Exploradores Glacier Ice Trek: Full Day from Puerto Tranquilo
Active
12h
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Instant confirmation
Mobile or paper ticket accepted
About this experience
This adventure takes you deep into the heart of untouched Patagonia, where nature has remained pure and powerful for thousands of years.
The Exploradores Glacier is the main gateway to the Northern Patagonian Ice Field, one of the largest ice masses on Earth. Walking on its bright blue surface, surrounded by mountains and silence, is a truly humbling experience — a reminder of how small we are next to nature’s grandeur.
Every step across the living ice connects you with a landscape few people ever get to see up close. You’ll witness crevasses, crystal formations, and frozen caves that change with every season, making each visit completely unique.
An unforgettable journey into Patagonia’s frozen heart — where you’ll feel as if you were standing alone at the edge of the world.
Available options
Exploradores Glacier Ice Trek: Full Day from Puerto Tranquilo
What's included
Tour guide
Entrance fee to Laguna San Rafael National Park
Trekking ice axe
Crampons, gaiters, helmet, sunglasses, gloves, backpack
Box lunch (vegetarian option available)
Satellite communication
Ground transportation
Safety harness (per person)
Detailed itinerary
1
The adventure begins in Puerto Río Tranquilo, one of the most scenic towns along Chile’s legendary Carretera Austral. From here, we’ll travel for about 1.5 hours through the stunning Exploradores Valley, surrounded by rivers, waterfalls, and mountain views.
This route leads us to the gateway of the Northern Patagonian Ice Field and the impressive Exploradores Glacier, which descends from Mount San Valentín, the highest peak in Patagonia at 3,910 meters above sea level.
2
After arriving at the CONAF Visitor Center, our specialized mountain guides will provide a complete safety briefing and distribute technical gear for the hike.
We’ll begin our 7-hour trek toward the glacier, crossing lush temperate forests and rocky moraines before reaching the dazzling white and blue ice. Once on the glacier, you’ll gear up with crampons and explore an extraordinary frozen landscape — crevasses, ice caves, and sculpted formations that change constantly with light and temperature.
Here, you’ll feel, hear, and touch the living ice — a rare and powerful experience in the heart of Patagonia’s wilderness. After time to explore and enjoy a light snack, we’ll begin our return trek back to the base.
3
After completing the expedition, we’ll return to Puerto Río Tranquilo, a journey of about 1.5 hours, arriving in the late afternoon. You’ll end the day with a deep sense of wonder, having walked on one of the most spectacular glaciers in the world.
What's not included
Gratuities
Available languages
Guide guide
EN
ES
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 a high level of physical fitness
you must have a strong physical fitness level to do very important note
If you have problems, for example with your knees, let us know, this is not the excursion we recommend for you
Maximum age to do this tour is 56 years old
About Patagonia
Patagonia is a vast and untouched region in southern Chile, known for its dramatic landscapes, including towering mountains, vast glaciers, and pristine lakes. It offers some of the most breathtaking natural scenery in the world, perfect for adventurous travelers and nature enthusiasts.
Top Attractions
Torres del Paine National Park
One of the most iconic national parks in the world, Torres del Paine offers stunning granite peaks, turquoise lakes, and vast glaciers. It's a hiker's paradise with well-marked trails for all levels.
Nature
Multiple days for full exploration
Moderate (park entry fee around 20,000 CLP or 30 USD)
Glacier Grey
A massive glacier within Torres del Paine National Park, Glacier Grey is known for its dramatic calving events and stunning blue ice formations. Visitors can take boat tours to get up close.
Nature
Half day to full day
Moderate (boat tour around 50,000 CLP or 75 USD)
Carretera Austral
One of the most scenic road trips in the world, the Carretera Austral stretches over 1,240 km (770 miles) through the heart of Patagonia, offering breathtaking landscapes and remote villages.
Adventure
Multiple days to weeks
Varies (fuel, accommodations, and meals)
Must-Try Local Dishes
Cordero al Palo
A traditional Patagonian dish of lamb cooked on a spit over an open fire, often served with pebre (a spicy sauce made from tomatoes, onions, and chilies).
Dinner
Not vegetarian or vegan
King Crab
A delicacy in Patagonia, king crab is often served boiled or grilled, accompanied by melted butter or a spicy sauce.
Dinner
Not vegetarian or vegan
Murtilla
A tart, red berry native to Patagonia, often used in jams, jellies, and desserts. It has a unique flavor similar to a cross between a raspberry and a blackberry.
Dessert
Vegetarian, vegan (if not combined with dairy)
Popular Activities
Hiking
Trekking
Mountain Biking
Kayaking
Rock Climbing
Scenic Boat Tours
Wildlife Watching
Visiting Hot Springs
Best Time to Visit
December to February (Summer)
This is the warmest and driest time of the year, ideal for hiking, trekking, and outdoor activities. The weather is generally stable, and the days are long, providing ample daylight for exploration.
10°C to 20°C (50°F to 68°F)
50°F to 68°F
Practical Information
Language
- Official: Spanish
- Widely spoken: English (limited)
- English: Limited
Currency
Chilean Peso (CLP)
Time Zone
GMT-4 (Chile Standard Time)
Electricity
220VV, 50HzHz
Safety Information
Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe, but exercise caution in remote areas and when engaging in outdoor activities
Patagonia is generally a safe destination for travelers, with low crime rates and a welcoming local population. However, it's essential to be prepared for the challenges of the remote and rugged landscape, including unpredictable weather and limited access to emergency services.
Important Precautions:
- • Be cautious when engaging in outdoor activities, and always inform someone of your plans and expected return time
- • Carry a map, compass, and other essential supplies when hiking or trekking
- • Be aware of the weather and road conditions, especially in remote areas
Getting there
By air
- Balmaceda Airport • 10 km (6 miles) from Coyhaique
- Punta Arenas Airport • 20 km (12 miles) from Punta Arenas
By bus
Coyhaique, Punta Arenas
Getting around
Public transport
Buses are the most common form of public transport in Patagonia, offering comfortable and reliable service. They are well-suited for long-distance travel between towns.
Taxis
Available • Apps: Uber (limited availability), Local taxi apps
Rentals
Car, Bike
Neighborhoods
Puerto Natales
Coyhaique
Punta Arenas
Day trips
Cueva del Milodón
24 km (15 miles) from Puerto Natales • Half day
A fascinating archaeological site featuring a large cave where the remains of a prehistoric ground sloth (milodón) were discovered. The site also includes a small museum and walking trails.
Balmaceda and Serrano Glaciers
Approximately 80 km (50 miles) from Coyhaique • Full day
A stunning day trip that combines a boat ride through the fjords and a hike to the Balmaceda and Serrano Glaciers. The trip offers breathtaking views of glaciers, waterfalls, and wildlife.
Festivals
Fiesta de la Manzana (Apple Festival) • March (dates vary)
Festival de la Patagonia • December (dates vary)
Pro tips
- Book tours and accommodations well in advance, especially during peak season (December to February)
- Be prepared for all weather conditions, as Patagonia's climate can be unpredictable and change rapidly
- Invest in good quality gear and clothing, as the rugged landscape and unpredictable weather can be challenging
- Learn some basic Spanish phrases, as English is not widely spoken in Patagonia
- Be mindful of your impact on the environment, and follow Leave No Trace principles when hiking and camping
From $25
per person
Price varies by option
Secure booking
Free cancellation available
Instant confirmation
