Patagonia’s untamed landscapes have long captivated adventurers, and the Puerto Natales Glacier Tour offers an unparalleled opportunity to explore this enchanting region. Embarking on a 10-hour journey, guests will navigate the stunning Ultima Esperanza Fjord, witness the majestic Balmaceda and Serrano glaciers, and indulge in a delightful lunch and whiskey aperitif made with ancient glacier ice. With complimentary refreshments and the chance to observe native flora and fauna, this tour promises an unforgettable experience amidst the natural wonders of Bernardo O’Higgins National Park. But the true allure lies in what awaits beyond the horizon, as the tour opens a window into Patagonia’s captivating secrets.
This experience made our list of the 4 Best Lunch Experiences In Puerto Natales.
Key Points
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This 10-hour glacier tour in Puerto Natales includes guided navigation through the Ultima Esperanza Fjord, offering views of the Balmaceda and Serrano glaciers.
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The tour starts at 7:00 AM in Puerto Natales or Puerto Bories, with a departure at 8:00 AM to the glaciers, followed by lunch and a whiskey aperitif at Estancia Perales.
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Participants can enjoy complimentary refreshments, a whiskey aperitif made with ancient glacier ice, and a guided tour to enhance the overall Patagonian experience.
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The tour is available in both Spanish and English, with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance and a meeting point at 560 Eberhard Street, Puerto Natales.
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The tour has an overall rating of 4.6/5 based on customer reviews, with high praise for the transportation and scenic views, but mixed feedback on the food quality, especially for vegetarians.
Tour Overview
This glacier tour in Puerto Natales offers a comprehensive 10-hour experience that allows visitors to explore the stunning natural landscapes of the region.
Priced from €191.32 per person, the tour includes guided navigation through the Ultima Esperanza Fjord, offering breathtaking views of the Balmaceda and Serrano glaciers.
The tour is available in Spanish and English, with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.
Participants can expect to see native flora, fauna, mountains, waterfalls, and Patagonian bird life during the journey.
The tour also includes a whiskey aperitif and a lunch stop at Estancia Perales, ensuring a well-rounded and memorable experience.
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Itinerary Highlights
The tour begins with a 7:00 AM presentation in Puerto Natales or Puerto Bories, followed by an 8:00 AM departure from Puerto Bories to the Balmaceda and Serrano glaciers via the Ultima Esperanza Fjord.
On the way, guests can admire the native flora, fauna, mountains, waterfalls, ranches, and Patagonian bird life.
At 10:45 AM, they’ll get a view of the Balmaceda Glacier, then hike to the Serrano Glacier viewpoint in Bernardo O’Higgins National Park at 11:00 AM.
Afterward, they’ll return to Estancia Perales for lunch and a whiskey aperitif before heading back to Puerto Natales by 5:00 PM.
Inclusions
As part of the Glacier Tour in Puerto Natales, the guide is included to accompany and inform guests throughout the day’s activities.
Complimentary onboard refreshments, such as coffee or tea, are provided. Plus, guests will enjoy a whiskey aperitif made with ancient glacier ice.
Lunch is included at Estancia Perales, completing the tour’s culinary offerings.
The inclusions are designed to enhance the overall experience, allowing visitors to fully enjoy the natural wonders of Patagonia.
Important Details
Participants meet for the tour at 560 Eberhard Street in Puerto Natales. They must bring their passport or ID card, as it’s required.
No pets, luggage, or large bags are allowed on the tour. The tour operator needs to collect specific information from each passenger, including name, surname, passport number, nationality, and date of birth.
This is to ensure a smooth and organized experience for everyone. The operator provides clear instructions on what to expect and what’s required, making the tour logistics straightforward and hassle-free for participants.
More Great Thing To Do NearbyCustomer Feedback
Customers have generally offered positive feedback on the Glacier Tour in Puerto Natales, according to reviews. The tour’s transportation rating averaged 4.7/5, indicating guests were pleased with the logistics. However, the value for money rating of 4.1/5 suggests some room for improvement, potentially regarding the quality of the provided lunch.
