Minitrekking Perito Moreno: Ice hiking tour (optional transfers)
Active
5h - 11h
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Instant_then_manual confirmation
Mobile or paper ticket accepted
About this experience
At Howlanders, we highly recommend "Minitrekking Perito Moreno" to experience the majesty of the glacier in three different ways:
Ice hiking on Perito Moreno Glacier. You’ll discover the glacier up close and see the formations, small streams, sinkholes, crevasses...
Enjoy the views as the boat sails along the glacier wall. Appreciate the great height of the glacier then watch and listen for great chunks of ice falling from the glacier.
If you select the package with transfers, you’ll also visit the footbridges and viewpoints of the glacier.
Discover the most complete Perito Moreno Glacier experience with Howlanders!
Available options
Tour with transfers & Perito M
Visit Perito Moreno walkways<br/>Pickup included
Tour without transfers
Meeting point: Puerto Bajo las Sombras
What's included
Hotel pick-up and drop-off + visit Perito Moreno footbridges (based on selected option)
Boat Ride
Bilingual guide (Spanish-English)
Ice Hiking equipment
Detailed itinerary
1
The day before the tour starts, your guide will contact you on behalf of our agency (Howlanders), to notify you of your pick-up time at your accommodations in El Calafate, (due to the tour’s different departure times throughout the morning). When the group has been gathered, you’ll head to the port ‘Bajo Las Sombras’, which is a few miles (kilometers) from the glacier viewpoint.
If you do not select the package that includes the transfer, you’ll meet the group directly at Puerto Bajo Las Sombras, inside Los Glaciares National Park.
From the port, we’ll take a boat and sail along the awe-inspiring south wall of the Perito Moreno Glacier. After disembarking, the guides will organize us into groups and begin the short walk to the Glacier. The guide will then assist hikers with their crampons, thus beginnning the incredible trek through the ice of one of the world’s most impressive glaciers.
2
Stop 2
For about an hour and a half, the group will traverse the glacier with our guides leading us on firm and safe trails. On these trails, we’ll have the opportunity to see the crevices, moulins (glacier sinkholes), and small blue lagoons located on the glacier. Throughout the tour, our guide will inform us of the many glacier landslides, as well as the endemic fauna and flora of the region.
3
On our way back, we’ll pass through the Magellanic Forest, where we can enjoy breathtaking views. Before returning to El Calafate, we’ll have some free time to enjoy the spectacular views of the Perito Moreno Glacier from the footbridges, thus ending a memorable day.
What's not included
Entrance fee to Los Glaciares National Park
Meals
Available languages
Guide guide
EN
ES
Reviews breakdown
Viator
4.7
64 reviews
5★
56
4★
5
3★
0
2★
0
1★
3
Tripadvisor
4.6
39 reviews
5★
33
4★
2
3★
1
2★
0
1★
3
Important information
Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries
Not recommended for pregnant travelers
Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Age restriction, travelers under 8 years old and over 65 years old can not make the tour due to government policy
Meeting point
The tour has different departure times, from 7 AM to 11:30 AM. The day before, the guide will contact you to let you know the starting time of the tour and the exact pickup time in case you have selected this option.
Important notes
The tour has several daily departures at different times between 7:00 AM and 11:30 AM. We will confirm the exact start time of your tour by WhatsApp the day before, starting at 6:00 PM. If we are unable to contact you via WhatsApp, we will communicate by email and, finally, with the reception service of your hotel in El Calafate. If after 7:00 PM you have not received the information, please contact us via WhatsApp. If you have not yet informed us where you will be staying, remember to do it as soon as possible. We do not provide pick-up service in Airbnb accommodations or apartments that do not have reception service, in case you are staying in an accommodation of this type, we will indicate a meeting point nearby. We also recommend you to bring your own food and a bottle of water (there is no possibility to buy food anywhere and it is not included in the tour). Remember that you must purchase the entrance ticket to access Los Glaciares National Park and you can do it directly here: ventaweb.apn.gob.ar/reserva/inicio selecting "Acceso Corredor Río Mitre y Glaciar Perito Moreno" or pay it in cash (in Argentine pesos) or with VISA card when you arrive at the Park. If you have any questions, please contact us at bookings@howlanders.com
You must bring your ID or passport, we are waiting for you in Patagonia Argentina!
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
