El Calafate: Perito Moreno Glacier Trekking Tour and Cruise

El Calafate: Perito Moreno Glacier Trekking Tour and Cruise offers a deeply immersive day in one of Patagonia’s most iconic sights — the Perito Moreno Glacier. For about $723 per person, you get a full day of awe-inspiring scenery, physical activity, and expert guides. The experience lasts between 5 and 11 hours, depending on your chosen start time, with the highlight being a glacier trek with crampons, a boat cruise in front of the glacier, and walks along scenic boardwalks.

What we love most about this tour are two key details: first, the chance to stand directly on the glacier, feeling the crunch of ice beneath your crampons, and second, the personalized guide-to-group ratio of 1:10, which means you get more attention and tailored explanations. On the flip side, a consideration to keep in mind is that entry to Los Glaciares National Park isn’t included in the price, so budget for that additional fee.

This tour is perfect for travelers who want a mix of adventure and sightseeing, especially those who appreciate expert guidance and varied perspectives of the glacier — from walking on it to viewing it from walkways and cruising in front of it. If you’re comfortable with outdoor activities and want to get close to one of nature’s most magnificent ice formations, this experience is a strong choice.

Key Points

• Guided Glacier Trek: You’ll hike on the glacier with crampons, guided by licensed experts.
• Multiple Perspectives: Views from walkways, boat cruise, and glacier surface give a well-rounded experience.
• Small Group: Better interaction and personalized attention from guides.
• Additional Costs: Park entry fee applies, and transportation isn’t included unless booked separately.
• Flexible Duration: Tour length varies from 5 to 11 hours, so you can choose based on your schedule.
• Authentic Experience: Learn about the glacier’s natural processes, flora, and fauna from knowledgeable guides.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An In-Depth Look at the Perito Moreno Glacier Trekking Tour and Cruise

Starting Point and Overall Experience

This adventure kicks off at Bajo de las Sombras Port within Los Glaciares National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage site that protects one of the most spectacular glacial landscapes. After a short boat ride crossing the Brazo Rico to the glacier’s western flank, you’re greeted by the towering ice front of Perito Moreno, a mass that measures about 30 kilometers long and towers up to 70 meters high.

The tour’s main allure is the glacier trekking experience, which involves strapping on crampons and following your guide Muriel or Nicolas across the icy surface. The reviews consistently mention how well-organized and safety-conscious the guides are, making even nervous trekkers feel at ease. As one reviewer put it, “The guides during the hike are very knowledgeable and it was done very well,” and another mentioned that guides “kept us entertained the entire time.”

The Glacier Trek

The one-hour hike on the glacier is the core of this experience. It allows you to get up close, walk on the pristine surface, and see fascinating ice formations—from deep crevasses to towering ice walls. The guides share insights about glacier ruptures, natural ice formations, and the glacier’s ongoing evolution. You’ll find yourself marveling at the crystalline blue hues and jagged textures that can’t be appreciated from afar.

A notable feature is the small group size, which enhances safety and interaction. Many reviewers appreciated “a nice, smaller-sized group,” making the experience more intimate and manageable. This is especially important on a glacier trek, where safety and attentive guidance are paramount.

Exploring on Foot and Walkways

Beyond the glacier, your adventure includes walks along boardwalks that wind through the surrounding Magellan forest and provide excellent vantage points. These pathways are perfect for taking photos and appreciating the glacier from different angles. Some reviewers mention that they wish they had more time on the walkways, but overall, the views are “indescribable” and worth the visit.

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Boat Cruise in Front of the Glacier

After the trek, you’ll sail in front of Perito Moreno on Argentino Lake. This cruise is a highlight for many travelers, offering a perspective that can’t be matched from land. As one reviewer said, “The ride on the boat and approach by the Perito Moreno unforgettable,” reinforcing how the cruise brings a new dimension to the experience. It’s a chance to see the glacier’s massive walls from a different vantage point and watch calving events if you’re lucky.

Additional Highlights: Lunch and Extra Viewing Options

The tour includes a rest stop at a refuge with views of the glacier, where you can enjoy a packed lunch (not included in the price). Many travelers appreciate this pause, as it allows for reflection and a chance to sit amidst stunning scenery.

