Puerto Natales: Full-Day Transport to Perito Moreno Glacier

Exploring the wonders of Patagonia’s Perito Moreno Glacier is a once-in-a-lifetime experience. Travelers from Puerto Natales can embark on a full-day transport tour, departing early and arriving at the breathtaking site for roughly two hours of exploration. Though the journey is lengthy, the opportunity to witness this dynamic, awe-inspiring natural wonder makes the trek well worth it. With practical logistics and a chance to take in the glacial landscape, this tour promises an unforgettable adventure.

About Your Stay

• This full-day tour from Puerto Natales provides private transportation to the iconic Perito Moreno Glacier, allowing for approximately 2 hours of exploration.
• The tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off, but national park fees and meals are not covered in the starting price of $145 per person.
• Travelers should expect a long journey, with 6 hours of travel each way, which may limit the time available at the glacier.
• The tour is not wheelchair accessible, and those with mobility challenges may find the uneven terrain and walking distances challenging.
• Dining options at the glacier are limited, so travelers are advised to pack their own provisions for the day.

Tour Overview and Details

The tour from Puerto Natales to Perito Moreno Glacier is a long day trip that lasts approximately 12 hours in total, with 6 hours spent traveling each way.

Priced from $145 per person, it includes private transportation with hotel pickup and drop-off in an air-conditioned vehicle. The tour can accommodate up to 44 travelers and departs at 6:30 AM from the meeting point on Arturo Prat 236 in Puerto Natales.

While national park fees aren’t included in the initial cost, travelers get free time to admire the glacier’s views from an observation deck and may opt for a boat trip to get up close.

Transportation and Logistics

For the transportation and logistics of this tour, private transportation with hotel pickup and drop-off is included. Travelers will be provided with an air-conditioned vehicle for the long journey. The tour operates in all weather conditions, so it’s important to dress appropriately. While the national park fees are not included in the initial cost, travelers must carry a current valid passport.

| Transportation | Logistics |

| — | — |

| Private vehicle | Hotel pickup/drop-off |

| Air-conditioned | All weather conditions |

| Included | Passport required |

| Not included | Park fees extra |

Itinerary and Experience

Visitors can expect to visit the iconic Perito Moreno Glacier in one day, with free time allotted to admire the views from an observation deck.

The total time spent at the glacier is approximately 2 hours. Those interested can also opt for a boat trip to get up close to the glacier’s towering walls of ice.

However, the long travel time of 6 hours each way means less overall time to explore the glacier itself.

Travelers should be prepared for the day’s packed itinerary and limited duration at the main attraction.

Customer Feedback and Reviews

Although the tour to Perito Moreno Glacier from Puerto Natales has received an average rating of 3.3 out of 5 from 10 total reviews, travelers have provided a mix of feedback.

Many praised the glacier’s beauty and the comfort of the bus, but criticized the additional costs for park entry and meals.

Several reviewers felt the long travel time left too little time at the glacier itself.

Suggestions include booking multi-day trips for a more immersive experience or staying in El Calafate to better explore the park.

Recommendations for Travelers

The Puerto Natales to Perito Moreno Glacier day trip may be ideal for travelers seeking a convenient way to see the iconic glacier, though they should consider the tradeoffs.

The Puerto Natales to Perito Moreno Glacier day trip may be ideal for convenience, but travelers should weigh the tradeoffs.

While the tour provides transportation and ample time at the glacier, it limits visitors to just 2 hours on-site. Plus, the long travel time of 6 hours each way leaves little room for other activities.

Travelers are advised to pack food and water as options are limited. For a more immersive glacier experience, staying in El Calafate and booking local tours may be a better choice, despite the higher costs.

Ultimately, travelers’ priorities should guide their decision.

Accessibility and Age Restrictions

This tour isn’t wheelchair accessible, and the minimum age requirement is 2 years.

Travelers with mobility limitations may find the tour challenging, as it involves navigating uneven terrain and walking distances at the glacier. The tour isn’t suitable for young children under 2 as well.

Parents should consider their child’s ability to handle the long travel time and outdoor environment.

While the tour provides a convenient way to see the Perito Moreno Glacier, individuals with accessibility needs or families with very young children may want to explore alternative options for a more comfortable experience.

Dining and Sustenance Considerations

Travelers should plan to pack their own food and water for the tour, as options for dining and sustenance are limited.

The long journey to and from the Perito Moreno Glacier leaves little time for meals:

• The nearest restaurants are located in Puerto Natales, over 3 hours away from the glacier site.

• Snacks and light refreshments may be available for purchase at the glacier’s visitor center, but selection is minimal.

• With only 2 hours allocated at the glacier, there’s little time to find and purchase a proper meal.

Alternatives and Extended Stays

While the one-day tour from Puerto Natales to Perito Moreno Glacier may suit some travelers’ needs, many reviewers suggest considering alternative options for a more immersive and rewarding experience.

Staying in the town of El Calafate, just a short drive from the glacier, allows visitors to explore the area at a more leisurely pace.

Staying in El Calafate, just a short drive from the glacier, allows visitors to explore the area at a more leisurely pace.

Local tours from El Calafate often provide better value and flexibility, with opportunities for boat trips, trekking, and multi-day excursions.

For the most comprehensive experience, travelers may want to consider combining a visit to Perito Moreno with additional Patagonian destinations like Torres del Paine National Park.

Questions About Your Stay

Is the Vehicle Equipped With Restroom Facilities?

The vehicle for this tour does not have restroom facilities. Travelers should plan accordingly by using restrooms before departure and during scheduled stops, as the long drive to and from the glacier leaves limited opportunities for unplanned breaks.

Can I Bring and Consume My Own Alcoholic Beverages?

No, the tour operator does not allow passengers to bring and consume their own alcoholic beverages during the trip. The vehicles are not equipped for that, and it’s generally not permitted on organized tours for safety and liability reasons.

Are There Any Safety Risks Associated With the Tour?

The tour operates in all weather conditions, so there are potential safety risks from unpredictable weather and terrain. Travelers should dress appropriately and exercise caution when exploring the glacier area. The tour is generally safe with proper precautions.

Can I Extend My Time at the Glacier Beyond the 2-Hour Limit?

Unfortunately, the tour has a strict 2-hour time limit at the Perito Moreno Glacier. Extending your time there isn’t possible, as the tour operates on a tight schedule to accommodate all travelers and return to the meeting point on time.

Will There Be Any Stops for Sightseeing or Photo Opportunities En Route?

The tour doesn’t include any additional stops for sightseeing or photo opportunities en route to the glacier. The focus is on maximizing time at the Perito Moreno Glacier itself within the 12-hour roundtrip journey.

Final Verdict On This Stay

The full-day transport from Puerto Natales to the Perito Moreno Glacier is a must-do excursion for nature enthusiasts. Travelers can expect a scenic journey, ample time to explore the glacier, and a comfortable ride in an air-conditioned vehicle. While national park fees and meals are additional costs, the tour’s price point makes it an affordable way to witness this natural wonder. For those seeking a day of adventure and breathtaking views, this tour is highly recommended.