El Calafate: Perito Moreno Glacier Big Ice Trek

The Perito Moreno Glacier in El Calafate, Argentina, is one of the world’s most captivating natural wonders. The Big Ice Trek offers adventurous travelers an unparalleled opportunity to explore this stunning glacial landscape up close. With a scenic sail across the Rico Channel and a guided trek on the glacier itself, participants can enjoy the awe-inspiring beauty of this natural marvel. From navigating the intricate ice formations to learning about the glacier’s unique history, this unforgettable experience promises to leave a lasting impression on those who dare to embark on this thrilling journey.

Key Points

• The Perito Moreno Glacier Big Ice Trek is a 12-hour excursion from El Calafate that includes a 1.5-hour guided hike and 4 hours of trekking on the glacier.
• The trek is limited to a maximum of 10 participants to ensure a personalized experience, with knowledgeable guides available in English and Spanish.
• The starting price for the trek is $591.00 per person, with a flexible booking policy and a full refund for cancellations up to 24 hours in advance.
• Participants must be in good physical condition, between the ages of 18-50, and provide medical records as the trek is not suitable for pregnant women or those with mobility/health issues.
• The trek includes hotel pickup, sailing across Rico Channel, and all necessary hiking equipment, but excludes food, drinks, and personal expenses.

You can check if your dates are available here:

Overview of the Glacier Trek

The Perito Moreno Glacier Trek offers adventurous travelers an unparalleled opportunity to explore one of Patagonia’s most magnificent natural wonders.

This 12-hour excursion from El Calafate takes participants on a journey across the glacier’s icy expanse. After a 1.5-hour guided hike, adventurers will spend 4 hours trekking on the ice using crampons, marveling at the glacier’s intricate ice formations and learning about the local flora, fauna, and glaciology.

With a small group size limited to 10 participants, this activity ensures a personalized and immersive experience, led by knowledgeable guides available in both English and Spanish.

Pricing and Booking Details

The price for the Perito Moreno Glacier Trek starts from $591.00 per person.

The tour operator offers flexible booking, allowing visitors to reserve now and pay later. Plus, they provide a full refund for cancellations up to 24 hours in advance.

To complete the booking, the operator requires the following information:

1. Full name
2. ID or passport details
3. Nationality
4. Medical records to ensure the trek is suitable for the participant’s fitness level.

The tour is limited to 10 participants, ensuring a small group experience with English and Spanish-speaking guides.

Itinerary and Activities

Participants begin the day with pickup from centrally located hotels in El Calafate.

They’ll sail across Rico Channel to reach the Perito Moreno Glacier. After a 1.5-hour guided hike to the glacier’s edge, they’ll spend 4 hours trekking on the ice with the aid of crampons.

During the ice trek, they’ll admire the stunning ice formations and learn about the local flora, fauna, and glaciology from their knowledgeable guides.

The tour concludes with a return to Bajo de las Sombras Port, where participants can enjoy views of the glacier from the walkways before heading back to El Calafate.

Gear and Preparation

Proper hiking gear and adequate preparation are essential for participants to fully enjoy the Big Ice Trek across Perito Moreno Glacier.

The tour organizers recommend packing the following essentials:

1. Sturdy, waterproof hiking boots with good traction
2. Warm, layered clothing that can withstand the chilly glacier environment
3. Sun protection, such as sunglasses, a hat, and sunscreen
4. A small backpack or daypack to carry personal items

Confirmation of the start time is sent via email the day before the tour, and medical records are required for the reservation.

The activity is suitable for participants between the ages of 18 and 50 who are in good physical condition.

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Suitability and Restrictions

According to the information provided, the Big Ice Trek across Perito Moreno Glacier isn’t suitable for everyone.

The activity is only open to individuals aged 18-50 with good physical condition. Pregnant women, those with mobility or health issues, children under 18, and those with low fitness levels aren’t permitted to participate. Medical records are required for reservation.

This is an active, strenuous hike, with 4 hours spent trekking on the glacier itself. Participants must be able to handle the demands of the trek and wear the provided equipment like crampons.

The operator has set these restrictions to ensure the safety and enjoyment of all guests.

Tour Inclusions and Exclusions

The Big Ice Trek across Perito Moreno Glacier includes a comprehensive package of services and equipment.

The tour includes:

• Hotel pickup and drop-off in El Calafate
• Sailing across Rico Channel to reach the glacier
• 3 hours of guided trekking in the forest and 4 hours of hiking on the glacier
• All necessary hiking equipment, including crampons

However, the tour excludes food, drinks, personal expenses, and tips.

It’s also important to note that the activity isn’t suitable for pregnant women, individuals with mobility or health issues, children under 18, or those with low fitness levels.

Glacier Trekking Experience

Trekking across the majestic Perito Moreno Glacier is a once-in-a-lifetime experience.

After a 1.5-hour guided hike to the glacier, adventurers don crampons and embark on a 4-hour trek on the ice.

Along the way, they’ll marvel at the glacier’s stunning ice formations and learn about the local flora, fauna, and glaciology from knowledgeable guides.

The small group size ensures a personalized and immersive experience.

Participants can expect to return to El Calafate with a newfound appreciation for the raw power and beauty of this natural wonder, having enjoyed a thrilling day on one of the world’s most impressive glaciers.

Customer Feedback and Reviews

How does the Big Ice Trek on Perito Moreno Glacier fare in the eyes of past participants? The activity boasts an impressive 4.9/5 rating based on 44 reviews, indicating overwhelming satisfaction among previous travelers.

Guests have consistently praised the professionalism and expertise of the guides, as well as the seamless organization of the experience.

Key highlights from customer feedback include:

1. "The glacier trek was a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to witness the sheer beauty and power of Perito Moreno."
2. "Our guide was incredibly knowledgeable, making the hike both informative and thrilling."
3. "The small group size allowed for a personalized and intimate experience on the ice."
4. "This was the highlight of our trip to El Calafate – we can’t recommend it enough!"

Frequently Asked Questions

What Is the Minimum Age Requirement for This Activity?

The minimum age requirement for this activity is 18. The information states that the activity is "not suitable for… children under 18."

Do I Need to Have Any Prior Glacier Trekking Experience?

No, prior glacier trekking experience is not required. The activity is suitable for ages 18-50 with good physical condition, and guides provide necessary equipment and training to safely explore the glacier.

Is There an Option for a Private or Custom Group Tour?

There doesn’t appear to be an option for a private or custom group tour based on the information provided. The experience is offered as a small group tour limited to 10 participants.

Can I Rent Any Additional Gear for the Hike?

Yes, additional gear like waterproof jackets, boots, and trekking poles can be rented from the tour operator. The rental equipment helps ensure participants are prepared for the challenging glacier hike.

What Is the Cancellation Policy for This Activity?

The activity offers a flexible booking policy, allowing full refunds for cancellations up to 24 hours in advance. Customers can reserve now and pay later, providing convenient and hassle-free planning.

Recap

The Perito Moreno Glacier Big Ice Trek in El Calafate offers an unforgettable adventure. Participants can enjoy a scenic sail, a guided hike to the glacier’s edge, and hours of exploring the stunning ice formations. With knowledgeable guides and a small group size, this experience provides a unique opportunity to appreciate the beauty and power of one of nature’s most magnificent wonders.

You can check if your dates are available here: