El Calafate: Spegazzini and Upsala Glaciers Boat Tour

El Calafate: Spegazzini and Upsala Glaciers Boat Tour — A Detailed Look

El Calafate’s icy giants are among the most spectacular sights in Patagonia, and this boat tour offers an up-close encounter with Upsala and Spegazzini glaciers. For about $275 per person, you get a full-day adventure that takes you across Lake Argentino, navigating among floating icebergs and towering ice walls. The tour lasts roughly 8 hours, with hotel pickups starting early in the morning—7:00 AM in high season, slightly later in winter—and promises plenty of breathtaking scenery.

What we really appreciate about this experience is the seamless transportation—they pick you up in comfortable vehicles directly from your hotel—and the personalized attention provided by guides who are both knowledgeable and friendly. The boat itself is modern and comfortable, making the long day feel relaxed rather than rushed.

A possible drawback? The current distance from the glaciers—about 5 km—means you won’t be walking on ice or getting super close to the glaciers’ surfaces. Also, one review mentions an aspect that might be frustrating: photographers promoting their packages and restricting prime photo spots, which can be disappointing for those wanting unencumbered shots.

This tour is best suited for travelers who love scenic boat trips, glacier views, and a well-organized day. While it may not appeal to those seeking a more interactive glacier hike or those sensitive to the group size, it offers a reliable way to see some of Patagonia’s most impressive ice formations.

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Key Points

• Comfortable Transportation: Hotel pickup and drop-off make logistics simple.
• Spectacular Views: Close-up sights of glaciers and icebergs provide unforgettable photo opportunities.
• Expert Guides and Service: Guides offer insights and personalized attention.
• Limited Glacier Proximity: The glaciers are admired from a safe distance, about 5 km away.
• Weather Flexibility: Pack warm clothing and sun protection due to quick-changing mountain weather.
• Mixed Reviews: While many praise the scenery, some critiques highlight issues with organization and photography policies.

In-Depth Review of the Glaciers Boat Tour

The Itinerary and What It Means for You

The day begins with hotel pickups in El Calafate. The early start—around 7:00 AM—ensures you beat some of the crowds and have the best lighting for photos, especially if you’re a fan of capturing glaciers in the soft morning light. The transportation is described as hassle-free, taking you comfortably to the boat departure point around 8:20 AM. During the off-peak months of May and June, the pickup shifts to 8:00 AM with a slightly later return, which makes sense given the changing daylight hours.

Once aboard the state-of-the-art catamaran, the real magic begins. The vessel is modern and well-equipped, and you’ll be briefed on safety and navigation. The boat traverses Lake Argentino, passing through the Devil’s Mouth, the natural entrance to the North Arm, setting the tone with a dramatic approach into the ice-laden waters. Expect to see icebergs drifting past, some large enough to photograph from the deck, and some stopping for memorable views.

The boat navigates toward the Upsala Channel, where the floating icebergs create a surreal landscape. Some travelers mentioned that the views of the icebergs are simply stunning—”The trip was more about promoting photographers’ pictures than about telling us about the trip,” one reviewer complained, but everyone agrees the scenery is impressive. The boat then approaches the Upsala Glacier for a panoramic view, although safety regulations restrict how close you can get, maintaining a respectful 5 km distance. Still, the sight of this enormous ice wall is awe-inspiring.

Next, you’ll enter the Spegazzini Channel, home to the Spegazzini Glacier, the tallest in the park with walls reaching 140 meters. The sight of this glacier, towering above the boat, can leave you speechless. As the boat approaches Spegazzini, you’ll have around 1.5 hours to enjoy the view, take photos, and walk along the short, accessible forest trail to the Spegazzini Refuge.

The Walk and the Glacier Views

The 300-meter trail from the boat dock to the Spegazzini Refuge offers a gentle walk through forested terrain, with several viewpoints to observe the glaciers and surrounding mountains. This part of the tour is well-loved because it combines the scenic beauty of Patagonia’s forests with the grand spectacle of the glaciers. The refuge has restrooms, and many visitors find it handy for a quick break or snack.

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Food, Comfort, and Logistics

Lunch is included in the tour, with spectacular views of the Spegazzini Glacier—a rare treat that adds flavor to the day. It’s a good idea to bring snacks or extra water, though, since the meal might be a simple packed lunch or buffet style, depending on the provider.

