Lago del Desierto Provintial Reserve, Nature reserve in Santa Cruz Province, Argentina
Lago del Desierto Provincial Reserve is a vast wilderness area with mountains, glaciers, and forests along the border with Chile in southern Patagonia. The landscape features steep mountain walls, forested valleys, and a large lake fed by several glaciers.
The territory was disputed between Argentina and Chile for decades until 1994, when an international tribunal determined Argentina's sovereignty over the area. This settlement allowed the region to be formally protected as a reserve.
The land reflects the presence of Tehuelche peoples who lived here for thousands of years before European contact. Walking through the reserve, you can sense this deep connection to the territory in the names and routes that follow ancient pathways.
Access to the area is typically through the village of El Chaltén, where several hiking trails begin. The best time to visit is during the southern summer between December and March, when trails are most accessible and weather is more stable.
The lake is fed by four major glaciers - Huemul, Milodon, Cagliero, and Marconi - which together create the clear waters visitors see today. These glaciers can be reached on longer hikes from different starting points and offer direct views of active ice formation.
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