Full Day Guided Tour Perito Moreno National Park and Glacier

Imagine a day spent marveling at one of the world’s most awe-inspiring glaciers, with a comfortable 8.5-hour experience that combines scenic drives, guided insights, and walking along breathtaking views. Starting from El Calafate, this tour takes you into Los Glaciares National Park, where you’ll get up close to the famous Perito Moreno Glacier—a jewel of Patagonia’s icy crown. For a reasonable $90 per person, with pickup included, you’ll enjoy a day packed with natural beauty, expert commentary, and plenty of photo opportunities.

What we love most about this tour? First, the guided commentary that helps you understand what makes the glacier so special—whether you’re a first-timer or a glacier enthusiast. Second, the walkways at various levels, which give you a range of perspectives on the glacier’s vibrant blue ice and towering walls. These pathways make it easy to see the glacier from different angles, avoiding the usual tourist crowd and giving you a more personal, immersive experience.

A possible consideration? Admission tickets to the park are not included in the price, which adds about ARS$45,000 for non-residents. Also, lunch costs are extra, with options ranging from USD10 to USD30, so planning ahead to bring your own or budget for a meal is wise. This tour is best suited for travelers who want a comprehensive day out, combining scenic drives, expert guidance, and time to soak in the scenery at your own pace.

This trip really appeals to those who value expert guides, stunning views, and the convenience of a well-organized day trip. If you’re after a balanced mix of comfort and adventure, and appreciate hearing stories and tips from locals, this tour will suit you perfectly.

Key Points

• All-inclusive experience with hotel pickup and a professional guide.
• Multiple viewpoints along walkways providing diverse perspectives of the glacier.
• Time for lunch at park restaurants, with vegetarian and gluten-free options available.
• Scenic drive around Lago Argentino and Bahía Redonda, setting the scene for glacier viewing.
• Affordable price point relative to the unforgettable experience.
• Limited park entry fee not included, so budget accordingly.

Exploring the Full-Day Guided Tour to Perito Moreno

When we think of Patagonia’s most iconic sights, the Perito Moreno Glacier often tops the list. This full-day tour from El Calafate offers a balanced combination of scenery, education, and leisure, making it a great choice for travelers who want to see the glacier from multiple angles without the hassle of planning logistics themselves.

The Journey Begins: Scenic Drive & First Impressions

The tour kicks off early at 9:00 am with a comfortable pickup from your hotel. From there, a cozy minibus whisks you out of town, heading toward Los Glaciares National Park. During the approximately 80 km drive, you’ll enjoy the sights of Patagonia’s rugged landscape—mountains, forests, and lakes that paint a picture of untouched wilderness.

One highlight early in the journey is a stop at Bahía Redonda on Lago Argentino, one of Argentina’s largest lakes. This spot offers a stunning preview of what’s to come—distant views of the glacier framed by the quiet beauty of Patagonian nature. As one reviewer put it, “The first glance at the glacier from a distance is breathtaking, and it only gets more impressive as we approach.”

The Walkways: Multiple Perspectives on Ice

Once at Los Glaciares National Park, the highlight is the walkways built around the glacier. These are not just simple viewing platforms; they stretch over 5.5 km at different heights and angles, offering diverse vantage points. Whether you want a close-up of the towering ice walls or a broad panorama of the glacier’s expanse, you’ll find a walkway that suits your style.

Many travelers mention the value of these walkways, noting how they allow a personalized experience. For example, one review mentions Martín, the guide, sharing tips on which walkways to take for the best photo angles. This kind of insider knowledge enhances your visit, helping you avoid the crowds and see the glacier from unique perspectives.

Lunch Break: A Taste of Patagonia

After a few hours exploring the walkways, you’ll have time to relax and enjoy a meal at one of the park’s restaurants. The menu features traditional Patagonian dishes, with vegetarian and gluten-free options. Prices vary, and some travelers note that bringing your own lunch might save money and allow more flexibility in timing.

