Excursion to the Perito Moreno Glacier, with guide and transfer to / from the hotel

Traveling to El Calafate isn’t complete without experiencing the awe-inspiring Perito Moreno Glacier—a true natural marvel. This guided tour offers a well-rounded 8.5-hour adventure, including hotel pickup, round-trip transfer, and expert bilingual guidance. For just $79 per person, you’ll walk along 5 kilometers of scenic walkways, gaining multiple perspectives of one of the most spectacular glaciers in the world.

What we love about this tour is how it combines easy transportation with accessible viewpoints, making it an ideal choice for travelers who want to see the glacier without the hassle of planning logistics. The guides are praised for their knowledge and friendliness, enhancing the experience with insightful commentary. Plus, the cost is quite reasonable for this level of access and information.

One thing to keep in mind is that entrance to Los Glaciares National Park isn’t included in the price, so you’ll need to budget a bit extra for the park ticket. Also, while the tour is quite comprehensive, it’s a full-day commitment, so it’s best suited for those prepared for a long but rewarding experience.

This tour is perfect for anyone eager to see the glacier from multiple angles, appreciate its scale, and learn about its geology. Whether you’re a nature lover, a photography enthusiast, or simply in awe of glaciers, this trip will suit you well.

Key Points

• All-in-one experience with hotel pickup, guided commentary, and transportation.
• Multiple viewpoints via walkways and scenic stops, offering panoramic views.
• Cost-effective for such a thorough exploration of the glacier.
• Expert guides provide engaging, bilingual insights, enriching your understanding.
• Flexible options like optional boat rides add to the adventure.
• Park entrance not included, so plan to purchase your ticket separately.

In-Depth Review of the Tour Experience

Convenient Pickup and Transportation

From the moment we booked, the smooth transport was a highlight. The air-conditioned vehicle picked us up at our hotel promptly at 9:00 am, which is ideal for early risers eager to beat the crowds. The group sizes are kept quite manageable—most tours host no more than 18 travelers—allowing for a more personal and relaxed atmosphere.

The nearly 1.5-hour drive to the glacier is comfortable and scenic, with our guide Nica sharing interesting facts about El Calafate, Lake Argentino, and the surrounding landscape in both Spanish and English. This leg of the journey is as much about setting the scene as it is transportation.

First Glimpse: Cerro Comisión and Panoramic Views

Our first stop was at Cerro Comisión, a quick 10-minute detour where we learned about geological formations—a neat way to start appreciating the glacier’s origins. The view from this vantage point is striking, with a clear look at the vast lake Argentino to the right, setting the tone for what’s to come.

Next, we stopped at a scenic hill that offers a sweeping view of the bay, perfect for photos and absorbing the grandeur of the Patagonian landscape. These stops, though brief, are thoughtfully positioned to give us context and some of the best vistas without crowding.

Entering Los Glaciares National Park

The entrance to Los Glaciares National Park marks the beginning of the glacier’s close-up encounters. This part of the tour is essential because it signifies we’re finally in the realm of ice and awe. Although the park ticket isn’t included, guides typically provide information on how and where to buy it, which is helpful for planning.

The First Encounter: Mirador Perito Moreno

Our first real look at Perito Moreno was from the Curva de Los Suspiros viewpoint. In just 15 minutes, we got a breathtaking glimpse of the glacier’s icy face—an awe-inspiring sight that lives up to its reputation. As one reviewer put it, “the sound of the ice cracking and occasional calving was mesmerizing,” giving us a sense of the glacier’s dynamic nature.

The Walkways: A Close-Up View of Nature’s Majesty

The tour’s star feature is the Pasarelas, a 5 km network of walkways in front of the glacier. Here, we spend about three hours wandering from viewpoint to viewpoint. The guides provide detailed commentary about the glacier’s geology, formation, and ongoing changes.

The walkways allow us to see the glacier’s grandeur from many angles, with some vantage points offering a view of the entire ice mass, while others focus on intricate details like crevasses and ice formations. Several reviews highlight how the sound of falling ice and the sight of calving chunks made the experience unforgettable. One traveler described it as “an experience hard to match or forget,” emphasizing the power and silence of this frozen giant.

