Perito Moreno Glacier Big Ice Trek From El Calafate

The Perito Moreno Glacier in El Calafate, Argentina, is a natural wonder that draws adventurous travelers from around the world. For those seeking an unforgettable experience, the Big Ice Trek offers a guided hike across the glacier’s stunning surface. Participants can expect a scenic boat ride, insightful commentary from bilingual guides, and breathtaking views that leave a lasting impression. While the trek requires participants to meet certain age and health requirements, the opportunity to explore this remarkable glacial landscape is truly one-of-a-kind. Those ready to embark on an exhilarating outdoor adventure won’t want to miss the chance to discover the wonders of the Perito Moreno Glacier.

Key Points

1. A full-day excursion from El Calafate to Perito Moreno Glacier, including a 4-hour guided trek on the glacier and panoramic views.
2. The activity is led by bilingual mountain guides, providing insights into the local ecology and glaciology.
3. Participants must be between 18 and 50 years old, and a medical form is required one week prior.
4. Essential items include passport or ID, waterproof clothing, and hiking shoes, while the National Park fee must be paid in cash.
5. The excursion includes transfers, boat ride, guides, and lunch, with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.

You can check if your dates are available here:

Activity Overview

The Perito Moreno Glacier Big Ice Trek from El Calafate offers an exhilarating full-day excursion to one of the most impressive glaciers in the world.

Priced from $970 per person, this 12-hour adventure includes a 4-hour guided trek on the glacier, panoramic views, and a boat ride to the glacier itself.

Led by bilingual mountain guides, the trek provides insights into the local flora, fauna, and glaciology. Participants can enjoy lunch on the ice, explore the glacier’s walkways and balconies, and capture stunning photos.

With free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance and a reserve now, pay later option, this trek is an unforgettable experience in the heart of Patagonia.

Itinerary Details

Early morning, guests get picked up from their selected hotels in El Calafate for the 80 km transfer to Los Glaciares National Park.

Upon arrival, they embark on a 20-minute boat ride across Lago Argentino to reach the Perito Moreno Glacier. Bilingual mountain guides provide a briefing on the trekking experience and safety precautions.

The 4-hour glacier hike offers insights into the local flora, fauna, glaciology, and glacier phenomena. Guests enjoy lunch with views of the blue lagoons and glacier viewpoints.

Afterwards, they return to dry land, with free time to explore, take photographs on walkways and balconies, before the bus takes them back to their hotels in El Calafate in the afternoon.

Inclusions and Exclusions

This activity includes a variety of services and amenities. Transfers from and to hotels in El Calafate, bilingual mountain guides, and port taxes are all part of the package.

Participants will also receive National Park tickets, which must be paid for in Argentine pesos. Lunch and drinks are provided during the trek.

However, the tour doesn’t include luggage or large bags. Guests are responsible for bringing their own personal items, such as a passport or ID card, comfortable and waterproof clothing, hiking shoes, and a backpack.

It’s important to note that the National Park fee can only be paid in cash.

Participant Restrictions

Who is this Perito Moreno Glacier Big Ice Trek activity not suitable for? The glacier trek is not recommended for pregnant women, children under 18 years, people with pre-existing medical conditions, or those over 60 years of age. Participants must be between 18 and 50 years old. A medical form is required one week prior to the excursion.

Restriction	Reason
Pregnant Women	Safety concerns
Children under 18	Physical demands
Pre-existing Conditions	Health risks
Over 60 Years Old	Physical limitations
Minimum Age 18, Maximum Age 50	Participant safety guidelines

The Perito Moreno Glacier trek is designed for active, healthy adults who can handle the physical demands of the 4-hour hike on the ice.

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Required Preparations

To prepare for the Perito Moreno Glacier Big Ice Trek, participants must bring a passport or ID card, comfortable and waterproof clothing, hiking shoes, a backpack of approximately 40 liters, and accessories like sunglasses, sunscreen, gloves, and a hat.

It’s also recommended to bring your own lunch, as there’s no currency exchange available at the National Park. The park fee must be paid in cash in Argentine pesos.

Participants should be aware that the trek isn’t suitable for pregnant women, children under 18, people with pre-existing medical conditions, or those over 50 years of age. A medical form is required one week prior to the excursion.

Pickup and Transfer

The early morning pickup from selected El Calafate hotels marks the start of the Perito Moreno Glacier Big Ice Trek.

Travelers are transported to the trailhead, located 80 km away in the stunning Los Glaciares National Park. Upon arrival, adventurers embark on a 20-minute boat ride across Lago Argentino, the largest freshwater lake in the country.

This scenic journey brings them face-to-face with the majestic Perito Moreno Glacier, a breathtaking natural wonder.

Once at the glacier’s edge, professional bilingual guides provide a detailed briefing on the trekking experience and safety protocols, ensuring a safe and informative journey across the ice.

Glacier Hike Insights

The 4-hour glacier hike takes adventurers on an immersive journey across the icy expanse of Perito Moreno Glacier. Guided by bilingual mountain experts, the trek provides insights into the local flora, fauna, glaciology, and fascinating glacier phenomena.

Participants can expect:

1. Fascinating lessons on the glacier’s formation, structure, and unique characteristics.
2. Up-close observations of the glacier’s mesmerizing blue lagoons and breathtaking viewpoints.
3. Opportunities to learn about the delicate ecosystem and wildlife that thrive in this glacial environment.

Lunch is served amidst the serene and dramatic backdrop of the glacier, allowing trekkers to fully enjoy the grandeur of this natural wonder.

Exploration and Return

Upon completing the glacier hike, trekkers return to dry land, where they’re afforded ample free time to explore the surrounding area and capture stunning photographs along the walkways and balconies.

With the dramatic glacier as the backdrop, visitors can wander the park, taking in the breathtaking views and the area’s unique flora and fauna.

The bus then transports the group back to their hotels in El Calafate in the afternoon, providing a comfortable end to an exhilarating day of glacier exploration.

Whether it’s snapping photos or simply soaking in the stunning natural scenery, the return portion of the trek allows participants to fully enjoy the wonders of Perito Moreno Glacier.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Bring My Own Hiking Equipment?

Yes, you can bring your own hiking equipment. The tour allows participants to use their personal gear, but it’s recommended to check with the tour provider to ensure compatibility with the glacier trek’s requirements.

Is There a Weight Limit for the Boat Transfer?

The tour doesn’t specify a weight limit for the boat transfer. However, it’s best to pack light and minimize luggage, as the gear needed for the glacier trek is provided. Large bags aren’t allowed on the excursion.

What Type of Lunch Is Provided on the Ice?

The tour includes a lunch on the glacier with views of the stunning blue lagoons and glacier. The lunch is a typical packed meal, likely with sandwiches, snacks, and drinks to enjoy during the trek.

Can I Take a Solo Hike on the Glacier?

No, solo hikes on the glacier are not permitted. The tour requires a guided group trek with bilingual mountain guides for safety reasons. Participants must follow the instructions and stay with the group throughout the 4-hour glacier hike.

Are There Any Discount Options for the Tour?

The tour operator doesn’t offer any discount options for this activity. However, they do provide a free cancellation policy up to 24 hours in advance, allowing flexibility to reschedule or get a full refund if needed.

Recap

The Perito Moreno Glacier Big Ice Trek from El Calafate is a captivating adventure that allows participants to enjoy the stunning natural wonder of this renowned glacier. With a guided hike, scenic boat ride, and expert commentary, this excursion offers an unforgettable opportunity to explore the glacier’s ecology and formation, making it a perfect choice for those seeking an exhilarating outdoor experience.

You can check if your dates are available here: