Ultimate Guide: El Calafate 1 Day Perito Moreno Glacier Ice Trek

Are you planning a trip to El Calafate and looking for an incredible adventure? Look no further than the 1 Day Perito Moreno Glacier Ice Trek. This tour provides an unmatched experience where you can explore the stunning Perito Moreno Glacier with the guidance of expert mountain guides. In this guide, we will provide you with everything you need to know to plan your ultimate adventure.

Experience

The Perito Moreno Glacier Ice Trek is a once-in-a-lifetime experience that combines sightseeing, hiking along the glacier, and exploring the natural beauty of Patagonian forest.

Highlights

During the tour, you’ll experience many incredible highlights, including:

• Hiking on the Perito Moreno Glacier with ice crampons
• A sightseeing cruise in front of the glacier
• Marveling at the Patagonian forest with stunning natural scenery
• Admiring the glacier from different angles as you stroll along boardwalks and observation decks

Full Description

The tour begins with hotel pickup in El Calafate, followed by a 1 hour and 30-minute journey to Bajo de la Sombras Port. Here you will board a boat and sail across the Rico Channel, arriving on the southwestern coast of Patagonia to reach Perito Moreno Glacier. Upon arrival at the glacier, you’ll embark on a 1 hour and 30-minute hike with your mountain guides along a path next to the glacier. You’ll eventually arrive at a magnificent viewpoint where you can marvel at the vast frozen landscape that stretches out before you. Next, attach the iron crampons to the ground and begin your hike across the ice. You’ll trek across the ice for around four hours, admiring stunning ice formations from start to finish. Your expert guides will share their knowledge about the flora and fauna that thrive in this unique environment. After completing the glacier hike, enjoy some free time to explore the observation decks and take in the glacier’s beauty from different angles. Finally, after a full day of adventure, return to Bajo de la Sombras Port by boat and transfer back to your hotel in El Calafate.

What to Bring

To ensure a comfortable and safe experience, we recommend bringing the following items:

• Warm waterproof clothing (windbreaker jacket, gloves, hat, and comfortable waterproof shoes)
• Sunglasses
• Sunscreen (factor 30 or higher)
• Insect repellent
• Personal medication (if required)
• Water bottle and some snacks

Important Information

Before booking your tour, there are a few important things to note:

• The tour is not recommended for people with limited mobility, pregnant women or children under the age of 10.
• The hike is considered to be moderate to difficult and requires a good level of fitness.
• It’s important to notify us of any dietary requirements or allergies beforehand.
• The tour operates in almost all weather conditions, but in case of extreme weather warnings, the itinerary may be modified.

Book the Tour

Ready to experience the adventure of a lifetime? Book the tour HERE and get ready for an unforgettable journey to Perito Moreno Glacier.

Book Your Tour Now

In conclusion, the 1 Day Perito Moreno Glacier Ice Trek is undoubtedly one of the most unique and exciting experiences you can have in Patagonia. With stunning scenery, expert guidance, and the thrill of hiking on the glacier, this tour is a must-do for adventure seekers. By following the tips and information in this guide, you’ll be well-prepared for an unforgettable experience. Book your tour today and get ready for an adventure that you’ll never forget.

El Calafate Travel FAQ

El Calafate is a beautiful city located in Patagonia, Argentina. It is known for its stunning natural landscapes, including glaciers and mountains. Here is a comprehensive FAQ for all your travel needs.

How do I get to El Calafate?

By Air

The best way to get to El Calafate is by air. The city has its own airport, the Comandante Armando Tola International Airport, which is serviced by several airlines. Daily flights operate to/from Buenos Aires, Ushuaia, Bariloche, and other cities in Argentina.

By Road

El Calafate can also be accessed by road. The famous Ruta 40, which is the longest route in Argentina, crosses through El Calafate. The city is also linked to other Patagonian towns via paved roads.

When is the best time to visit El Calafate?

The best time to visit El Calafate is during the summer months of December to February. The weather is mild, and the days are longer, allowing you to explore the city and the surrounding areas to the fullest. However, this is also the peak tourist season, so expect crowds and higher prices. If you want to avoid the crowds and experience the city’s natural beauty without spending a fortune, consider visiting during the shoulder seasons of September to November or March to May. The weather is still pleasant during these months, and you can enjoy the city’s attractions at a more relaxed pace.

What are the must-see attractions in El Calafate?

Perito Moreno Glacier

The Perito Moreno Glacier is one of the most famous attractions in El Calafate. It is a massive glacier that is part of the Southern Patagonian Ice Field and is a UNESCO World Heritage site. Visitors can take a boat trip to see the glacier up close, or take a walk on the glacier itself. You can also watch the glacier calving, which is a natural phenomenon where chunks of ice break off the glacier and fall into the water below.

Glaciarium Museum

The Glaciarium Museum is a modern museum that showcases the history and science of glaciers. It features interactive exhibits and multimedia presentations that provide visitors with a unique and informative experience.

Cerro Frias

Cerro Frias is a small hill located about 17 km from El Calafate. It offers fantastic views of the surrounding landscape and is a popular spot for hiking and horseback riding.

What outdoor activities can I do in El Calafate?

