Perito Moreno Glacier Full Day Tour with Navigation

Experience the Magnificence of Perito Moreno Glacier with a Full-Day Guided Tour

A full-day adventure from El Calafate takes you to one of Argentina’s most iconic natural wonders: the Perito Moreno Glacier. For $228 per person, this 8-hour tour offers a well-rounded experience—starting early to beat the crowds, wandering along scenic walkways that showcase the glacier from multiple angles, and finishing with a sailing trip that brings you within 150 meters of the icy front. With a friendly bilingual guide and a small group (max 20 travelers), you’ll get personalized insights and plenty of time to soak in the dramatic views.

What we love most? First, the early departure means fewer travelers and more space to appreciate the glacier’s grandeur. Second, the boat trip around its south face lets you experience the scale and activity of the ice in a way that walking alone can’t match. That said, one small consideration is that national park tickets aren’t included—so budget around $45 for entrance fees. This tour suits those who want a comprehensive, hassle-free visit to one of nature’s most stunning spectacles without sacrificing time or quality.

If you enjoy guided experiences with knowledgeable hosts and want to see the glacier from multiple perspectives, this trip is a winning choice. It’s perfect for travelers who appreciate a balance of walking, boating, and expert commentary, making it ideal for those who want to maximize their day without stressing about logistics.

Key Points

• All-in-One Experience: Combines glacier viewing, walkway exploration, and boat navigation for a complete visit.
• Early Start: Beating the crowds enhances your experience and gives more time at each stop.
• Expert Guides: Bilingual guides provide informative commentary, enriching your understanding of the glacier.
• Flexible Viewing: Multiple walkways allow different angles and perspectives of the glacier’s impressive front.
• Value for Money: Includes transportation, boat trip, and guided service, making it a convenient, all-inclusive option.
• Park Fees Not Included: Budget extra for park entrance, roughly $45, which can be bought online ahead of time.

A Deep Dive into the Perito Moreno Glacier Tour

Why this tour stands out is the way it balances convenience with authentic, immersive experiences. The tour departs from El Calafate early in the morning—around 9:00 am—allowing you to arrive before the bulk of visitors. This isn’t just about beating the crowds but also about capturing the magic of the glacier when the light is softer, and the atmosphere more tranquil.

The Itinerary in Detail

First stop: Perito Moreno Glacier
Upon reaching the Los Glaciares National Park, you’ll marvel at the glacier’s monumental front—a 5 km wide wall of ice towering over 60 meters above the water at its highest point. As the glacier advances slowly, chunks of ice often calve, producing thunderous sounds—an awe-inspiring display of nature’s power. One reviewer, Liz, expressed her delight: “The views from the balconies were stunning. Don’t be scared by rain. We had some in the morning, but cleared up by the time we arrived at the park.” It’s a reminder that the weather can be unpredictable, so dress warmly and be prepared for rain.

Walkways and Balconies
Next, the tour includes about two hours exploring the Pasarelas Perito Moreno, a network of walkways and balconies at different levels. These viewpoints are connected with stairs and paths, offering a variety of angles to appreciate the glacier’s textures, crevasses, and ice formations. Some reviewers, like Tamsin, note that this part is “an excellent and easy way to experience the glacier from different perspectives” and mention the sufficient time to really take it all in.

Boat Navigation
The highlight for many is the 1-hour boat trip that takes you close to the glacier’s south face. From the water, you see the immense size of the ice from a different vantage point, and often, you’ll witness calving—pieces breaking off and crashing into the water. Reviewer Ed describes it as “worth every single minute and penny,” emphasizing how impressive the boat experience is. The boat allows you to witness the glacier’s activity and raw beauty in a way that walking cannot offer.

Transport, Guides, and Group Size

The air-conditioned vehicle provides comfortable transport, with hotel pickup and drop-off included. The bilingual guide enhances the experience by sharing insights about the glacier’s geology, the park’s ecology, and local history—making the natural spectacle all the more meaningful. Most travelers found their guides knowledgeable and friendly. Tamsin’s review highlights a “funny, knowledgeable guide (Charlie)” who also recommended a local crepe spot, adding a personal touch to the trip.

