CALAFATE Navigation South Perito Moreno and trekking through the valley

Experience the Majesty of Perito Moreno and the Valleys with a Full-Day Adventure

Imagine a day filled with awe-inspiring landscapes, a mix of glaciers, lakes, forests, and rugged mountain scenery, all woven into a carefully curated itinerary around El Calafate. For $480 per person, this 11-hour tour offers a combination of navigation, trekking, and scenic viewpoints that beautifully showcase the raw beauty of Argentina’s Patagonian wilderness. Guided by bilingual experts, you’ll travel from the heart of Lago Argentino to the icy front of the Perito Moreno Glacier and into the lesser-visited but equally spectacular valleys of Los Glaciares National Park.

What we love most about this experience? First, the unique opportunity to navigate the South Arm of Lake Argentino, sailing through crystal-clear waters that reflect the surrounding glaciers and mountains. Second, the chance to trek close to glaciers in an environment where landscapes shift constantly—making each step a new discovery. However, keep in mind that this is a physically demanding day—about 14 km of walking, with some steep ascents—so good mobility and moderate fitness are essential.

This tour is perfect for adventurous travelers who love remote and unspoiled places, and who enjoy combining boat rides with hiking. If you’re eager to see glaciers up close, appreciate panoramic vistas, and don’t mind a long day on your feet, then this adventure offers extraordinary value for those seeking authentic, off-the-beaten-path experiences in Patagonia.

Key Points

• Authentic Patagonia landscapes: Experience glaciers, lakes, forests, and mountain scenery in one comprehensive day.
• Active adventure: Includes boat navigation and a 6 km trek, ideal for those who enjoy outdoor activities.
• Expert bilingual guides: Guides speak both Spanish and English, enhancing understanding and safety.
• Small group setting: Limited to 15 travelers, ensuring personalized attention and a more intimate experience.
• Beautiful vistas: From scenic viewpoints over Lake Frías to glaciers spilling ice into lagoons.
• Value for money: Includes all land and lake transfers, guided walks, and a picnic lunch—making it a full, hassle-free day.

A Closer Look at the Tour Experience

This tour begins early, with pickup from your hotel in Calafate around 7:30 a.m., setting the tone for a full day of discovery. The first highlight is heading across the old Estancias route towards Lago Roca, where you’ll board a semi-rigid boat with a capacity for 17 people. This 45-minute cruise takes us across the South Arm of Lake Argentino, a stunning journey that grants travelers their first glimpses of the dramatic glaciers, ice formations, and perhaps some playful waterfowl.

The boat ride itself is a highlight. The crystal-clear, emerald waters of the lake contrast beautifully with the white and blue hues of the glaciers. As the boat approaches, you’ll start to understand why this area is considered one of the most visually striking in Patagonia. The calm, reflective waters offer spectacular photo ops, especially if the weather is clear.

Disembarking at the southern tip of the South Arm, your walk to Frías Lake begins. This part of the journey is accessible only on foot, and guides always accompany guests, ensuring safety and sharing insights about the environment. The walk is approximately 1.5 km and takes about an hour, gradually ascending to a natural viewpoint. From here, the panoramic views of Lake Frías, glaciers, and the surrounding mountains are unforgettable. You’ll appreciate the quiet serenity of this remote spot, far from crowded tourist spots.

Next, you’ll board the iconic Fitzcarraldo boat for a 5 km cruise across the lake. The vibrant green waters are a stark and beautiful contrast to the icy surroundings. This boat ride offers a sense of true adventure, as you glide through a landscape that feels untouched by time.

Following the cruise, the 6 km trek through the Frías River valley becomes the real highlight for many travelers. Guided by experienced guides with trekking sticks, you’ll walk beside glaciers, glaciers that shed ice into the Lago Frías and Dickson Glacier, creating an ever-changing landscape. The terrain varies from forested areas to glacier moraines, providing a dynamic environment that makes each step feel special.

As you approach the glaciers, you’ll see Grande, Cubo, and Dickson glaciers towering overhead, spilling ice into Lago Frías. The scenery is breathtaking—think of massive ice formations, snow-capped peaks, and the distant roar of calving glaciers. If conditions permit, you’ll enjoy a picnic lunch on the shores of the lagoon, with options for vegetarians and celiacs, in front of one of Patagonia’s most pristine settings.

What Makes This Tour Stand Out?

• The combination of boat navigation and trekking provides a multi-sensory experience that few tours can match.
• The small group size means you’re not just another face in a crowd but part of a more personal adventure.
• The guides are fluent in both Spanish and English, making navigation of questions and safety concerns seamless.
• The scenic variety—lakes, glaciers, forests—keeps the experience dynamic and engaging.

Possible Drawbacks

The main consideration is that this tour requires a good physical condition; walking 14 km over rugged terrain, with some steep sections, can be demanding. If you have mobility issues or prefer a more relaxed experience, this might not be ideal. Also, since the tour involves long hours outdoors in potentially unpredictable weather, packing adequate waterproof clothing, warm layers, and sturdy trekking shoes is essential.

