Which mountains are visible from Cerro Frias?

The summit of Cerro Frias provides a panoramic window into the Southern Patagonian Ice Field. On a clear day, the horizon is filled with world-famous peaks. Here are the top mountains and sights you can see.

• Quick Pick: Best for Icons - Mount Fitz Roy and Mount Torre.
• Quick Pick: Best for Nature - The Southern Patagonian Ice Field.
• Quick Pick: Best for Families - 4x4 Mountain Excursions.
• Quick Pick: Best Rainy-Day - Glaciarium Museo del Hielo.

1. Name: Mount Fitz Roy
   Type: Iconic sight
   Why go: It is the most famous peak in the region.
   Best for: Photographers and mountaineering fans.
   Where: North toward El Chaltén.
   Time: Visible throughout the summit stay.
   Cost: Included in tour price.
   Getting there: Look North-West from the 1,030m summit.
   Tip: Look for the distinct jagged shape even from 200km away.
2. Name: Mount Torre
   Type: Iconic sight
   Why go: Known for its impossibly steep granite spire.
   Best for: Seeing rare geological formations.
   Where: Next to Fitz Roy.
   Time: 20-30 minutes of viewing.
   Cost: Included in tour.
   Getting there: Best seen from the northern ridge of Cerro Frias.
   Tip: This needle-like peak is often shrouded in clouds.
3. Name: Mount Mayo
   Type: Nature/Viewpoint
   Why go: It marks the edge of the great ice field.
   Best for: Understanding glacial geography.
   Where: West toward the Chilean border.
   Time: Permanent view from the top.
   Cost: N/A.
   Getting there: Part of the standard best 4x4 mountain tours in El Calafate.
   Tip: Use binoculars to see the hanging glaciers on its slopes.
4. Name: Perito Moreno Glacier
   Type: Iconic sight
   Why go: It is a massive UNESCO World Heritage site.
   Best for: Seeing the scale of the ice.
   Where: Across the Brazo Rico of Lake Argentino.
   Time: 15 minutes of spotting.
   Cost: Park fees apply if entering the glacier area.
   Getting there: Head West from the summit.
   Tip: You see the glacier from a distance, not the face.
5. Name: Glaciarium Museo del Hielo
   Type: Museum/Indoor
   Why go: Learn about ice before seeing it.
   Best for: Cold weather days.
   Where: At the base of the Cerro Frias road.
   Time: 1.5 hours.
   Cost: Moderate entry fee.
   Getting there: Shuttle from town or tour drop-off.
   Tip: Visit the official site to check ice bar hours.
6. Name: Estancia Alice
   Type: Local Experience
   Why go: It is a historic Patagonian ranch.
   Best for: Learning about local culture.
   Where: The lower slopes of Cerro Frias.
   Time: 2-4 hours.
   Cost: Varies by tour type.
   Getting there: Tours depart from the ranch house.
   Tip: The sunset dinner here is highly recommended.
7. Name: Mount Norte
   Type: Viewpoint/Nature
   Why go: It guards the northern shore of Lake Argentino.
   Best for: Deep blue lake photos.
   Where: Northeast of the summit.
   Time: 10-15 minutes.
   Cost: Free with tour.
   Getting there: Look across the main body of the lake.
   Tip: The water color looks different from here than from town.
8. Name: Mount Stokes
   Type: Nature/Distance
   Why go: It is a massive peak shared with Chile.
   Best for: Seeing the international border range.
   Where: Far Southwest.
   Time: Visible on clear days.
   Cost: N/A.
   Getting there: Scan the horizon south of the main glacier area.
   Tip: This peak is very close to Torres del Paine.
9. Name: Mount Bolados
   Type: Nature
   Why go: It is one of the closest neighbors to Cerro Frias.
   Best for: Seeing local tectonic folds.
   Where: Directly adjacent to the ranch.
   Time: Throughout the ascent.
   Cost: N/A.
   Getting there: Visible during the 4x4 climb.
   Tip: Look for Condors nesting on its rocky cliffs.
10. Name: Mount Cristal
    Type: Nature
    Why go: It is a beautiful, snow-capped local peak.
    Best for: Hikers looking for nearby challenges.
    Where: South side of the property.
    Time: Constant view during descent.
    Cost: N/A.
    Getting there: Visible from the horse riding trails.
    Tip: The peak reflects morning light perfectly in autumn.

Choosing Your Cerro Frias Viewpoints Tour

There are three main ways to reach the spots where these mountains are visible. The 4x4 tour is the most popular choice. It is fast and comfortable for all ages. Drivers take you up steep tracks that normal cars cannot handle. This allows you to reach the 1,030-meter summit quickly.

If you prefer a slower pace, horse riding is a great option. Patagonian horses are sturdy and calm. You will ride through the valley and up the slopes. This experience feels more authentic to the ranch lifestyle. It takes about two hours to reach the middle viewpoints.

Trekking is for those who want a physical challenge. The hike is not technical but it is quite steep. You will see plenty of wildlife like Guanacos and Rheas. Make sure to wear windproof clothing. The wind in the Los Glaciares National Park area is legendary.

Best Timing for Local Mountain Views

Visibility changes throughout the day in Patagonia. Morning tours often have the calmest winds. This is when the sun hits the face of the Andes. You will get the best colors for your photos. The air is often crisp and very clear.

Afternoon tours are better for seeing the Perito Moreno Glacier. The sun moves behind you, lighting up the ice field. However, the wind often picks up after noon. In 2026, winter tours may have limited access. Always check the weather forecast on the official town site before booking.

Spring and autumn offer the most dramatic sky colors. In October and November, you might see snow on the lower peaks. April brings deep red and orange leaves to the shrubs. No matter the season, the views are world-class. You will truly understand the scale of the Patagonian wilderness.