Minitrekking tour through the Perito Moreno Glacier!

Imagine stepping onto a vast glacial landscape of deep blues and towering ice formations, feeling the crunch of ice under your crampons, and gazing out over a spectacle that has been slowly sculpting itself for thousands of years. This is what awaits you with the Minitrekking Tour on the Perito Moreno Glacier in El Calafate, Argentina. Priced at $600 per person, this approximately 6-hour adventure is a chance to connect with one of the world’s most awe-inspiring natural wonders.

What makes this tour stand out? First, you’ll love the combination of boat and ice trekking—starting with a boat ride across Brazo Rico that sets the tone for the day. Then, you get to walk on the glacier with guides, cramming your day full of both adventure and education. Second, the scenic views from the glacier and its surrounding areas, like the Magellan forest and the Argentino Lake, give you a truly immersive experience in Patagonia’s wilderness.

One thing to keep in mind is that crowds can form, and the tour requires a moderate level of physical activity, including walking with crampons on uneven ice. If you’re looking for a relaxed afternoon, this might not be your best choice. Still, for those craving a hands-on experience with glacial ice, it’s a fantastic option. This tour is best suited for travelers who enjoy outdoor activities and aren’t shy of a bit of physical effort—kids with enough stamina and adults up to 65 generally thrive here.

Key Points

• Unique experience of walking on glacier ice with crampons for a close-up view
• Includes boat sailing across Argentino Lake, offering panoramic glacier views
• Guided tour with informative explanations about glaciology, flora, and fauna
• Moderate physical activity suitable for most travelers with good mobility
• Packed with scenery—from ice formations to forests and lakes
• Book well in advance, often 36 days ahead, as this popular tour fills quickly

A Detailed Look at the Minitrekking Experience

Starting Point and Transportation

The adventure begins at Puerto Bajo las Sombras, within Los Glaciares National Park. From there, a boat takes you across Brazo Rico to the glacier’s west side. This boat ride is more than transportation; it’s a highlight, offering stunning views of the Perito Moreno Glacier’s sheer walls and deep blue tones. The boat ride lasts about 40 minutes, giving you plenty of time to soak in the scenery and maybe snap some photos of the glacier’s face.

Once ashore, guides greet your group—usually up to 20 people—and provide a brief overview of what’s ahead. You then have the chance to leave some belongings in the shelter and use restroom facilities before heading out on a 20-minute walk to the glacier’s edge. This part is manageable but does require comfortable footwear and a moderate level of fitness.

The Glacier Walk: 90 Minutes of Ice Trekking

The core of this experience is the approximate 90-minute walk on the ice. Once your guides have fitted crampons to your boots, the world of glaciers opens up beneath your feet. You’ll traverse spectacular formations, marvel at deep blue crevasses, and observe unique shapes carved by nature’s slow but relentless sculpting process.

What we love here is how the guides seamlessly blend natural history, glaciology, and environmental education into their explanations. They’ll point out ice formations, discuss climate change implications, and talk about the flora and fauna of the region—making the walk both engaging and educational. From reviews, we know that guides like Carlos are praised for their engaging storytelling and attentiveness.

Exploring the Surroundings

After the ice trek, the tour leads you back through the Magellan forest, where you can enjoy a picnic lunch (bring your own, as food isn’t included). Many travelers find this a peaceful spot with views of the glacier—an excellent chance to rest and reflect on the experience.

The Return Voyage and Optional Views

To wrap up, you’ll sail back along the south face of the glacier, offering yet more perspectives on the massive ice formation. The final part of your day involves viewing the glacier from the catwalks—if you wish to see the immensity of Perito Moreno from different angles. The entire day is designed to give you a multi-faceted view of this natural wonder.

What’s Included and What to Bring

This tour includes:
– A 60-minute walk through the Andean Patagonian forest, adding a touch of greenery to your day
– 90 minutes on the ice with guides and crampons
– A 40-minute boat ride on Argentino Lake, providing spectacular glacier views
– An English/Spanish-speaking guide to enhance your understanding of the environment

What’s not included? You’ll need to bring your own lunch and drinks, as they’re not supplied. Also, there’s a $12 entrance fee to Los Glaciares National Park, payable upon arrival, so don’t forget your ID or passport.

Practical Considerations and Tips

• The tour starts and ends at the same meeting point, so plan your transportation accordingly.
• Book well in advance—most travelers secure their spot about 36 days early—due to high demand.
• You must send a passport photo upon booking for reservation confirmation.
• It’s suitable for ages 8 through 65, provided participants are physically capable of walking for about 3 hours, including the ice walk.
• Make sure to dress in layers, wear comfortable waterproof shoes, and bring sun protection.

Weather and Cancellation Policy

Since the experience depends heavily on weather conditions, the tour is non-refundable if canceled due to poor weather. You’ll be offered a different date or a full refund if this happens. The tour requires a minimum number of travelers, so if that isn’t met, they’ll reschedule or refund you.

Authentic Feedback from Travelers

Many reviewers rave about the once-in-a-lifetime feeling of walking on a glacier. One wrote, “Walking on a glacier is one of the coolest things I’ve ever done. The tour guides were informative and engaging.” Others appreciate the scenery and the guides’ storytelling, noting that the experience is both adventurous and educational.

A common highlight is the boat ride—the views of the glacier from the water create a sense of scale and awe. Travelers also mention that the scenery around the forest and lake adds variety to the day, preventing it from feeling monotonous.

The Sum Up: Who Should Consider This Tour?

If you’re seeking a full-day adventure that combines scenic boat rides, a walk on ancient ice, and expert guidance, then this Minitrekking Tour offers incredible value. It’s particularly suited for those eager to get close to glaciers and willing to handle some moderate physical activity. The stunning scenery, combined with expert narration, makes it ideal for nature lovers and adventure seekers alike.

Keep in mind, this isn’t a lazy sightseeing trip—it requires stamina and good footwear, but the reward is a truly immersive experience in one of the most spectacular natural sites in the world. If you’ve ever wanted to stand on ice the size of a city block and learn about glaciers firsthand, this tour will not disappoint.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need to be physically fit to join this tour?
Yes, you should be comfortable walking for about 3 hours, including on uneven ice with crampons. It’s suitable for ages 8 to 65, provided you have adequate stamina.

What should I bring for the ice trek?
Bring warm, layered clothing, waterproof shoes, sunscreen, sunglasses, and a camera. Remember to bring your own lunch and drinks, as they’re not included.

Is the boat ride included in the price?
Yes, the boat ride across Brazo Rico is part of the tour, providing scenic views of the glacier from the water.

How far in advance should I book?
Most travelers book about 36 days ahead, as this is a popular tour that fills quickly.

What is the cancellation policy?
If canceled due to weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund. Otherwise, the tour is non-refundable.

Are guides bilingual?
Yes, guides speak both Spanish and English to accommodate international visitors.

In the end, the Minitrekking on the Perito Moreno Glacier is a fantastic way to genuinely connect with Patagonia’s icy landscape. Whether you’re an adventure lover or a natural scenery enthusiast, this tour offers a memorable day of discovery, learning, and awe. Just be prepared for a good walk, an incredible view, and a once-in-a-lifetime experience that stays with you long after the ice melts.