Minitrekking Perito Moreno: Ice hiking tour (optional transfers)

Exploring the Perito Moreno Glacier is a must for anyone visiting Argentina’s southern Patagonia. This full-day tour, priced at $380 per person, takes you beyond the typical sightseeing experience by offering ice trekking, boat rides, and multiple viewpoints of one of the world’s most impressive glaciers. You’ll spend roughly 5 to 11 hours immersed in nature, with optional transfers that make logistics easier, especially if you prefer not to worry about transportation.

What we really appreciate about this experience is how it combines adventure with comfort: you get to soak up stunning scenery from different angles—from boat rides along the glacier’s walls to hiking directly on the ice itself. Plus, the guides, who are bilingual (Spanish-English), are consistently praised for their knowledge and safety-conscious approach.

However, a key consideration is the cost—at $380, it’s not the cheapest outing in El Calafate. The adventure’s value really hinges on your interest in glacier hiking and panoramic views. If you’re an outdoor enthusiast eager for a hands-on experience and don’t mind a full day of activity, this tour is well worth it. It’s especially ideal for travelers who want to explore the glacier from multiple perspectives and enjoy a seamless, well-organized day.

This tour suits adventurous travelers and nature lovers who are comfortable with outdoor activity. It’s perfect if you’re looking for a once-in-a-lifetime experience with guides that make the journey accessible, fun, and safe.

Key Points

• Multiple perspectives: Experience the glacier from boat, foot, and viewpoint for a comprehensive visit.
• Expert guides: Knowledgeable bilingual guides enhance safety and understanding of the glacier’s features.
• All-in-one experience: Combines boat rides, glacier trekking, and scenic walkways — great value for a full day.
• Authentic adventure: Trek directly on the glacier with crampons, not just viewpoints.
• Flexible transfers: Optional pickup and drop-off make logistics easier.
• Authentic memories: Many reviews highlight the guides’ friendliness and the breathtaking views.

In-Depth Review of the Perito Moreno Ice Hiking Tour

Setting the Scene: From El Calafate to the Glacier

The adventure begins early, with a 7:00 am pickup in El Calafate (if you choose the transfer option). Having someone else handle transportation means you can relax and enjoy the scenic drive through Los Glaciares National Park. The journey itself is part of the experience, with views of the Patagonian steppe giving way to lush forests and towering mountains.

Once at Puerto Bajo Las Sombreras, the atmosphere shifts from land to water. The group boards a boat, which takes you along the south wall of the glacier—a highlight that many reviewers say is “spectacular” and “a great way to see the size of the glacier from a different angle.” The boat ride lasts around 2 hours, providing ample opportunities for photos, especially of the towering ice walls and crevices.

Trekking on the Ice: The Main Event

Disembarking from the boat, the guides assist you with crampons, turning what might seem an intimidating challenge into an accessible adventure. We loved the way guides like Joaquin and Gabriel took the time to explain the glacier’s features—cracks, moulins (ice sinkholes), and lagoons—making the hike not just an activity, but an educational experience.

The 4-hour glacier trek is divided into manageable segments with plenty of stops to marvel at the vivid blue ice, and watch ice falls and landslides that have shaped this massive glacier over centuries. Numerous reviews mention how guides are attentive and safety-conscious, which is reassuring given the unpredictable nature of ice.

Travelers have described the experience as “truly amazing” and “unreal,” emphasizing the scale and beauty of the glacier. The opportunity to walk on the actual ice, feeling the crunch beneath your crampons, provides an intimate connection to this icy landscape. The blue hues and translucent ice structures are often compared to scenes from a surreal dream or even a photoshopped image.

Scenic Viewpoints and Final Stops

After the glacier trek, the tour continues with a walk along the Perito Moreno footbridges, offering panoramic views of the glacier from above. Several reviews highlight how these viewpoints are a great way to take in the vast scale of the ice field.

On the return journey, you’ll pass through the Magellanic Forest, a lovely contrast to the icy landscape, with some breathtaking vistas. Before heading back to El Calafate, there’s time to relax and reflect, often with a little ice bar offering glacier ice with whiskey or water—an authentic touch that many travelers enjoy as a fitting finale.