Another popular viewing option is the walkways around the park, which provide accessible, panoramic views of the glacier. Numerous reviews highlight how these walks complement the trekking experience, giving a more comprehensive understanding of Perito Moreno’s scale and beauty.

Practicalities and What to Bring

The tour provides pickup and drop-off from selected hotels in El Calafate, usually between 7:30 AM and 11 AM — the exact time is confirmed the day before. Given the early start, be prepared with comfortable shoes, weather-appropriate clothing, and a packed lunch. Remember to bring passport or ID, as well as sunglasses and sunscreen to combat the strong Patagonian sun, especially in the dry, high-altitude environment.

While the tour includes a bilingual guide, it’s worth noting that transportation to the park is not included unless you book it separately. The park entry fee (around ARS 30,000 for non-residents) is payable on site or online beforehand, so budget accordingly.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience is ideal for adventurous travelers who enjoy physical activity and want an up-close encounter with glaciers. It’s especially suited for those who appreciate guided expertise, as reviews praise guides for their knowledge and friendliness. It’s not recommended for young children under 8, pregnant women, or travelers with mobility or health issues, given the physical nature and safety requirements of glacier trekking.

What People Say

The overall review score is a remarkable 4.8 out of 5, based on 720 reviews. Many travelers gush about how it exceeded expectations, describing it as a “fabulous,” “unbelievably magnificent,” and “a once-in-a-lifetime experience.” Several reviews mention how knowledgeable guides made the experience informative and fun, from explaining glacier calving to sharing stories about the region’s geology and ecology.

Value for money is frequently highlighted, with some acknowledging the cost is high, but feeling it’s justified because of the quality of the guides, the safety, and the unique experience. One reviewer summed it up: “It’s expensive, but worth it,” emphasizing how the experience’s uniqueness and the natural spectacle justify the price.

Final Thoughts: Is This Tour for You?

If you’re craving a hands-on, immersive experience of Patagonia’s ice world, this tour offers a comprehensive view of the Perito Moreno Glacier. You’ll appreciate the mix of active glacier walking, scenic boat cruising, and easy walks along park pathways. The small-group format and professional guides ensure safety and personalized attention, making this a trusted choice for adventurous travelers.

Keep in mind that the tour is not cheap, but many reviews emphasize that it’s worth the expense for such rare, memorable moments. The combination of stunning scenery, expert guidance, and varied perspectives makes this a standout experience for those who want more than just a quick glance at the glacier.

This experience suits active travelers who enjoy outdoor adventures, photographers eager for spectacular shots, and nature lovers who want to learn about the landscape from people who truly know it. If you’re looking for an unforgettable day in Patagonia, this tour ticks all the boxes.

Frequently Asked Questions

• What is included in the tour?
  Pickup and drop-off from selected hotels in El Calafate, approximately 1-hour glacier hike with crampons, boat cruise in front of the glacier, and a bilingual guide.

• How long does the tour last?
  The duration varies from 5 to 11 hours, depending on the start time you select. The core glacier activities are about 3 hours, with additional time for transportation and sightseeing.

• Do I need to pay for park entry separately?
  Yes, the national park entry fee (around ARS 30,000 for non-residents) is not included and payable on site or online before your visit.

• Is transportation included?
  Transport to and from your hotel is included only if you select the hotel pickup option. Otherwise, you’ll be provided a meeting point. Note that transportation is not included if you’re staying in Airbnb or private apartments unless arranged separately.

• What should I bring?
  Comfortable shoes, weather-appropriate clothing, a packed lunch, passport or ID, sunglasses, and sunscreen are recommended. Gloves are provided, but it’s wise to dress warmly.

• Is this tour suitable for children or seniors?
  It’s suitable for ages 8 to 65. It’s not recommended for pregnant women, those with mobility issues, or travelers with certain health conditions due to the physical demands of glacier trekking.

To sum it up, the El Calafate Perito Moreno Glacier Trekking Tour and Cruise offers a well-balanced mix of adventure, scenery, and education. It’s especially worthwhile for those eager to experience one of Patagonia’s natural marvels up close, with guides who bring the landscape’s story to life. Expect a day packed with breathtaking views, memorable moments, and a true sense of connection to this ancient ice landscape. Whether you’re a seasoned trekker or simply a lover of stunning natural sights, this tour promises a day you’ll never forget.

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