Experience the Perito Moreno Glacier with a Mini-Trekking Adventure
If you’re visiting El Calafate, a trip to the Perito Moreno Glacier is an absolute must, especially if you crave a more active, up-close experience. This full-day tour costs around $387 per person, lasts about 10 hours, and includes transportation, boat rides, and a 90-minute ice trek. Led by knowledgeable guides who speak both English and Spanish, you’ll enjoy a smoothly organized day exploring one of the most famous glaciers in the world.
I really recommend this tour. You have an amazing experience than just looking at Graciar from distance. Only one thing that was a bit annoyed was buying tickets. It was bad internet and couldn’t use credit card so suggest you to buy in advance
Very well organized trip! Everybody had fun. Thank you! Only one thing I’d suggest to include the entry fee into the national park. Buying it online by yourself, you need to understand Spanish.
It was a spectacular day with the mini trekking adventure. Although expensive, totally worth it. Don’t hesitate or wait to book till you get to El Calafate, because it will be sold out. I loved the entire day. You get to explore the glacier from a distance, by boat and on ice. Our guide to the…
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What we love most about this tour is how it combines scenic boat rides with an exhilarating ** glacier trek—giving you three perspectives of the icy marvel. Plus, the guides are praised for their **informative and friendly approach, making the experience both educational and fun. A second highlight is the opportunity to taste whiskey or chocolate on the ice, a quirky and memorable touch that elevates the adventure.
One possible consideration is the cost, which some may find steep, but the value is reflected in the combination of activities, transportation, and expert guidance. Also, the full-day commitment may not suit travelers looking for a shorter outing or those with limited mobility, as moderate physical fitness is recommended.
This tour is best suited for adventure travelers and nature lovers who want to experience the glacier in a more personal, hands-on way. If you’re comfortable with a moderate hike and are excited to learn about the glacier’s history while enjoying breathtaking scenery, this is a perfect choice.
Key Points
- Incredible Glacier Experience: Combines boat rides, ice trekking, and scenic viewpoints.
- Expert Guides: Bilingual guides provide safety, insights, and fun commentary.
- All-Inclusive: Includes transportation, crampons, and on-ice gear, making logistics easier.
- Authentic Adventure: Offers an active, memorable way to explore the glacier beyond just viewing.
- Limited Group Size: Max of 20 travelers for a more personal experience.
- Cost for Value: While pricier, the tour offers a comprehensive, well-organized day in Patagonia.
Exploring the Journey: What To Expect
Starting early at 7:00 am, the tour begins with a pickup from your El Calafate hotel. The first leg involves a 20-minute boat ride across Bajo de las Sombras, which sets the tone for an immersive day. The boat ride is often praised for its spectacular views of the glacier from the water, giving an immediate sense of the glacier’s colossal scale. Some reviews mention the boat ride as “amazing,” with plenty of time to enjoy the scenery and snap photos.
Once ashore at Perito Moreno, your guides will give instructions on how to properly use crampons and ice axes, equipping you for the 90-minute glacier hike. The guides, such as Emanuel, are lauded for their knowledge, fun personality, and willingness to help. As you walk across the white, crackling ice, you’ll notice how the soundscape changes—crunching ice underfoot, the distant calving of icebergs, and the steady steam rising from the glacier surface.
The trek along Rico Arm offers a close-up view of the glacier’s blue ice walls, and many reviews mention the surreal beauty of the landscape. “Walking on the glacier is an experience you’ll remember,” says one reviewer, emphasizing the otherworldly atmosphere. You’ll be able to stop periodically for photos or just to marvel at the scale and quiet majesty.
This is an incredible experience worth every single penny. The staff treated us wonderfully. The experience was safe and you never felt rushed. There are many places in the world that you can hike, an experience glacier with whiskey lol.
Trekking on the glacier is an other-worldly experience. Our guide Joaquin was just wonderful in every way. He brought such joy to the experience. You will remember those moments. Do it!
It was a very enjoyable tour of adding new experience to life. The guides are very informative & explained all the details related to ice. It is such a beautiful scenery for the eyes on what the mother nature has provided to us. Highly recommend to join this tour for a memorable experience.
Lunch on the glacier is a simple, bring-your-own affair, with time to enjoy your packed meal amidst stunning scenery. The guides often take photos for you and share interesting facts about glacier formation, calving, and climate change, making the experience not just fun but also educational.
After the trek, you'll cross back over Rico Arm, passing over a footbridge that offers a last view of the glacier's massive face. A short forest walk leads you to a spectacular overlook of the glacier, where you'll have about an hour for free time—ideal for relaxing, soaking in the views, or capturing Postcard-worthy photos.
