Perito Moreno Glacier Day Trip With Optional Boat Ride

Witness the grandeur of one of the few remaining advancing glaciers in the world – the Perito Moreno Glacier. This day trip to Los Glaciares National Park offers visitors an up-close look at the glacier’s towering ice walls and the chance to see calving events, where massive chunks of ice break off and crash into the turquoise waters below. With the optional boat ride, you can get even closer to the glacier’s impressive 196-foot face. Whether you’re a nature lover or an adventure seeker, this excursion promises an unforgettable experience that will leave you in awe of nature’s power and beauty.

Key Points

• Full-day guided tour from El Calafate to explore the UNESCO-listed Perito Moreno Glacier, including scenic lookouts and optional boat ride for close-up glacier views.
• Comfortable coach transportation with stops at alpine viewpoints, followed by guided explorations along wooden walkways and hiking trails in the national park.
• Optional boat ride sails among floating ice chunks for a unique perspective of the glacier’s 196-foot vertical face and opportunities to witness calving events.
• Tour includes national park entrance fee, local professional guide, and hotel pickup/drop-off, while food and drinks are at the traveler’s own expense.
• Overall positive reviews highlight the tour’s excellent guides and stunning glacier views, though some found it overpriced compared to similar services.

Tour Overview and Highlights

The full-day trip from El Calafate to Perito Moreno Glacier in Los Glaciares National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, offers visitors a chance to witness the stunning natural wonder of this advancing 19-mile (30-km) glacier.

Scenic lookouts and walkways allow for viewing the glacier from multiple angles. An optional boat ride provides close-up views of the glacier’s 196-foot (60-meter) vertical face.

Throughout the experience, a guide shares insights into the park’s geology, flora, and fauna. Visitors can also watch for dramatic calving events as massive chunks of ice break off and fall into Lago Argentino.

Itinerary and Experience

After pickup from centrally located hotels in El Calafate, visitors embark on a comfortable coach ride with stops at scenic alpine lookouts.

The first panoramic view awaits at the Curve of Sighs, showcasing the advancing 19-mile (30-km) Perito Moreno Glacier.

Guided explorations along wooden walkways and hiking trails provide opportunities to learn about the park’s geology, flora, and fauna.

Guided explorations along wooden walkways and hiking trails offer insights into the park’s geology, flora, and fauna.

Visitors can enjoy a lunch break at the park restaurant or with their own refreshments.

Finally, the coach transports guests back to El Calafate after the unforgettable glacier visit.

Optional Boat Ride Details

After the Curve of Sighs, visitors can opt for an optional boat ride at Bajo Las Sombras port.

The boat sail takes travelers between floating ice chunks on Lago Argentino, offering a unique perspective of the glacier. As the boat approaches the 196-foot (60-meter) vertical face of Perito Moreno, visitors can observe the impressive size and power of the ice mass.

The boat also stops at a footbridge, providing additional views and the chance to witness the awe-inspiring sight of ice calving from the glacier’s edge.

Inclusions and Practical Information

The Perito Moreno Glacier day trip includes the National Park entrance fee, a local professional tour guide, hotel pick-up and drop-off, and air-conditioned transportation.

Food and drinks are at your own expense. The tour size is limited to a maximum of 35 travelers.

It’s recommended to wear warm clothing, comfortable shoes, and bring water and snacks.

The National Park entrance fee must be paid in cash (Argentine pesos).

Some travelers found the experience overpriced compared to similar services, and it may be more cost-effective to consider a self-guided visit with a rental car.

Traveler Reviews and Recommendations

Travelers have provided largely positive reviews for the Perito Moreno Glacier day trip. Highlights include the excellent guides, smooth logistics, and stunning views of the glacier.

Some travelers, however, felt the experience was overpriced compared to similar services. Suggestions for improvement include providing more detailed geological information during the tour.

For budget-conscious visitors, recommendations are to consider self-guided visits with a rental car to save costs.

Despite a few minor criticisms, the Perito Moreno Glacier tour remains a popular and memorable way to witness the grandeur of this natural wonder.

The Stunning Perito Moreno Glacier

Perito Moreno Glacier, a colossal ice mass in the heart of Los Glaciares National Park, is a sight to behold.

This 19-mile (30-km) glacier towers over the tranquil Lago Argentino, its massive 196-foot (60-meter) vertical face a testament to nature’s raw power.

Visitors marvel at the glacier’s slow but relentless advance, watching in awe as large chunks of ice break off and plunge into the lake.

Walking along the network of boardwalks and trails, travelers gain unparalleled views of the glacier’s scale and beauty.

The optional boat ride offers an even more immersive experience, bringing visitors face-to-face with this natural wonder.

Exploring Los Glaciares National Park

Nestled within the breathtaking landscapes of southern Patagonia, Los Glaciares National Park is a UNESCO World Heritage site that captivates visitors with its dramatic glacial formations and serene alpine scenery.

The highlight of any visit is the awe-inspiring Perito Moreno Glacier, a massive ice river that calves massive chunks of ice into the tranquil waters of Lago Argentino.

The awe-inspiring Perito Moreno Glacier, a massive ice river that calves massive chunks of ice into the tranquil waters of Lago Argentino.

Guided tours provide access to scenic lookouts and walking trails, offering panoramic views of the glacier’s sheer 196-foot face.

For the truly adventurous, an optional boat tour allows for an up-close encounter with the glacier’s icy grandeur.

Preparing for Your Glacier Adventure

While planning a trip to Perito Moreno Glacier in Los Glaciares National Park, it’s important to consider the necessary preparations to ensure a smooth and enjoyable experience.

Visitors should dress warmly in layers, wear comfortable walking shoes, and bring water and snacks. The park entrance fee must be paid in cash (Argentine pesos), so be sure to have the correct currency on hand.

Plus, the optional boat ride requires an extra fee, which can be booked in advance or on-site. Knowing these practical details ahead of time will help travelers make the most of their glacier adventure.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the Tour Suitable for Children?

The tour is generally suitable for children, though the long day and boat ride may not be ideal for young kids. Families should consider the child’s age and stamina when booking to ensure a comfortable experience.

Can I Cancel or Reschedule the Tour?

The tour provider generally allows cancellations or rescheduling, though fees may apply. It’s best to check the tour’s policies and contact the provider as soon as possible if changes are needed.

Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks?

Yes, travelers can bring their own food and drinks. The tour includes the national park entrance fee, but any meals or refreshments are at the traveler’s own expense during the visit.

Is There a Minimum Number of Participants Required?

The tour has no minimum number of participants required. The maximum group size is 35 travelers, allowing for a personalized experience. Visitors are free to bring their own food and drinks as desired.

How Long in Advance Should I Book the Tour?

It’s recommended to book the tour at least a few days in advance, as spots can fill up quickly, especially during peak seasons. This allows you to secure your preferred date and time.

The Sum Up

The Perito Moreno Glacier Day Trip offers an unforgettable journey through Los Glaciares National Park. With guided walkways, stunning vistas, and an optional boat ride, this tour provides unparalleled access to one of the world’s most impressive glaciers. Whether you’re a nature enthusiast or an adventure seeker, this experience is a must-do for anyone visiting the region.