Perito Moreno Glacier Big Ice Tour from El Calafate

Exploring the Perito Moreno Glacier on the Big Ice Tour from El Calafate

If you’re visiting El Calafate and craving a truly immersive experience of one of Patagonia’s most iconic sights, the Big Ice Tour at Perito Moreno Glacier offers a memorable day. For approximately 12 hours, you’ll journey across the vast Lago Argentino, sail close to the glacier’s towering walls, and then step onto the ice itself, donning crampons for a walk into a natural wonderland of blue ice caves, deep crevasses, and underground lagoons. This tour, priced at around $1,244 per person, is suitable for those with good physical condition and a sense of adventure.

Two things we love: First, the combination of boat navigation and ice trekking creates a dynamic, multi-sensory experience that truly gets you up close with the glacier’s dramatic features. Second, the guides—who speak both English and Spanish—are praised for their knowledge and attentive care, ensuring safety while sharing insights about the glacier’s formation and history.

A potential consideration is the price point, which is higher than many day tours; however, the inclusion of 4 hours of ice walking and the sailing experience provides a level of adventure and exclusivity that’s hard to match. This tour is best suited for active travelers who want more than just sightseeing—those eager to walk on the glacier, explore caves, and see vast ice formations firsthand. The reviews highlight that it’s perfect for those prepared for some physical activity and who appreciate detailed guidance and safety measures.

Key Points

• In-depth Glacier Exploration: Walk on the glacier’s interior through guided ice trekking, exploring caves and crevasses.
• Scenic Navigation: Sail across Lago Argentino to reach the glacier, offering stunning views of the Patagonian landscape.
• Expert Guides: Knowledgeable guides who speak English and Spanish ensure safety and share fascinating insights.
• Physical Fitness Required: The tour involves considerable walking and ice trekking, suitable for those in good health.
• Personalized Experience: Small-group size (max 10 travelers) means more tailored attention and less crowding.
• Includes Transportation: Hotel pickup and drop-off from most El Calafate hotels add convenience.

The Experience: A Deep Dive Into the Glacier

The day begins early, with a pickup around 7:00 am from your El Calafate hotel. The ride to the pier sets the scene for the adventure ahead—expect scenic views of Patagonian steppe and distant mountains. Once at the dock, you’ll board a boat for a sail across Lago Argentino. The route is as much about the journey as the destination, with travelers often remarking on the spectacular blue hues of the ice visible from the water. This approach offers a different perspective than from the observation platforms—closer, more intimate.

Arriving at the glacier’s edge, you’ll be fitted with climbing harnesses and crampons, a process that might seem daunting but is straightforward with the guides’ expertise. The guided 3.5-hour walk on the ice is the core experience. You’ll traverse deep crevasses, walk through caves, and possibly peer into underground lagoons—each step revealing the glacier’s intricate, crystalline structure. Some reviews, like ChunN_N’s, describe the trek as “a fun experience overall,” even if challenging. The ice is a constant reminder of nature’s artistry, with colors ranging from clear to deep blue, depending on the density of the ice.

Guides are praised for their patience and knowledge. Melissa_G shared how one guide, Agustin, went the extra mile to support a nervous participant, making everyone feel safe and included. This personal touch elevates the experience from a mere walk to an educational adventure that appeals to curiosity and awe.

The tour includes navigation in front of the glacier and an additional 4 hours of hiking in the Patagonian forest, allowing travelers to appreciate the diverse environment surrounding the glacier. This combination of water, land, and ice provides a comprehensive sense of Patagonia’s natural beauty.

On the return trip, you’ll enjoy the scenery again from the boat, often reflecting on the immensity of the glacier and the brilliant blue ice you just walked on. The full day wraps up with hotel drop-off, leaving you with incredible memories and plenty of photos.

What the Tour Offers in Value

While $1,244 may seem steep, consider the all-inclusive nature: boat ride, ice trekking gear, expert guides, and hotel transport. The 4 hours of ice walking alone is a significant portion of the experience, providing a rare opportunity to set foot on a glacier’s interior—something most travelers only see from afar.

On top of that, reviews emphasize that the guides are attentive and skilled at making the experience accessible and safe. This is especially important given the inherent risks of walking on ice caves and crevasses. The small group size guarantees more personalized attention, making it easier to ask questions and enjoy a more relaxed pace.

The tour’s timing allows for an early start, which is ideal to beat the crowds and see the glacier in the morning light. You’ll have ample time to capture photos, marvel at the scenery, and truly appreciate the scale and beauty of this natural monument.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience is perfect for adventurous travelers in good physical shape who want more than just a sightseeing tour. If you enjoy outdoor activities, hiking, and learning about glaciology, you’ll find plenty to love here. It’s especially suitable for those who aren’t shy about wearing crampons and walking on uneven, icy terrain.

However, it’s not for everyone. The price, combined with the physical demand, means it’s best suited for active, fit travelers who are comfortable in cold environments and can handle long hours on their feet. The reviews also mention that a moderate fitness level is necessary, and travelers should be prepared for the physicality involved in ice walking and hiking.

Final Thoughts: Is It Worth It?

For those seeking an authentic Patagonian adventure, the Big Ice Tour offers an unparalleled view of Perito Moreno’s interior. The combination of sailing, guided ice trekking, and exploring caves puts you right into the heart of this icy giant, making it more than just a sightseeing trip—it’s a full-day exploration of one of the world’s most spectacular glaciers.

The tour’s small-group format and the dedication of guides ensure safety and personalized attention, which justify the higher price for many travelers. If you’re in good health, crave outdoor adventure, and want to see the glacier from every angle, this tour is a strong choice.

However, if you prefer a more relaxed experience or are on a tighter budget, there are other ways to see Perito Moreno from the viewing platforms or shorter excursions. But for a deep, hands-on encounter with the ice itself, this tour delivers.

FAQ

How early do I need to be ready for pickup?
Pick-up generally begins around 7:00 am, so plan to be ready by then. The early start helps avoid crowds and makes the most of daylight hours.

What’s included in the cost?
Price includes hotel pick-up and drop-off in El Calafate, ice trekking crampons, a bilingual guide, 4 hours of ice hiking, and boat navigation in front of the glacier.

What should I bring?
Bring your own lunch, as food isn’t included. Dress in layers suitable for cold weather, and wear comfortable, sturdy footwear for walking and ice trekking.

Are there any age restrictions?
Yes, the tour is suitable for ages 18 to 50, with a moderate physical fitness level required. It’s designed for those prepared for physical activity on ice.

Is the tour suitable for people with health issues?
All travelers must complete a medical form and may be disqualified if they have certain conditions like heart issues or severe mobility problems. Safety is a priority.

What if my hotel isn’t on the pickup list?
The tour operator will contact you with the closest pickup location if your hotel isn’t directly included. Please wait in the hotel lobby at the designated time.

Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before the start. Cancellations less than 24 hours in advance are non-refundable.

In summary, the Perito Moreno Big Ice Tour from El Calafate offers a rare chance to actively engage with one of Patagonia’s most famous glaciers. It combines dramatic scenery, physical activity, and expert guidance, making it an adventure worth considering for those who want to truly touch and experience this frozen marvel.