May Spirit Trek with Moreno Glacier

Experience the May Spirit Trek at Moreno Glacier: A Balanced Look at Patagonia’s Hidden Gems

If you’re headed to El Calafate and want a day packed with diverse landscapes, the May Spirit Trek with Moreno Glacier offers a compelling mix of forest walks, waterfalls, and glacier views. For $209 per person, this roughly 11-hour tour takes you through some of the less-explored corners of Los Glaciares National Park, including the rare Seno Mayo area and the iconic Perito Moreno Glacier. The tour boasts a friendly, small-group vibe, with pickup from your hotel and a mobile ticket that keeps the logistics straightforward.

What we especially like about this experience is its combination of nature encounters—from trekking in lush Patagonian forests to navigating around a hanging glacier—and the expert guidance that enriches each stop. The inclusion of walkways at Perito Moreno means you get plenty of time to soak up the views at your own pace, a bonus for those who like to linger over nature’s details. And the boat navigation adds a sense of adventure that’s both relaxing and awe-inspiring.

A potential consideration? The tour involves multiple stops and walking segments of low to medium difficulty, so it’s not ideal if you have mobility challenges or prefer a very relaxed pace. Also, since the tour requires a box lunch and doesn’t include park entrance fees, budget-conscious travelers should plan accordingly.

All in all, this tour is perfect for those who want a well-rounded day in nature, especially if you appreciate a mix of hiking, boat rides, and glacier viewing. It suits travelers looking for an authentic Patagonia experience that balances activity with comfort.

Key Points

• Diverse landscapes: Experience forests, waterfalls, hanging glaciers, and the iconic Moreno Glacier.
• Expert-guided walks: Knowledgeable guides enhance each stop with insightful interpretations.
• Comfortable logistics: Included hotel pickup, small group size, and flexible schedule.
• Active yet accessible: Low to medium walks suitable for most travelers, with plenty of time for photos and relaxation.
• Full-day experience: From morning pickup to late afternoon return, packed with memorable sights.
• Value for money: Combines boat navigation, forest walks, glacier views, and free time at the glacier—an all-in-one adventure.

In-Depth Review of the May Spirit Trek Experience

Starting Off: A Smooth Beginning with Hotel Pickup and Early Departure

The tour kicks off early in the morning at 8:00 am, with a comfortable, air-conditioned vehicle picking you up at your hotel. This set-up is a major plus, removing the hassle of navigating public transport or arranging your own transfers. It’s worth noting that the tour is designed to cater to most travelers, with a maximum group size of 50—though reviews suggest it often feels more intimate.

First Stop: Bahía Toro and the Patagonian Forest Walk (700 meters, low difficulty)

The journey to Bahía Toro marks the first glimpse into Patagonia’s lush, often foggy forests. Disembarking here, you’ll join your guide for a gentle interpretative walk through the Patagonian Andean forest, a landscape characterized by dense trees, moss-laden branches, and the constant sound of water. The highlight? Reaching the waterfall that feeds into the lake, where you can observe the hanging glaciers of Cerro Mayo and Cerro Negro from the shoreline.

One reviewer noted, “We really liked this walk. Very well organized, with a friendly guide and crew. Nature is without a doubt the best gift of this experience, stunning!” This part of the trip is relaxed, tackling just 700 meters of flat terrain, making it accessible even for less-active travelers. Expect plenty of photo opportunities and a chance to absorb the raw beauty of the Patagonian forest.

Second Stop: Cerro Negro and Glacial Views (1,000 meters, medium difficulty)

Next, the boat takes you to Cerro Negro, where you’ll embark on a hike into the forest for about an hour. The path follows a river, leading you to the base of Cerro Negro, where you’ll find spectacular views of the Black Glacier—a hanging glacier perched high on the mountain, from which waterfalls cascade down and nourish the river below.

This walk is described as slightly more challenging, with a “soft slope,” but still manageable for most. Once there, you can marvel at the spectacular glacier, with some time to enjoy the scenery and take photos. As one reviewer remarked, “It was very beautiful, and we appreciated the guide’s insights about the landscape and glaciers.”

Boat Navigation and Lunch Break

After reboarding the boat, you’ll sail along the Canal de los Empanos, with a chance to enjoy a lunch on board—remember to bring your own box lunch. The boat ride offers a relaxing way to digest and take in the expansive scenery, with the ever-present backdrop of the Patagonian wilderness.

