Perito Moreno Glacier with Navigation from El Calafate

Exploring the Majestic Perito Moreno Glacier with Navigation from El Calafate

Imagine standing before a glacier that towers over 260 feet (80 meters) high, cracking and calving with thunderous roars. That’s what you get with this full-day tour from El Calafate to the Perito Moreno Glacier, one of Patagonia’s most breathtaking sights. For $144 per person, you’ll spend about 8 hours exploring the glacier’s dramatic ice walls, walking along scenic viewpoints, and even approaching it by boat for an up-close experience.

What we love most about this tour is how it balances guided insights with free time to soak in the views—whether you choose to follow a guide or go at your own pace. The walkways provide a variety of perspectives, from panoramic vistas to close-up views of the glacier, while the boat ride offers a rare chance to see this icy giant from the water.

A key consideration is that lunch isn’t included, and park entrance fees are extra—a small price to pay for this once-in-a-lifetime scene, but worth keeping in mind when budgeting. This tour is ideal for travelers who appreciate nature’s grandeur, enjoy photography, or desire a flexible experience with options to customize their day. It’s especially suitable if you want an organized, comprehensive outing that takes the stress out of planning your own trip.

Key Points

• Stunning Views: Multiple viewpoints along 4 km of walkways showcase the glacier from various angles.
• Flexible Options: Choose guided commentary or explore independently for a more personal experience.
• Boat Cruise: An hour-long boat ride brings you close enough to feel the ice’s power and take fantastic photos.
• Extra Expenses: Park entrance fees and lunch are not included, so plan accordingly.
• Comfortable Transit: Air-conditioned vehicle picks you up and drops you off in El Calafate, making logistics straightforward.
• Ideal for Photography: Plenty of time and vantage points for capturing the glacier’s massive, jagged face.

An In-Depth Look at the Perito Moreno Glacier Tour

Starting the Day: Convenient Pick-up and Scenic Drive

Your experience begins around 10:00 a.m. with hotel pickup in El Calafate, a small but charming town known as the gateway to Patagonia’s glaciers. The drive to Los Glaciares National Park covers about 80 km, which might seem long but is well worth it for the scenery along the way. Travelers have noted that the comfortable, air-conditioned vehicle makes the journey pleasant, with some reviews mentioning the drive as “longish but comfortable.”

The route crosses the Magellanic Peninsula, giving you a glimpse of Patagonia’s rugged landscape. Keep your camera ready because the views along this stretch are often filled with wildlife—condors soaring overhead or guanacos grazing—adding to the anticipation.

The Walkways: Multiple Perspectives on the Glacier

Once at the park, you’ll spend three hours wandering the network of walkways that span about 4 km in total. These well-maintained paths are designed to give a variety of views, from high overlooks to closer vantage points.

Many travelers, like Philip and Nadine, praise the walkways for offering “amazing” views and “plenty of time” to appreciate the glacier’s grandeur. One reviewer highlights that the walkways allow for aerial photos and breathtaking panoramic shots, which are ideal for photography buffs. These viewpoints are also excellent for witnessing the glacier’s calving—an awe-inspiring event where chunks of ice dramatically break off into the water below.

Guided or Self-Guided: The Flexibility You Want

You have the choice to follow a guide, who will share insights into the glacier’s flora and fauna, or explore the viewpoints on your own. Many reviews mention guides like Veronica or Dani, who provide “knowledgeable, friendly, and professional” commentary in both English and Spanish, making the experience educational and engaging.

If you prefer autonomy, the walkways still offer ample opportunity to explore at your own pace, especially since the itinerary allows for free time to pause, take photos, or relax with a picnic or at nearby cafes. Just remember, if you opt for the self-guided approach, you’ll miss out on the insider stories but gain the flexibility to linger longer at your favorite spots.

The Boat Ride: Approaching the Glacier from the Water

After soaking in the views, your tour includes a one-hour boat ride. This is a highlight, according to nearly every reviewer, because it allows you to approach the glacier’s face from a different angle—up close and personal.

Cristian and Stephen describe the boat as “easy” and “fantastic,” with the opportunity to get “amazing photos” and “great views.” One traveler even mentions that seeing the glacier calve from the water is an unforgettable experience. The boat gets right up against the ice walls, offering an immersive perspective that’s impossible from the land walkways.

