Big Ice Tour Navigation Hike and Minitrekking in Perito Moreno
Active
8h
All sales are final. No refund is available for cancellations.
Manual confirmation
Mobile or paper ticket accepted
About this experience
Big Ice is a full day activity in which you’ll be able to enjoy Perito Moreno glacier from each and every angle possible: from the water, from the woods, bordering it by the moraine and walking over the ice with crampons.
The total duration of this tour leaving the port “Bajo las sombras” and turning back is about 7 hours and 30 minutes. The duration of the whole excursion with transfers from El Calafate is about 11 hours long. The Big Ice tour takes place in a natural environment so climate conditions and glacier’s characteristics vary on a daily basis !This allows us to enjoy different and non repeatable experiences in the prettiest glacier of the world!
Available options
Without transfer
Pickup included
With transfer
Transfer included<br/>Pickup included
What's included
Especial equipment
40min of navigation
Minitrekking Perito Moreno Glacier
60min walking on patagonian woods
Transfers From/To Hotels In El Calafate
90min walkin on ice
Bilingual Mountain Guides
Detailed itinerary
1
Stop 1
The bus departs really early in the morning,with a bilingual guide (english/spanish) that will provide information about the surroundings and will accompany the group on their way to National Park Los Glaciares and during 1 hour in the runway visit. There you’ll have one of the best panoramic views of the glacier
2
Stop 2
Then back on the bus you’ll travel to “Bajo las sombras” port and will embark to sail 20 minutes by the “Rico” arm of the Argentinean lake.
Arriving on the other side of the lake, the front of Perito Moreno’s southern wall awaits us.
3
As we arrive at the shelter the group will be greeted by the expert mountain guides, who will divide us into subgroups and join us in the hike assisting wherever is necessary and helping us to interpret the landscape. At the beginning,we’ll hike for 2 hours by the glacier’s moraine from where we observe different panoramic views of the glacier and the woods.
Before our trekking on the glacier, the group shall stop to enjoy a picnic in the middle of nature. In this activity you won't find places to buy some food or beverage so you must bring it all the way from El Calafate.It is indispensable to the passengers to bring their food in the backpack.
4
Once lunch is over and the ice access point is reached, guides will provide assistance with the helmet, harness and crampons to get started with our 3 hour long trekking. THE BIG ICE IS HIGHLY PERSONALIZED. The groups on the ice will be up to 10 people, accompanied by two mountain guides. During the tour on the glacier you will see cracks, lagoons, streams, seracs and, occasionally, ice caves.
5
Stop 5
At the end of the ice trek the return will be undertaken by the same path that was taken previously until reaching the refuge, where you’ll have some minutes to admire the glacier one last time and take the boat trip back to the port.
What's not included
Lunch
Entrance To The National Park
Port Taxes
Available languages
Guide guide
EN
ES
Reviews breakdown
Viator
5.0
1 reviews
5★
1
4★
0
3★
0
2★
0
1★
0
Tripadvisor
4.6
12 reviews
5★
10
4★
1
3★
0
2★
0
1★
1
Important information
Travelers should have a high level of physical fitness
Important notes
Once the reservation is made, we will contact you to confirm the information and we will provide you with a new coupon.
About El Calafate
El Calafate is a charming town in Argentine Patagonia, known as the gateway to the stunning Los Glaciares National Park. It's famous for its dramatic glaciers, crystal-clear lakes, and breathtaking landscapes, offering a mix of adventure and relaxation in a unique Patagonian setting.
Top Attractions
Perito Moreno Glacier
One of the most impressive glaciers in the world, Perito Moreno is part of the Los Glaciares National Park and is known for its massive size and dramatic calving events.
Nature
Half day to full day
AR$1,500-2,500 ($15-25 USD) for park entry and boat tours
Laguna Nimez Reserve
A small reserve near El Calafate that is home to a variety of bird species, including flamingos, ducks, and geese.
Nature
1-2 hours
AR$500-1,000 ($5-10 USD) for entry
El Calafate Historic Museum
A small museum that offers insights into the history and culture of the region, including exhibits on the local Tehuelche people and the early settlers.
Historical
1 hour
AR$300-500 ($3-5 USD) for entry
Glaciares National Park
A vast national park that includes the Perito Moreno Glacier and numerous other glaciers, lakes, and mountains. It's a UNESCO World Heritage Site and offers a variety of outdoor activities.
Nature
Full day
AR$1,500-2,500 ($15-25 USD) for park entry and activities
Must-Try Local Dishes
Cordero al Asador (Roast Lamb)
Slow-roasted lamb, a specialty of the region, often served with local vegetables and sauces.
Main Course
Contains meat
Trucha (Trout)
Freshly caught trout, often grilled or fried, served with local sides like potatoes and salads.
Main Course
Contains fish
Calafate Berry Desserts
Desserts made with the local calafate berry, including jams, pies, and liqueurs.
Dessert
Vegetarian
Popular Activities
Glacier trekking
Kayaking
Mountain biking
Boat tours
Wildlife viewing
Sunset cruises
Visiting local museums
Attending festivals
Best Time to Visit
December to February (Summer)
Summer is the peak tourist season with warm temperatures, long daylight hours, and the best conditions for outdoor activities. All attractions are open, and the weather is most favorable for hiking and exploring.
10°C to 22°C (50°F to 72°F)
50°F to 72°F
Practical Information
Language
- Official: Spanish
- Widely spoken: English, German
- English: Moderately spoken in tourist areas
Currency
Argentine Peso (ARS)
Time Zone
GMT-3
Electricity
220VV, 50HzHz
Safety Information
Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe
El Calafate is generally safe for travelers, with low crime rates. However, as with any destination, it's important to take basic precautions to ensure a safe and enjoyable trip.
Important Precautions:
- • Keep valuables secure and out of sight
- • Use licensed taxis or ride-sharing apps
- • Be cautious when withdrawing cash from ATMs
Getting there
By air
- Comodoro Rivadavia International Airport (CRD) • 450 km (280 miles) from El Calafate
- El Calafate International Airport (FTE) • 25 km (15.5 miles) from city center
By bus
Terminal de Ómnibus El Calafate
Getting around
Public transport
The local bus service is affordable and convenient for getting around town and to major attractions like the Perito Moreno Glacier.
Taxis
Available • Apps: Uber (limited availability), Local taxi apps
Rentals
Car, Bike
Neighborhoods
Downtown El Calafate
Lago Argentino Area
Day trips
Upsala Glacier
50 km (31 miles) from El Calafate • Full day
A massive glacier that can be visited via boat tour from the Lago Argentino.
Rio de los Glaciares
100 km (62 miles) from El Calafate • Full day
A stunning river surrounded by glaciers and mountains, offering breathtaking views and outdoor activities.
Festivals
El Calafate Festival • January
Fiesta Nacional del Glacial • February
Pro tips
- Visit the Perito Moreno Glacier early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid crowds and enjoy the best lighting for photos.
- Dress in layers, as the weather can change quickly and dramatically in Patagonia.
- Book tours and accommodations well in advance, especially during peak season (December to February).
- Try local specialties like cordero al asador (roast lamb) and calafate berry desserts.
- Explore the town's local markets and shops for unique souvenirs and handmade crafts.
From $25
per person
Price varies by option
Secure booking
Free cancellation available