Trekking and Hiking

El Calafate is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts. There are several hiking and trekking trails throughout the city and its surroundings, which provide stunning views of glaciers, mountains, and lakes. The Laguna de los Tres trek, which is located in the nearby town of El Chaltén, is a popular day trip. It takes you through forests, rivers, and mountains, and ends with a stunning view of Mount Fitz Roy.

Ice Climbing

If you’re feeling adventurous, try ice climbing on one of the glaciers in the area. You can hire a tour guide that provides equipment and training and takes you to the best locations.

Boating and Kayaking

The lakes and rivers in El Calafate are perfect for boating and kayaking. You can take a boat tour of the Perito Moreno glacier, or kayak through the Upsala and Spegazzini glaciers.

What are the best places to eat in El Calafate?

Mi Rancho

This restaurant serves fantastic Argentinean barbecue and other local dishes. It has a cozy atmosphere and is a favorite among locals.

La Zaina

La Zaina is a small cozy restaurant that serves excellent Patagonian cuisine. It has a lovely view of Lake Argentino and is an ideal place to have a romantic dinner.

Pura Vida

Pura Vida is a vegetarian restaurant that serves delicious and healthy food. It has a relaxed atmosphere and is popular among health-conscious travelers.

What are some essential travel tips for visiting El Calafate?

Here are some tips to make your trip to El Calafate more enjoyable: – Dress appropriately for the weather. Even during the summer months, temperatures can drop quickly, so bring warm clothes. – If you plan to visit the Perito Moreno Glacier, bring sunscreen and sunglasses. The glare from the ice can be blinding. – Book your tours and accommodations in advance, especially during the peak season. – Be prepared for high prices, as El Calafate is a tourist destination.

Book Your Tour Now

El Calafate is a breathtaking city that offers something for everyone. From glaciers to mountains and lakes, you’ll have no shortage of outdoor activities and attractions to explore. Follow these travel tips and make the most out of your trip to this beautiful corner of the world.

How to spend your time as a tourist in El Calafate

El Calafate is a popular destination in Argentina, known mainly for its incredible glaciers, stunning scenery, and great opportunities for outdoor activities. If you’re planning a trip there or just looking for some inspiration on how to spend your time in the area, then you’re in the right place. In this guide, we’ll go over some of the best things to do in El Calafate that will make your trip an unforgettable experience.

1. Visit Perito Moreno Glacier

One of the must-see attractions in El Calafate is the Perito Moreno Glacier, considered one of the world’s most impressive glaciers. It’s easily accessible from the town, and you can take a bus or tour to get there. Once you arrive, you’ll be greeted with stunning views of the glacier and the surrounding landscape. If you’re feeling adventurous, you can take a guided tour to walk on the glacier or take a boat ride to get up close and personal with the ice.

2. Explore Parque Nacional Los Glaciares

Parque Nacional Los Glaciares is a national park that encompasses more than 700,000 hectares of land in El Calafate. It’s home to many glaciers, including Perito Moreno, as well as breathtaking landscapes and wildlife. You can explore the park on your own or take a guided tour. Hiking is a popular activity in the park, and there are trails for all levels.

3. Go on a boat tour on Lake Argentino

Lake Argentino is the largest lake in Patagonia and provides stunning views of the surrounding mountains and glaciers. There are many boat tours available that will take you around the lake and show you some of the most beautiful spots in the area. You may also see some wildlife, such as birds and sea lions, along the way.

4. Visit the Glaciarium

If you want to learn more about glaciers and their impact on the environment, then the Glaciarium is a must-visit attraction. It’s a museum and exhibition center dedicated to the study of glaciers and their relationship with the planet. You’ll learn about the history of glaciers, how they form, and the impact of climate change on them.

5. Taste Patagonian cuisine

No trip to El Calafate would be complete without trying some of the local cuisine. Patagonian cuisine is a mix of European influences and traditional Argentinean dishes. You must try some of the local meats, such as roasted lamb or grilled beef, which are cooked on an open fire. Also, don’t miss out on the chance to try some of the local wines, which are produced in the nearby region of Mendoza.

6. Visit the Glaciers National Park Interpretation Center

If you want to learn more about the glaciers and their formation, the Glaciers National Park Interpretation Center provides an interactive experience to visitors. The center has been designed to educate visitors on the park’s history, flora, and fauna. It’s an excellent place to visit after you have watched the glaciers and to better understand their evolution.

7. Go birdwatching at Laguna Nimez Reserve

Laguna Nimez Reserve is a wildlife reserve on the edge of Lake Argentino. The reserve is known for its diversity of bird species, including flamingos, black-necked swans, and Chilean flamingos. You can take a tour of the reserve or explore on your own, and it’s an excellent place for nature lovers or photographers.

8. Take a day trip to Torres del Paine National Park

Torres del Paine National Park is located just across the border in Chile, and it’s a popular day trip destination from El Calafate. The park is known for its incredible landscapes that include glaciers, lakes, and mountains. You can take a guided tour or explore on your own, and it’s an excellent opportunity to see some of the most beautiful scenery Patagonia has to offer.

Book Your Tour Now

El Calafate is a beautiful destination that offers plenty of opportunities to explore the natural beauty of Patagonia. Whether you want to visit some of the most impressive glaciers in the world, hike in national parks, or taste some of the local cuisine, El Calafate has something for everyone. We hope this guide has inspired you to plan your trip to this incredible destination, and that you’ll have an unforgettable experience.