The End of the Day: Returning to El Calafate

Once the boat cruise concludes, you’ll retrace your route back to El Calafate, arriving in the afternoon. You can then explore the town, reminisce about the day, or relax at a local cafe. Remember, lunch isn’t included, so consider bringing a picnic or planning to dine at one of the park’s or town’s restaurants.

Practical Details & Tips

• Park Entry Fees: Not included in the tour price, so budget approximately $45 or check with the operator for current rates.
• Timing: The tour runs around 8 hours, with departure from hotel at 10:00 a.m. and return in the afternoon.
• Group Size: Limited to 46 travelers, keeping the group manageable and allowing for more personalized attention.
• Weather & Timing: The glacier’s appearance can change with weather conditions; clear days offer the best views, so check the forecast.
• What to Bring: Comfortable shoes for walking, layered clothing for fluctuating temperatures, camera, and perhaps a snack or water bottle.

Authentic Feedback from Travelers

Many reviews emphasize how organizing this tour makes visiting the glacier “easier” and “more enjoyable” than doing it independently. For example, one traveler mentioned, “Easier than doing it myself with about the same cost,” highlighting the value of organized transportation and logistics.

The boat ride consistently earns praise as “money well spent,” giving a unique vantage point that enhances the overall experience. Several reviewers also mention their guides—like Veronica or Dani—were “knowledgeable,” making the day more informative and memorable.

Some travelers suggest that if you’re on a tight budget or prefer a DIY approach, you might find similar experiences by visiting the park independently, paying for the entry and boat separately. However, many find that the convenience, guidance, and all-in-one nature of this tour justify the slightly higher price.

The Sum Up

If you’re visiting El Calafate and want a well-organized, memorable day, this tour to the Perito Moreno Glacier hits the mark. It offers stunning vistas from multiple viewpoints, an exhilarating boat ride, and the flexibility to choose guided commentary or explore solo. The balance of comfort, convenience, and immersive scenery makes it an excellent choice for nature lovers, photographers, and those who want a hassle-free way to witness one of the world’s most incredible glaciers.

While the extra costs for park entrance and lunch are worth considering, most travelers agree that the experience provides extraordinary value. The guides’ insights, combined with the breathtaking views and close-up glacier approach, make this a day to remember—whether you’re a first-time visitor or returning for a second glimpse.

This tour is best suited for travelers who enjoy organized excursions, appreciate spectacular scenery, and want a comprehensive visit that saves them time and effort. If you prefer exploring independently or are on a tight budget, you might consider piecing together your own trip, but for most, this outing offers a seamless, enriching experience.

FAQs

Is transportation included?
Yes, the tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off in El Calafate in an air-conditioned vehicle, making the trip comfortable and stress-free.

How long is the tour?
The entire experience lasts approximately 8 hours, with departure around 10:00 a.m. and return in the afternoon.

Do I need to pay for park entry?
Yes, the entry fee to Los Glaciares National Park is not included and costs about $45; check with your operator for the latest prices.

Is lunch included?
No, lunch is not included, so bring your own picnic or plan to buy food at the park or nearby cafes.

Can I do the glacier walk myself?
Yes, the tour offers both guided and self-guided options for walking on the glacier. You can explore independently if you prefer.

What’s the benefit of the boat cruise?
The boat ride offers a close-up view of the glacier’s face, providing spectacular photo opportunities and a different perspective than the land viewpoints.

Is this tour suitable for all ages?
Most travelers can participate, but be prepared for some walking and the boat ride. Check with your provider if traveling with young children or mobility concerns.

How many people are in the group?
The tour generally groups up to 46 travelers, making it large enough for socializing but still manageable.

What should I bring?
Comfortable walking shoes, layered clothing, camera, water, and possibly a snack. Weather can change quickly, so dress accordingly.

By choosing this well-rounded tour, you’ll gain a genuine appreciation for Perito Moreno Glacier’s grandeur, enjoy the convenience of organized transport, and capture unforgettable images—an experience that’s worth every penny for lovers of nature and adventure.