Lago Argentino
Santa Cruz
Lago Argentino, located in the Patagonian province of Santa Cruz, Argentina, is the country's largest freshwater lake, covering an area of approximately 1,415 square kilometers. It is renowned for its striking glacial landscape, with several glaciers, including the famous Perito Moreno and Upsala glaciers, flowing into its waters. The lake reaches impressive depths of up to 719 meters, making it one of the deepest in the region. Situated within Los Glaciares National Park, Lago Argentino is surrounded by a diverse ecosystem that supports nearly 500 plant species and around 400 animal species, including a rich variety of birds such as Andean condors and flamingos. The lake's turquoise waters are fed by glacial meltwater and drain through the Santa Cruz River into the Atlantic Ocean. The nearby town of El Calafate serves as the main gateway for tourists exploring the lake and its glaciers. Fishing is a popular activity here, with native and introduced species like perch, lake trout, and rainbow trout found in its waters. The lake's dramatic scenery, combined with its ecological and geological significance, makes it a unique natural attraction in southern Argentina.
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Astuce: The best time to visit Lago Argentino is during the southern hemisphere summer months (December to March) when weather conditions are milder and glacier viewing is optimal. Booking boat tours in advance is recommended, especially for trips to the Perito Moreno Glacier. Visitors can also benefit from various discounts available for park entrance and guided tours. The nearby town of El Calafate offers ample accommodation and amenities, making it a convenient base for exploring the lake and surrounding glaciers.
Faits intéressants
- •Lago Argentino is the largest freshwater lake in Argentina by surface area.
- •It reaches a maximum depth of 719 meters, making it one of the deepest lakes in the world.
- •The lake's waters are fed by meltwater from several glaciers, including the Perito Moreno and Upsala glaciers.
- •Nearly 150 bird species have been documented around the lake, including the iconic Andean condor and Chilean flamingo.
- •The lake drains into the Atlantic Ocean via the Santa Cruz River.
- •The nearby town of El Calafate serves as the main tourist hub for exploring Lago Argentino and its glaciers.
Histoire
Lago Argentino was first explored in detail in 1873 by Argentine naval officer Valentín Feilberg.
The lake was originally known by indigenous peoples as 'Kelta' and was once called 'Santa Cruz' by early explorers.
It was later renamed Lago Argentino by Perito Pascasio Moreno, who admired the lake's vastness and the intense blue color of its waters, reminiscent of the Argentine flag.
Over the centuries, the lake's surrounding glaciers have shaped its dramatic landscape, with ongoing glacial retreat observed in recent decades.
The lake has long been an important natural resource and tourist destination within the Los Glaciares National Park, which was established to protect this unique environment.
Guide du lieu
Perito Moreno Glacier
One of the most famous glaciers feeding into Lago Argentino, known for its dynamic ice movements and spectacular ice ruptures that attract visitors worldwide.
Upsala Glacier
A vast glacier that flows into the northern arm of Lago Argentino, notable for its size and the deep trench it carves into the lake bed.
El Calafate
A town located on the southern shore of Lago Argentino, serving as the main gateway for tourists visiting the lake and its glaciers.