Optional Boat Ride and Other Extras

Some tours include a boat ride close to the glacier, providing an entirely different perspective—though it’s optional and might incur additional costs. This feature is praised for allowing travelers to witness the glacier’s face from below, adding a sense of scale and intimacy.

While not part of this specific tour, the option to extend your experience with navigation or additional excursions is available elsewhere, making this tour a great foundational experience.

The Return Journey

After a few hours of exploring the walkways, the bus takes us back to El Calafate. The ride home is filled with relaxed conversation and reflection, often with guides pointing out interesting sights along the way.

What the Reviews Say

Multiple travelers speak highly of the knowledge and friendliness of the guides. Gustavo from July 2024 calls the tour “extremely pleasant,” praising the guides for their responsibility and friendliness. Margaret noted how Nica’s bilingual commentary made the day more engaging and informative, especially appreciated by those who speak English and Spanish.

Others appreciate the value for money, especially given the panoramic vistas and the comprehensive nature of the walkways. Nirmali from March 2023 highlights that “the guide explained very well in English,” which helps non-Spanish speakers fully enjoy the experience.

Practical Considerations

While most travelers find the tour well-organized and fulfilling, it’s worth noting that park entrance fees are extra. Budget around $20-$30 for the ticket, which is a small additional expense considering what you get. Also, prepare for a long day—comfortable shoes, layered clothing, and patience will make your experience more enjoyable.

Why This Tour Is a Great Choice

If you’re looking for a balanced, no-hassle way to see the Perito Moreno Glacier, this tour hits the sweet spot. It’s ideal for first-time visitors who want to avoid complicated logistics but still see the glacier from multiple perspectives. It’s also suited for travelers who appreciate guided insights and want to learn about the glacier’s geology and ongoing activity.

The small group size and professional guides create an intimate, educational experience that many reviews have found rewarding. Plus, the price—around $79 for a full day—offers solid value for such a memorable, scenic adventure.

Final Thoughts

This guided excursion from El Calafate to Perito Moreno Glacier is an excellent way to see one of South America’s most iconic natural wonders without the stress of planning every detail yourself. The tour’s emphasis on multiple viewpoints, expert commentary, and comfortable transport makes it suitable for most travelers, especially those eager to photograph or simply marvel at the glacier’s icy majesty.

The walkways are a highlight, offering close-up views and opportunities to hear the crackling ice—a reminder of nature’s raw power. The inclusion of hotel pickup and bilingual guides ensures a smooth, enjoyable day, whether you’re traveling solo, as a couple, or with family.

If you want a comprehensive, well-reviewed experience that balances value with authenticity, this tour genuinely delivers. Just remember to bring your camera, dress in layers, and be prepared for a day filled with stunning sights and fascinating insights.

FAQ

Is hotel pickup included in this tour? Yes, the tour offers pickup from your hotel, making logistics straightforward and saving you time and effort.

What is the duration of the trip? The entire experience lasts approximately 8 hours and 30 minutes, giving plenty of time to explore and enjoy the glacier.

How much does the entrance to Los Glaciares National Park cost? The tour price does not include the park entrance ticket, which you will need to purchase separately—typically around $20-$30.

Are meals included? No, lunch is not included. It’s advisable to bring snacks or plan to buy something during the stop.

How many people are in each group? Most tours have a maximum of 18 travelers, ensuring a more intimate and personalized experience.

Is there an additional cost for optional activities? Yes, activities like boat rides are optional and may incur extra charges if available, but are not included in this tour.

What language are the guides speaking? Guides provide bilingual commentary in both Spanish and English, making it accessible for most travelers.

Can I cancel this tour if my plans change? Yes, the tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours before the scheduled start, allowing flexibility.

Is this tour suitable for all ages? Yes, most travelers can participate, but comfortable walking shoes and layered clothing are recommended for the walking portions.

To sum it up, this Perito Moreno Glacier tour offers a practical, immersive, and budget-friendly way to experience one of Patagonia’s most stunning sights. With knowledgeable guides, panoramic views, and a well-organized schedule, it’s an excellent choice for travelers seeking authentic and memorable moments in El Calafate.