Ice Crossing: Blue Safari Excursion

The Ice Crossing: Blue Safari Excursion offers a captivating adventure for nature enthusiasts visiting Los Glaciares National Park. Priced at $290 per person, this 8-hour excursion immerses participants in the breathtaking glacial landscapes, providing a guided hike alongside the magnificent glacier and ample opportunities for stunning photography. With a scenic bus transfer, a catamaran ride across Lago Rico, and expert commentary, the excursion promises an unforgettable encounter with the awe-inspiring wonders of this remote and pristine region. For those seeking to truly experience the majesty of Patagonia’s glaciers, this excursion is an essential addition to their itinerary.

This experience made our list of the 16 Best Safari Tours In El Calafate.

Key Points

• An 8-hour adventure exploring the stunning glacier landscapes of Los Glaciares National Park in Argentina, with transportation, guided hike, and boat rides included.
• Opportunity to witness the breathtaking south face of the glacier from a catamaran, capturing photographs of the towering ice walls and blue patterns.
• Immersive hiking experience alongside the glacier, with knowledgeable guides providing insights into the natural wonders of the region.
• Combination of captivating boat rides and engaging hikes, offering a well-rounded experience for nature enthusiasts visiting El Calafate.
• Participant restrictions in place to ensure safety and maximize enjoyment, with recommended preparations for the excursion.

You can check if your dates are available here:

Activity Overview

The Blue Safari Excursion is an 8-hour adventure that takes participants on an icy journey across the magnificent Los Glaciares National Park.

Priced from $290 per person, the tour offers a limited group size of 10 and is available in English and Spanish.

Guests can enjoy a hassle-free experience with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance and the option to reserve their spot and pay later.

The excursion includes transportation, navigation, a guided hike, and entry to the national park, providing an immersive exploration of the glacier’s breathtaking landscapes.

Detailed Itinerary

The excursion begins with a pickup from El Calafate, followed by an 80-minute bus or coach transfer to the stunning Los Glaciares National Park.

Participants then embark on a 20-minute catamaran ride across Lago Rico.

The highlight of the day is a guided 2.5-hour hike alongside the glacier, with breaks for photo opportunities.

Afterwards, a 30-minute catamaran ride offers a view of the glacier’s south face.

Guests have 2 hours of free time for sightseeing before the return 80-minute bus or coach transfer to El Calafate.

Throughout the experience, participants can capture breathtaking views of the glacier and the surrounding landscape.

Breathtaking Glacier Views

Breathtaking views of the glacier await participants during the Blue Safari Excursion. The highlight of the adventure is the opportunity to witness the stunning south face of the glacier from a catamaran.

Adventurers will:

1. Set out on a 30-minute boat ride for an up-close look at the glacier’s impressive size and scale.
2. Capture stunning photographs of the glacier’s dramatic features, from towering ice walls to intricate blue patterns.
3. Enjoy free time to explore the surrounding landscape and soak in the natural beauty of the Los Glaciares National Park.

This unparalleled glacier viewing experience makes the Blue Safari Excursion a must-do for nature enthusiasts visiting El Calafate.

Boat and Hiking Experiences

Participants embark on an immersive journey through the natural wonder of Los Glaciares National Park, blending captivating boat rides and an engaging guided hike. First, they board a catamaran for a 20-minute crossing of Lago Rico, followed by a 2.5-hour guided hike alongside the glacier, where they can capture stunning photographs during breaks. Afterward, they enjoy a 30-minute catamaran ride to view the glacier’s south face. The experience culminates with 2 hours of free time for sightseeing.

Boat Rides	Duration
Lago Rico Crossing	20 minutes
Glacier South Face	30 minutes

Guided Hike	Duration
Hike Alongside Glacier	2.5 hours

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Photographic Opportunities

Throughout the excursion, photographers have ample opportunities to capture the glacier’s stunning natural beauty. The boat rides across Lago Rico and along the glacier’s south face provide sweeping vistas and close-up perspectives.

During the guided hike, participants can:

1. Photograph the glacier’s icy blue hues and intricate formations up close.
2. Capture the breathtaking landscapes framed by the surrounding mountains.
3. Experiment with different angles and lighting conditions to create unique, artistic shots.

Plus, the optional visit to the footbridges offers panoramic views for those seeking to document the glacier’s immense scale and grandeur.

Included in the Price

The price of the Blue Safari Excursion covers a range of essential services and experiences. Included in the price are transportation, navigation, a guided hike, and entrance to Los Glaciares National Park. This comprehensive package ensures a hassle-free and immersive adventure for participants.

Included in the Price	Details
Transportation	Bus/coach transfers to and from El Calafate
Navigation	Catamaran rides across Lago Rico
Guided Hike	2.5-hour hike alongside the glacier
National Park Entrance	Access to Los Glaciares National Park
Photographic Opportunities	Stunning views of the glacier and its surroundings

With these inclusions, the Blue Safari Excursion offers an exceptional value for travelers seeking to explore the breathtaking glacial landscapes of Patagonia.

Participant Restrictions

While the Blue Safari Excursion is designed to provide an immersive experience in the glacial landscapes of Patagonia, certain participant restrictions apply to ensure the safety and well-being of all guests.

The activity isn’t suitable for:

1. Pregnant women
2. Individuals with mobility impairments
3. Individuals with heart problems

Plus, babies under 1 year and individuals over 70 years of age aren’t permitted to participate.

These restrictions are in place to minimize risks and ensure that all participants can fully enjoy the guided hike and boat rides without compromising their safety or that of the group.

Preparation for the Excursion

What should participants bring to ensure they’re well-prepared for the Blue Safari Excursion?

The tour operators recommend wearing sturdy hiking shoes and clothes that can withstand getting dirty. Layering is key, as the weather in the region can be unpredictable.

Bringing a warm jacket, gloves, and a hat is advised. Participants should also pack a small backpack with snacks, water, sunscreen, and any necessary medications.

Having a camera on hand is highly recommended to capture the stunning glacial landscapes. Following these simple preparation tips will help ensure a comfortable and enjoyable experience during the Ice Crossing adventure.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are Lifejackets Provided During the Boat Rides?

Yes, lifejackets are provided for the boat rides during this excursion. Participants’ safety is a top priority, and all necessary safety equipment is included to ensure a secure and enjoyable experience on the water.

Can Dietary Requirements Be Accommodated?

The tour operator can accommodate most dietary requirements with advance notice. Participants should notify the operator of any dietary needs when booking the excursion to ensure their needs are met during the experience.

How Much Walking Distance Is Covered During the Hike?

The guided hike alongside the glacier lasts approximately 2.5 hours and covers around 1.5 kilometers. Participants should come prepared with hiking shoes and clothing that can withstand the outdoor conditions during this portion of the excursion.

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

The excursion covers a hike of approximately 1.5 kilometers alongside the glacier. While the standard duration is 8 hours, there doesn’t appear to be an option to extend the excursion based on the provided information.

Can Participants Rent Hiking Equipment On-Site?

The activity overview does not mention the availability of rental hiking equipment on-site. Participants are advised to bring their own recommended items like hiking shoes and pants to ensure they’re properly equipped for the guided hike.

Recap

The Ice Crossing: Blue Safari Excursion offers an unparalleled opportunity to explore the stunning glacial landscapes of Los Glaciares National Park. With a comprehensive itinerary, breathtaking views, and diverse experiences, this excursion is a must-do for nature enthusiasts seeking an immersive and memorable encounter with the awe-inspiring wonders of Patagonia. Don’t miss this chance to witness the captivating beauty of the region’s glaciers firsthand.

You can check if your dates are available here: