged terrain. It is always advisable to wear trekking boots and suitable clothing to cope with the daily climatic changes in Patagonia.
The Safari Azul trek is undoubtedly an incomparable experience that brings you into contact with the essence and glacial origins of this remote region. Exploring the turquoise lagoons on foot and having the freedom to pause, observe and interpret this unique landscape is a privilege within reach of even the most adventurous travelers in El Calafate.