How to plan your El Calafate Perito Moreno Glacier Optional Boat Trip

If you’re visiting El Calafate, Argentina, one of the must-see natural attractions is the Perito Moreno Glacier located inside Los Glaciares National Park. This massive ice formation is as awe-inspiring as it is fascinating, and with an optional boat trip, you can see it from different perspectives and get even closer to it. Here’s the ultimate guide to planning your El Calafate Perito Moreno Glacier Optional Boat Trip.

Experience

Start your day with hotel pickup and drop-off and head towards the national park where the Perito Moreno Glacier is located. The ride lasts approximately an hour and a half, and you’ll arrive at around 11:30 AM, ready to explore this natural wonder. One of the highlights of your tour will undoubtedly be watching as the landslides of ice come crashing down into the water below. The sound of thunderous cracking and the resulting spectacle is truly unforgettable. To get the best views of the glacier, there are several viewpoints located at different heights and distances from it, so make sure you take your time to admire this impressive natural attraction from different angles.

Optional Boat Safari

After experiencing the glacier from land, if you opt for the boat safari, you’ll embark on a one-hour journey around the glacier for a unique perspective. Your boat will get you closer to the front wall of the glacier, allowing you to witness its towering size and shimmering blue colors up close. During the boat ride, you will not only see the glacier but also the surrounding mountains and forests. Don’t forget to look for the secluded beaches along the shoreline, where you might even spot some wildlife. The boat safari is not to be missed, and it’s a fantastic way to experience the scale and beauty of the Perito Moreno Glacier.

Explore the Park

When you’ve finished admiring the Perito Moreno Glacier, you still have plenty of time to enjoy the rest of the national park. The park is home to diverse flora and fauna, including different species of birds, mammals, and insects. Take a walk around the park’s walking trails, where you’ll be surrounded by lush forests, awe-inspiring mountains, and pristine water streams. Make sure to keep an eye out for the wildlife that lives in the park, including guanacos, foxes, and even condors.

What’s Included

Your tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off, an English- and Spanish-speaking guide, an optional boat ride, food and drinks, and national park entry fees. Please note that the Argentine residents have a reduced price for entry fees, and the boat ride is optional, so it’s not included in the standard package.

Final Thoughts

The El Calafate Perito Moreno Glacier Optional Boat Trip is a fantastic way to explore and experience the natural beauty of Los Glaciares National Park. From the awe-inspiring Perito Moreno Glacier to the walking trails and wildlife in the park, there’s something for everyone. And the optional boat safari is an absolute must-do, providing unforgettable views not to be missed. Book your tour here and get ready for an unforgettable journey through one of the most beautiful natural attractions in the world.

FAQs about El Calafate, Argentina

El Calafate is a small town situated in the Patagonian region of Argentina. It is famous for its magnificent glaciers, lakes, and mountains. Every year, millions of tourists visit this town to experience the natural beauty of the place. If you are planning to visit El Calafate, then you might have a lot of questions in mind about this place. In this FAQ section, we have tried to answer some of the common queries related to El Calafate.

1. What is the best time to visit El Calafate?

El Calafate can be visited all year round, but the best time to visit is during the summer months from December to February. During this time, the weather is warm and pleasant, and the days are longer, which means you can explore the place for longer hours. The winter months from June to August are also a good time to visit as you can enjoy winter activities and view the glaciers in their truest form.

2. How do I reach El Calafate?

The best way to reach El Calafate is by air. The town has its own airport named Comandante Armando Tola International Airport. It is well connected with major cities in South America like Buenos Aires, Santiago, and others.

3. Do I need a visa to visit El Calafate?

If you are a citizen of the USA, Canada, and the UK, then you don’t need a visa to visit Argentina. However, you need to have a valid passport and return ticket to enter the country.

4. What are the top tourist attractions in El Calafate?

El Calafate is famous for its glaciers, and the top tourist attractions in El Calafate are:

i. Perito Moreno Glacier

Perito Moreno Glacier is one of the main attractions of El Calafate. It is a massive glacier that is 250 km2 in size and 30 km long. It is a UNESCO world heritage site and a must-visit for nature lovers.

ii. Upsala Glacier

Upsala Glacier is the largest glacier in South America, and it is located in the Los Glaciares National Park in El Calafate. It is a beautiful sight to behold, and you can go on a boat tour to see it up close.

iii. El Chalten

El Chalten is a small mountain village located 220 km from El Calafate. This place is known as the trekking capital of Argentina and is surrounded by magnificent mountains and lakes.

