Perito Moreno Glacier Minitrekking Excursion

Imagine walking on a vast, shimmering sheet of ice, surrounded by towering crevasses and the thunderous calving of glaciers in the distance. That’s exactly what you get with the Perito Moreno Glacier Minitrekking in Los Glaciares National Park. This 10-hour guided adventure offers not only a chance to trek across one of Patagonia’s most famous glaciers but also a scenic journey through some of Argentina’s most breathtaking landscapes.

Starting with hotel pickup in El Calafate, the tour takes you via comfortable transportation through the Patagonian wilderness, culminating in a full day of ice walking, boat rides, and panoramic views. Guides like Sebastian and Miguel earn high praise for their friendliness and knowledge, making this a memorable experience for those ready for a bit of physical activity and awe-inspiring scenery.

What we love about this tour is how it balances adventure and comfort. The inclusion of all necessary gear, like crampons and helmets, means you can focus on the experience rather than worrying about equipment. Plus, the scenic boat rides across the Brazo Rico channel add a peaceful element, giving you different perspectives of the glacier’s massive front walls.

However, it’s worth considering that the cost is quite high—around $518.92 per person—and some reviews mention feeling it’s a steep price for what’s included. Also, the duration of glacier time—about 5 hours on the ice—is a good chunk, but some reviewers wish they had more time on the glacier itself. This tour is best suited for active travelers between 10 and 65 years old with moderate physical fitness, given the effort required.

This tour appeals most to those who want a comprehensive, well-organized day with expert guides, scenic boat rides, and the thrill of walking on a glacier. If you’re after a hassle-free way to experience the iconic Perito Moreno, this is a top choice.

Key Points

• All-inclusive experience: Equipment, transportation, and guides are included.
• Stunning scenery: Multiple viewpoints and boat rides offer varied perspectives of the glacier.
• Physical activity: Suitable for those with moderate fitness, with a 5-hour glacier walk.
• Expert guides: Guides like Sebastián and Miguel are highly praised for their helpfulness and knowledge.
• Tour duration: Around 10 hours, with plenty of time for scenic stops and the glacier trek.
• Price: Around $519, but reviews suggest it offers good value given the full day of activities.

The Experience in Detail

Starting from El Calafate

Your day begins early with a hotel pickup, typically around 8:00 AM, setting the tone for a well-organized outing. The journey covers roughly 75 km along Provincial Road N°11, giving you your first taste of Patagonia’s rugged beauty. The bus ride itself is comfortable and scenic, with views of the landscape that prepare you for what’s to come.

The Pasarelas Perito Moreno

Once inside Los Glaciares National Park, you’ll reach the Pasarelas, or walkways, which are a fantastic starting point for observing the glacier from above. Here, guides provide insights into the area’s history, geology, and the unique phenomenon of glacier calving. Many travelers note that walking along these trails gives a great overview before heading closer to the ice. The walk along the balconies lasts about an hour, and while admission to the passarelas isn’t included in the tour, it’s a worthwhile stop for photographers and anyone eager to get a feel for the scale of the glacier.

Navigating the Brazo Rico Channel

Next, a short 30-minute boat ride across the Brazo Rico channel transports you closer to the glacier’s front wall. This part of the trip offers fantastic views of icebergs and the glacier’s towering walls. Several reviews highlight how this boat ride enhances the overall experience, providing both tranquility and an up-close look at the glacier’s dramatic face.

The Glacier Trek

The highlight is of course the minitrekking on Perito Moreno—roughly 5 hours of walking on the ice with crampons attached. Guides like Sebastián and Miguel earn high praise for their knowledge, friendliness, and safety awareness. Expect to listen to explanations about flora, fauna, and glaciology, as well as the fascinating process that causes the glacier to periodically rupture.

Walking on the glacier is both exhilarating and demanding. Reviewers mention that the paths are well maintained, with some guard rails and manageable terrain, but it’s still physically engaging. The guides are attentive and do their best to make sure everyone is comfortable. Many users say that this part of the tour exceeds expectations, with comments such as, “The glacier was breathtaking, and walking on it was a once-in-a-lifetime experience.”

