Glaciar Perito Moreno con Safari Náutico

Perito Moreno Glacier con Safari Náutico: An Authentic Look at Patagonia’s Crown Jewel

If you’re heading to El Calafate and eager to see one of Patagonia’s most iconic sights, the Perito Moreno Glacier is an absolute must. This tour, priced at around $142 per person, offers a solid mix of walking along the glacier’s edge and experiencing it from the water. Over roughly a one-hour excursion, you’ll get a taste of what makes this glacier so spectacular, with opportunities for stunning photographs and memorable close-up views.

What we love about this experience is how it combines scenic land and water perspectives—you’ll walk along the coast, taking in that immense wall of ice, then hop onto a boat that gets you right next to the glacier’s towering face. The tour’s guides are known to be friendly and knowledgeable, adding a personal touch that elevates the experience.

One possible consideration is that the boat ride is relatively brief—only about an hour—so if you’re craving extensive time on the water or detailed glacier hikes, this may feel a little limited. Plus, the tour doesn’t include park entrance fees, so you’ll need to budget for that separately.

This tour suits travelers who want a balanced, authentic experience of Perito Moreno—those who enjoy both scenic walks and boat views without the need for extensive hiking or extra-long excursions. It’s particularly appealing if you’re short on time but still want to see the glacier close-up from multiple angles.

Key Points

• Beautiful combination of coastal walking and boat viewing.
• Guided tour with friendly, knowledgeable guides.
• Short, manageable duration (~1 hour), perfect for a quick but memorable experience.
• Includes transportation from El Calafate, saving you logistical hassle.
• Additional costs: Park entrance fees and food are not included.
• Great value for the price, offering a true taste of Patagonia’s icy marvel.

Exploring the Tour in Detail

Starting Point and Logistics

The tour begins at Puerto Bajo las Sombras in El Calafate, a convenient location for most travelers staying in town. From here, comfortable coach transportation whisks you away to the Los Glaciares National Park, home to the glacier and other stunning landscapes. The group size is limited to around 30 travelers, which helps maintain a friendly, intimate atmosphere and gives guides an easier time sharing insights.

The Coastal Walk Along Perito Moreno

Once inside the park, you’ll take a guided walk along the coast, where walkers are treated to stunning views of the glacier’s towering face. As we strolled along the paths, we loved the way the landscape offers multiple vantage points—each one revealing a different facet of this icy giant. Expect to see impressive ice formations, floating icebergs, and the sheer scale of the glacier.

One review mentioned that this part of the tour allows you to “marvel at the immensity,” which is very true. The glacier’s face stretches for hundreds of meters, and photographs here are guaranteed to impress. While the walk itself isn’t long, it’s enough to give you a good sense of the glacier’s majesty and a chance to snap some memorable shots.

The Boat Safari: Up Close and Personal

After the coast walk, you’ll board the boat for a scenic cruise toward the glacier. While some travelers, like Oren F, feel the boat ride may be underwhelming compared to hiking, others, like Barbara F, find it priceless: “seeing the glacier from close up and being dwarfed by its size is a feeling that’s hard to beat.”

The boat gets you near the glacier’s face, allowing you to observe the blue ice, crevasses, and icebergs floating around. It’s a rare chance to get close enough to appreciate the sheer scale and the shimmering textures of this natural wonder. The boat ride’s duration (about an hour) is fairly short, but it’s enough to provide a different perspective from the land-based views.

Additional Details & Considerations

• Park entrance fees aren’t included, so you’ll need to pay separately at the ticket office. This is standard for most park tours but is worth budgeting for.
• Food and beverages are also not included, so planning a snack before or after the tour makes sense.
• The tour ends back at the starting point, keeping logistics straightforward.
• Travelers have highlighted the value for money, with some reviews praising the crew’s friendliness and the “marvelous” views.

What’s Not Included and Why It Matters

While the tour offers a fantastic snapshot of the glacier, it doesn’t include some extras that could enhance the experience—like extended hikes, in-depth glacier exploration, or park entry. For travelers eager for more extensive glacier activities, other tours might be more suitable, but for those seeking a balanced, scenic overview, this is quite sufficient.

Authentic Experiences and Real Traveler Feedback

Reading reviews gives us a clearer picture of what to expect. Oren F’s comment, “Skip the boat go for a hike,” reflects a common sentiment among experienced travelers—some prefer the longer, more immersive pasarela hike. However, that’s a different experience altogether and might not suit everyone, especially those short on time or with mobility considerations.

Conversely, Barbara F’s glowing review underscores how impactful the boat experience can be: “Marvelling at the immensity and close-up views” shows that even a short cruise can leave a lasting impression.

This mix of feedback reminds us that the tour’s value largely depends on personal preference—whether you prefer a quick, scenic overview or a more detailed exploration.

Why This Tour Offers Good Value

At $142, this tour provides a well-rounded introduction to Perito Moreno, combining land and water views with expert guides. While it does not include park fees or food, the transportation, guided walk, and boat cruise are all bundled in, making it a convenient option that simplifies planning. For the price, you get a balanced experience that offers multiple perspectives and memorable photo opportunities.

It’s especially suitable for those wanting a manageable, one-hour adventure without the need for lengthy hikes or extensive planning. The group size and friendly guides also add a personal touch, making it easier to ask questions and learn about the glacier’s geology, formation, and significance.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience is ideal for travelers who want a short, scenic, and affordable introduction to the Perito Moreno Glacier. It suits those who appreciate a guided approach and prefer a mix of walking and boat views. If you’re on a tight schedule, this tour packs a lot into an hour without sacrificing the stunning scenery Patagonia is famous for.

However, if you’re looking for an extensive glacier trek or a full-day adventure, you might find this tour a little limited. Likewise, if you’re eager to avoid additional park fees or are especially interested in longer boat rides, you’ll want to explore other options.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour suitable for all ages?
Most travelers can participate, and the group size is limited to around 30 people, making it manageable for families, couples, or solo travelers.

Does the tour include park entrance fees?
No, the cost of park admission is not included, so you’ll need to purchase your ticket at the park entrance separately.

How long is the boat ride?
The boat cruise lasts about an hour, offering a close-up view of the glacier and icebergs.

What should I bring?
Bring water, sunscreen, and layered clothing, as weather can change quickly. Don’t forget your camera—photographers will love the views.

Is food included?
No, food and beverages are not included, so plan to eat before or after the tour.

Can I do a longer glacier hike instead?
Yes, but this tour is designed for those wanting a quick overview rather than an extended glacier trek.

To sum it up, the Glaciar Perito Moreno con Safari Náutico offers a practical, scenic, and affordable way to experience one of Patagonia’s most breathtaking sights. It’s perfect for travelers who want a snapshot of the glacier from both land and water, with the convenience of guided transportation and a small group. While it might not satisfy those seeking a full-day or in-depth glacier adventure, it provides a memorable, well-organized introduction that’s hard to beat for the price. If you’re short on time but eager to see this icy marvel from multiple angles, this tour is definitely worth considering.