The Perito Moreno Glacier Full Day Tour with Navigation in El Calafate, Argentina, offers travelers an unparalleled opportunity to witness one of the world’s few advancing glaciers. Departing in the early morning, this comprehensive tour provides an up-close encounter with the captivating ice formations, including a one-hour sailing excursion that grants breathtaking vistas of the glacier’s calving icebergs and dramatic walls. With the guidance of a professional bilingual expert, guests gain insights into the glacier’s history and the rich wildlife of Patagonia, all while exploring the serene walkways and taking in the awe-inspiring scenery. This tour’s unique features leave little wonder why it’s a must-do for those seeking to truly enjoy the natural wonders of Argentina’s stunning landscapes.

This experience made our list of the 20 Best Full-Day Tours In El Calafate.

Key Points

Perito Moreno Glacier Full Day Tour With Navigation - Key Points

  • The full-day tour includes a 1-hour boat trip that brings visitors within 490 feet of the Perito Moreno Glacier’s south face.
  • Bilingual guides provide insights on the glacier’s history and local wildlife throughout the tour.
  • Participants can access captivating walkways and viewing platforms to admire the glacier’s scale, blue hues, and calving icebergs.
  • Early morning departure times offer a more serene experience with fewer crowds and better photography conditions.
  • The National Park entrance fee of approximately $25 per person is not included in the tour price and must be budgeted for separately.

Tour Overview and Details

Perito Moreno Glacier Full Day Tour With Navigation - Tour Overview and Details

The Perito Moreno Glacier Full Day Tour with Navigation provides visitors an up-close experience of one of the most captivating natural wonders in Patagonia, located in the El Calafate region of Argentina.

This tour departs early in the morning to beat the crowds and takes travelers on a 1-hour sailing trip that brings them within 490 feet of the glacier’s south face.

Along the way, a bilingual guide shares insights into the glacier’s history and the surrounding Patagonian wildlife.

The tour also includes time to explore the walkways in front of the glacier for stunning views.

While the National Park entrance fee isn’t included, the tour’s price of $165 or less makes it an accessible way to witness this awe-inspiring natural spectacle.

Inclusions and Logistics

Perito Moreno Glacier Full Day Tour With Navigation - Inclusions and Logistics

The Perito Moreno Glacier Full Day Tour with Navigation includes hotel pick-up and drop-off, as well as a bilingual professional guide to lead the excursion.

Travelers will enjoy a 1-hour navigation in front of the glacier, conducted by an air-conditioned vehicle. While lunch isn’t included, snack bars and restaurants are available within the park.

Confirmation is received at the time of booking, and free cancellation is permitted up to 24 hours prior.

The tour provides an opportunity to explore the glacier’s walkways and witness the breathtaking sight of calving icebergs during the boat trip.

With a maximum group size of 20, this well-organized tour is a great option for those with limited time in El Calafate.

Experience Highlights

Perito Moreno Glacier Full Day Tour With Navigation - Experience Highlights

Visitors can explore the captivating walkways situated directly in front of the Perito Moreno Glacier, offering unparalleled views of this natural wonder. A highlight of the tour is the 1-hour navigation around the glacier’s south face, providing the chance to witness the awe-inspiring spectacle of calving icebergs.

Throughout the excursion, the knowledgeable guide imparts insightful information about Patagonia’s diverse wildlife and the glacier’s captivating history. The viewing platforms along the walkways allow travelers to admire the glacier’s impressive scale and stunning blue hues.

This immersive experience gives visitors a deep appreciation for the power and grandeur of one of Patagonia’s most iconic natural attractions.

Traveler Feedback and Recommendations

Perito Moreno Glacier Full Day Tour With Navigation - Traveler Feedback and Recommendations

According to reviews, guides are consistently praised for their deep knowledge of the region and friendly demeanor, enhancing the overall tour experience.

Travelers frequently highlight the boat trip as a tour highlight, allowing them to sail around the imposing southern face of the glacier and witness the dramatic calving of icebergs.

The well-organized nature of the tour is also a common point of praise, with ample time provided for exploration and convenient transportation arrangements.

