Perito Moreno Ice hike & walkways from El Calafate - Minitrekking
Active
10h
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
The Mini Ice Trekking Perito Moreno Glacier day tour is one of the most popular excursions in El Calafate. This tour allows visitors to walk on the ice of the most iconic glacier in Patagonia, the Perito Moreno Glacier. This guided excursion at Los Glaciares National Park, (in addition to walking on the ice) includes transfers from El Calafate and a stop at the Perito Moreno walkways. On the same day, you’ll get to know the glacier from afar, with stunning panoramic views, and up close, stepping on the ice itself.
Available options
Perito Moreno Ice hike & walkways from El Calafate - Minitrekking
Pickup included
What's included
Complimentary drink with glacial ice
Crampons
Boat Ride
Bilingual guide (Spanish-English)
Pickup + Roundtrip from El Calafate
Visit Perito Moreno Walkways
Detailed itinerary
1
You will be picked up at your accommodations in El Calafate to travel 45 miles (70 kilometers) to Puerto Bajo Las Sombras. During this tour, the guide will provide information about Los Glaciares National Park and Perito Moreno Glacier. The day before the tour begins at 6:00 P.M., you will be informed via WhatsApp of the exact time and location of the pick-up.
2
The trek will start with a leisurely walk of about ½ mile (1 km) along the shore of the lake. After, your guides will give a short brief on safety and glaciology.
Upon reaching the edge of the glacier, subgroups of a maximum of 20 travelers will be organized, each accompanied by two professional guides (creating a ratio of 10 travelers per guide). With their help, you’ll put on your helmet and crampons then begin your ice walk on the Perito Moreno Glacier. For an hour and a half, you’ll get up close and personal with the glacier, walking on the ice and learning about it in depth. You may come to find that its very nature is to change constantly, resulting in a unique itinerary for every tour. Your guide will plan the itinerary on the glacier in a manner that will allow you to see the most formations and have the best experience.
3
When you’ve finished traversing the ice, your guide will offer you a bonbon and a glass of whiskey with ice from the glacier itself. Next, you’ll return to your starting point on the ice and give back the crampons and the remaining equipment.
You’ll continue walking along the moraine until finally leaving it behind to reach a panoramic view of the Perito Moreno Glacier, featuring the mountains and lake. Then, you’ll start the return trip through a path that crosses the Patagonian Andean Forest where you’ll reach the refuge. At the refuge, staff will be waiting for you with a hot drink and a small surprise (a souvenir). After this short break, you’ll embark on the return trip to Puerto Bajo Las Sombras, but first, take a last look at the enormous walls of the glacier from the boat.
4
The shuttle bus will be waiting for you upon arrival at the port. Before returning to El Calafate, you’ll make one last stop for an hour and a half at the Perito Moreno Glacier walkways. There, you can enjoy the spectacular panoramic views of the glacier and walk along a self-guided trail before returning to your accommodations in El Calafate.
What's not included
Entrance to the National Park (you can buy your ticket onsite with Argentine pesos)
Food
Available languages
Guide guide
EN
ES
Reviews breakdown
Viator
5.0
2 reviews
5★
2
4★
0
3★
0
2★
0
1★
0
Tripadvisor
5.0
2 reviews
5★
2
4★
0
3★
0
2★
0
1★
0
Important information
Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries
Not recommended for pregnant travelers
Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness
The circuit you will make on the glacier is of medium difficulty, the ice surface is irregular but firm and safe.
LIMITATION: Only suitable for people from 8 to 65 years old (both included). No exception.
Important notes
These are the contact details of the local agency:
Ryans Travel - El Calafate
Alberto Villar
0054 92966448575
7 de Diciembre, nº 31
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
