Perito Moreno Glacier Tour from Puerto Natales Imperdible

A Glimpse of the Perito Moreno Glacier from Puerto Natales

If you’re dreaming of towering ice walls, dramatic blue crevasses, and the wild beauty of Patagonia, a day trip to the Perito Moreno Glacier from Puerto Natales might be just what you need. For about $280 per person, this tour offers roughly 15 hours of adventure, weaving together scenic drives, expert guides, and stunning vistas in Los Glaciares National Park. The journey begins early—6:00 am—and takes you across borders from Chile into Argentina, a detail that adds a touch of international intrigue to your day.

What we really appreciate about this trip is how it balances guided sightseeing with significant time for personal exploration. You get to roam the walkways in front of the glacier, soaking in views from multiple angles, while the guide offers insights along the way. Plus, the option to extend your visit with a boat ride (not included) gives a taste of the ice up close, an experience that many find unforgettable.

However, it’s worth noting that this tour is quite long and involves a significant amount of time in transit. If you’re not a fan of early mornings or long bus rides, this might be a challenge. Also, some reviews suggest that the guided commentary during the boat ride can be minimal, so if you’re craving detailed narration about the glacier’s history, you might want to consider that.

This tour suits travelers who value stunning natural scenery, well-organized logistics, and don’t mind a full day on the road. It’s especially appealing if you’re eager to see one of Patagonia’s most iconic sights without the hassle of planning every detail yourself.

Key Points

• Impressive Views: Multiple viewpoints of the glacier and ice falls over 70 meters tall.
• Expert Guides: Knowledgeable guides enhance the experience with insights about the glacier and park.
• Flexible Options: You can choose to walk the walkways, take a boat ride, or do both (boat not included).
• Long Day: Expect about 5.5 hours of travel plus sightseeing, so come prepared for a full day.
• Border Crossing: The trip includes border procedures, which adds some extra time but is part of the adventure.
• Good Value: At $280, it offers a comprehensive experience, though some reviews note the cost might be high for those seeking simpler transport.

In-Depth Review: What to Expect on the Perito Moreno Glacier Tour

The Journey Begins: From Puerto Natales to Los Glaciares National Park

The day kicks off early, with a 6:00 am pickup in Puerto Natales. The transportation is air-conditioned, making the long drive more comfortable. The bus ride is approximately five and a half hours, involving crossing the border at Don Guillermo Pass into Argentina. This border crossing is a notable highlight in itself—an opportunity to experience the Chile-Argentina boundary firsthand. Keep your travel documents handy and be prepared for some waiting time during border procedures.

The scenery en route is captivating — sweeping Patagonia landscapes, rugged mountains, and glimpses of wild terrain. The guide, often reviewed as knowledgeable and friendly, keeps the mood lively and provides context about the region’s geology and wildlife, enhancing the anticipation of reaching the glacier.

The First Glimpses of the Glacier

Once in El Calafate, you’ll be transferred to Los Glaciares National Park, home to the Perito Moreno Glacier. Here, the highlight begins: a walk along over 3 km of well-maintained walkways. These paths are carefully designed to give perspectives from multiple viewpoints, so you can appreciate both the vast scale and intricate details of the ice. Expect to see icefalls over 70 meters tall—a sight that often leaves visitors breathless.

Many reviews praise the organization and the variety of viewpoints. Jacqueline from her review mentions, “Seeing Perito Moreno was an experience of a lifetime,” highlighting how the views from different angles can be quite breathtaking. The walkways are relatively easy to navigate, making it accessible for most travelers.

Optional Activities and Personal Exploration

The tour offers an exciting choice: spend about 30 minutes walking the walkways or opt for a more immersive experience by adding a one-hour boat ride in front of the glacier (not included in the base price). This boat ride is often considered the highlight for those seeking a closer look at the ice formations, with some reviews emphasizing how stunning and memorable this part can be.

