El Calafate: Hanging Glaciers, Cascade, and Forest Hike

El Calafate in Patagonia offers an unparalleled adventure for nature enthusiasts. Travelers can embark on a scenic sailing journey through the Canal de los Témpanos, marveling at the majestic Cerro Mayo and Cerro Negro glaciers. The experience includes a guided interpretative walk in Toro Bay, showcasing the region’s diverse flora and fauna, culminating in a rewarding hike to the stunning Negro Glacier. With its hanging glaciers, cascading waterfalls, and lush Patagonian forests, El Calafate promises an extraordinary exploration of the area’s breathtaking landscapes. Intrigued by the possibilities? Dive deeper to uncover the details of this captivating Patagonian adventure.

Key Points

• This 10-hour tour explores the stunning landscapes around El Calafate, including hanging glaciers, Patagonian forests, and cascading waterfalls.
• The tour includes a boat journey through the Canal de los Témpanos and Mayo Branch, offering views of Cerro Mayo and Cerro Negro glaciers.
• Participants will embark on a guided interpretative walk in Toro Bay, exploring the Patagonian Andean forest and its diverse flora and fauna.
• The highlight of the tour is a 1,000-meter hike to the captivating Negro Glacier, providing impressive views of the towering ice formation and surrounding waterfalls.
• The tour is priced from $252.00 per person, with free cancellation available up to 24 hours in advance and a reserve now, pay later option.

You can check if your dates are available here:

Tour Overview and Pricing

The tour package provides an opportunity to explore the stunning landscapes surrounding El Calafate, including hanging glaciers, a captivating cascade, and the verdant Patagonian forest.

Priced from $252.00 per person, the 10-hour excursion offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance and a reserve now, pay later option.

Sailing through the Canal de los Témpanos and Mayo Branch of Argentino Lake, guests will observe Cerro Mayo and Cerro Negro glaciers, embark on a guided interpretative walk in Toro Bay, and visit the impressive Negro Glacier and its waterfalls.

The tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off as well as an onboard guide, with additional costs for the national park entrance fee and any optional photography services.

Itinerary and Experience Highlights

Departing from the hotel, guests embark on a sailing journey through the Canal de los Témpanos and Mayo Branch of Argentino Lake.

Along the way, they observe the majestic Cerro Mayo and Cerro Negro glaciers from the water.

The tour then includes a guided interpretative walk in Toro Bay, where guests explore the Patagonian Andean forest and witness a captivating waterfall.

The highlight is a 1,000-meter hike to the Negro Glacier, with its impressive waterfalls.

Included and Excluded Services

This tour includes pickup and drop-off from the hotel, as well as the day trip itself. A guide is provided on the onboard navigation. However, meals and entrance fees are not included in the tour price. Visitors will need to pay the national park entrance fee, which is approximately $40 USD. Plus, a photography service is available for purchase if desired.

Inclusions	Exclusions
Pickup and drop-off	Meals
Day trip	National park entrance fee
Onboard guide	Photography service

Participant Requirements

Not all travelers may find this tour suitable, as it isn’t wheelchair-accessible.

The tour requires a minimum of 20 participants, and may be canceled if this threshold isn’t met.

Comfortable clothing, closed-toe shoes, and warm layers are recommended, as the Patagonian weather can be unpredictable.

Passengers should also bring their own box lunch, as no food is available on the ship.

While the hikes are considered low-difficulty, a certain level of fitness is necessary to fully enjoy the experience.

Ultimately, this tour caters to adventurous travelers seeking to explore the stunning glaciers, forests, and waterfalls of the Argentinian Patagonia.

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Recommendations for Participants

Comfortable attire and sturdy footwear are essential for participants embarking on this immersive Patagonian adventure.

Bringing along warm clothing and a waterproof jacket is a must, as the weather can be unpredictable. Cash is recommended for any additional expenses, such as the national park entrance fee.

Closed-toe shoes are required for the low-difficulty hikes, ensuring safety and traction on the uneven terrain. Passengers should also remember to pack a box lunch, as no food is provided on the ship.

