El Calafate: Minitrekking in the Perito Moreno Glacier
Los Glaciares National Park, Argentina
Discover the Perito Moreno Glacier. Hike the trails and marvel at the ice wall from multiple viewpoints. An optional boat ride gives you an even closer view.
Perito Moreno Glacier Trekking from El Calafate
Experience a guided ice trek on the Perito Moreno Glacier in Argentine Patagonia, ideal for active travelers seeking natural exploration.
Highlights
- Trek on the Perito Moreno Glacier with expert guides
- Includes panoramic visit to the famous glacier walkways
- Three hours of adventure across ice, forest, and mountains
- Navigation across Lago Rico with views of the glacier’s south face
Description
The excursion starts in El Calafate with a transfer to Los Glaciares National Park, where guides share detailed information about the glacier and surroundings. At 'Bajo de las Sombras' port, you board a 20-minute boat crossing Lago Rico, offering views of the Perito Moreno Glacier’s south face.
Mountain guides welcome you upon arrival and lead you to a shelter overlooking the glacier. The trekking begins with a walk along the lake’s coast, potentially witnessing ice falls, complemented by an introductory talk on glaciology.
Equipped with crampons and helmets, small groups (max 20 per guide) explore the glacier’s formations, including crevasses, seracs, and turquoise lagoons. The moderately difficult trek offers an immersive experience of the glacier’s scale.
The route continues through the periglacial zone and lateral moraine, offering panoramic views of ice walls, Lake Argentino, and the Andes. The trek concludes with a walk through the Patagonian forest back to the shelter, where a hot drink and souvenir await. Return boat transfer provides final glacier views.
The tour also includes a one-hour visit to the Perito Moreno Glacier walkways, located 7 km from the port. Here, visitors enjoy panoramic perspectives and self-guided trails near the glacier.
Includes
- Hotel pickup and drop-off (optional with transfer-inclusive option)
- Bilingual guide (Spanish/English)
- One hour of glacier trekking
- 20 minutes navigation to the glacier (one way)
- 30 minutes navigation return
- One hour free time on the glacier walkways (with transfer-inclusive option)
Excludes
- National park entrance fee
- Food and drinks
- Transfers if choosing the Mini Trekking option without transfer
Important Information
- Total duration: 10 hours (includes transfers and trekking)
- Glacier trekking time: approximately 1 hour
- Difficulty level: Moderate
- Daily departures available (check schedules before booking)
Cancellation Policy
Cancel up to 3 days in advance for a full refund.
For the best experience, dress in layered clothing, wear sturdy shoes, and bring sun protection. Booking in advance is recommended, especially during peak season.
