If you’re heading to Patagonia and want to combine adventure with authentic scenery, the May Spirit Trek to Perito Moreno Glacier offers a compelling way to experience one of Argentina’s most iconic sights. For $225 per person, this full-day tour takes about 11 hours and covers a series of unforgettable moments—from boat rides across shimmering lakes to forest walks through lush wilderness, culminating in awe-inspiring views of the glacier itself.

What we love about this trek is how it balances active exploration with serene landscape views, giving you a taste of the region’s natural diversity. You’ll walk through dense forests and near waterfalls, and sail along scenic waterways—an experience that feels both intimate and grand. Plus, the small group size (limited to six travelers) ensures you’ll get personalized attention and fewer crowds at the key vantage points.

One thing to consider: this tour involves quite a bit of walking and boat navigation, which might be less suitable if you have mobility challenges. Also, remember that park entrance fees are not included, and you’ll need to bring your own lunch. But if you’re comfortable on your feet and seeking an authentic, active day in nature, this is a superb choice.

This experience suits travelers who crave off-the-beaten-path landscapes, enjoy a mix of boat and land adventures, and appreciate the chance to see the glacier from multiple perspectives. It’s especially ideal for those who want a more immersive and less touristy encounter with Los Glaciares National Park.

Key Points

Comprehensive Experience: Combines boat rides, forest walks, and glacier viewing in one day.
Small Group: Limited to six participants, ensuring a more personalized experience.
Authentic Nature: Walks through lush forests and visits waterfalls, not just glacier viewpoints.
Scenic Boat Ride: Sail along Canal de los Empanos for stunning views.
Flexible & Informative: Guides speak both English and Spanish, making explanations accessible.
Price & Value: $225 offers a full day of activity and scenery, excluding park entrance and lunch.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Exploring the Itinerary in Detail

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Starting Point: El Calafate

The tour begins early in El Calafate, a charming town known as the gateway to Patagonia’s glaciers. You’ll be picked up in an air-conditioned vehicle, giving you a comfortable start to your day. The drive to the boat dock takes about 40 minutes, giving travelers a chance to settle in and absorb the changing Patagonian scenery.

The Scenic Boat Ride to Bahía Toro

The first major highlight is the boat cruise across Lake Argentino to Bahía Toro. This boat journey, lasting around 7 hours including stops and sightseeing, is a spectacular way to kick off the day. We loved the way the boat glided past floating icebergs and offered uninterrupted views of the surrounding mountains. The boat’s gentle pace allows you to really soak in the atmosphere, with many travelers mentioning how peaceful and scenic this part of the trip is.

A common quote from participants is, “The boat ride alone was worth it—seeing the glacier from the water is a different experience altogether.” This perspective helps you appreciate the vastness and beauty of the area, setting the scene for the land-based adventures ahead.

Walk Through Patagonian Forests & Waterfalls

Disembarking at Bahía Toro, your guide will lead you on a walk through dense forests filled with diverse flora—think lenga trees and native bushes—offering a glimpse into the region’s natural richness. The trail leads to a striking waterfall, a perfect spot for photos and quiet reflection on Patagonia’s unspoiled wilderness.

Walking in this part of the park helps you escape the crowds often found at more popular viewpoints. We appreciated how the tour balanced active hiking with moments of calm, giving us time to take in the fresh mountain air and listen to the sounds of flowing water and bird calls.

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Cerro Mayo and the Black Glacier

Next, the trek continues at Cerro Mayo, where you’ll enjoy views of hanging glaciers such as Cerro Negro and Cerro Mayo itself. The highlight here is a hike to the base of the Black Glacier, a stunning hanging ice sheet with waterfalls cascading down its face. The sight of ice and water combined in such a dramatic way left many of us awestruck.

A notable quote from a traveler was, “It felt like walking into a real-life winter wonderland—plus, the waterfalls made it even more magical.” This part of the tour taps into Patagonia’s raw, untouched beauty and provides unforgettable photo opportunities.

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Lunch & Sailing Along Canal de los Empanos

After the hikes, you’ll return to the boat for a relaxing lunch (bring your own, as it’s not included). While savoring your meal, you’ll sail along the Canal de los Empanos, a scenic waterway offering panoramic vistas of icebergs, mountain peaks, and distant glaciers.

