El Calafate: All Glaciers Boat Trip

Exploring the breathtaking landscapes of Argentino Lake in El Calafate, the All Glaciers Boat Trip offers a captivating 9-hour excursion. Guests will witness the magnificent Upsala and Spegazzini glaciers up close, while enjoying the scenic boat ride and ample opportunities for hiking and photography. With hotel pickup included and an optional 3-course lunch, this adventure caters to nature lovers and photography enthusiasts alike. The experience promises to leave a lasting impression, but there’s more to uncover about this remarkable journey through Patagonia’s stunning wilderness.

This experience made our list of the 25 Best Cruises And Boat Tours In El Calafate.

Key Points

• The 9-hour excursion explores the glaciers and landscapes of Argentino Lake, offering close-up views of the Upsala and Spegazzini glaciers.
• The tour includes hotel pickup, a boat trip, and a bilingual guide, with an optional 3-course lunch available at the Spegazzini Refuge.
• Guests can enjoy scenic hikes through Patagonian nature and have ample opportunities for photography throughout the journey.
• The tour is priced at $201 per person, with a "reserve now, pay later" option and a full refund available for cancellations up to 24 hours prior.
• Pickup is provided from El Calafate accommodations, and the tour departs Punta Bandera Port at 9 AM, ensuring a punctual and organized experience.

You can check if your dates are available here:

Tour Overview and Pricing

The El Calafate All Glaciers Boat Trip is a 9-hour excursion that allows visitors to explore the stunning glaciers and landscapes of Argentino Lake.

Priced at $201 per person, the tour includes hotel pickup, a boat ride departing from Punta Bandera Port, and a bilingual guide.

Reservations can be made in advance with a "reserve now, pay later" option available. Guests also have the flexibility to cancel up to 24 hours prior to the tour for a full refund.

With this comprehensive boat trip, travelers can witness the impressive Upsala and Spegazzini glaciers up close, surrounded by the breathtaking Patagonian scenery.

Itinerary and Experience

The boat trip begins with hotel pickups starting at 7 AM from accommodations in El Calafate.

The boat departs Punta Bandera Port at 9 AM, sailing through the north arm of Argentino Lake, Boca del Diablo, Upsala and Spegazzini channels.

Passengers will have the opportunity to:

1. Marvel at the Upsala Glacier, the largest on Argentino Lake.
2. Admire the towering Spegazzini Glacier, the highest in the region.
3. Explore Patagonian nature and hike through scenic viewpoints.
4. Enjoy a 3-course lunch at the Spegazzini Refuge (optional).

The boat trip provides an immersive experience, allowing visitors to witness the grandeur of these magnificent glaciers while surrounded by the stunning Patagonian landscape.

Inclusions and Additional Costs

As part of the El Calafate All Glaciers Boat Trip, a number of inclusions are provided to guests. These include hotel pickup and drop-off, the boat trip itself, and a bilingual guide to enhance the experience.

Guests also have the option to select the Captains Club package, which includes a 3-course lunch at the Spegazzini Refuge.

However, the entry fee to Los Glaciares National Park isn’t covered and must be paid separately. This fee can be paid in cash or with a Visa card in Argentine pesos, though Mastercard isn’t accepted.

Visitors should come prepared with the necessary funds to cover this additional cost.

Customer Reviews and Feedback

Overwhelmingly positive reviews from past participants have cemented the El Calafate All Glaciers Boat Trip’s reputation as a must-do activity.

With an impressive 4.6/5 rating based on 180 reviews, the trip consistently delights travelers.

Key highlights include:

1. Friendly and knowledgeable staff who enhance the experience.
2. Breathtaking views of the Upsala and Spegazzini glaciers.
3. Ample time for photo opportunities to capture the stunning Patagonian scenery.
4. Good value for money, despite the additional costs for park entry.

While a few reviewers noted overcrowding in the Captains Club and limited cafeteria options, the overwhelmingly positive feedback underscores the boat trip’s ability to deliver an unforgettable Patagonian adventure.

