Why Visit Perito Moreno Glacier, South Patagonia

Perito Moreno Glacier, South Patagonia

Located in the southern part of Los Glaciares National Park, about 78 km from the village of El Calafate, the Perito Moreno Glacier is one the most important tourist attractions in Argentina. The ice formation, nearly 30 km in length, and covering over 250 km sq, is one of 48 glaciers in the Southern Patagonian Ice Field, the world’s third largest reserve of fresh water. Unlike several glaciers in the world which are shrinking due to global warming, the Perito Moreno glacier remains in a state of equilibrium, accumulating as much ice as it is losing every year.

There are several viewing platforms overlooking Lake Argentino, from where visitors can get quite close to the glacier. Sometimes visitors can see huge chunks of ice fracturing and crashing in to the water from these viewing platforms. There are also trekking tours that go out onto parts of the glacier itself, and boat rides that go on a 45-minute trip around the base of the glacier. All tours to the glacier start from the village of El Calafate, which is about an hour and a half away by road.

Activities

Exciting and memorable things to do

Perito Moreno Glacier Tour

Enjoy a scenic drive to Los Glaciares National Park, so named for the abundance of glaciers found here, including Upsala, Onelli, and Spegazzini. Upon arrival, explore the different walkways at your own pace and enjoy views of the great glacier from various angles. Watch closely to see giant slabs of ice detach from the glacier.

Cruise in Los Glaciares National Park

This one hour excursion takes you on a cruise across Lake Rico, passing beside icebergs which have calved off the front of the Perito Moreno glacier. At the Icebergs Channel, the boat stops at a safe distance from the glacier, allowing a spectacular view of the high wall of ice, a special treat for photographers.

Ice Trekking, Los Glaciares National Park

Drive from El Calafate to “Bajo de las Sombras” port, where you’ll board a ship to cross Lago Rico, while navigating along the front of the stunning south face of Perito Moreno. When you disembark, start trekking along the coast of the lake, then walk across this frozen glacial paradise for more than three hours!

Accommodations

Great places to stay

EOLO Garden Resort, El Calafate

Built on the land where the first creole and European immigrants of the area initially set foot, this 10,000 acre property has 17 rooms with spectacular views, a restaurant, bar/lounge, spa tub, and sauna. The resort is a paradise for horseback riding, mountain biking, trekking, and bird watching.

Perito Moreno Glacier, South Patagonia

Activities

Perito Moreno Glacier Tour

Cruise in Los Glaciares National Park

Ice Trekking, Los Glaciares National Park

Accommodations

EOLO Garden Resort, El Calafate

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