Logistics and Included Features

What makes this tour stand out is its comprehensive approach. You get all the necessary ice-hiking equipment included in the price, along with a boat ride and transportation (if selected). The guides are bilingual, which helps make the experience accessible for international visitors.

The maximum group size of 20 ensures a personalized feel, avoiding the chaos of large tours. And despite the expense, many reviews note that the value is justified by the quality of the experience—from safety to adventure to stunning scenery.

The Authenticity and Real-World Experience

Multiple reviewers emphasize how this is not just a sightseeing cruise but a hands-on adventure. As one said, “This was an incredible experience and very worth it,” and “guides were great, and it was fantastic all the way through.” Many note that guides like Victoria and Nico did a stellar job at showing them various glacier formations and keeping everyone safe and informed.

The ice bar at the end, with glacier ice and whiskey, is a small but memorable detail—an authentic touch many travelers find charming. Others mention the seamless organization, which means less stress and more enjoyment throughout the day.

Cost and Value: Is It Worth It?

At $380 per person, this tour isn’t cheap, but considering what’s included—the boat ride, glacier trek, multiple viewpoints, and expert guides—it’s a solid investment in a once-in-a-lifetime experience. Several reviews highlight how most travelers found the guides very knowledgeable and helpful, adding to the good value.

Some mention that the tour takes most of the day (from 7 am to around 6 pm), but the full schedule means you’re truly exploring the glacier from all angles. For outdoor lovers and those craving active engagement, this is about as immersive as a glacier experience can get.

Practical Tips for Travelers

• Book early: The tour is popular, averaging bookings 48 days in advance.
• Bring your own snacks: There’s no included meal, but there are cafes near the viewpoints.
• Wear layers and waterproof gear: Even with provided equipment, expect cool temperatures and potential splashes.
• Consider the physicality: The walk on the glacier involves some physical effort, but guides are attentive to safety and pace.

The Sum Up

This Minitrekking Perito Moreno ice hiking tour is an exceptional way to experience one of the world’s most iconic glaciers. It offers a blend of adventure, stunning views, and educational insights that appeal to active travelers eager for a meaningful connection with nature. The highlights—walking on the glacier, boat rides, panoramic viewpoints—make it a well-rounded and memorable experience.

While the price might seem steep, many reviews confirm that the quality of guides, safety, and variety of perspectives justify the cost. If you’re someone who loves outdoor adventures and awe-inspiring landscapes, this tour is an investment in an experience you’ll likely cherish for years.

Perfect for adventure seekers, nature lovers, and those wanting to see the glacier from **every angle, this trip delivers a truly authentic Patagonian adventure. Just be prepared for a full day and bring your sense of wonder along.

FAQ

Is transportation included in the tour?
Yes, if you select the optional transfer package, hotel pickup and drop-off in El Calafate are included. Otherwise, you’ll meet at Puerto Bajo Las Sombreras.

How long does the tour last?
The full experience runs approximately 5 to 11 hours, depending on the schedule and options chosen.

Do I need to bring my own gear?
No, ice hiking equipment (crampons, helmets, etc.) is provided, but it’s wise to wear warm, waterproof clothing and sturdy footwear.

Can children participate?
Most travelers can participate, but those under 8 years old or over 65 are generally not permitted due to government policies.

What’s the main highlight of the tour?
Many say it’s the walking on the glacier—getting up close and personal with the ice formations—plus the boat ride along the glacier walls.

Are meals included?
No, meals are not included. There are cafes at viewpoints where you can buy snacks or drinks.

What should I expect in terms of safety?
Guides are attentive and safety-conscious, walking with you on firm trails and ensuring proper use of equipment. The experience is designed to be accessible while maintaining high safety standards.

This tour is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity if you’re eager to go beyond the postcard view and really stand on the ice of Perito Moreno. It balances adventure and comfort, making it a standout choice for those who want to see, hear, and feel this incredible natural wonder from multiple perspectives.