Perito Moreno Full Day Minitrekking with Transfer & Walkways: A Close-Up Encounter with Patagonia’s Ice Marvel

Imagine walking on a glacier that’s alive—cracking, calving, and shimmering in shades of blue that seem almost otherworldly. For those eager to get their feet on the ice while still enjoying the spectacular views of the Perito Moreno Glacier, this full-day minitrekking tour offers an immersive experience that balances adventure with comfort. Priced at $558 per person, expect a 10-hour journey that combines scenic transfers, guided glacier walks, and a boat ride across Lago Rico.

What we love most is how the tour balances stunning scenery with expert guidance—you’ll be walking on firm but irregular ice, truly feeling the glacier beneath your crampons. Plus, the one-hour walk along the walkways gives a broader perspective of the glacier’s scale and beauty. The safety briefings and quality equipment like crampons and helmets make the trek approachable for most active travelers.

One thing to keep in mind is that park entrance fees are not included** in the price**, so you’ll want to budget for that separately. Also, the tour is suited for those ages 8 and up and under 65 years old, ensuring participants are physically prepared for the trek and boat crossings. This tour works best for adventurous spirits who appreciate stunning natural visuals and are comfortable with walking in variable weather conditions.

If you’re looking for a comprehensive experience that combines scenic viewpoints, close-up glacier contact, and a small-group atmosphere, this tour fits the bill. It’s ideal for travelers who want more than just a quick look at the glacier—it’s a full-day immersion into one of Patagonia’s most iconic sights.

Key Points

Unique glacier experience: Walk on the glacier using crampons, observing natural ice formations and crevasses close-up.
Scenic boat ride: Cross Lago Rico to reach the glacier’s face, offering a different perspective and memorable views.
Expert guidance: Knowledgeable guides provide safety instructions and insights into glaciology.
Walkways visit: An hour exploring the Perito Moreno walkways for panoramic views.
Physical activity level: Moderate, suitable for those comfortable with walking and outdoor conditions.
Additional costs: Park entrance fee and lunch are not included, so plan accordingly.

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Deep Dive into the Perito Moreno Minitrekking Tour

While in El Calafate, here are other experiences we've covered

Starting the Day: Transfers and Scenic Drive

Your adventure begins with pickup from your hotel in El Calafate. The comfortable bus ride to Parque Nacional Los Glaciares is itself a highlight, offering views of Patagonian steppe and distant mountains. Your guide will share interesting tidbits about the region, the glacier’s history, and what lies ahead. This part of the tour is a good chance to settle in and get excited about what’s to come.

Walkways: Panoramic Views and Photo Opportunities

Once at Bajo de las Sombras port, you’ll board a boat for a scenic crossing across Lago Rico. This boat ride is a real treat, giving you a fresh perspective of the glacier’s towering south face as you approach it from the water. The one-hour guided walk along the park’s walkways is a lovely way to see the glacier from multiple angles, with vantage points that highlight its massive scale and vivid blue ice. Guides here are quite informative, often sharing details about glaciology and the glacier’s ongoing calving events—something many travelers find fascinating.

The Ice Trek: Walking on a Living Glacier

After disembarking, you’ll be introduced to your mountain guides, who will fit you with crampons and helmets. The actual trek lasts around three hours, during which you’ll walk on firm but irregular ice—a thrilling experience. The guides will point out crevasses, waterfalls, and the different shades of blue that make the glacier so captivating. Many reviews mention how safe and well-guided the experience feels, even for first-timers, thanks to clear safety instructions and quality equipment.

One traveler noted, “The guides went over safety thoroughly, and I felt completely secure walking on the ice, which is surprisingly stable despite its jagged appearance.” Expect to hear cracking sounds as the ice shifts, a reminder that the glacier is very much alive.

More Great Tours Nearby

Walking Through Patagonia’s Forest

After the glacier trek, you’ll walk along a trail through the Bosque Andino Patagónico. This four-hour walk combines lakeside views, moraine landscapes, and lush forest, offering a peaceful counterbalance to the icy adventure. It’s a chance to reflect on the glacier’s scale and beauty while enjoying the natural surroundings.