For those short on time in El Calafate, this tour is highly recommended as an efficient and memorable way to experience the iconic Perito Moreno Glacier:

  • Knowledgeable and personable guides

  • Unforgettable boat trip around glacier

  • Thoughtful tour organization and logistics

Additional Information

Perito Moreno Glacier Full Day Tour With Navigation - Additional Information

While the tour isn’t wheelchair-accessible, it does provide infant seats for young travelers.

Visitors can purchase park tickets online ahead of time for faster entry, and there are various pickup points available throughout El Calafate.

Throughout the tour, the guide provides informative commentary on the glacier and the surrounding Patagonian landscape.

Snack options are also available at the park cafeteria for those seeking refreshments.

Although the tour doesn’t include lunch, there are plenty of snack bars and restaurants in the area where visitors can grab a bite to eat.

Early-morning Departure and Crowds

To avoid the crowds, the tour departs early in the morning. By starting the day before the peak visitation hours, travelers can enjoy a more intimate and peaceful experience at the Perito Moreno Glacier.

This allows them to:

  • Soak in the serene beauty of the glacier without jostling for the best views

  • Capture stunning photographs without having to compete with other visitors

  • Spend more time exploring the walkways and taking in the glacier’s grandeur at a leisurely pace

The early departure ensures travelers make the most of their time at this natural wonder, experiencing it in a tranquil setting before the crowds arrive later in the day.

Close Proximity to Glacier

The tour’s sailing component brings travelers within 490 feet (150 meters) of the immense Perito Moreno Glacier, allowing them to witness its sheer size and power up close.

As the boat glides along the glacier’s south face, visitors can observe the dramatic ice walls towering overhead and listen to the thunderous sounds of ice calving. This close encounter provides a truly awe-inspiring experience, revealing the glacier’s raw, untamed beauty.

With the boat navigating in such proximity, travelers can appreciate the glacier’s monumental scale and the humbling force of nature that has shaped this stunning Patagonian landscape over centuries.

This intimate encounter is a highlight of the tour, leaving a lasting impression on all who experience it.

National Park Entrance Fee

Along With the tour price, visitors to the Perito Moreno Glacier must pay a National Park entrance fee of approximately USD 25 per person. This fee isn’t included in the cost of the tour, so travelers should budget accordingly when planning their visit.

While the fee may seem like an extra expense, it helps support the conservation efforts that protect this incredible natural wonder. Exploring the Perito Moreno Glacier is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity, and the entrance fee ensures the preservation of this awe-inspiring landscape for future generations to enjoy.

The fee is a small price to pay for the chance to witness the sheer power and beauty of this massive glacier.

Frequently Asked Questions

What Is the Dress Code for the Tour?

There is typically no formal dress code for tours, though visitors should dress comfortably and prepare for the weather. Layers, sturdy shoes, and rain protection are often recommended to ensure a pleasant and enjoyable experience.

Are There Any Age Restrictions or Requirements?

There are typically no age restrictions for this tour, though some activities may have minimum age requirements. Travelers of all ages can generally participate, with child seats available for infants as needed.

Are There Any Health or Fitness Prerequisites for Participants?

There are no specific health or fitness prerequisites for this tour. However, participants should be able to walk on uneven terrain and navigate walkways. Those with mobility concerns should consult the tour operator for accommodation possibilities.

Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks on the Tour?

Yes, participants can bring their own food and drinks on the tour. The tour itinerary doesn’t include meals, so bringing snacks and beverages is generally allowed and encouraged to enhance the overall experience.

What Is the Cancellation and Refund Policy for the Tour?

The tour has a free cancellation policy up to 24 hours before the tour. Customers can cancel and receive a full refund if they need to change their plans within this timeframe.

Recap

The Perito Moreno Glacier Full Day Tour with Navigation offers an unforgettable experience in El Calafate, Argentina.

Travelers can get within 490 feet of the stunning glacier, enjoy a one-hour sailing trip, and learn about the glacier’s history and Patagonia’s wildlife from a professional bilingual guide.

With an early morning departure, visitors can experience the serene setting and take stunning photographs of the captivating walkways and dramatic ice walls.