Hosteria El Paraiso

The staff were the best part of our stay. Reception is open around the clock, and everyone at the desk was kind and helpful. The location was convenient too, with an easy walk to the bus terminal, restaurants, and hikes. Without the staff, I think I'd rate the stay lower. The bathroom setup was the hardest part. Signs said not to flush toilet paper, which I know is common in El Chalten, but the bathroom bin already smelled strongly of cat litter before we put anything in it. Maybe it was meant to deodorize used paper, but the smell filled the room. Noise carried easily through the walls. We could hear people in the hallway at night, including keys rattling at doors, as well as sounds from outside. The blinds also let in light and had holes, which was a problem with the late sunsets and early sunrises in the Argentinian summer. The bed and other fixtures were okay, though nothing special. The pillow felt more like foam than a regular pillow. One other thing, about the packed lunches: the sandwiches were barely good, and even after hiking 8 miles and stopping for lunch, I still didn't find them appetizing. Handy in a pinch, but not much more.

The walls are a little thin, so noise carries. Still, I felt comfortable from the moment I arrived and enjoyed my three nights there. The team was friendly, helpful with all my questions, and had a good sense of humor. Thanks to the two young gentlemen who covered the morning and evening shifts, and to the woman working in the evening.

The wifi was really slow, when it worked at all, and that was the one downside. We enjoyed our stay otherwise. The rooms are small, but the showers were fantastic after a long hiking day. Breakfast was filling, with enough variety, and neither morning was busy.

We had a very pleasant stay. The place is in a good location and felt safe, and the staff are accommodating and well trained. Srta Guadalupe Rodriguez was especially helpful, assisting my wife with the room and laundry and connecting us with a very good tour group for the Fitz Roy hike.