Cordillera Blanca Traverse (CBT)

The significant Andean high-route. The Cordillera Blanca Traverse (CBT) is a 400km long-distance epic that navigates the sheer walls and glacial valleys of the world's highest tropical mountain range. Conceceived as a continuous high-route, it crosses over 20 passes above 4,400m, reaching a maximum altitude of 5,200m. This is not just a hike; it is a high-altitude odyssey that links famous sectors like Santa Cruz and Alpamayo with completely unknown, pristine glacial valleys. Trekkers move through a landscape of more than 700 glaciers and 300 emerald lakes, constantly shadowed by 6,000m giants like Huascarán and Artesonraju (the 'Paramount Pictures' mountain).

One of the most frequented day hikes from El Chaltén, the route to Laguna Torre leads to a glacial lake at the base of the Torre massif. The 18 km out-and-back trail follows the Fitz Roy River valley, moving through sub-antarctic forests of ñire and lenga. The terrain is primarily well-maintained gravel paths and packed dirt, with a short initial ascent followed by mostly level walking through the glacial valley. The destination offers direct views of Cerro Torre (3,128m) and the Adela range, with icebergs frequently calving from the Torre Glacier into the lake.