The day wraps up with transportation back to El Calafate, with many reviewers commenting on how well-organized and seamless the entire experience is. The tour generally concludes around late afternoon, leaving you with a feeling of having truly connected with nature in one of Patagonia’s most iconic locations.
You can also read our reviews of more tours and experiences in El Calafate.
Why This Tour Stands Out
The combination of boat ride and glacier trek is what makes this tour special. Many visitors mention how the boat gives an impression of scale and accessibility that you simply can’t get from viewpoints alone. The ice hike, with guides like Emanuel, offers both adventure and education—you’ll understand how glaciers form and their importance in the environment, all while walking on crystalline blue ice.
Guides are consistently praised for their friendliness, safety awareness, and local knowledge. "Our guide Julio was just wonderful," one review notes, highlighting the value of having informative commentary during every stop.
The scenery is staggering, and many reviewers remark that photos don't do it justice. The crisp, cold atmosphere combined with the white-on-white landscape creates an experience that is both unique and humbling.
The whiskey or chocolate on the ice is a charming way to finish the day, adding a taste of local culture and a bit of fun after the exertion. This quirky detail has become a highlight for many.
Practicalities and Tips
Transportation is included, so you don’t need to worry about navigating independently, which adds great convenience. The small group size ensures you won’t feel lost in a crowd, and your guides will tailor the experience as best as they can.
What to wear: Given the cold temperatures, warm clothing, wool socks, and sturdy trekking boots are highly recommended. The tour provides crampons, but bringing gloves and thermal layers will keep you comfortable throughout.
What to bring: You need to pack your own lunch and water, but the guides are ready to share their knowledge and safety tips. Many reviews advise buying park entry tickets in advance to avoid complications, especially since Mastercard is not accepted on-site.
Cost considerations: While the tour might seem pricey, many visitors feel it’s worth the money for the comprehensive experience—boat, hike, scenic views, and expert guides all in one package.
Who Should Consider This Tour?
If you’re an adventure enthusiast, this tour offers active glacier exploration with a touch of culture. It’s ideal if you want to go beyond sightseeing and actually walk on ice, while also learning about the glacier’s formation and significance.
Travelers with moderate physical fitness will find the 90-minute glacier hike manageable, but those with mobility issues might want to consider the full extent of the walk. It is also suitable for families with children over age 8, provided they’re comfortable with outdoor activities.
If your goal is a comprehensive, well-organized, and memorable day, this tour fits the bill. It’s especially recommended if you’re eager to maximize your time and experience the glacier from several angles—by boat, on the ice, and from scenic overlooks.
The Sum Up
This El Calafate Perito Moreno Glacier Minitrekking Adventure offers a rich, engaging experience that’s perfect for travelers wanting more than just a view. The expert guides, variety of perspectives—by boat, on ice, and from viewpoints—and the memorable whiskey or chocolate finale make it stand out. While it comes with a higher price tag, the value you get in educational insights, active adventure, and stunning scenery can justify the cost.
It’s best suited for adventure lovers, nature aficionados, and those eager to add a hands-on component to their Patagonia trip. If you’re comfortable with moderate physical activity and want an authentic, small-group experience, this tour will leave you with lasting memories of one of the world’s most incredible glaciers.
FAQs
How long does the tour last?
The entire experience takes about 10 hours, starting early in the morning and returning in the late afternoon.
Is transportation included?
Yes, round-trip transfers from your hotel in El Calafate are part of the package, making logistics hassle-free.
What should I wear?
Warm layers, wool or cotton socks, sturdy trekking boots, gloves, and a water- or windproof jacket are recommended to stay comfortable on the glacier.
Do I need to bring my own lunch?
Yes, travelers must bring their own lunch for the glacier picnic. No meals are included in the tour price.
Are guides bilingual?
Guides speak both English and Spanish, ensuring clear communication and an educational experience.
What is the group size?
The tour has a maximum of 20 travelers, fostering a more intimate and personalized atmosphere.
Is this tour suitable for children?
The minimum age is 8, and children should be comfortable with outdoor walking and cold weather conditions.
Do I need to buy park entrance tickets separately?
Yes, entrance fees are not included, and it’s advised to buy tickets in advance to avoid last-minute issues, especially since cash in pesos is preferred.
Embarking on this glacier adventure promises breathtaking scenery, active exploration, and insights from guides passionate about Patagonia. It’s a day that will remind you of the incredible power and beauty of nature—something you’ll cherish long after returning home.
