Exploring the Perito Moreno Glacier from El Calafate: A Detailed Review

If you’re headed to Argentina’s Patagonia, a visit to the Perito Moreno Glacier is an absolute must. For around $69 per person, this 8-hour guided tour offers a chance to see one of the world’s most awe-inspiring ice formations up close. Departing from El Calafate, you’ll spend the day marveling at towering ice walls, hearing fascinating facts from your guide, and perhaps even taking an optional boat ride that gets you right up to the glacier’s edge.

Two things that immediately catch our attention with this tour are its accessible layout—with plenty of time to explore the viewing platforms—and the option to add a boat cruise, which many reviews rave about. The walkways and balconies allow you to see the glacier from several angles, and the boat adds that extra sense of intimacy with the massive ice wall.

A potential drawback? If you’re after a more adventurous experience, this isn’t a hiking or trekking trip — it’s primarily a scenic and educational outing with some free time. Also, the park entrance fee isn’t included, so keep that in mind when figuring your total expenses.

This tour suits travelers who want a comprehensive, well-organized visit without needing to plan much themselves. It’s ideal for those who value guides’ insights and want to see the glacier from multiple perspectives—whether you’re a first-timer or returning for more.

Key Points

Stunning Ice Views: Walk along the boardwalks with multiple viewpoints of the glacier’s face.
Flexible Exploration: Around 3 hours to enjoy the scenery, take photos, and eat lunch at the site.
Optional Boat Ride: Adds a closer, more personal view of the glacier’s face, highly recommended by many.
Guided Experience: Bilingual guides share insights and enhance your understanding of the glacier’s dynamics.
Good Value: At $69, including hotel pickup and drop-off, the tour provides a lot for the price.
Limited Park Access: Entrance fee to the park is not included, so budget for that separately.

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The Experience in Detail

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Starting Point and Transportation

The tour begins with hotel pickup in El Calafate around 10:00 a.m., which is convenient if you’re staying in town and want to avoid the hassle of driving yourself. The transport is typically a comfortable bus, with pickup from authorized hotels. The journey itself is part of the scenic pleasure—driving through Patagonian landscapes that prepare you for the wonder ahead.

Reaching Los Glaciares National Park

Once you arrive at Los Glaciares National Park, the real magic begins. The park is home to several glaciers, but Perito Moreno steals the show with its dramatic, calving ice walls. The tour includes a network of well-maintained boardwalks spanning about 4 kilometers (roughly 2.5 miles), providing multiple vantage points at different levels.

Walking the Boardwalks

We loved the way the walkways are designed to maximize views while keeping the experience accessible. Walking along these paths, you’ll see massive chunks of ice occasionally break off—the thunderous calving events are a highlight that reviews often mention. You’ll also get to admire the glacier’s surface, which varies in color from bright white to deep blue, depending on light and ice density.

Many reviewers point out that spending about 3 hours exploring the different balconies and viewing platforms strikes a good balance—enough time to soak in the views, take photos, and have a quick snack or packed lunch. The park has some facilities and cafes, but they tend to be expensive, so bringing your own food might be a smarter move.

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Optional Boat Cruise

One of the most highly praised parts of this tour is the optional boat ride that takes you right up to the face of the glacier. Many reviewers say it’s well worth the extra cost, as it provides a close-up view of the ice cliffs, which you can’t get from the platforms alone. The boat ride typically lasts about an hour and is a chance to see the glacier from a different angle and hear the crackling and calving sounds directly beneath you.

However, some reviews note that views from the walkways are spectacular enough that the boat might feel redundant—especially if you’re short on time or prefer to avoid crowds. Still, if you’re a fan of getting close to natural wonders, the boat is a highlight.

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Return Journey and Final Thoughts

After the exploration and optional cruise, you’ll head back to El Calafate. Expect to arrive in the late afternoon, giving you time to reflect on the day’s awe-inspiring sights.

What Travelers Say

Most reviews are glowing, with a 4.7 out of 5 rating from nearly 2,000 reviews. Visitors frequently praise the knowledgeable guides, with many calling out guides like Daniella and Lucia for their enthusiasm and clarity. The stunning scenery and the up-close boat views consistently earn high marks.

Some travelers mention that more time at the glacier would be ideal, as the 4-5 hours on-site can sometimes feel a bit long, especially if the weather turns chilly. Others suggest that the price of the entrance and optional extras can add up, but most agree it’s a worthwhile expense for the experience.

Practical Tips for Visitors

Bring your own lunch or snacks: Park facilities are available but pricey.
Dress in layers: Weather can change rapidly, and it can get windy or cold, especially near the ice.
Consider the boat cruise: Many reviews say it’s worth the extra, but it’s optional if you’re budget-conscious.
Allocate enough time: 3-4 hours at the glacier itself, plus travel time, makes for a full day.
Book in advance: Spots can fill up, especially during peak season.

Who Is This Tour Perfect For?

This tour is best suited for travelers who want a stress-free, guided experience with plenty of time to enjoy the glacier’s vistas. If you’re interested in learning about the glacier from knowledgeable guides and want the option to get closer via boat, this package offers great value. It’s also perfect for those with limited time in El Calafate, as it covers the main highlights efficiently.

However, if you love adventure or hiking, you might find this tour’s focus on viewing platforms and boat rides a bit tame. Also, if you’re on a tight budget, the additional costs of park entrance and optional boat might add up, so plan accordingly.

FAQs

Is the park entrance fee included?
No, the entrance fee to Los Glaciares National Park is not included. You’ll need to purchase it separately when you arrive.

What time does the tour start?
Departure from your hotel in El Calafate is around 10:00 a.m., but check availability as starting times may vary.

Can I do the boat cruise?
Yes, the boat ride is optional and typically lasts about an hour. Many reviews mention it as a highlight, but it’s not mandatory.

How long do I have at the glacier?
Most travelers get about 3 hours to explore the walkways, take photos, and enjoy the scenery.

What should I bring?
Bring snacks, water, and perhaps a packed lunch. Dress in layers, as weather near the glacier can be cold and windy.

Is this tour suitable for kids or elderly?
The walkways are accessible and easy to navigate, making it suitable for most ages. Just be mindful of weather conditions.

How is the guide experience?
Guides are generally praised for their enthusiasm and knowledge, making the experience more engaging and informative.

Can I customize the experience?
The tour is quite structured, but adding the boat cruise is optional. Check with the provider if you want more customization options.

Final Thoughts

Visiting the Perito Moreno Glacier from El Calafate through this tour offers a comprehensive and accessible way to experience one of Patagonia’s most iconic sights. With well-maintained walkways, expert guides, and the option to add a boat cruise, you’ll come away with a deep appreciation for this natural wonder. While it’s not a hiking adventure and doesn’t include park entrance fees, the value lies in the convenience, expert commentary, and the breathtaking views you’ll encounter.

This tour is especially suited for travelers who appreciate guided experiences, want a balanced mix of viewing and learning, and are happy to pay a bit extra for comfort and insight. Whether it’s your first or tenth visit to glaciers, this trip can be a highlight of your Patagonia journey—perfect for those who love stunning landscapes, authentic experiences, and capturing memories to last a lifetime.

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