Upsala Glacier

Overview

Upsala Glacier is one of the most impressive glaciers in the Southern Patagonian Ice Field, known for its massive size and stunning ice formations. It's a popular destination for trekking and boat tours.

Part of the largest ice mass in the Southern Hemisphere outside of Antarctica.

Glacier Hiking Boat Tour

Location

Address

Parque Nacional Los Glaciares, Santa Cruz

Neighborhood: Lago Argentino

Coordinates

-50.375600, -72.241600

Visiting Information

Opening Hours

monday Closed

tuesday Closed

wednesday Closed

thursday Closed

friday Closed

saturday Closed

sunday Closed

Admission

Adults

$10 (park entrance fee)

Children

$5 (ages 6-12)

Best Time to Visit

Overall Best Period

November to March

Best Time of Day

Early morning

fewer crowds, better lighting for photos

Duration Recommendations

Minimum

2 hours

Recommended

4-5 hours

Full Experience

full day with boat tour and hike

Seasonal Highlights

spring

mild to cool

• spring flowers
• waterfalls from melting ice

summer

warm to hot

• extended daylight hours

autumn

cool to cold

• fall colors
• clear, crisp air

winter

cold

• snow-covered landscape

Know Before You Go

Essential Information

Book boat tours in advance
Bring valid ID
Check weather conditions

What to Bring

essential

ID water waterproof jacket

seasonal

warm layers gloves and hat in winter

not allowed

large backpacks on boat tours drones without permit

Health & Safety

Physical Requirements: moderate to high (for hiking)

• altitude sickness possible
• cold weather risks

Medical facilities: first aid available at visitor center

Payment Information

Accepted

cash, credit cards

Currency

Argentine Peso

Typical Costs

boat tour $50

parking $5

food $10

souvenirs $15

Dress Code

casual, weather-appropriate, comfortable hiking shoes, layers for changing weather, sturdy hiking boots, inappropriate clothing for hiking

Booking Tips

• 1-2 months for peak season
• official park website or local tour operators
• varies by tour operator
• available for boat tours

Amenities

Restrooms

Gift shop

Atm

Wifi

Lockers

Wheelchair rental

Stroller rental

On site restaurant

Cafe

Picnic areas

Outside food allowed

Digital Services

Mobile App

Los Glaciares National Park

Size: 30 MB

Features: Map, Tour information, Weather updates

Platforms: iOS, Android

WiFi Zones: Visitor center, some cafes

Charging Stations: Visitor center

How to Reach

From Airport

Nearest: El Calafate International Airport

Distance: 80 km

Travel Time: 1.5 hours

taxi

$80 1.5 hours

shuttle

$20 1.5 hours

From City Center

Distance: 50 km

bus

$5 1 hour

taxi

$60 50 minutes

rental_car

varies 50 minutes

Local Insights

Cultural Context

Why Locals Love It: Natural beauty, important part of Patagonian culture

Historical Significance: Part of the ancient Patagonian Ice Field

Insider Tips

Early morning boat tours have fewer people
Best views from the less crowded western viewpoint

Local Recommendations

• Try local Patagonian lamb
• Ask guides about hidden viewpoints

Language Help

Useful Phrases

hello Hola

thank_you Gracias

where_is ¿Dónde está?

how_much ¿Cuánto cuesta?

beautiful Hermoso

ticket Entrada

Guide Languages: Spanish, English, some German/French

Photography Guide

Best Photo Spots

Viewpoint from Lago Argentino

Best Time: Golden hour

Tips: Wide angle for the glacier's expanse

Result: Breathtaking glacier views

#UpsalaGlacier #Patagonia #GlacierTour

Photography Rules

allowed areas outdoor areas, viewpoints

prohibited areas boat tours (no standalone cameras, only phones)

flash photography not recommended (disturbs wildlife)

commercial photography permit needed

drone policy prohibited without special permit

tripod policy allowed in designated areas

selfie sticks allowed

Nearby Attractions

Perito Moreno Glacier

Distance: 60 km

Walking: N/A

Type: Glacier

El Calafate