5. What are the best outdoor activities to do in El Calafate?

There are a lot of outdoor activities to do in El Calafate, and some of the best ones are:

i. Glacier trekking

Glacier trekking is one of the most popular activities in El Calafate. You can take a guided tour and walk on the Perito Moreno Glacier, which is a once-in-a-lifetime experience.

ii. Horseback riding

Horseback riding is a great way to explore the scenic beauty of El Calafate. You can go on a horseback riding tour and view the surrounding mountains and lakes.

iii. Hiking

El Calafate has a lot of hiking trails that offer spectacular views of the glaciers and mountains. You can go on a day hike or a multi-day trek, depending on your preference.

6. What is the currency used in El Calafate?

The currency used in Argentina is the Argentine peso. However, US dollars are widely accepted, and you can exchange your currency at any bank or exchange center in El Calafate.

7. What is the food like in El Calafate?

The food in El Calafate is a blend of Argentine and Patagonian cuisine. Some of the popular dishes in El Calafate are:

i. Asado

Asado is a traditional Argentine barbecue that is made with beef, pork, and sausages. It is served with chimichurri sauce and is a must-try in El Calafate.

ii. Patagonian lamb

Patagonian lamb is a popular dish in El Calafate. It is roasted on an open fire and served with potatoes and vegetables.

iii. Empanadas

Empanadas are a type of savory pastry filled with meat, cheese, or vegetables. They are a popular snack in El Calafate and are available at most cafes and restaurants in the town.

Book Your Tour Now

El Calafate is a beautiful place that has a lot to offer to tourists. From magnificent glaciers to scenic mountains and lakes, this place is a paradise for nature lovers. We hope that this FAQ section has answered some of the common queries related to El Calafate and has helped you plan your trip to this place.

How to spend your time as a tourist in El Calafate

El Calafate is a beautiful town located in the Argentine Patagonia region. It is a destination that attracts thousands of tourists every year, and for good reason. The town is surrounded by stunning landscapes, with crystal blue lakes, majestic glaciers, and snow-capped peaks. Whether you are a nature lover, adventure seeker, or simply looking to escape the hustle and bustle of the city, El Calafate has something to offer for everyone. In this guide, we will provide you with a list of things to do and see, as well as some tips on how to make the most out of your time in El Calafate.

1. Visit the Perito Moreno Glacier

One of the main attractions of El Calafate is the Perito Moreno Glacier, located in the Los Glaciares National Park, which is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. This glacier is one of the few in the world that is still advancing, which means it is constantly moving and changing shape. The best way to experience the glacier is by taking a boat tour, which will allow you to get up close and personal with the ice. You can also walk on the glacier itself, but this is recommended only for experienced hikers with proper equipment.

2. Take a boat tour of Lake Argentino

Lake Argentino is the largest lake in the Argentine Patagonia region, and it is home to a diverse array of wildlife, including penguins, flamingos, and sea lions. A boat tour of the lake will take you to some of the most scenic spots, including the Upsala Glacier and the Spegazzini Glacier. Make sure to bring a camera, as you will get some amazing shots of the gorgeous scenery.

3. Explore the town of El Calafate

While El Calafate may be known for its stunning natural beauty, the town itself is also worth exploring. You can find a variety of restaurants, cafes, and shops selling local crafts and souvenirs. One of the most popular streets in the town is Avenida Libertador, where you can find some of the best restaurants and shops.

4. Hike to the Laguna de los Tres

If you are up for a challenge, a hike to the Laguna de los Tres is a must-do activity. This is a full-day hike that will take you through some of the most beautiful scenery in the region, including forests, valleys, and glaciers. The Laguna de los Tres is located at the base of the Fitz Roy Mountain, which offers stunning views of the surrounding area.

5. Taste the local cuisine

Argentinian cuisine is famous for its steaks and other meat dishes, and El Calafate is no exception. Some of the best restaurants in the town specialize in grilled meats, such as lamb, beef, and chorizo. Make sure to also try some of the local wine, which pairs perfectly with your meal.

6. Visit the Glaciarium Museum

If you want to learn more about glaciers and the Patagonia region, the Glaciarium Museum is a great place to start. The museum features interactive exhibits and displays that explain the science behind glaciers and how they have shaped the landscape over millions of years.

Summary

El Calafate is a destination that offers something for every type of traveler. Whether you want to explore the stunning natural beauty of the region, hike through the mountains, or simply relax and enjoy the local cuisine, there is always something to do in El Calafate. Make sure to follow our tips and recommendations to make the most out of your time in this beautiful town.