Returning via boat and bus

After the glacier hike, you revisit the Bajo las Sombras pier for another boat ride, this time traveling back across the Brazo Rico, giving you a second chance to admire the ice formations and the glacier’s grandeur. The group then boards the bus for the 1.5-hour return trip to El Calafate, with the guide rounding out the day with some final insights and stories.

Practical Details

• Included: Transportation, hotel pickup/drop-off, professional guide, and glacier minitrekking.
• Not included: Food and drinks, with the Perito Moreno entry fee currently around $45,000 ARS (payable on site).
• Age & fitness restrictions: Suitable for ages 10-65, moderate physical fitness required, no overweight participants, and certain health conditions may exclude some travelers.
• Booking and cancellation: Book about 2 months in advance, as the tour is popular and tends to fill early. Cancellation is free up to 24 hours before the tour.

What the Reviews Say

Most travelers agree that the guides make a difference—their friendliness, expertise, and safety protocols are frequently praised. Many describe the experience as “breathtaking”, with the glacier walk being the highlight. Several reviews mention they’ve learned a lot about the region and glacier phenomena.

Some critics find the price steep—noting that similar tours might be cheaper if booked locally, but they emphasize that the organized nature and inclusions of this tour add value in terms of convenience.

On the practical side, a few mention wishing they had more time on the glacier—about 5 hours is plenty, but some would prefer extra time to explore farther. Still, most agree that the scenery, the guides, and the overall organization make this experience worth considering if you want to tick a major Patagonia highlight off your list.

Final Thoughts

This Perito Moreno Glacier Minitrekking is a carefully orchestrated adventure that offers a full day of awe and activity. If you’re someone who appreciates guided tours with knowledgeable guides, scenic boat rides, and the thrill of walking on one of the world’s most iconic glaciers, this trip will likely meet or exceed your expectations.

The value for money depends on how much you treasure the experience of glacier trekking—many reviewers say it’s worth every penny. The full-day itinerary ensures you maximize your time in the park without the stress of planning multiple logistics yourself.

This tour is best suited for active travelers comfortable with moderate physical exertion who want a comprehensive, well-organized experience. It’s especially appealing if you’re eager to learn about glaciers and Patagonia’s natural environment while enjoying comfortable transportation and expert guidance.

FAQ

Is hotel pickup included? Yes, the tour includes pickup and drop-off at your hotel in El Calafate.

What is the approximate duration? The entire tour lasts about 10 hours, including transportation, sightseeing, boat rides, and glacier trekking.

Do I need to bring my own equipment? No, all necessary equipment, such as crampons and helmets, are provided by the guides.

How long is the glacier walk? About 5 hours on the ice, allowing for a thorough experience without being overly strenuous.

What is the age limit? The tour is suitable for ages 10 to 65. Children must be at least 10 years old, and no exceptions are made for older travelers.

Is food included? No, food and drinks are not included, but you might want to bring your own lunch or snacks, as there are no restaurants inside the park.

How much is the Perito Moreno Glacier entrance fee? As of November, it costs about $45,000 ARS, payable in cash or credit card at the site.

Can I cancel the tour? Yes, cancellations are free if made at least 24 hours in advance.

Is it suitable for travelers with health issues? The tour is not recommended for those with significant health or mobility issues, including certain heart, respiratory, or mobility limitations.

What if the weather is bad? The tour relies on good weather; if canceled due to poor conditions, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

In The Sum Up

The Perito Moreno Glacier Minitrekking is a standout experience that combines adventure, scenic beauty, and educational insights. It’s best for travelers eager to walk on glaciers, enjoy boat rides, and learn from expert guides—all in one well-organized day. While the price might seem high, the inclusions and the quality of the experience often justify the cost for those seeking a memorable Patagonia highlight.

If your goal is to truly connect with one of nature’s most stunning spectacles in a safe, guided environment, this tour is a worthwhile investment. For those who prefer freeform exploration or are on a tighter budget, it might be worth considering other options, but for a comprehensive, worry-free adventure, this trip hits most of the right notes.