This part of the tour provides a breather before the highlight: approaching the Perito Moreno Glacier. As the vessel slowly navigates along the northern wall of this mighty ice formation, you’ll get a different perspective than from the walkways.

Viewing the Perito Moreno Glacier (Disembarkation + Walkways)

Disembarking at Puerto Perito Moreno, you’re given about an hour with a guide to explore the glacier’s walkways. These balconies face directly toward the glacier, where you can see the jagged ice formations, listen to the cracking sounds, and watch ice blocks calving into the lake.

A reviewer noted, “In Perito Moreno, you get the time to walk the balconies at your own pace, which is fantastic.” The flexibility here is invaluable—some travelers spend more time observing and photographing, while others prefer a quick walk and head back.

Return Journey: Relaxed and Satisfying

After the glacier visit, you’ll reboard the boat and begin the return trip to Punta Bandera. The entire day winds down with the satisfaction of having seen some of Patagonia’s most dramatic scenery, with plenty of opportunities to reflect on the day’s highlights.

What Makes This Tour Stand Out?

Expert Guides and Well-Organized Itinerary: Both reviewers praised the guides for their friendliness and knowledge, which makes a big difference in understanding what you see. From identifying glaciers to explaining forest ecology, the guides add depth to the experience.

Diverse Experiences: The combination of forest walks, boat navigation, and glacier viewing means you’re not just staring at ice—you’re actively engaging with different terrain types and ecosystems. The boat rides, in particular, offer a unique vantage point that land-based tours often miss.

Good Value for Money: When you consider the included boat rides, guided walks, and free time at the glacier, the price of $209 is reasonable for a full-day, multi-activity experience. Plus, the tours often get booked about 39 days in advance, indicating solid demand and value.

Authentic Nature Encounters: From the verdant Patagonian forests to the massive, calving ice wall, you’ll witness some of the most iconic and less-touristy sights of Los Glaciares National Park. This isn’t just a selfie tour; it’s a real immersion in Patagonia’s wild beauty.

Accessibility and Group Size: The walks are rated as low to medium difficulty, making them suitable for most travelers, and the small group setting helps keep the experience intimate and manageable.

Things to Consider Before Booking

Mobility Restrictions: The tour involves walking on uneven terrain and moderate slopes, so those with mobility issues might want to consider this before booking.

Lunch Planning: You’ll need to bring a box lunch, which means some pre-planning. The tour doesn’t include park entrance fees, so budget accordingly.

Weather Contingencies: Patagonia’s weather can be unpredictable. If canceled due to poor weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

Timing and Duration: The tour is long and packed, so it suits active travelers who enjoy a full day outdoors. If you prefer a more leisurely pace, consider whether this suits your style.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This experience is ideal for travelers who want a comprehensive Patagonia day trip with a mix of gentle hikes, boat navigation, and glacier views. It’s perfect for those who appreciate small-group outings with insightful guides, and who enjoy a bit of adventure without strenuous activity.

If you’re captivated by the idea of seeing hanging glaciers, lush forests, and iconic ice walls, and want to do so in a way that balances activity with comfort, this tour hits the right notes. It’s especially suited for those who enjoy nature and want to maximize their time in Los Glaciares National Park without multiple day commitments.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for all ages?
Yes, it’s designed for most travelers, with walks of low to medium difficulty. However, those with mobility issues might find some parts challenging.

Does the tour include park entrance fees?
No, you need to carry your own box lunch, and park entrance fees are not included.

How long is the boat ride?
The boat navigation around the canal and in front of the glacier lasts about 15-20 minutes, providing spectacular views from the water.

What should I bring for the tour?
Bring your lunch, comfortable walking shoes, weather-appropriate clothing, and a camera. Some reviewers mentioned bringing binoculars for better glacier viewing.

Can I customize the timing at the glacier?
The guide provides around an hour at the glacier walkways, enough for a good exploration, but you can stay as long as you like within the scheduled time.

Is the tour weather-dependent?
Yes, Patagonia’s weather can change quickly. If conditions are poor, it might be canceled or rescheduled, with options for a full refund.

How far in advance should I book?
Booking about 39 days in advance is typical, so plan ahead to secure a spot, especially in peak season.

In summary, the May Spirit Trek with Moreno Glacier offers a well-balanced day of exploration, combining forest walks, boat rides, and glacier views. Its focus on authentic nature experiences and knowledgeable guides makes it a great pick for those eager to see Patagonia’s wild side without sacrificing comfort or organization. Perfect for active travelers who want a full, varied day in one of the most stunning areas of Argentina.