Andando Patagonia

Andando Patagonia organizes mountain activities in the El Bolsón region and surroundings, with a focus on technical group leadership across cordillera terrain. The offering includes ascents, traverses, treks, and other adventures such as mountain biking and climbing, led by Federico and Fernando, who are responsible for the outings and the group’s technical support.

Cerro Hielo Azul: El Bolsón’s flagship expedition

The most representative activity operated by Andando Patagonia in El Bolsón is the ascent of Cerro Hielo Azul, a three-day expedition covering 40.6 km in total within the Área Natural Protegida Río Azul-Lago Escondido (ANPRALE). The itinerary starts at the Doña Rosa parking area: the first day ascends alongside the Río Azul with a positive elevation gain of 1,000 m to the Refugio Hielo Azul at 1,300 m above sea level. The second day is dedicated to the summit attempt at 2,248 m above sea level and a visit to the lagoon beneath the glacier of the same name. On the third day, the descent concludes at Chacra Wharton, crossing several footbridges over the river. The enabled season runs from November to May, with the refuge open. Group departures leave on scheduled dates at USD 430 per person; customized departures are also available.

Other routes from El Bolsón

In addition to Cerro Hielo Azul, the operator leads the ascent of Cerro Piltriquitrón in both summer and winter versions, the traverse of the Laguitos and Cerro Año Nuevo, the trek to Cajón del Azul, and mountain bike routes through Laguna Verde and Las Chacras. The catalog of ascents in the area also includes Cerro Lindo, Cerro Roca del Tiempo, and Cerro Las Agujas del Silencio. Outings outside El Bolsón extend to Bariloche, Lago Puelo, and Neuquén, with options such as the Cuatro Refugios traverse and the ascent of Volcán Lanín.

Formats and visitor profile

Outings are organized in two formats: group dates with scheduled departures and customized dates for private groups. The profile targets visitors with mountain experience and the capacity for sustained physically demanding days; variable weather conditions — snow, rain, wind — are an expected part of the environment. The guides provide technical support, equipment management, and refuge logistics throughout the activity.