Why This Tour Is Perfect for Certain Travelers

If you’re someone who loves outdoor activities, glaciers, and wilderness, this is a fantastic choice. It’s especially suited for adventurous travelers who want to get off the typical tourist trail and experience Patagonia’s raw beauty firsthand. The inclusion of both navigation and trekking makes it a more comprehensive experience than simply visiting the glaciers from afar.

Travelers with moderate fitness levels will find this manageable but should be prepared for a full day on their feet. It’s a good fit for those with some outdoor experience or a desire to push their limits a little, in exchange for the chance to see glaciers in a way few other tours offer.

Full Breakdown of the Itinerary

Morning Pickup and Travel to Lago Roca

The day kicks off at 7:30 a.m. with hotel pickups, followed by a scenic 50 km drive through historic estancias, setting the Patagonian tone. The journey itself is a window into local life, offering views of sprawling pampas and rugged mountains.

Navigating the South Arm

The boat cruise across Lake Argentino is timed to reach the South Head around 9:15 a.m., where you’ll step ashore to begin the walk to Frías Lake. This part of the trip is both tranquil and awe-inspiring, giving a sense of exploration that many travelers crave.

Walking to Frías Lake and Viewing Points

The first walk is a gentle ascent to a natural viewpoint, about an hour long, where panoramic vistas unfold. From this vantage point, the expansive lake, glaciers, and mountain peaks are framed perfectly. Guides provide informative commentary, helping you understand what you’re seeing.

The Boat Ride to the Valley

After taking in the views, you’ll board the Fitzcarraldo boat and cruise across the crystalline waters to the valley’s other side. This 5 km trip offers a refreshing break before the next phase of the adventure.

Trekking Through Glacial Valleys

Once ashore, the 6 km trek takes you deeper into the glacier landscape. You walk along river valleys, across moraine fields, and up close to glaciers that are shedding ice into lagoons below. The environment is constantly changing, with glaciers getting closer as you approach their frontlines.

Lunch and Final Views

If weather allows, you’ll enjoy a picnic lunch on the shores of Frías Superior Lagoon, with breathtaking views of glaciers calving into the water. If conditions are windy or rainy, the lunch shifts indoors near Lake Frías—a cozy alternative that still offers great scenery.

Return Journey

The tour wraps up with the boat cruise back and the shuttle to Calafate arriving around 7 p.m., completing a full, rewarding day of adventure.

Final Thoughts: Is This Tour Worth It?

This tour offers a rare mix of activities, combining boat navigation with a challenging trek that gets you close to some of Patagonia’s most iconic glaciers. The value lies in the personalized guidance, variety of environments, and the chance to stand amidst glaciers, lakes, and mountains that seem almost otherworldly.

While the physical demands might be a barrier for some, for those ready to embrace a day of outdoor exploration, it’s a chance to see Perito Moreno’s glaciers from a perspective few travelers experience. The quality of guides, the scenic beauty, and the all-included logistics make this a well-rounded and memorable Patagonia adventure.

This experience is best suited for active travelers who appreciate the outdoors, enjoy multi-modal transportation, and want to see the glaciers up close while enjoying the natural serenity of Los Glaciares National Park.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is included in this tour?
The tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off in Calafate, boat navigation along the South Arm of Lake Argentino, a walk to Frías Lake, a boat cruise over the lake, a 6 km trek through the valley, guided commentary in Spanish and English, trekking sticks, and a picnic lunch with hot drinks.

Are park entrance fees included?
No, the entrance to Los Glaciares National Park is not included and rates may vary. The tour itself does not charge for the park entrance, but travelers should be prepared for this additional cost.

What is the maximum group size?
The tour is limited to 15 travelers, ensuring a more intimate experience and personalized attention from guides.

Is this tour suitable for children or elderly travelers?
The tour is recommended for travelers over 12 years old, with a caution that those over 65 should evaluate their physical fitness. The full day involves significant walking and outdoor activity, so younger or less mobile guests should consider their comfort level.

What should I bring?
Packing a small backpack with waterproof clothing, sturdy trekking shoes, sun protection, warm layers, a water bottle, and possibly a face protector is advised. Weather can change rapidly, so being prepared is key.

What if the weather is bad?
In case of force majeure weather conditions, navigation or parts of the tour could be canceled or altered. The guides will do their best to ensure a safe and scenic experience, but flexibility is necessary.

How physically demanding is this tour?
It involves walking around 14 km over rugged terrain, with some steep sections. A moderate fitness level is recommended. If you’re comfortable with outdoor walks and mountain environments, you’ll find this a rewarding challenge.

Is the lunch included?
Yes, a picnic lunch with sandwiches, small salad, granola, muffin, and fruit is provided. Vegetarian and celiac options are available. The lunch is often taken in front of the glaciers, weather permitting.

This tour offers a richly layered experience that combines adventure, scenery, and a deep sense of exploration in one of Argentina’s most spectacular natural areas. Perfect for those eager to connect with nature in a genuine way and who enjoy active outdoor days in remote wilderness.