Imagine sailing right up to one of the world’s most iconic glaciers—Perito Moreno—and feeling its raw energy in your hands. For just $73 per person, this one-hour Nautical Safari offers an exceptional way to see the glacier from a different angle, away from the crowded walkways. Led by knowledgeable guides, the tour takes you on a boat along the Brazo Rico of Lake Argentino, giving you an up-close view of towering ice walls, floating icebergs, and the thunderous spectacle of ice calving.
What makes this experience stand out? First, the chance to touch the glacier ice blocks—something that’s rarely allowed from land-based views. Second, the spectacle of ice calving—those dramatic moments when massive chunks of ice tumble into the water, creating a thunderous splash that echoes across the lake. These are moments that stay with you, offering a visceral connection to nature’s power.
A potential consideration is that the tour lasts only about an hour—if you’re craving a full-day adventure, this might feel a bit brief. However, if you’re after a focused, visually stunning experience that complements other park activities, it fits perfectly into a well-rounded itinerary.
This tour is ideal for travelers who want a more intimate, engaging view of the glacier, especially those interested in tactile experiences and the chance to witness the glacier’s natural spectacle firsthand. It’s also a good choice if you prefer a bilingual guide and want to avoid the crowds on foot while still soaking in the glacier’s majesty.
Key Points
- Unique Perspective: Sail close to the glacier’s imposing ice walls, not just from the viewing platforms.
- Ice Touch: Hands-on experience with small blocks of glacier ice, providing a tangible connection.
- Spectacular Calving: Watch and hear ice chunks break off, creating dramatic splashes.
- Short & Focused: One-hour tour, perfect as a highlight or addition to other activities.
- Guided Insight: Bilingual guides in English and Spanish add context to the view.
- Affordable Price: At $73, it offers a memorable experience without a hefty cost.
An In-Depth Look at the Nautical Safari Experience
When it comes to visiting the Perito Moreno Glacier, most travelers are familiar with the panoramic views from the park’s walkways or the extensive footbridges. However, seeing the glacier from a boat adds a whole new dimension to the experience. This nautical journey, operated by Hielo y Aventura S.A, offers just that—an hour on the water that brings you face-to-face with nature’s icy spectacle.
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The Itinerary and What You Can Expect
The tour begins with a brief check-in, where you’ll probably meet your bilingual guide—someone who can switch seamlessly between English and Spanish, making sure everyone understands the significance of what you’re about to see. The boat departs from a location on the south face of the glacier, cruising along the Brazo Rico of Lake Argentino.
Within minutes, the ice walls come into view, towering and jagged, their blue hues contrasting with the bright white snow and the dark lake waters. The guides will point out features like floating icebergs—massive chunks that have calved off the glacier recently—and explain how these ice islands drift and reshape the landscape over time.
One of the most exciting parts? When the boat reaches about 400 meters from the glacier’s south wall, it halts for a closer look. Here, you’ll get a magnificent view of the glacier’s face and may even witness ice calving—a thunderous event where huge chunks of ice crash into the water, sending sprays into the air. Guests often describe this as a “thunderous, awe-inspiring display” that’s worth every penny.
The Hands-On Ice Experience
One of the tour’s most beloved features is the opportunity to touch the glacier ice. A crew member collects small blocks of ice from floating chunks, allowing travelers to hold, feel, and even lick the ice. This tactile experience makes the glacier feel more real, more immediate, and helps bring the scene to life in a way photos or videos simply can’t.
Why This Tour is Special
We loved the intimacy of the boat approach—it’s different from the large, crowded land-based viewing areas. You get a clear, unobstructed view of the glacier’s structure and calving process. Plus, the spectacle of floating icebergs—some as big as small buildings—is mesmerizing. Many reviews mention how the sound of cracking ice and calving is surprisingly loud, adding a dramatic soundtrack to the visuals.
More Great Tours NearbyPractical Details and Considerations
The tour lasts only about an hour, which makes it manageable even if your schedule is tight. The price of $73 is reasonable for such a close-up, interactive experience. However, keep in mind that entry to Los Glaciares National Park and transportation to the boat departure point are not included, so plan accordingly.
The tour operates rain or shine, so dress in comfortable outdoor clothing and sturdy shoes. Guides will provide explanations in both English and Spanish, making it accessible for international visitors. The boat is wheelchair accessible and suitable for all physically able travelers, with no strenuous demands involved.
Authenticity and Authentic Experiences
Travelers consistently mention how this tour offers a real, tangible connection to the glacier. Unlike the panoramic vista from the park’s walkways, this close-up approach reveals the scale, texture, and raw power of the ice. The sound of ice cracking and the chance to touch glacier fragments make this a memorable, sensory-rich experience.
Value for Money
At $73, you get an authentic, intimate encounter with the glacier—something that many land-based tours can’t offer. When you consider the spectacular views, the chance to touch the ice, and the calving shows, the experience feels quite worthwhile. It’s a great complement to other park activities and offers a unique perspective for those craving a more immersive encounter.
Who Should Consider This Tour?
This Nautical Safari is ideal if you’re looking to go beyond the standard land-based views of Perito Moreno. It suits travelers who enjoy hands-on experiences, wildlife and natural phenomena, and those eager to see calving events up close. It’s perfect for families, couples, or solo travelers wanting a personal, memorable adventure.
If you’re short on time but want a powerful visual and sensory experience of the glacier, this tour hits the mark. It also works well paired with other park activities, giving you a well-rounded day of exploration.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How long is the Nautical Safari?
A: The experience lasts about one hour from departure to return, including time for close-up viewing and ice touching.
Q: Do I need to book in advance?
A: Yes, it’s recommended to check availability and book ahead, especially during peak tourist seasons, to secure your spot.
Q: Is this tour suitable for children or people with mobility issues?
A: The tour is wheelchair accessible and has no physical demands, making it suitable for most visitors, including families and those with mobility concerns.
Q: What should I bring?
A: Pack comfortable shoes, outdoor clothing, and some cash for tips or souvenirs. Dress warmly, as it can be chilly on the water and near the glacier.
Q: Will the tour be canceled if it rains?
A: No, the excursion will not be canceled due to rain, so dress appropriately for outdoor weather.
Q: Is lunch or drinks included?
A: No, food and drinks are not included, so bring your own if you’d like to snack or hydrate during the trip.
Final Thoughts
The Nautical Safari offers a rare, up-close encounter with the Perito Moreno Glacier, turning an iconic sight into an interactive, sensory experience. It’s a fantastic choice for travelers seeking a more personal connection with nature’s icy marvels—touching the ice, witnessing calving, and feeling the glacier’s energy firsthand.
While it’s a short tour, the impact can be profound. It complements other land-based views perfectly and adds a layer of excitement that’s hard to match. For those who appreciate authentic, immersive experiences and don’t mind a bit of weather, this trip delivers on both spectacle and intimacy.
Whether you’re a glacier enthusiast or just seeking a memorable highlight, this small-group boat adventure is a worthwhile addition to your Patagonia itinerary. It brings the glacier alive in a way that photos simply can’t capture, making it a truly unique adventure.
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