Laguna Turquesa is a moderate hike. It is only 3 kilometers round trip but takes about 3 and a half hours with 660 meters in elevation gain.

The hike is short but more challenging than Laguna Esmeralda. You are ascending the entire way up to the laguna with little respite. The first 2/3's of the hike is through the forest, offering cover from the elements. The trail here can be very slippery - particularly on the descent. When you finally break out of the forest the trail is still ascending but less intensely. However, you no longer have any protection from the elements or the wind (pack warm layers and a rain proof jacket). The final stretch is easier but with muddy patches and mushy peat bogs at points.

The lagoon itself was 100% worth all the effort. Controversial, but I prefer its rugged beauty and deep emerald color to Laguna Esmeralda. And yeah, I said emerald. I think THIS lagoon is more emerald, and that Laguna Esmeralda is more turquoise (but I'm not the one who named them).

Bring hiking poles: We did not, do not be like us. I forgot them and highly regretted it on this trail. The descent is very slippery and hard on the knees.

Panoramic views: When you research the hike, all photos show the lagoon from above so I expected to reach it from that direction. But the hike ends AT the lagoon's shore. If you want that panoramic view you can scurry up the hillside bordering it (to your left if you are facing the water). Some hikers went all the way up to the rocky ridge. I did not dare and was happy with my view about half way up.

Views of Laguna Esmeralda: Turn behind you to see Laguna Esmeralda and Glaciar Ojo del Albino in the distance. If you have done that hike before you can easily see the entire trail from start to finish from up here!