Big Ice Perito Moreno Trek with Walkways and Navigation

If you’re visiting El Calafate and craving a true Patagonian adventure, the Big Ice Perito Moreno Trek offers a unique chance to walk on one of the world’s most famous glaciers. For $964 per person, this full-day tour takes about 12 hours and combines glacier hiking, boat rides, and spectacular vistas. Led by knowledgeable guides, you’ll traverse crevasses, explore ice caves, and enjoy panoramic views from scenic lookout points.

Two things we particularly love are the opportunity to walk directly on the glacier’s surface—a rare experience—and the stunning scenery provided during the boat crossings and viewpoints. The guides are well-versed, making complex features like crevasses and waterfalls understandable and fascinating.

A potential downside is the intensity of the trek, which requires a good level of physical fitness and a willingness to face variable weather conditions. The tour is demanding but rewarding, perfect for active travelers seeking an authentic glacial experience.

This trip suits adventurous souls who appreciate natural beauty and don’t mind a full day of walking and outdoor activity. It’s ideal if you want something more immersive than just viewing from the overlooks, especially for those willing to trek in potentially cold, windy conditions.

Key Points

• Highly experienced guides ensure safety and share insightful information about glaciers
• Includes boat rides for stunning views from Lake Argentino and the glacier’s front
• Four hours on the ice with crampons, exploring crevasses, caves, waterfalls, and lagoons
• Requires good physical fitness and moderate outdoor experience
• Offers excellent value for a full-day adventure with diverse activities
• Weather can vary, so dressing in layers is essential

An In-Depth Look at the Big Ice Perito Moreno Trek

Setting Out: From El Calafate to Los Glaciares National Park

The day begins early, with hotel pickup (if you’ve selected that option), as the tour departs around 7:00 am. The 80-kilometer drive to Los Glaciares National Park takes approximately two hours, giving time to get familiar with the itinerary and prepare for the day ahead. The scenic drive is uneventful but set the stage for the adventure—soon, you’ll be gazing up at the spectacular Perito Moreno Glacier.

One thing we appreciate is that the tour includes a visit to the viewing platform where you can admire the glacier’s front wall, which rises about 196 feet (60 meters). Many reviews highlight how jaw-dropping this sight is. Rebecca from a recent trip describes it as “an incredible day trip on the ice,” emphasizing the impressive size and jagged peaks of the glacier from the observation deck.

The Walkways and the Initial View

After arriving at the park, you’ll have roughly an hour to walk along designated walkways. This part is perfect for snapping photos and getting an overview of the glacier, which is constantly advancing—a rare feature among glaciers worldwide. The walkways provide easy access to viewpoints, but be prepared for chilly, possibly windy conditions. Layers are a must here since the weather can change quickly, as Rebecca notes, “it was colder and windy there so bring layers.”

The Boat Ride to the Glacier

Next, you’ll board a boat for a 20-minute crossing across Lake Argentino to reach the base of the glacier. The boat ride offers stunning perspectives of the glacier’s massive front wall and the surrounding landscape. During this short journey, you’ll get a sense of the scale and the raw power of nature at work. Some reviews mention that the boat ride is a highlight, offering spectacular views that aren’t visible from the land.

The Glacier Trek: Walking on the Ice

Once on the glacier, the real adventure begins. Your guides will help you gear up with crampons and provide a safety briefing. The trek can be physically demanding, with an emphasis on precision walking and navigating crevasses and uneven ice. As Daniel from a recent review puts it, “it’s a very unique experience to trek across the glacier for three hours, seeing ice caves large enough to walk in, waterfalls, and lakes in the middle of the ice.”

Our favorite aspect? The variety of features you’ll encounter: water streams cascading down crevasses, lagoons within the ice, and caves formed by melting ice. The guide will point out the different shades of luminous blue and explain the glacier’s formation, giving you a deeper appreciation of this immense natural phenomenon.

