Los Glaciares National Park and Perito Moreno Glacier Tour

If you’re heading to the Argentine Patagonia, a visit to Los Glaciares National Park and its star attraction, the Perito Moreno Glacier, is a must. For about $123 per person and lasting roughly eight hours, this guided tour offers a comprehensive way to see some of the most breathtaking ice formations on Earth.

The experience begins with a scenic drive along Route 11, passing lakes and rugged landscapes before arriving at the park. You’ll get to see the Perito Moreno Glacier from multiple angles—first from the famous Curva de los Suspiros and Muelle Bajo las Sombras, then walking along the glacier’s boardwalks at various heights.

Two things we especially appreciate: first, the guides are knowledgeable and helpful, making the experience informative and engaging. Second, the views from the balconies are spectacular, giving you different perspectives of the glacier’s grandeur.

A possible consideration is that park entrance fees are not included** in the tour price**, so travelers should plan for an additional expense of around 500 ARS ($25 USD). Also, the pick-up is only from hotels in the city center, so if you’re staying outside that area, you’ll need to plan to meet at a designated point.

This tour is an excellent fit for those who love nature, want a guided experience that covers multiple scenic viewpoints, and are prepared for a day of light walking and sightseeing. It’s especially ideal for travelers who value authentic landscapes and appreciate having a guide to enrich the experience.

Key Points

• Stunning scenery from multiple viewpoints of the Perito Moreno Glacier.
• Expert guides enhance understanding with informative commentary.
• Flexible walkways allow different angles of the glacier to be admired.
• Park entrance fee is paid separately, so budget accordingly.
• Hotel pickup available only from city center hotels.
• Good value for a full-day, guided experience in one of Patagonia’s top sights.

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Closer Look at the Tour Experience

When we talk about visiting Los Glaciares National Park, we’re talking about stepping into a landscape that looks almost unreal—massive sheets of ice carved into jagged peaks, silent and imposing. The tour’s main highlight, of course, is the Perito Moreno Glacier, a live demonstration of glacial movement and climate change, as ice calvings frequently occur, creating thunderous crashes that echo across the water.

After hotel pickup—an easy and hassle-free start—you’ll hop aboard a comfortable vehicle, enjoying the scenic ride along Route 11. We loved the way the drive along Lake Argentino unfolds, with glimpses of shimmering water and distant mountains setting the tone for what’s ahead.

Once inside the park, the first stop at the Curva de los Suspiros offers a view that’s often described as “breathtaking.” From here, you’ll see the glacier’s vast, shimmering front, a massive sheet of ice that seems to stretch forever. As one reviewer put it, the views are “impressive”—and we agree, they’re truly unforgettable.

Next, the walk along the boardwalks presents multiple vantage points—some at eye level, others at higher balconies—each revealing unique details of the glacier’s surface, crevasses, and the rhythmic calving of ice that adds a dynamic touch to the scenery. The walkways are well-maintained, providing safe and accessible ways to experience the glacier from above and below.

You’ll also have free time to simply sit and admire the landscape, perhaps watching chunks of ice break off and plunge into the water with a thunderous splash. Many travelers find this moment especially spellbinding—it’s worth bringing a good camera, or just enjoying the view with your own eyes.

Lunch options are nearby, allowing you to relax and refuel before heading back. We appreciated that the tour includes time for personal exploration, and guides often share interesting facts about the glacier’s role within the Patagonian Continental Ice Field, which supplies this impressive ice mass.

In the afternoon, as we headed back to El Calafate, we reflected on the scenic diversity and how the guides helped us understand the importance of this glacier as both a natural wonder and a vital water source globally.

Why Guides Matter

The knowledgeable guides make a difference. They provide context—like explaining the glacier’s formation, its ongoing calving, and its importance for climate science—making the experience both awe-inspiring and educational. As one reviewer noted, “We saw the glacier cave quite a few times and had great views from the boat and walkways,” thanks to the guide’s insights.

Value for Money

At $123, this trip offers a lot—transportation, guided commentary, and access to iconic viewpoints—especially considering it’s a full-day activity. Remember, the park entrance fee (around 500 ARS) isn’t included, so budget for that. When you add up the views, the convenience of hotel pickup, and the chance to see one of Earth’s most stunning glaciers from several perspectives, it’s a fair deal.

Practical Tips

• Bring passport or ID for park entry.
• Wear comfortable shoes—the walkways are flat but expect some foot traffic.
• Pack sun protection and water.
• Be aware that luggage or large bags are not allowed in the park.
• The pickup time will be confirmed 24 hours prior—be flexible as it can vary.
• Have cash or a card ready for park entrance fees and other personal expenses.

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Authentic Experiences Highlighted in Reviews

Travelers consistently praise the guides for their helpfulness and knowledge. One exclaimed, “The driver picked us up after confirming and called the hotel, making everything easy,” highlighting the smooth logistics. Another remarked, “Even though the park ticket is a little expensive, it’s totally worth it,” emphasizing the value of the experience.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This tour is perfect if you want a comprehensive day of glacier viewing without the hassle of planning individual transportation. It’s suited for those who love spectacular landscapes and guided insights. If you’re interested in ice calvings, panoramic views, and walking along scenic boardwalks, this tour will satisfy your curiosity.

However, if you’re looking for a more adventurous or independent experience, such as trekking on the glacier or boat trips, you might want to explore other options. Still, for a well-organized, informative, and visually stunning day, this tour hits the mark.

The Sum Up

This Los Glaciares National Park and Perito Moreno Glacier Tour delivers a solid, value-packed day exploring one of the world’s most iconic glaciers. The combination of scenic viewpoints, expert guides, and the chance to witness ice calvings firsthand makes it a memorable experience. It’s especially suited for travelers who appreciate authentic landscapes and want to learn more about the glacier’s significance.

While the park entrance fee is not included, the overall experience justifies the additional cost. The comfortable transportation and guided commentary make it accessible and educational, giving you a deeper understanding of this awe-inspiring natural wonder. For those headed to El Calafate, this tour is a dependable choice that balances beauty, knowledge, and convenience.

FAQ

What is included in the tour?
The tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off, as well as a guide who speaks Spanish and English. You’ll visit Los Glaciares National Park and walk along the glacier’s walkways.

How long does the tour last?
The entire experience lasts about 8 hours, starting with pickup and ending with return to your hotel in El Calafate.

Do I need to pay the park entrance fee separately?
Yes, the entrance fee to Los Glaciares National Park, which is roughly 500 ARS (about U$25), is paid separately and is not included in the tour price.

What should I bring?
Bring your passport or ID, comfortable shoes, sun protection, and water. Large bags or luggage are not permitted in the park.

Is hotel pickup available outside the city center?
No, pickup is only available from hotels located in the city center. Outside this area, you’ll need to meet at a designated point.

Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, providing flexibility in case your plans change.

This guided tour offers a well-rounded, immersive experience of one of Patagonia’s most stunning sights. Whether you’re snapping photos of calving ice or simply soaking in the vast, icy landscape, it’s an adventure that will stay with you long after you leave Argentina.

You can check availability for your dates here: More Great Tours Nearby