Many travelers appreciate this peaceful boat segment as a chance to rest and reflect before the main glacier view. The tranquil water and towering ice formations make for some of the best landscape photos of the day.

Approaching the Perito Moreno Glacier

The tour’s climax is approaching the Perito Moreno Glacier from the water. The boat slowly navigates in front of this immense ice sheet, giving you a sense of its scale and grandeur. From this vantage point, the glacier’s towering walls and deep crevasses are vividly visible, and the constant calving (cracking ice breaking off) adds a dynamic element to the scenery.

Disembarking at Puerto Perito Moreno, you gain free time to explore the well-maintained walkways. Even if you’ve been here before, seeing the glacier from different viewpoints often reveals new textures and colors, especially as the light shifts.

Returning to El Calafate

After a full day of adventure, the tour concludes with a 40-minute drive back to El Calafate. Expect to arrive in the evening, tired but inspired by the day’s natural wonders.

Why This Tour Offers Great Value

Compared to typical glacier visits that might only include a walk along the viewing platforms, this tour pushes a little further into the wilderness, offering a more immersive experience. The combination of boat rides, forest walks, and glacier views provides a multi-dimensional appreciation of Patagonia’s landscapes.

Although park entrance fees are not included, the tour’s pricing reflects a comprehensive, guided experience with transportation, snacks, and coffee/tea – offering good value for a full day of exploration. Plus, the small group setting encourages interaction with guides who can answer questions and tailor the experience slightly to the group’s interests.

Who Will Love This Experience?

This tour is perfect for travelers who are active and curious, eager to see Patagonian landscapes from different angles. It’s ideal if you enjoy boat trips and forest hikes and want a more intimate experience than the busy walkways at the main glacier viewpoint. It suits those who appreciate small groups, because the limited size means more personalized guidance and fewer crowds.

If you’re after a photo-rich, adventure-filled day with a focus on natural beauty rather than just sightseeing from afar, this trip fits the bill. It’s also good for travelers who don’t mind a full day on their feet and are looking for a well-rounded, authentic Patagonia experience.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour suitable for children or those with mobility issues?
It’s mainly designed for travelers who can handle walking and boat navigation. It’s not recommended if you have trouble moving independently, but stroller accessibility is available.

How long is the boat ride?
The boat cruise to Bahía Toro and along Canal de los Empanos lasts about 7 hours, including stops, providing plenty of scenic time.

Are meals included?
No, lunch is not included, so you should bring your own. Snacks and coffee/tea are provided during the day.

Do I need to pay park entrance fees?
Yes, entrance fees to Los Glaciares National Park are not included in the tour price.

What languages are guides available in?
Guides speak both English and Spanish, making explanations accessible for most travelers.

How early should I book?
It’s advisable to reserve in advance, especially during peak seasons, as the tour is limited to small groups.

Can this tour be canceled?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering flexibility if your plans change.

Is this tour weather-dependent?
Like most outdoor activities, it’s weather-dependent. Guides will advise on safety, and some parts may be modified if conditions are poor.

What should I bring?
Bring sturdy walking shoes, weather-appropriate clothing, your own lunch, and a camera or binoculars if you like.

How long does the tour last?
The total duration is about 11 hours, including transportation, activities, and free time at the glacier.

Final Thoughts

If you’re after a well-rounded, active day exploring Patagonia’s wild side, the May Spirit Trek offers a fantastic mix of landscapes and experiences. It’s particularly suited for those who want more than just a quick glimpse from a viewing platform, instead opting for an engaging journey through forests, waterways, and ice.

While the day is long and involves some physical activity, the reward is a visceral connection to one of the world’s most spectacular glaciers. You’ll leave with not only impressive photos but a genuine appreciation of the region’s natural beauty.

This tour strikes a good balance between adventure and comfort, making it a smart choice for travelers who value meaningful encounters with nature and prefer small-group adventures. Whether it’s your first visit to Patagonia or a return trip, this experience will likely be a highlight of your itinerary.

Note: Be sure to check availability and starting times, as they can vary, and make sure to pack your essentials for a day outdoors in changing weather conditions.