The return journey involves a one-hour bus/coach transfer back to El Calafate, arriving around 5:00 PM. This gives you some downtime, but be prepared for a long day with a lot of sightseeing packed in.

The Experience, as Told by Travelers

Reviews highlight the stunning scenery as the main highlight—”You’ll love the views of the glaciers and icebergs,” says one seasoned traveler. Others, like Neha, had a less satisfying experience, citing issues with photogenic restrictions and lack of detailed information in Spanish. She felt that some of the trip’s focus was more on photography promotion than the natural wonders, which could be frustrating if you’re eager for a straightforward tour.

On the positive side, Luis and Alexandra both praised the overall organization and friendly staff, comparing the experience to a “stunning trip” that was well-run and professional. The scenery, especially in the late morning or early afternoon light, is genuinely spectacular, making this a worthwhile experience for most.

What This Tour Means for You

For travelers who dream of seeing glaciers from a boat, this trip offers a balanced mix of comfort, scenery, and organized logistics. It’s especially suitable if you prefer not to hike or go on ice, but still want to witness the grandeur of Patagonia’s ice formations. The large boat and guided commentary ensure safety and insight, but the distance from the glaciers means you won’t be walking on or very close to the ice.

If you’re someone who values timely departures, scenic cruising, and beautiful views over intense physical activity, this tour makes a lot of sense. Just keep in mind its limitations—some travelers might find the glacier viewing a bit distant, and the photography restrictions could be a slight letdown.

Price and Value Considerations

At $275, the price reflects the inclusion of hotel transportation, boat cruise, and a walk at Spegazzini. Compared to other glacier experiences, this is relatively accessible, especially considering the full-day itinerary. The scenic boat ride and glacier views are the core draws, and the tour provides a stress-free way to see some of the best natural sights without the need for hiking or camping.

However, the lunch and park entrance fees are not included, so budget accordingly. The value is in the convenience and comfort—you’re paying for a well-organized, scenic day in a remote wilderness that would be difficult to replicate independently.

The Sum Up: Who Should Consider This Tour?

This boat tour to Upsala and Spegazzini glaciers is ideal for those seeking a relaxed, scenic day immersed in Patagonia’s icy landscape. It suits travelers who prefer comfortable transportation and guided commentary and are content with viewing the glaciers from a safe distance. It’s perfect for photographers—despite some restrictions—or anyone wanting a high-quality, hassle-free way to see large glaciers and icebergs.

On the flip side, if you’re after** closer glacier contact**, like walking on ice or hiking nearby, this tour might not satisfy that craving. It also may not be the best choice if you’re sensitive to the group size or the occasional organizational hiccup, as some reviews suggest.

In all, it’s a solid choice for a memorable Patagonia experience, as long as you keep expectations aligned with the scenic, comfortable nature of the trip.

FAQ

Is transportation to the boat included?
Yes, the tour includes roundtrip transportation from your hotel in comfortable vehicles, making logistics easy.

How long is the boat cruise?
The boat cruise lasts approximately 7 hours, starting in the morning and returning in the late afternoon.

Can I get close to the glaciers?
You will view the glaciers from about 5 km away, which is the safe distance allowed by National Parks regulations. You won’t be walking on ice or getting very close.

What’s the walk at Spegazzini like?
It’s a 300-meter accessible forest trail leading to viewpoints and the Spegazzini Refuge, offering great photo opportunities and a chance to stretch your legs.

Are meals included?
Lunch is available but not included in the ticket price. You can purchase food and drinks on board or bring snacks.

Is this tour suitable for children or people with mobility issues?
Yes, the tour is described as wheelchair accessible, and the walk is short and manageable. However, always confirm with the operator about specific needs.

Final Thoughts

This boat tour in El Calafate offers a reliable and scenic way to experience some of Patagonia’s most iconic glaciers. It’s perfect for travelers who value comfort, organization, and breathtaking views without the physical exertion of glacier trekking. The scenery alone makes it worth considering, especially if your time is limited or you prefer a guided experience.

While it may not satisfy every photography enthusiast or glacier hiker, it delivers a peaceful, stirring glimpse of Patagonia’s icy marvels that will stay with you long after the day ends. If you’re after an authentic, well-reviewed, and beautifully scenic day on the water, this tour is worth adding to your Patagonia itinerary.

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