Perito Moreno Glacier is one of the most spectacular natural attractions in South America and the highlight of many trips to Argentine Patagonia. Located within Los Glaciares National Park, this immense glacier is one of the few in the world that continues to advance, creating dramatic icefalls and unforgettable landscapes.
This full-day excursion from El Calafate offers a comfortable and hassle-free way to experience the glacier from multiple viewpoints. After a scenic drive through the Patagonian steppe, you’ll arrive at the national park and enjoy several hours exploring the extensive network of boardwalks that overlook the glacier’s towering ice wall.
The walkways are designed to provide panoramic views from different elevations, allowing visitors to appreciate the glacier’s immense size, vivid blue tones, and constantly changing ice formations. Throughout the visit, you may witness enormous blocks of ice breaking away from the glacier and crashing into the waters below.
For an even closer look, you can upgrade your experience with an optional boat cruise. Sailing across Lago Argentino, you’ll approach the glacier’s southern face and enjoy a unique perspective that cannot be experienced from the viewing platforms alone.
Whether you choose the classic tour or add the boat excursion, this is one of Patagonia’s most memorable experiences and an essential stop for nature lovers visiting El Calafate.
Main Highlights of the Perito Moreno Glacier Tour
Explore the Perito Moreno Glacier Boardwalks
Walk along a network of panoramic viewing platforms designed to showcase different angles of the glacier. The various levels offer constantly changing perspectives and excellent photo opportunities.
Witness Ice Calving Events
One of the glacier’s most impressive features is its constant movement. With a bit of luck, you’ll see huge chunks of ice breaking away and crashing into the lake below, creating a dramatic natural spectacle.
Visit Los Glaciares National Park
Discover one of Argentina’s most famous national parks, home to glaciers, lakes, mountains, and some of Patagonia’s most remarkable landscapes.
Upgrade with an Optional Boat Cruise
Get closer to the glacier aboard a sightseeing boat that navigates the waters of Lago Argentino. From the water, the scale of the ice wall becomes even more impressive.
Enjoy Stunning Patagonian Scenery
The journey from El Calafate to the glacier passes through classic Patagonian landscapes, offering views of forests, mountains, lakes, and open steppe.
Experience One of the World’s Most Accessible Glaciers
Unlike many glaciers that require strenuous trekking to reach, Perito Moreno can be admired from excellent viewpoints suitable for a wide range of visitors.
Tips to Enjoy the Experience
- Start at the lower walkways first. These platforms place you closer to the glacier face and often provide the most dramatic perspective before moving to the higher panoramic viewpoints.
- Listen carefully for cracking sounds. Ice calving can happen unexpectedly, and the loud cracking noises are often the first sign that a section of the glacier is about to collapse.
- Bring snacks and water from El Calafate. The facilities inside the park can become busy, especially during peak travel periods.
- Consider adding the boat cruise if it’s your first visit. The walkways provide excellent views, but the boat offers a completely different perspective and a better sense of the glacier’s immense scale.
- Wear layers regardless of the season. Temperatures near the glacier can feel significantly colder than in El Calafate, especially when standing at exposed viewpoints.
- Allow extra time at the main viewing balconies. Many visitors rush through the boardwalks, but staying longer often increases your chances of witnessing icefalls.
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FAQs
How long does the tour last?
The excursion lasts approximately 8 hours, including transportation from El Calafate and free time at the glacier.
Is the entrance fee to Los Glaciares National Park included?
Depending on the booking option, the entrance fee may need to be purchased separately. Be sure to check the conditions of your selected tour.
How much time will I have at the glacier?
Most tours allow around 3 hours to explore the boardwalks and enjoy the different viewpoints.
Is the boat cruise included?
The boat cruise is only included if you select the option that specifically includes the navigation experience.
Is hiking required?
No. The tour mainly consists of walking along well-maintained boardwalks and viewing platforms.
Can I see ice breaking off the glacier?
Yes. Perito Moreno is famous for its active ice calving, although the timing and frequency of these events vary throughout the day.
Is the tour suitable for children and older travelers?
Yes. The boardwalk system makes the glacier accessible to a wide range of visitors without requiring strenuous physical activity.
