Situated in the Patagonian region of Argentina, El Calafate is a captivating destination that draws visitors from around the world. At the heart of this natural wonder lies the Perito Moreno Glacier, a magnificent ice formation that has captured the imaginations of travelers for decades. The Perito Moreno Glacier Mini Trek offers an unparalleled opportunity to explore this awe-inspiring wonder up close, immersing oneself in the stunning ice formations and breathtaking vistas that have made this glacier a must-see attraction. With a range of flexible booking options and experienced bilingual guides, this tour promises an unforgettable adventure that will leave you yearning to uncover more of El Calafate’s enchanting landscapes.
Key Points
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This 10-hour tour from Bajo de la Sombra Port includes a 40-minute walk to the Perito Moreno Glacier and a 2-hour guided ice trek.
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The tour is priced at $377 per person with a maximum group size of 10, allowing for an intimate and immersive glacier experience.
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Experienced bilingual guides conduct the tour in both Spanish and English, catering to diverse language preferences.
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The flexible cancellation policy offers full refunds up to 24 hours in advance, and a "reserve now, pay later" option is available.
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The tour is suitable for participants aged 8 to 65 years, but certain health conditions may disqualify individuals from the ice trek.
Tour Overview
The Perito Moreno Glacier Mini Trek is a comprehensive day tour that takes visitors on an unforgettable exploration of one of Patagonia’s most iconic natural wonders.
Lasting 10 hours, the tour departs from the Bajo de la Sombra Port and transports participants to the glacier, located just 5 miles away.
Guests then embark on a 40-minute walk across the Rico Arm to reach the glacier’s edge, followed by a boat ride across Brazo Rico and a 20-minute trek to the ice.
The highlight is a guided 2-hour ice trek, where participants can witness the glacier’s magnificent ice formations, diverse flora and fauna, and the awe-inspiring glacier rupture phenomenon.
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Pricing and Duration
How much does the Perito Moreno Glacier Mini Trek tour cost, and how long does it last?
The tour costs from $377.00 per person and lasts 10 hours in total. It’s a small-group experience, with a maximum of 10 participants.
The tour is offered in both Spanish and English. Travelers can take advantage of the free cancellation policy up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.
There’s also a reserve now, pay later option available.
The tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off, a guided ice trek on the glacier lasting around 2 hours, a boat ride, and access to the glacier’s footbridges.
Lunch isn’t included, and participants must bring their own food and drinks.
Group Size and Languages
With a maximum group size of 10 participants, the Perito Moreno Glacier Mini Trek offers an intimate and personalized experience.
This small-group setting ensures that visitors receive attentive guidance from the experienced bilingual guides, who conduct the tour in both Spanish and English.
The limited group size also allows for easier navigation and more opportunities for guests to ask questions and engage with the surroundings.
Whether you’re seeking an immersive glacier adventure or simply want to avoid the crowds, the Perito Moreno Glacier Mini Trek provides a tailored and memorable experience for a select few.
Cancellation and Payment Options
Conveniently, El Calafate tour operators offer a flexible cancellation policy, allowing travelers to receive a full refund if they cancel their Perito Moreno Glacier Mini Trek booking up to 24 hours in advance.
On top of that, a "reserve now & pay later" option is available, providing added convenience and flexibility for those planning their Patagonian adventure.
The tour’s pricing is set at an accessible $377 per person, offering good value for the immersive 10-hour experience.
Payments can be made via Argentinian pesos or Visa card, ensuring a seamless transaction process.
- ✨ Hassle-free cancellations up to 24 hours prior
- 🤸 Flexible "reserve now & pay later" option
- 🤩 Competitively priced at $377 per person
- 💳 Accepts Argentinian pesos and Visa card
Itinerary and Activities
The Perito Moreno Glacier Mini Trek begins with a departure from Bajo de la Sombra Port, situated just 5 miles away from the iconic glacier.
Participants will embark on a 40-minute walk across the Rico Arm to reach the glacier. Next, they’ll take a boat ride across Brazo Rico to the west coast, followed by a 20-minute walk to the glacier.
The guided ice trek lasts approximately 2 hours, allowing visitors to experience the awe-inspiring ice formations, flora, fauna, and the mesmerizing glacier rupture phenomenon.
After the trek, you will return through the Magellanic forest and enjoy lunch with glacier views.