Following these simple recommendations will help ensure a seamless and enjoyable experience exploring the stunning landscapes of El Calafate.

Customer Reviews and Feedback

Travelers have raved about the seamless organization and small group size of this comprehensive El Calafate tour, praising the knowledgeable guides who brought the Patagonian landscapes to life.

Based on 7 glowing reviews, the tour earns a stellar 5/5 rating. Customers appreciated the clear communication and logistics, which allowed them to fully enjoy the stunning natural wonders of this region.

While some wished for clearer details on the ending at Perito Moreno Glacier and availability of walkways, overall the experience far exceeded expectations, delivering an unforgettable exploration of hanging glaciers, cascades, and the Andean forest.

Departing From El Calafate

To begin the tour, visitors depart from their hotels in El Calafate, a picturesque town nestled along the shores of Lago Argentino in southern Patagonia.

They’re whisked away to the nearby port, where they’ll board a boat for a serene journey through the Canal de los Témpanos and Mayo Branch of Argentino Lake.

Along the way, they’ll catch glimpses of the towering Cerro Mayo and Cerro Negro glaciers rising in the distance.

As they navigate the waterways, they’ll be immersed in the stunning Patagonian landscape, with its rugged peaks, pristine forests, and cascading waterfalls.

• Depart from hotels in El Calafate
• Board a boat at the nearby port
• Sail through the Canal de los Témpanos and Mayo Branch
• Observe the Cerro Mayo and Cerro Negro glaciers
• Immerse in the stunning Patagonian landscape

Exploring Patagonian Landscapes

After sailing across the pristine waters, visitors step onto the shore of Toro Bay, where a guided interpretative walk leads them into the heart of the Patagonian Andean forest. They discover a cascading waterfall and enjoy the verdant landscapes, learning about the diverse flora and fauna from their knowledgeable guide. The hike then continues towards the mighty Negro Glacier, where a 1,000-meter ascent rewards them with breathtaking views of the glacier’s towering ice formations and cascading waterfalls. Throughout the journey, the grandeur of Patagonia unfolds, leaving a lasting impression on all who venture into this remarkable natural wonderland.

Features	Toro Bay	Negro Glacier
Landscape	Patagonian Andean forest	Towering ice formations
Highlights	Cascading waterfall	Cascading waterfalls
Activity	Interpretative walk	1,000-meter hike
Duration	Guided tour	Rewarding vistas
Immersion	Learning about flora and fauna	Experiencing Patagonian grandeur

Frequently Asked Questions

How Experienced Are the Tour Guides?

The tour guides are highly experienced, providing knowledgeable interpretations and commentary throughout the excursion. They’re skilled at leading small groups through the Patagonian landscapes and ensuring a safe, informative, and enjoyable experience for all participants.

Can I Bring My Own Snacks and Drinks?

Yes, passengers are allowed to bring their own snacks and drinks for the tour. The tour information states that passengers must bring their own box lunch, as no food is available on the ship during the excursion.

Is There an Option to Extend the Tour Duration?

The tour doesn’t offer an option to extend the duration, but passengers can choose to spend more time exploring the Perito Moreno Glacier’s walkways on their own after the guided portion of the tour.

Are There Any Discounts Available for Large Groups?

The tour provider doesn’t offer any group discounts. However, they may consider providing a discount for large groups of 10 or more participants if requested in advance. Travelers should inquire about any special group pricing when making their booking.

Do I Need Any Special Permits or Licenses to Participate?

The tour doesn’t require any special permits or licenses. Participants just need to bring their own personal items and follow the guide’s instructions during the hike and activities. No additional paperwork or documentation is needed to join the tour.

Recap

El Calafate’s extraordinary adventure offers a scenic sailing journey through the Canal de los Témpanos, showcasing the majestic Cerro Mayo and Cerro Negro glaciers. The guided interpretative walk in Toro Bay and the rewarding hike to the Negro Glacier provide breathtaking views of Patagonia’s towering ice formations and enchanting natural beauty, making this a must-visit destination for nature enthusiasts.

You can check if your dates are available here: