The Big Ice Trek at El Calafate Perito Moreno Glacier, an Adrenaline and Ice Adventure

Are you an adventure seeker? Would you like a breathtaking experience visiting Perito Moreno Glacier but do not know how? The Big Ice Trek of El Calafate, Argentina is an extreme and extraordinary adventure for daring people like you.The Perito Moreno Glacier is located in the Los Glaciares National Park in Argentinean Patagonia, one of the greatest ice masses in the world, being declared a World Heritage Site by UNESCO. Trekking and enjoying this icy spectacle can be done by adventurers like you.You will get down to the glacier and fully explore it, walking and walking on the ice, exploring the deep crevices and lakes inside it, making your experience incredible. The Big Ice Trek includes a multimedia guide to teach you the basics of ice trekking, an explanation of the unique features of the glacier and an interpretation of its archaeological and scientific values during the tour.The trek is suitable for people with intermediate physical condition and adequate wear as you will find yourself sliding through giant cracks and climbing small steep hills of ice. For safety reasons, you must receive basic training before doing these activities and be sure to wear proper gear at all times. The equipment included depends on the activity, but usually includes crampons, helmet, gaiters, ice ax and sometimes a harness for using ropes on steep slopes. The trek will take around 2-3 hours.This amazing experience is definitely worth it! Spending a day exploring what nature has created over thousands of years through the glacier’s breathtaking landscape will fill you with sensations that will last a lifetime.Unfortunately, due to global warming, these glaciers are melting at an ever-increasing rate. This is why experts suggest acting now rather than later to conserve it before its wildlife disappears.In acknowledgment of this issue, many companies today offer guided hikes and treks to help prevent further damage to this beautiful corner of nature. By taking part in this trek, you will not only be dragged up by the natural beauty that enlarges your eyes, but you will also be helping to protect it from being silenced forever.One of the most popular trekking companies that offer El Calafate glacier treks is GetYourGuide. They provide tours for all levels with professional guides that let you discover the geography, history and culture of the park while having an epic time hiking the glacial landscape. Their tours also include luxury transport from El Calafate (approximately 1-2 hours away) to the Center of Adventure. Before you know it you’ll be surrounded by thousands of years of amazing creation and icy waters in the foreground – ready for exploration!Now if you’re ready to explore that experience, book your Big Ice Trek tour! It’s always best to check reviews of companies and guides early on to get the most out of your glacier adventure in El Calafate. And don’t forget to take lots of photos and share your great experiences on social media too! No matter which tour you choose for your trekking experience through Perito Moreno Glacier, you’re sure to see some spectacular views that will stay with you for a lifetime. Get ready for a one-of-a-kind adventure full of awe-inspiring sights and plenty of fun! You can book your Big Ice Trek tour here through GetYourGuide and create some truly unforgettable memories of El Calafate!

Insider’s Guide to El Calafate: Gateway to the Perito Moreno Glacier

Are you seeking an off-the-beaten-path adventure to a remote yet breathtakingly beautiful destination? Then, look no further than El Calafate, a small town situated in the Patagonian region of Argentina, nestled in towering Andes mountains, and famous for the Perito Moreno glacier. From glaciers to hiking, skiing, and discovering wildlife, El Calafate is the perfect place for adventurous travelers seeking unique experiences. Here’s an insider’s guide to exploring El Calafate, with recommendations for local attractions, dining spots, cultural experiences, hidden gems, and more.

Local Attractions

El Calafate is a perfect base camp for discovering the region’s natural attractions, such as glaciers, snow-capped peaks, turquoise lakes, and icy forests. But the main attraction is the world-famous Perito Moreno glacier, one of the few glaciers in the world that is still growing. You can explore the Perito Moreno glacier by trekking across the ice, hiking along the surrounding trails or partaking in boat tours. Upsala Glacier is another well-known body of ice, and its massive size and splendor will leave you in awe. It’s one of the most visited places and one of the top things to do in El Calafate.

For those looking for something away from the glaciers, the town’s history museum, the Glaciarium, is a fascinating place to learn about the natural surroundings. Also, check out Laguna Nimez Reserve and the surrounding areas for glimpses of the area’s diverse wildlife and birds, such as flamingos and black-necked swans, as well as observation decks for expansive views of the landscape.

Dining Spots

El Calafate has several restaurants that take pride in locally sourcing ingredients, including seafood, lamb, and beef, and creating a fusion of Patagonian, Mediterranean and international cuisine. For a taste of sublime seafood, the La Marca Restaurant is an excellent option for excellent seafood and meat dishes. Another spot with a warm ambiance, La Tablita Restaurant, is well-known for its succulent roasted lamb, and the La Zaina Restaurant offers a varied Patagonian-influenced menu with inviting outdoor seating.

Cultural Experiences

El Calafate has a rich cultural history, and there are plenty of ways to immerse yourself in this history. From trekking through the indigenous people’s territory to visiting Estancia Cristina, a historic ranch, there are numerous activities available to dive deeper into the local culture. For a more hands-on experience, consider taking a tango class, a traditional Argentinian dance, or attending one of the local music festivals that frequently take place in the area.

Local History

El Calafate’s quaint town square, located at the center of the city, provides an opportunity for travelers to get a glimpse of the town’s colonial-era past. The square is complemented by the St. George’s Church, a beautiful white building with a magnificent altar, making it a perfect place to take photographs and learn about the area’s history. Besides, the El Calafate Interpretation Center provides valuable insights into the town’s history and culture through interactive exhibits and informative talks.

Off-the-Beaten-Path

In addition to the well-known attractions, El Calafate is a heaven for adventurous travelers who love to explore off-the-beaten-path locations. Estancia Alice is an off-the-beaten-path destination that encapsulates the traditional farming lifestyle of Patagonia. In contrast, Laguna de los Tres is a hidden location that offers some of Patagonia’s most spectacular vistas for those who dare to undertake the trek. Another must-visit location is the Chacra la Silvia, a farmyard that allows travelers to experience the life of a traditional sheep rancher. Many local guides offer unique trekking options to unknown corners of the region, but hiring a knowledgeable guide is recommended.

El Calafate and the surrounding region offer a unique experience for adventurous travelers. The unforgettable adventure of trekking The Big Ice at Perito Moreno Glacier is the highlight of the trip to this remote destination. El Calafate is small enough to make exploring on foot easy, so don’t forget to enjoy leisurely strolls through the town’s charming, winding alleys. With its incredible natural beauty, fascinating culture, and delectable cuisine, El Calafate will undoubtedly captivate even the most seasoned traveler.