Campamento Los Perros

Overview

If you’re hiking the O Circuit, Campamento Los Perros is your last, no‑frills bivy before the notoriously steep John Gardner Pass. Tucked in a wooded pocket, it feels remote—in a good way. Supplies often arrive by horseback, which should tell you everything about how wild this corner is.

Why stay here

Two reasons: positioning and scenery. It sits a short walk from the toe of the Los Perros Glacier, and it’s the logical (and often mandatory) overnight before tackling the pass. Think of it as your launchpad: rest, refuel, and be ready for an early start.

Facilities & what to expect

Expect basics. There’s a single building with reception, a tiny grocery for essentials, and an indoor kitchen‑dining room plus a covered quincho for shelter. Bathrooms are simple with cold showers. There’s no Wi‑Fi. Device charging may be available during daytime hours, but don’t bank on it.

You can pitch your own tent in designated areas or reserve pre‑set tents (with mats and sleeping bags) when booked through certain operators. Rentals—tents, sleeping bags, and mats—should be arranged in advance.

Food & water

Some seasons you can pre‑book a hot dinner (often a single hearty dish), but breakfast and lunch typically aren’t served. The shop stocks only basics. Bring your meals and stove plan; gas cookers can be rented on site. Hot water is available in the kitchen.

Nature notes

You’re here for glacier ambience and forest shelter, not wildlife viewing. Depending on weather, mosquitoes can be more active than you’d expect—pack repellent. As always, carry out your trash.

Planning essentials

Reservations are required well in advance for O Circuit hikers, and camping here is often mandatory as part of that itinerary. This is one of the park’s most isolated sectors, so assume limited amenities and come prepared for all kinds of Patagonian weather.

Best time to visit

Arrive mid‑afternoon so you can sort gear, eat, and sleep before a pre‑dawn or early‑morning push over John Gardner Pass. Crowds aren’t the issue here—logistics are. You’ll share the camp with other O‑circuit hikers staging for the same early start.