If you decide to do the boat, you’ll get a different perspective—seeing the ice’s blue hues up close and the massive ice walls towering overhead. As Estefany notes, “The tour was very well organized, and the boat ride made the experience perfect.” But be aware that the boat ride is an additional cost and requires extra time, so plan accordingly.

The Return Journey and Reflection

After spending time at the park, the group begins its return in the late afternoon, with the drive back taking roughly 5 hours. The tour ends back at the original meeting point in Puerto Natales around late evening, so prepare for a long, but rewarding, day.

What the Tour Does Well

Expert Guide and Organization: Multiple reviews commend the guides for their knowledge and friendly approach. They help make sense of the glacier’s formation and highlight features you might otherwise miss.

Unmatched Views: The walkways provide stunning vistas from various angles, and the opportunity to see ice falls over 70 meters tall keeps the scenery dynamic and dramatic.

Value for Money: For around $280, the tour includes transportation, park entry, and guided insights, giving you a comprehensive experience without the hassle of planning your own trip.

Some Considerations

Long Travel Hours: The extensive bus ride means you’ll spend a significant portion of the day on transportation. If you prefer shorter excursions, this could be tiring.

Border Procedures: Crossing borders can add delays, so patience is key. Make sure your documents are in order.

Limited Guided Commentary During Optional Activities: The boat ride, if taken, might feature minimal narration, so don’t expect detailed commentary unless you opt for additional guided options.

Cost of Extras: The boat ride and food are not included, so budget extra if you want to enhance your experience.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This trip is ideal for travelers who value iconic landscapes and want a well-organized, guided experience. If you’re excited about seeing massive ice formations and don’t mind a long day, you’ll find this tour very rewarding. It’s especially suited for those who appreciate scenic viewpoints and are flexible with optional activities like boat rides.

However, if you’re looking for a quick peek or a less intensive day, this might not be the best fit. The lengthy travel and full-day commitment are significant factors to consider.

The Sum Up: Is This Tour Worth Your Time?

For those who appreciate impressive vistas, expert guides, and the chance to see one of Patagonia’s most famous glaciers, this tour offers excellent value. The multiple viewpoints, combined with the option of a boat ride, provide a well-rounded experience that captures the glacier’s grandeur.

It’s especially suitable for travelers who enjoy organized day trips that take care of logistics, allowing you to focus on the scenery rather than planning details. The long hours are balanced by the quality of views and the opportunity to learn from knowledgeable guides.

On the flip side, if you prefer shorter, less intensive outings or are sensitive to long bus rides, you might want to consider other options or allocate extra time for rest.

In the end, this tour delivers a memorable Patagonia experience—one filled with stunning ice formations, beautiful vistas, and a touch of adventure. It’s a worthwhile choice if you’re eager to tick one of South America’s most spectacular sights off your list.

FAQs

What is the starting time of the tour?
The tour begins at 6:00 am, giving you plenty of time to enjoy the day’s highlights.

How long does the trip take?
The total experience, including travel and sightseeing, lasts approximately 15 hours.

Are meals included?
No, meals are not included. There is a cafeteria near the park entrance where you can buy snacks or drinks.

Is the tour suitable for all travelers?
Most travelers can participate, but be prepared for a full day and long bus ride. Check your comfort with extended travel if needed.

What are the options during the glacier visit?
You can walk the walkways for about 30 minutes or, if you pay extra, take a 1-hour boat ride in front of the glacier for a closer look.

Does the tour include park admission fees?
No, the admission fee to Perito Moreno Glacier is not included and must be paid separately.

Is transportation comfortable?
Yes, the vehicle is air-conditioned, making the long drive more bearable.

Can I cancel or reschedule?
This tour is non-refundable and cannot be changed once booked. If canceled due to weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

This rundown aims to help you determine if this Perito Moreno Glacier tour from Puerto Natales matches your travel style. With stunning views, expert guidance, and options for close-up experiences, it stands out as a memorable way to experience one of Patagonia’s most awe-inspiring sights.