Group size is limited to 20 travelers, which maintains a cozy, less overwhelming atmosphere—ideal for asking questions and enjoying personalized attention.

Costs, Value, and Practical Considerations

While the tour price is $228, remember that national park entrance fees aren’t included—approximately $45—so plan to purchase your tickets online beforehand. The overall value is high because of the comprehensive itinerary: transportation, walkways, boat trip, and guided commentary. We appreciated the flexible timing and the balance of activities, making the trip feel well-paced.

Weather can be a factor—some reviews mention rain and cold, so packing warm clothes, rain gear, and binoculars is wise. The weather can change quickly, and the open trails mean you’ll want to be prepared for wind and moisture.

Authentic Perspectives from Travelers

Many reviewers praised the guides’ professionalism and timing. George called it a “great experience,” and Darryl appreciated that “there was time to enjoy each location and be in awe of the beauty of nature.” Others mentioned how the boat trip “took our breath away” and that the view from the balconies was “stunning,” confirming the tour’s strength in offering panoramic, close-up, and water-level views.

A few, like Paula, wished they could choose which side of the glacier to visit, noting the north side’s “much prettier—deep blue water.” This is a reminder that the tour’s route is fixed, and those seeking specific vistas might want to research further.

Who Should Take This Tour?

This guided, all-inclusive experience suits travelers who value convenience, expert commentary, and variety. If you want to avoid logistical headaches and prefer a small group setting, this tour offers excellent value. It’s especially suitable for those who enjoy walking and boating and want to see the glacier from multiple angles without the hassle of planning separate excursions.

However, if you’re hoping to choose specific viewpoints or explore independently, you might find this tour somewhat restrictive. Also, be aware of the extra park fees, and pack accordingly for the weather.

Final Thoughts

The Perito Moreno Glacier Full Day Tour with Navigation offers a rich, well-rounded experience of one of Patagonia’s most awe-inspiring sights. Thoughtfully organized, it provides a great balance of walking, boat navigation, and expert guidance, making it a fantastic way to see the glacier without feeling rushed or overwhelmed.

Travelers who appreciate stunning scenery, clear explanations, and a structured day will find this tour a superb choice. It’s especially perfect if you want to maximize your time and see both the glacier’s front view and its activity from the water.

For those on a tight schedule or seeking a comfortable, guided experience with a friendly group, this tour delivers authentic, memorable moments. Just remember to dress warmly, buy your park tickets in advance, and be ready for some breathtaking views and natural drama.

FAQs About the Perito Moreno Glacier Tour

Is hotel pickup and drop-off included?
Yes, the tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off, making transportation hassle-free.

How long is the boat trip?
The boat ride around the glacier’s south face lasts about 1 hour, giving close-up views of the ice and calving activity.

Are National Park tickets included?
No, park entrance fees are not included but can be purchased online for roughly $45.

What should I bring?
Bring warm clothes, rain gear, binoculars, and comfortable shoes for walking on the walkways.

Is the tour suitable for all ages?
Most travelers can participate, but very young children or those with mobility issues may find walking the balconies challenging.

How big is the tour group?
A maximum of 20 travelers ensures a more personal experience.

What do reviewers think about the guide?
Most reviews praise the guides as knowledgeable and friendly, enhancing the overall experience.

Can I choose which side of the glacier to see?
No, the tour follows a set route, focusing on the glacier’s front and south face.

Is this tour worth the price?
Given the combination of transportation, guided commentary, and boat experience, most agree it offers good value, especially considering the unforgettable views.

In essence, this tour is a reliable, enriching way to witness Perito Moreno Glacier. If you’re after a thoughtfully organized, scenic, and informative day in Patagonia, this trip checks all the boxes.