While you're exploring El Calafate, here are other experiences we've looked into

Practical Details and What to Pack

Timing: Tours are about 10 hours long, with starting times varying; check availability in advance.
Clothing: Wear warm, comfortable layers, including waterproof jackets, gloves, and a hat. Sports shoes or trekking boots are a must—no rubber boots or heels.
Extras: Bring a lunch box for a picnic in the woods; food and drinks are not included. Remember, park entry fees are paid separately in cash.
Age limits: Suitable for ages 8 and above, up to 65 years—so it’s family-friendly but not for those with mobility challenges or older than 65.

Is This Tour Worth It? Analyzing the Value

At $558, this tour isn’t cheap, but it’s packed with activities that justify the price. The included transfers, guides, crampons, and boat ride make it convenient and safe, especially considering the remote location. The small-group format ensures a more personalized experience, allowing guides to answer questions and adjust pace.

Many travelers praise the knowledgeable guides for their professionalism and friendliness. One customer shared, “Our guide, Lucas, was fantastic—he made sure everyone felt safe and explained everything clearly, making the experience much richer.” The stunning views, combined with the up-close ice contact, are the main draws, offering a sense of adventure that’s both exhilarating and educational.

While the park entrance fee and lunch are extra, bringing your own food can save money and allow you to enjoy a picnic with a view. It’s worth considering, especially if you want to maximize your time on the glacier rather than waiting in lines or looking for food options on-site.

The Experience for Different Travelers

This tour suits adventurers eager to walk on a glacier and see its features firsthand. It’s perfect for those who don’t mind a full day of outdoor activity, with some physical effort involved. Families with children over 8 who are comfortable outdoors will find it manageable, but it might not be suitable for those with mobility issues or older travelers over 65.

Nature lovers and photography enthusiasts will appreciate the variety of viewpoints and the dynamic ice formations. The boat ride adds a different dimension to the experience, and the guided walkways give a broader understanding of the glacier’s context.

Final Thoughts: Who Should Consider This Tour?

If you’re looking for an active, immersive experience that combines scenic beauty, education, and adventure, this tour checks all the boxes. It’s especially worthwhile if you want to stand on the ice and see the massive calving events up close—something that makes the glacier feel alive.

However, it’s a full-day commitment and involves some physical activity, so those seeking a more relaxed visit might prefer shorter or less active options. Travelers who value expert guides, stunning panoramic views, and a well-organized itinerary will find this experience highly rewarding.

In the end, this tour offers a rare chance to connect intimately with Patagonia’s crown jewel, and it’s likely to be a highlight of your trip—if you’re prepared for a day of adventure amid some of the most stunning natural scenery on Earth.

FAQ

Do I need special clothing for this tour?
Yes, bring warm, layered clothing, waterproof jackets, gloves, and a hat. Trekking shoes or boots are required—no rubber boots or heels.

Is the glacier walk safe for beginners?
Yes, the guides provide clear safety instructions and fitted crampons, making it manageable for most active travelers, including those new to glacier walking.

How long is the boat ride across Lago Rico?
The boat ride is part of the tour and occurs after arrival at the port. It’s a scenic crossing that offers excellent views of the glacier’s face, complementing the land-based experience.

What’s included in the tour?
The tour includes hotel transfers in El Calafate, the boat crossing, glacier walk with crampons and helmets, a professional guide, and the walkways visit.

Are there any age restrictions?
Yes, the tour is suitable for ages 8 and over and under 65 years of age.

Do I need to book in advance?
Yes, reservations must be made at least 48 hours in advance for availability confirmation. Cancelations are free up to 3 days before the tour.

This Perito Moreno minitrekking offers a compelling mix of adventure, scenery, and expert guidance. It’s a memorable way to experience one of the world’s most iconic glaciers while enjoying the natural beauty and rugged landscapes of Patagonia.