Balmaceda & Serrano Glaciers Boat Tour and traditional lunch.

Puerto Natales , Chile

Balmaceda & Serrano Glaciers Boat Tour and traditional lunch.

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(73 reviews)

10h - 11h

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

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Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

At Howlanders, we consider the "Balmaceda and Serrano Glaciers Tour" a must for every traveler visiting Puerto Natales. From the boat, the tour will introduce two of the most impressive glaciers in Chile: Balmaceda and Serrano. In addition to the glaciers, this tour includes a 40-minute walk through a lush forest to reach the foot of the glaciers. On the way back to the ship, you can enjoy a glass of whiskey made with millenary ice from the glaciers, coffee, or a hot cup of tea.

Are you ready for a real adventure? Here are all the details of the tour:

Available options

Balmaceda & Serrano Boat Tour

What's included

Coffee or tea onboard

Traditional Patagonian lunch (vegetarian option available)

Transfer to the port

Guide

A glass of whiskey with millenary glacier ice

Detailed itinerary

At the proposed time, we’ll see you at the meeting point located in the center of Puerto Natales for a tour briefing. Next, the shuttle bus will take you to Puerto Bories, located about 3.1 mi. (5 km) away. You can show up directly at Puerto Bories if it suits you better. Once there, you’ll board the ship to start your big adventure!

All aboard! Set sail for the Balmaceda and Serrano Glaciers by way of the Ultima Esperanza Fjord. During the first part of the voyage, get an eyeful of Patagonia’s overflowing nature when the captain approaches the cormorant colonies, the sea lion ravine (watch sea lions lounge), the condor cliff, and the great waterfalls.

Continue to Bernardo O'Higgins National Park and disembark at Puerto Toro. Next, stretch your legs on a 40-minute walk along a path through a lush forest of coihues and southern beeches. At the end of the route, discover the main viewpoint facing the great Serrano Glacier and enjoy the most spectacular views of this captivating glacier.

You’ll have some free time to enjoy the glacier views and stroll along some of the trails in the surrounding areas while on your way back to the boat.

Estancia Perales Restaurant -

Once you’re back on board, the crew will greet you with a glass of whiskey cooled by ancient glacier ice, a freshly brewed coffee, or a warm cup of tea.

Next, the ship will continue its journey to a traditional Patagonian estancia (ranch). There, you’ll disembark again to savor a delicious lunch featuring salad, soup, grilled lamb with potatoes, and dessert, paired with Chilean wine or a drink of your choice. Vegetarian alternatives are also available!

After lunch, begin the voyage back to Puerto Natales with the first stop in Puerto Boires. From there the shuttle bus will drop you off at the city center with an arrival time between 4:00 p.m. and 5:00 p.m. (depending on the season).

What's not included

Pick-up and drop-off at your accommodation

Available languages

Guide guide

EN ES

Reviews breakdown

Viator 4.0

38 reviews

5★

4★

3★

2★

1★

Tripadvisor 4.3

35 reviews

5★

4★

3★

2★

1★

Important information

Public transportation options are available nearby

Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries

Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

Meeting point

Departures from September 1 to March 31: at 7:30 AM.
Departures from April 1 to August 31 at 8:30 AM

Important notes

These are the contact details of the local tour operator:
Turismo 21 de mayo: +56 61 2614420 / +56 612411978 / +56 61 2 614421
WHATSAPP : +56 977089844

The tour does not include pick-up from your accommodation, so you'll need to go to one of the two meeting points at the designated times, depending on your travel date:

Departures from September 1 to March 31: our Puerto Natales office at 7:00 AM or Puerto Bories at 7:30 AM.

Departures from April 1 to August 31: our Puerto Natales office at 8:00 AM or Puerto Bories at 8:30 AM.

The office is located at Hermann Eberhard 560, Puerto Natales (https://goo.gl/maps/RGNhU364pd8FRDgk8).

Puerto Bories is located here: https://maps.app.goo.gl/BvBkRTexQzy9Cpsn7.

If you’re staying at one of the following hotels — Weskar, Remota, Altiplánico, Borde Glaciar, Singular, or Simple Patagonia — we recommend heading directly to Puerto Bories, as it's closer.

Please be on time, especially if you're meeting us at Puerto Bories — arriving early means better seats!

