Perito Moreno Glacier Minitrekking Excursion
Active
10h
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Instant confirmation
Mobile or paper ticket accepted
About this experience
Minitrekking is a Full day Excursion that allows you to walk on the top of a Moreno Glacier with crampons.
Operation from August to May.
Does not operate during June until July 16th
Duration: 10 hours
Trekking on the Ice: About an hour and a half.
Total trekking time: approximately 3 hours.
Warning: this excursion, due to the degree of effort and difficulty that presents, is not advisable for the following people: greater of 65 years and minors of 10 years old, pregnant women, people with overweight or some type of disability.
Available options
Minitrekking Excursion on Perito Moreno Glacier
Pickup included
What's included
Professional guide
Minitrekking on the Glacier
Hotel pick-up and drop-off
Detailed itinerary
1
The excursion begins with the pick up from the hotels in El Calafate city, and goes through the Provincial Road N°11 to the Perito Moreno Glacier area, after traveling 75 km.
2
Once at the National Park, the bus takes you to the balconies and the guide is going to be waiting for you, to inform about the different trails. There, you’ll be free to walk along.
3
A bus from the company will take you to "Bajo las Sombras" pier, about 6 km far from the balconies, where you embark for a 20 minutes navigation across the Brazo Rico, enjoying breathtaking views of the glacier’s front walls and the Canal de los Témpanos (Icebergs Channel).
4
Stop 4
After checking the last details, groups of 20 follow their guides along the lake’s shore towards the edge of the glacier.
Once on the ice, the guides put each participant a pair of crampons on, and explain how to use them.
You will receive explanations about flora, fauna and general glaciology of the region, and also about the particular phenomenon that happens in the Perito Moreno Glacier and eventually produces its rupture.
5
Once the minitrekking is finished we return to pier "Bajo Las Sombras", navigating the Brazo Rico again.
6
The bus will be waiting for passengers at the port to take them back to their hotels in El Calafate
What's not included
Food and drinks
Perito Moreno Glacier fee is payable by cash or credit card
Available languages
Guide guide
EN
ES
Reviews breakdown
Viator
4.8
91 reviews
5★
78
4★
8
3★
3
2★
0
1★
2
Tripadvisor
4.8
143 reviews
5★
129
4★
5
3★
5
2★
0
1★
4
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
Limitations: This excursion, due to the degree of difficulty and effort required, it is only suitable for people from 10 to 65 years old. - People who are overweight should not participate. We consider as such those that exceed the following criteria: weight in kg greater than twice the height in cm minus 100 (for example, for a height of 1.70m: 170 minus 100 = 70 x 2 = 140)
Minimum age required to take the excursion: 08 years old. Maximum age allowed for the excursion: 65 years old. NO exceptions of ANY KIND in this point
People with any degree or type of physical or mental disability that affects their attention, progress and / or coordination.
People whose cardiac or vascular capacities are diminished, or use stents, pacemakers or other prostheses for example: medicated with anticoagulants, grade III varices (those that are thick and multiple), cardiac arrhythmias.
People suffering from diseases that provoke respiratory disabilities (COPD, asthma, emphysema, etc.).
Minimum age required to take the excursion: 10 years old. Maximum age allowed for the excursion: 65 years old. NO exceptions of ANY KIND in this point.
Smoking is not allowed during the excursion.
Important notes
**Important: Remember that the passengers must bring their own box lunch**
• Recommended Footwear: Sports sneakers or trekking boots, with warm woolen or cotton socks. (Wearing rubber boots, ski boots and high heel shoes is not permitted)
• Recommended Outfit: Comfortable sporting wear, long trousers, warm sweater or pile, water or windproof jacket, sun glasses, sunblock lotion and gloves.
• Not recommended for participants with back problems
• Not recommended for participants with heart complaints or other serious medical conditions
• Not recommended for pregnant women
• Minimum age: 10 years old / Maximum age: 65 years old (Without exception of any kind)
The pick-up from the hotels could suffer from 30 to 45 minutes of delay, because of the big amounts of hotels in town.
The exact pick-up time will be advised on re-confirmation the day before the excursion, once the passenger inform the hotel where they will be staying.
Minitrekking has a fixed pick-up route through hotels, which does not include B&B, or private accommodations. If passengers are in these types of accommodations, they must show up at the indicated time, at the "Hielo y Aventura" 's office (Av. del Libertador 483), to take the transfer that will take them to the Perito Moreno Glacier.
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
Instant confirmation