Why It Matters

Having the chance to stand close to such a monumental natural wonder, while enjoying a comfortable meal, makes this tour stand out. It’s not just sightseeing; it’s about connecting with one of nature’s most dramatic creations, and doing so with the support of a knowledgeable guide.

Returning to El Calafate

As the afternoon winds down, you’ll return to El Calafate, often with the feeling that you’ve experienced something truly special. Many reviews mention how smoothly the day runs and how the guides contribute to a relaxed, informative atmosphere.

What Makes This Tour Stand Out?

Knowledgeable Guides: As several reviews point out, guides like Martín and Mariano make the experience memorable with their friendly attitude and detailed explanations. They help you understand the glacier’s formation and the significance of conservation efforts, turning a sightseeing trip into an educational experience.

Multiple Viewing Points: These pathways allow you to see the glacier from different angles—an advantage often missed on simpler tours. Reviewers mention how the variety of perspectives enhances their appreciation for the glacier’s scale and beauty.

Comfort & Convenience: Pickup from your hotel, a comfortable bus, and a well-organized schedule mean less stress and more time to focus on the scenery. The small group size—typically no more than 24 travelers—also makes for a more intimate experience.

The Price & Value

At $90, this tour offers good value considering the length and depth of experience, especially given that transport, a guide, and park visits are included. However, remember that park entrance fees and meals are extra. Still, many guests feel the overall experience justifies the cost, especially when they consider the convenience of a guided tour versus arranging everything independently.

Authenticity & Experience

What sets this tour apart is the combination of guided expertise and self-directed exploration along the walkways. Many reviews praise the guides’ ability to blend storytelling with practical tips, which helps you make the most of your time at the glacier.

Tips for Travelers

• Consider bringing your own lunch or snacks to save money.
• Wear comfortable shoes suitable for walking on uneven surfaces.
• Bring a camera or smartphone with a good zoom to capture the ice’s details.
• Be prepared for variable weather—bring layers and rain gear if needed.
• Remember, the park entry fee is not included, so factor that into your budget.

Final Thoughts: Who Will Love This Tour?

This full-day trip is perfect for travelers who want a comprehensive, guided experience that balances scenery, education, and comfort. It’s ideal if you appreciate detailed explanations from guides, want multiple viewpoints of the glacier, and prefer the ease of organized transportation and logistics.

If you’re a first-time visitor to Patagonia or have limited time but want a meaningful encounter with the Perito Moreno Glacier, this tour offers a well-rounded package. Reviewers consistently mention the knowledgeable guides, stunning vistas, and good value, which make it a standout choice.

However, if you’re someone who prefers a more independent approach or wants to avoid additional costs for park entry and meals, you might want to plan your own visit or look for options with included tickets. But for most travelers, this tour delivers a rich, hassle-free day that captures the essence of Patagonia’s icy crown.

FAQ

Is hotel pickup included?
Yes, the tour includes pickup from your hotel in El Calafate, making the start of your day hassle-free.

How long is the drive to the park?
The drive from El Calafate to Los Glaciares National Park is approximately 80 km, taking around 1.5 hours each way.

Are meals included?
No, lunch is not included, but there are restaurants inside the park with a variety of options, or you can bring your own.

Do I need to buy park entrance tickets separately?
Yes, admission to Los Glaciares National Park is not included and costs ARS$45,000 for non-residents Argentine travelers.

What’s the group size?
The tour typically operates with a maximum of 24 travelers, ensuring a more personal experience.

Is the tour suitable for all ages?
Most travelers can participate, and guides are usually bilingual, making it accessible for families and non-Spanish speakers.

To sum it up, this guided tour to Perito Moreno from El Calafate strikes a fine balance between convenience and authentic experience. It’s a great pick for those eager to see one of Patagonia’s most iconic sights without the hassle of organizing logistics themselves. Expect stunning views, expert guidance, and a thoughtfully paced day that leaves plenty of room for awe and reflection. If you value quality, comfort, and storytelling, this tour will likely be a highlight of your Patagonian adventure.