If you have any questions, please contact us at bookings@howlanders.com

About Puerto Natales

Puerto Natales is a charming town in Chilean Patagonia, serving as the main gateway to the world-renowned Torres del Paine National Park. Known for its stunning natural beauty, outdoor adventures, and rich cultural heritage, it offers a unique blend of rugged wilderness and small-town charm. The town is nestled on the shores of the Last Hope Sound, providing breathtaking views and a serene atmosphere.

Top Attractions

Torres del Paine National Park

Torres del Paine National Park is one of the most famous and stunning national parks in the world. Known for its dramatic granite towers, turquoise lakes, and vast glaciers, it offers incredible hiking, trekking, and wildlife viewing opportunities.

Nature Multi-day recommended for full experience Free entry, but fees apply for campsites and certain activities

Milodón Cave

Milodón Cave is a fascinating archaeological site where the remains of the prehistoric milodón (a giant ground sloth) were discovered. The cave offers a glimpse into the region's ancient history and is a popular tourist attraction.

Historical 1-2 hours CLP 3,000 (USD 3.60)

Last Hope Sound

Last Hope Sound is a stunning fjord that offers breathtaking views and incredible wildlife viewing opportunities. The sound is a popular destination for boat tours, kayaking, and other water-based activities.

Nature Half-day to full-day CLP 20,000 - 50,000 (USD 24 - 60) for boat tours

Must-Try Local Dishes

King Crab

A local delicacy, king crab is a must-try when visiting Puerto Natales. The crab is typically served grilled, steamed, or in a variety of dishes, showcasing its sweet and tender meat.

Main Course Not suitable for vegetarians or vegans

Cordero al Palo (Roast Lamb)

A traditional Patagonian dish, cordero al palo is a slow-roasted lamb cooked over an open fire. The lamb is marinated in a blend of spices and herbs, giving it a unique and delicious flavor.

Main Course Not suitable for vegetarians or vegans

Curanto

A traditional Chilean dish, curanto is a hearty stew made with a variety of meats, seafood, and vegetables. The dish is typically cooked in a pit oven, giving it a unique and smoky flavor.

Main Course Can be made vegetarian or vegan upon request

Popular Activities

Hiking Trekking Kayaking Mountain biking Boat tours Wildlife viewing Photography Visiting local museums

Best Time to Visit

December to February (Summer)

Summer is the peak tourist season in Puerto Natales, offering the warmest weather and the best conditions for outdoor activities. The days are longer, and the landscapes are lush and vibrant. This is the ideal time for hiking, trekking, and exploring Torres del Paine National Park.

10°C to 20°C (50°F to 68°F) 50°F to 68°F

Practical Information

Language

Official: Spanish
Widely spoken: English (in tourist areas)
English: Moderately spoken in tourist areas, limited elsewhere

Currency

Chilean Peso (CLP)

Time Zone

GMT-3

Electricity

220VV, 50HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe

Puerto Natales is generally a safe destination for travelers, with low crime rates and a welcoming atmosphere. 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 reputable tour operators and guides
• Be cautious when using ATMs, especially at night

Getting there

By air

Teniente Julio Gallardo Airport • 5 km from city center

By bus

Puerto Natales Bus Terminal

Getting around

Public transport

The local bus service in Puerto Natales is limited but convenient for getting around the town and to nearby attractions. Buses are affordable and reliable, but schedules may be limited.

Taxis

Available • Apps:

Rentals

Car, Bike, Scooter

Neighborhoods

Town Center Port Area

Day trips

Bernardo O'Higgins National Park

Approximately 150 km west of Puerto Natales • Full day

Bernardo O'Higgins National Park is a vast and remote wilderness area offering incredible hiking, trekking, and wildlife viewing opportunities. The park is home to a variety of landscapes, including glaciers, fjords, and ancient forests.

Cueva del Milodón

Approximately 24 km north of Puerto Natales • Half day

Cueva del Milodón is a fascinating archaeological site where the remains of the prehistoric milodón (a giant ground sloth) were discovered. The cave offers a glimpse into the region's ancient history and is a popular tourist attraction.

Festivals

Festival del Cangrejo Rey • January Fiesta de la Patagonia • February

Pro tips

Visit Torres del Paine National Park during the shoulder or off-peak seasons to avoid crowds and enjoy a more tranquil experience
Pack layers and be prepared for all types of weather, as conditions can change rapidly
Book accommodations and guided tours in advance, especially during the peak season
Try local specialties, such as king crab and Patagonian lamb, for an authentic culinary experience
Explore the town's artisan markets and local shops for unique souvenirs and gifts