Laguna Sucia is one of El Chaltén’s most dramatic hidden lakes, sitting beneath towering granite walls and fed by hanging glaciers that tumble into its striking deep-turquoise waters. Unlike the more famous Laguna de los Tres, which draws large crowds, Laguna Sucia feels wilder and more secluded, rewarding those who make the effort to reach its viewpoint. From the rocky ledge above, hikers can gaze down at the lagoon surrounded by sheer cliffs and rugged peaks, making it one of the most breathtaking sights in Los Glaciares National Park.

How to get to the viewpoint: When you reach the top viewpoint at Laguna de los Tres, you can walk just a few minutes further along a side path to the right-hand side of the lagoon. From there, you’ll find a rocky ledge that looks down into the valley below, where the vivid turquoise waters of Laguna Sucia sit surrounded by steep cliffs and glaciers. It’s not a separate full hike — rather, it’s a short extension from the main Laguna de los Tres viewpoint.

ATTENTION: The trail down to Laguna Sucia itself is not an official or maintained route and is considered dangerous; most visitors simply enjoy the dramatic overhead view from the natural balcony near Laguna de los Tres.

• Hiking time (round trip): ~ 8–10 hours (same as Laguna de los Tres, the Sucia viewpoint adds only 20–30 minutes)

• Difficulty: Challenging (long distance and steep final ascent)

• Age limit: No official limit — best suited for fit adults and older teens; not recommended for young children or those with limited mobility

• Seasonality: Best from October to April; winter access is possible but snow/ice conditions make it hazardous

• Walking distance: ~ 21–22 km round trip (El Chaltén → Laguna de los Tres → Sucia viewpoint → return)

• Elevation gain: ~ 800–850 m