Highlights | Scores |
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Overall Rating | 4.6/5 |
Transportation Rating | 4.7/5 |
Value for Money Rating | 4.1/5 |
Reviewers praised the stunning views and good organization, but some vegetarian guests felt the meal options could be better. The whiskey aperitif was a highlight for many, though its appeal varied across the group.
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Glacier Viewing
When does the glacier viewing portion of the tour take place?
The tour’s highlight is the opportunity to view the Balmaceda and Serrano glaciers, which occurs around 10:45 AM and 11:00 AM respectively.
After navigating the Ultima Esperanza Fjord, guests will first witness the stunning Balmaceda Glacier.
They’ll then hike to a viewpoint within Bernardo O’Higgins National Park to observe the impressive Serrano Glacier.
These glaciers, remnants of the last ice age, provide a breathtaking backdrop for this Patagonian adventure.
The tour’s itinerary is carefully designed to maximize the time spent appreciating these natural wonders and capturing unforgettable memories.
Lunch and Aperitif
After the glacier viewing experiences, the tour culminates with a return to Estancia Perales for lunch and a whiskey aperitif.
Guests are treated to a hearty meal at the local ranch, accompanied by a dram of fine whiskey. The whiskey aperitif, made with ancient Patagonian ice, adds a unique touch to the experience.
While reviews on the food quality have been mixed, particularly for vegetarian options, the overall experience is highly rated.
The whiskey pairing is a signature highlight that many guests appreciate, though its appeal varies among participants.
This final stop provides a cozy and satisfying conclusion to the day’s glacier exploration.
Transportation and Value
The tour’s transportation is highly praised, with a 4.7/5 rating. Guests are transported from Puerto Natales to the glaciers and back via boat, providing stunning views along the way. The journey itself is a highlight, with opportunities to spot native wildlife and Patagonian landscapes.
Transportation Rating | Value for Money Rating |
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4.7/5 | 4.1/5 |
Highly praised | Mixed reviews |
Scenic boat journey | Some concerns over food quality |
Wildlife and landscape viewing | Whiskey experience varied in appeal |
Smooth and comfortable |
While the value for money rating is a respectable 4.1/5, there are some mixed reviews, particularly around the quality of the food and the appeal of the whiskey experience.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the Tour Suitable for Families With Young Children?
The tour may not be ideal for families with young children as it involves a lengthy boat ride, hiking, and limited onboard activities. The whiskey aperitif may also not be appropriate for children. However, the scenic views and guided nature aspects could appeal to older children.
What Is the Dress Code for the Tour?
There is no specified dress code for the tour. Comfortable, weather-appropriate clothing and sturdy walking shoes are recommended, as the tour involves hiking and outdoor activities. Layering is advisable to accommodate changing weather conditions.
Are There Any Age Restrictions for the Whiskey Aperitif?
The tour does not have any age restrictions for the whiskey aperitif. However, it’s important to drink responsibly and be aware of local laws and regulations regarding alcohol consumption. Participants should exercise caution and moderation when enjoying the whiskey tasting.
Can Dietary Requirements Be Accommodated for the Lunch?
The tour operator can accommodate dietary requirements for the lunch, such as vegetarian, vegan, or gluten-free options, if requested in advance. Guests should notify the operator of any dietary needs when making the booking.
Is There an Option to Extend the Tour With Additional Activities?
Based on the provided details, there doesn’t seem to be an option to extend the tour with additional activities. The tour itinerary and inclusions appear fixed, though guests can inquire about customizing the experience to accommodate dietary needs or other preferences.
The Sum Up
The Puerto Natales Glacier Tour offers a captivating journey through Patagonia’s breathtaking landscapes. Guests can expect guided navigation of the Ultima Esperanza Fjord, stunning views of glaciers, a delightful lunch, and a unique whiskey aperitif, all while enjoying the natural wonders of Bernardo O’Higgins National Park. With a reasonable price tag and convenient inclusions, this tour provides an exceptional opportunity to experience the beauty of Patagonia.
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