Here are more great tours and experiences we've reviewed in El Calafate
- Excursion to the Perito Moreno Glacier, With Guide and Transfer To/From the Hotel
- Perito Moreno Full Day Minitrekking With Transfer and Walkways
- El Calafate: Perito Moreno Glacier Mini Trek With Transfer
- Perito Moreno: Private Driver From El Calafate
- El Calafate: Laguna De Los Tres Transfer & Self-Guided Hike
- El Calafate: Laguna De Los Tres Transfer & Self-Guided Hike
Age Limit and Health Requirements
According to the information provided, the Perito Moreno Glacier Mini Trek has an age limit of 8 to 65 years old.
The tour isn’t suitable for individuals with:
- Reduced mobility
- Pregnancy
- Certain health issues like arthritis or heart problems
This is likely to ensure the safety and comfort of all participants during the 2-hour guided ice trek.
Guests should consider their physical abilities before booking the tour.
The operator takes precautions to create an enjoyable experience for those within the specified age range and health requirements.
Inclusions and Exclusions
The Perito Moreno Glacier Mini Trek includes hotel pickup and drop-off, a professional guide, a boat ride, and ice walking crampons.
Participants will also get to visit the glacier’s footbridges. However, lunch isn’t included, so travelers must bring their own food and drinks.
Plus, the entrance fee to Los Glaciares National Park isn’t covered in the tour price and must be paid upon arrival, either in Argentinian Pesos or by Visa card.
Gratuities for the guide are included, so there’s no need to worry about tipping.
Customer Feedback and Ratings
Customers have given the Perito Moreno Glacier Mini Trek tour an overall rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars based on 25 reviews.
The ratings breakdown indicates:
- Transportation was highly praised at 4.7/5.
- Value for money received a solid 4.2/5 rating.
- Service and organization both earned perfect 5/5 scores.
Feedback highlights positive experiences with knowledgeable guides, though some customers expressed concerns about the group size and overall organization.
There were also mixed opinions on the pricing versus the local economic impact.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Combine This Tour With Other Activities in the Area?
Yes, you can combine this Perito Moreno Glacier mini trek with other activities in the area. Many visitors also explore El Calafate, hike in nearby national parks, or visit the Upsala Glacier during their trip.
What Is the Best Camera Equipment to Bring for Photographing the Glacier?
For photographing the glacier, it’s best to bring a DSLR camera with a wide-angle lens and a telephoto lens. A tripod can also be helpful to capture clear shots, especially in low-light conditions.
Is There Any Flexibility in the Start Time of the Tour?
According to the tour details, there’s some flexibility in the start time – it’s scheduled between 7 AM and 3 PM, but the exact time is confirmed via WhatsApp the day before the tour.
How Does the Weather Typically Impact the Tour Experience?
The weather can significantly impact the tour experience. Sunny, clear conditions allow for optimal views and photography, while rain, wind, or snow may limit some activities and make hiking more challenging. Guides adjust the itinerary as needed to ensure guest safety and satisfaction.
Are There Any Options to Customize the Tour for My Specific Needs?
Customers can inquire about customizing the tour to accommodate their specific needs, such as dietary restrictions or mobility limitations. The tour operator may be able to modify the itinerary or provide alternative arrangements within the tour’s policies and constraints.
Recap
The Perito Moreno Glacier Mini Trek in El Calafate offers an unforgettable experience, showcasing the breathtaking beauty of one of the world’s most impressive glaciers. With a personalized tour, scenic boat ride, and guided ice trek, travelers can enjoy the stunning natural wonder of this Patagonian landscape. Flexible booking and cancellation policies ensure a worry-free adventure, making this tour a must-do for any visitor to the region.
You can check if your dates are available here:More Private Drivers in El Calafate
- Shared Transfer Airport – Hotel in El Calafate
- El Calafate Airport Private Transfer
- One Way Shared Transfer From Hotel Downtown Calafate to the Calafate Airport
- Private Transfer Hotel-Bus Station or Bus Station-Hotel (Calafate)
- Transfer From Calafate Airport to Your Stay in Calafate
- Transfer From Calafate Airport to Your Stay in Calafate
More Hiking & Trekking Tours in El Calafate
- Pro Ice Trekking in the Perito Moreno Glacier
- Hike on the Perito Moreno Glacier – Minitrekking
- CALAFATE Navigation South Perito Moreno and Trekking Through the Valley
- Trekking the Two Lagoons – Includes Laguna De Los 3
- Pioneros Navigation and Trekking
- The Calafate Trekking Through the Blue Forest Walkways and Navigation
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