El Calafate: Trip to the Famous Perito Moreno Glacier

Picture this: a vast expanse of shimmering ice, towering walls of blue and white, and the thrill of witnessing one of the world’s only advancing glaciers. This tour from El Calafate to Perito Moreno costs around $94 per person, lasts about 8 hours, and combines breathtaking scenery with expert guidance. Whether you’re a nature lover, a photography enthusiast, or just seeking an awe-inspiring day out, this trip offers a mix of scenic viewpoints, educational commentary, and memorable moments.

Two aspects we especially appreciate are the chance to walk along the walkways of Los Glaciares National Park, offering multiple perspectives of the glacier, and the optional boat ride that gets you close enough to feel the icy grandeur from the water. These close-up views really bring the scale and power of the glacier to life, making the experience more tangible.

A potential consideration is the time constraint. Reviewers mention that the tour can be quite rushed, especially for those keen to stop and absorb every view. If you’re someone who loves lingering over landscapes and taking photos at leisure, you might find the schedule a bit tight.

This tour suits travelers who want a comprehensive day trip with manageable logistics, especially those interested in the natural beauty and geological marvels of Patagonia. It’s perfect for visitors who appreciate guided insights and don’t mind a full day on the move.

Key Points

• Spectacular Views: Walkways and viewpoints provide panoramic vistas of the glacier from multiple angles.
• Expert Guides: Knowledgeable guides share insights on the region’s history, ecology, and geology.
• Close Encounters: Optional boat trip offers an up-close perspective of the glacier’s walls and active ice falls.
• Accessibility: The tour is wheelchair accessible, with accommodations for those with reduced mobility.
• Time Management: The schedule can be tight, so expect a full, fast-paced day.
• Value: For under $100, you get a full day of guided exploration, stunning scenery, and the chance to see a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

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A Detailed Look at the Perito Moreno Glacier Tour

Starting with the logistics, this 8-hour tour begins with a pickup from your El Calafate hotel. The journey takes you along Route 11, where you’ll witness the stark beauty of the Patagonian steppe—a landscape characterized by hardy flora and elusive fauna—before revealing the expansive waters of Lake Argentino. This part of the drive sets the tone, giving you a taste of Patagonia’s wild, untouched character.

The first stop is at the Mirador de los Suspiros, which delivers an immediate wow factor. Here, you get your first glimpse of Brazo Rico and the glacier’s imposing south face. From this high viewpoint, the scale of Perito Moreno becomes apparent, and the views are postcard-perfect. It’s a popular photo spot and a good way to orient yourself before heading down to the walkways.

Once inside Los Glaciares National Park, the real adventure begins. The network of walkways, stretching about 5 kilometers in total, is designed to give visitors multiple perspectives. You can opt for a leisurely exploration or move briskly along the trails, but there’s plenty of opportunity to pause, take photos, or just marvel at the icy walls.

One of the most beloved features of this tour is the ability to see the glacier from different levels. Some viewpoints are closer to the ice, offering dramatic shots of crevasses and towering ice formations, while others provide sweeping panoramas of the glacier’s expanse. As one reviewer pointed out, “we had plenty of time to view the glacier from all angles,” which is a bonus for those wanting to truly appreciate this natural wonder.

For those who choose the navigation option, the boat ride adds a whole new dimension. The boat glides just meters away from the glacier’s walls, allowing you to feel the scale and texture of the ice. Watching the calving events, where chunks of ice break off and crash into Lake Argentino, is a highlight. This up-close experience is both humbling and exhilarating, offering a perspective impossible from land alone.

The guides play an important role in making the experience engaging. According to reviews, guides are friendly, knowledgeable, and eager to share insights about the glacier’s formation, ecology, and ongoing activity. Their commentary helps you understand why Perito Moreno is such a significant natural monument and why it continues to advance rather than retreat like many other glaciers.

The return journey wraps up with a transfer back to El Calafate, but not before one last stop or scenic view, depending on the group’s timing. The entire day is designed to maximize your exposure to the glacier’s beauty, but some travelers, like Lisa Ann, noted it can feel rather rushed. She commented, “not enough time to stop & enjoy,” which suggests that if you’re someone who loves taking your time, this might feel a bit hurried.

What’s Included and What’s Not

The tour price of $94 includes roundtrip transfers from downtown hotels, a bilingual guide (English and Spanish), insurance, and, if you opt for the navigation, the boat ride. The park entrance fee is paid on-site in Argentine Pesos—roughly an additional expense—and lunch is not included, so packing snacks or a light meal is advisable.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This trip is ideal for travelers seeking a full-day, guided experience that combines scenic beauty, educational commentary, and the thrill of close-up encounters with one of nature’s most impressive glaciers. It’s especially suitable for those who want to see the glacier from multiple viewpoints and are comfortable with a fast-paced schedule. Families, geology buffs, and photography fans will find plenty to enjoy here.

Final Thoughts

This tour offers excellent value for under $100, especially considering the comprehensive nature of the experience. You’ll get panoramic views, expert insight, and the chance to see Perito Moreno from multiple angles—both on land and water. The inclusion of the boat ride enhances the adventure, giving you a more visceral sense of the glacier’s majesty.

While some reviews mention the tight schedule and the desire for more time to linger, most agree that the spectacular scenery and knowledgeable guides make up for it. If you’re eager for a well-organized, memorable day with minimal logistics fuss, this tour delivers.

For those fitting the description—avid nature lovers, first-timers to Patagonia, or those with limited time in El Calafate—this experience is hard to beat. It captures the essence of the region’s spectacular glacial landscapes and provides a solid foundation for understanding why Perito Moreno remains a must-see destination.

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FAQ

Is this tour suitable for people with mobility issues?
Yes, the tour is wheelchair accessible, though wheelchair users must be accompanied. The walkways are designed for easy access, making it more inclusive than many glacier outings.

How long do we spend walking on the glacier walkways?
You’ll have about 4 hours to explore the walkways if you choose the option without navigation, or 3 hours plus an hour of boat ride if you opt for the navigation.

Does the tour include lunch?
No, lunch is not included, so it’s a good idea to bring snacks or plan to purchase something in El Calafate before or after the tour.

What’s the best time of day for this tour?
While the availability varies, typical start times allow you to make the most of daylight, ensuring you experience the glacier’s changing light and maybe catch the sunset glow.

How active is the tour?
Expect to be walking on the walkways for several hours, which involves some climbing and standing. It’s not overly strenuous but does require a moderate level of mobility and comfort with outdoor exploration.

Is the boat ride guaranteed?
The boat ride is an optional upgrade—only if you select the navigation option. It’s a highlight for many, but not mandatory for the overall experience.

What makes this tour stand out from other glacier trips?
The combination of guided insight, the multiple viewpoints, and the boat ride make it more immersive and informative than many self-guided or bus-only options, offering a well-rounded look at Perito Moreno.

To sum it up, this full-day tour from El Calafate to Perito Moreno Glacier strikes a good balance between value, scenery, and education. It’s best suited for travelers who want a guided, comprehensive experience and don’t mind a busy schedule. The views are unforgettable, the guides are friendly and informative, and you’ll leave with a deeper appreciation of one of the most spectacular natural wonders in the world. Whether you’re a first-timer or returning for another glimpse, this trip promises a day packed with beauty and awe.

You can check availability for your dates here: More Great Tours Nearby