Lunch on the Ice: A Once-in-a-Lifetime Meal

A memorable part of the tour is the lunch break on the glacier itself. It’s a chance to rest, soak in the views, and enjoy your packed meal amid an extraordinary setting. Many reviews, like Tashmia’s, describe it as “a long day but every moment is memorable,” with the lunch on the ice being a highlight.

Returning and Additional Views

After about four hours on the ice, you’ll retrace your steps to the boat and then return via bus to El Calafate. The second boat ride, on the way back, allows you to admire the glacier’s southern facade one last time—a perfect photo opportunity.

Practical Details and Considerations

The entire experience is designed for travelers who enjoy outdoor activities and stunning natural landscapes. The tour length, roughly 12 hours, means you’ll need stamina and enthusiasm. It’s suited for those aged 18-50 with moderate physical fitness, as the trek can be challenging. Comfortable sportswear, long trousers, a warm sweater, and layers are highly recommended. Don’t forget sun protection—glare from ice is impressive, and the weather can be unpredictable.

Pricing wise, at nearly $1,000, this tour offers excellent value considering the inclusion of boat rides, guided glacier trekking, and transportation. Unlike some reviews suggest, most travelers feel the experience justifies the cost, especially given the expert guidance and safety equipment provided.

Authentic Experiences and Traveler Insights

Based on reviews, guides are well-informed and attentive. Michelle cautions about booking through third-party providers, noting that some operators may offer lower prices elsewhere. The value here, with all the inclusions, tends to be appreciated by travelers who prioritize safety, expertise, and authentic experiences.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This adventure is perfect for active travelers who want to see the glacier up close and are willing to walk on uneven, icy terrain. Nature lovers will enjoy the diverse scenery—ice caves, waterfalls, lagoons. It’s also suitable for those interested in learning about glaciers, as guides share plenty of insights. However, it’s less ideal for anyone with mobility issues or who prefers a less physically demanding experience.

Final Thoughts: Is This the Right Tour for You?

If you’re looking for a once-in-a-lifetime experience that combines adrenaline, education, and awe-inspiring scenery, this trek fits the bill. The guides’ expertise and the variety of activities—land, water, and ice—make it a comprehensive way to see Perito Moreno Glacier from multiple angles. While it demands a good level of fitness and weather resilience, the rewards are well worth the effort.

For those who value authentic adventure, this tour offers a deeply memorable glimpse into one of Patagonia’s most iconic landmarks. It’s best suited for energetic explorers eager to walk on ice, learn about glaciers, and enjoy stunning views that few other experiences can match.

FAQ: Your Questions Answered

Is transportation included?
Yes, if you’ve selected the hotel pickup option, you’ll be transported from El Calafate to the park and back, making the day hassle-free.

How long does the entire tour last?
The full experience is about 12 hours, including travel, sightseeing, glacier trekking, and meals.

What is the level of physical fitness required?
A moderate fitness level is necessary. The trek can be demanding, especially in variable weather, with about four hours on the glacier.

Does the tour include food?
No, you need to bring your own snacks, boxed lunch, and drinks for the day. Some reviewers recommend packing extra layers and water.

Are guides knowledgeable?
Absolutely. Travelers praise the guides for their expertise and ability to explain glaciology and geography clearly, making the experience educational as well as exhilarating.

Is it suitable for children or older travelers?
The minimum age is 18, and the maximum age is 50, due to the physical nature of the trek and safety considerations.

What should I wear?
Comfortable sportswear, long trousers, warm layers, windproof/waterproof jackets, sunglasses, sunblock, and gloves are recommended because the weather can be cold and windy.

To sum it up, the Big Ice Perito Moreno Trek offers a comprehensive, exhilarating way to experience Patagonia’s most famous glacier. With stunning scenery, expert guides, and the thrill of walking on ice, it’s a perfect choice for adventure seekers and nature lovers alike. Just come prepared for a physically demanding but truly unforgettable day.