More Great Thing To Do Nearby

Important Information

Passport or ID and cash are essential items to bring along on the El Calafate All Glaciers Boat Trip.

Guests should plan for park entry fees, which are payable in Argentine pesos, either in cash or by Visa card. It’s important to note that Mastercard isn’t accepted for the National Park fee.

For those staying in private apartments, the closest meeting point will be provided for pickup.

Plus, the tour guides are highly rated at 4.7/5, while the transportation scores 4.6/5.

Pickup and Transportation

The El Calafate All Glaciers Boat Trip commences with a hotel pickup starting at 7 AM, ensuring a seamless start to the day’s adventure. Guests will then make their way to the Punta Bandera Port, where the boat departs at 9 AM.

The tour offers several convenient transportation options:

1. Private apartments: The closest meeting point will be provided for those staying in private accommodations.
2. Shared transportation: Pickup is available from hotels across El Calafate, allowing for a hassle-free journey.
3. Bilingual guides: Knowledgeable guides accompany the group throughout the trip, providing valuable insights.
4. Timely departures: The tour adheres to a punctual schedule, ensuring a seamless experience from start to finish.

Activity Duration and Departure

The El Calafate All Glaciers Boat Trip is a comprehensive 9-hour excursion that allows visitors to enjoy the breathtaking landscapes of Patagonia.

The journey begins with a 7 AM pickup from hotels in El Calafate, followed by a 2-hour boat ride departing from Punta Bandera Port at 9 AM.

The route takes passengers through the North arm of Argentino Lake, Boca del Diablo, Upsala and Spegazzini channels, providing stunning views of the Upsala Glacier, the largest on Argentino Lake, and the towering Spegazzini Glacier.

Throughout the trip, travelers can explore Patagonian nature, enjoy an optional 3-course lunch at Spegazzini Refuge, and hike along designated paths with breathtaking viewpoints.

Glacier Viewing and Activities

Visitors can enjoy the splendor of two of Patagonia’s most impressive glaciers on this boat excursion. The first stop is Upsala Glacier, the largest on Argentino Lake, followed by a visit to Spegazzini Glacier, the highest in the region.

Passengers can:

1. Appreciate the sheer scale and majestic beauty of these ice formations from the boat.
2. Disembark at Spegazzini Refuge for a short hike and panoramic viewpoints.
3. Opt for a 3-course lunch at the refuge, surrounded by the stunning Patagonian landscape.
4. Explore hiking paths and take in the rugged natural wonders of the area.

The excursion provides ample opportunities to capture unforgettable photographs and create lasting memories of these iconic Patagonian glaciers.

Frequently Asked Questions

What Is the Maximum Group Size for This Tour?

The maximum group size for this tour is not explicitly stated in the provided information. The details focus on the overall itinerary, inclusions, and reviews, without specifying the group capacity.

Are There Any Age Restrictions or Requirements for Children?

According to the tour overview, there are no age restrictions or requirements for children on this boat trip. The tour is suitable for all ages, making it a family-friendly activity.

Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks on the Boat?

Passengers can bring their own food and drinks on the boat. However, there are also on-board catering options available for purchase if desired. The tour operator encourages travelers to be self-sufficient and pack any necessary sustenance.

How Stable and Comfortable Are the Boats Used for the Tour?

The boats used for the tour are described as stable and comfortable. They provide ample space for passengers to move around and take in the breathtaking views of the glaciers without feeling cramped or unstable.

Is There an Option to Extend the Duration of the Tour?

There is no information provided about extending the duration of the tour. The package details indicate a fixed 9-hour tour, so there doesn’t appear to be an option to lengthen the experience beyond the standard itinerary.

Recap

The El Calafate All Glaciers Boat Trip offers an exhilarating way to explore the stunning Patagonian landscapes. With the opportunity to witness the grandeur of the Upsala and Spegazzini glaciers up close, this excursion caters to nature enthusiasts and photography lovers alike. The inclusion of hotel pickup and an optional lunch further enhances the overall experience, making it a must-do activity for visitors to the region.

You can check if your dates are available here: