Experience the Majestic Perito Moreno Glacier from Puerto Natales

Imagine a day that takes you from the charming town of Puerto Natales across the border into Argentina, culminating in the awe-inspiring views of Perito Moreno Glacier—a true highlight of Patagonia. For just $120 per person, this full-day tour offers a blend of comfortable transportation, expert guiding, and the chance to witness one of the continent’s most iconic natural wonders.

What truly stands out for us is the small group size, which makes for a more intimate, flexible experience—no endless bus rides here. Plus, the vehicle fleet is relatively new and well-maintained, ensuring a smooth journey. We also appreciate that the tour includes pickup at your hotel in Puerto Natales and passenger insurance, easing logistical worries.

One thing to consider: the entrance fee to Los Glaciares National Park isn’t included and costs around 45,000 Argentine pesos, so you’ll want to budget for that. The tour is perfect for travelers who crave a full, immersive day with plenty of scenic viewpoints, rather than just a quick glance.

This tour works best for those who value personalized service, stunning scenery, and are comfortable with a long day of travel. It’s ideal if you want to see the glacier without the hassle of figuring out transportation or missing out on the expert commentary of a bilingual guide.

Key Points

Personalized Experience: Small groups of 6 to 15 travelers mean less waiting and more comfort.
Expert Guidance: Bilingual guides enhance understanding and appreciation of the glacier’s grandeur.
Flexible Food Options: Stops in La Esperanza and El Calafate let you buy meals or snacks at your convenience.
All-Inclusive Transportation: Modern, insured vehicles ensure a safe, comfortable ride.
Full-Day Adventure: Expect about 14 hours from pickup to return, making it a true day trip.
Entry Fees Not Included: Budget for park entrance and optional activities like boat rides.

An In-Depth Look at the Tour Experience

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Starting Bright and Early

The day kicks off at 6:30 am with hotel pickup in Puerto Natales. This early start is necessary to maximize your time at the glacier and cross the border smoothly. You’ll travel in an air-conditioned vehicle, which is crucial given the long hours on the road. The small group setting makes for a more relaxed atmosphere, where everyone gets a chance to ask questions or just enjoy the scenery without feeling lost in a crowd.

Crossing the Border to Argentina

The journey involves a border crossing, which is handled smoothly thanks to the vehicle’s authorized status in Los Glaciares National Park. The tour operator is experienced in border procedures, and this stops in La Esperanza is a good chance to stretch your legs or grab a quick coffee. The brief break of about 15 minutes fits well with the overall schedule.

The Drive to El Calafate and the Glacier

From La Esperanza, the drive continues roughly 80 km to El Calafate, where you’ll meet your bilingual guide. This guide is often highlighted in reviews for their helpful, friendly attitude and knowledge — a big plus for those wanting context about the glacier and Patagonia’s landscape.

The drive to the park is scenic, with views of rugged mountains and open plains. Once inside Los Glaciares National Park, you’ll spend around 2 hours exploring the viewing walkways and viewpoints that line the glacier. The walkways are well-maintained, providing excellent perspectives of the glacier’s towering ice walls and deep crevasses.

The Glacier Itself

Perito Moreno is a true spectacle—its immense ice face, constantly calving and shifting, offers a dynamic view that most travelers find unforgettable. Many reviews mention the “stunning” appearance and that the experience is “well worth” the long day. You can choose to simply walk the viewpoints or, if you’ve booked in advance, add a boat ride (though this is extra and subject to availability).

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Lunch and Breaks

Since meals aren’t included, you’ll have time to buy snacks or lunch during the stops in La Esperanza or El Calafate. There’s also a coffee shop at the glacier where you can grab a hot drink and a snack while soaking in the views—pretty much the perfect Patagonia moment.

Return Journey

After about 14 hours, you’ll head back to Puerto Natales, arriving late in the evening. The long day means plenty of time to reflect on the spectacular sights and the experience of crossing borders for such a close-up view of one of the world’s most famous glaciers.

Authentic Experiences and Genuine Value

What makes this tour stand out is the combination of personalized service, stunning scenery, and practical convenience. As one reviewer put it, “it’s a long day, but the glacier is beautiful and well worth a visit,” especially if you’re short on time and want to avoid the hassle of independent travel. The guide’s helpfulness and the company’s willingness to accommodate solo travelers also shine through, making even a single passenger feel valued.

The vehicle’s small size allows for a more intimate journey—fewer fellow travelers, less waiting, and more flexibility. Plus, the fact that the vehicles are authorized within the park means less fuss with border formalities, saving you time and stress.

The Experience to Expect

You’ll experience the contrast of Patagonia’s rugged landscapes against the shimmering, jagged ice face of Perito Moreno. Expect a full day of travel, but also plenty of opportunities to take photos, ask questions, or simply marvel at nature’s power. The bilingual guide enhances the experience, providing insights that elevate the visit from just sightseeing to a meaningful understanding of the region’s geology and ecological importance.

The tour’s reviews consistently praise the stunning views, the helpfulness of guides, and the great value for a full day of exploration. It seems that its popularity is well-earned, with an average booking window of 36 days in advance, highlighting how sought-after this experience is.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This trip is perfect for travelers who want a personalized, hassle-free way to see one of Patagonia’s most breathtaking sights. It suits those who appreciate expert guides, flexible meal options, and small-group comfort. If you’re eager to see Perito Moreno but don’t want to deal with the logistics of border crossings or long bus rides, this tour offers a compelling blend of convenience and adventure.

Final Thoughts

Choosing this full-day tour to Perito Moreno Glacier from Puerto Natales means stepping into a natural spectacle with the support of knowledgeable guides and comfortable transportation. The experience is both enriching and visually stunning, making it a truly worthwhile addition to your Patagonia itinerary.

While it’s a long day, the sense of achievement and the beauty you’ll witness are worth every minute. It’s ideal for travelers who value small groups, authentic insights, and great value for such a comprehensive day trip. If you’re a fan of striking landscapes and want a guided experience that’s both practical and memorable, this tour hits the mark.

Frequently Asked Questions

What time does the tour start?
The tour begins at 6:30 am with hotel pickup in Puerto Natales.

Is the guide bilingual?
Yes, the guide is bilingual, providing explanations in both Spanish and English.

How long is the drive to the glacier?
The drive from El Calafate to the glacier is approximately 80 km, taking about 1.5 hours.

Are meals included?
No, meals are not included. Stops in La Esperanza and El Calafate allow you to purchase food and drinks.

What is the tour duration?
The total experience lasts around 14 hours, from pickup to return.

Is the park entrance fee included?
No, the entrance fee (about 45,000 Argentine pesos for foreigners) is paid separately at the park.

Can I do optional activities like boat rides?
Optional boat rides are available but depend on availability and are paid separately.

What size are the vehicles?
Vehicles accommodate between 6 to 15 passengers, ensuring a more personalized experience.

Is this tour suitable for solo travelers?
Absolutely! The small group size and friendly guides make it a great option for solo travelers looking for a more intimate adventure.

This tour offers a well-rounded, authentic Patagonia experience—highlighting the stunning Perito Moreno Glacier, the beauty of small-group travel, and the simplicity of guided logistics. It’s a memorable way to witness one of the world’s most incredible natural wonders, especially if you value comfort, expert insights, and genuine connection to the landscape.