The Perito Moreno Glacier in Argentina’s Los Glaciares National Park in Patagonia is one of the most iconic glaciers in the world.
I’ll detail the essentials you'll need for the hike to make sure you make the best out of this experience.
Getting There
Take a bus from El Calafate or join a tour. We went to a nearby agency in El Calafate and they handled everything including transportation. Most of the agencies offer similar activities and pricing so you just have to pick one in town.
Tips
It's best to always bring cash with you (Argentine pesos) and ideally, have your dollars exchanged with the blue rate (not the official rate). While the rules may have changed after 2020 on accepting cards, and on the blue rates and official rates, keep in mind that a lot of establishments may still be operating in the same way or may just charge extra for other payment methods.
Also, book activities early during peak seasons!
The Trek
You start at the meeting point, where you’ll gear up for the trek.
Most tours provide essential equipment, including crampons. However, comfortable hiking boots, layers for warmth, gloves, and sunglasses are a must for this journey.
Before hitting the ice, your guide will give an essential safety briefing. Listen closely – the glacier’s terrain can be challenging.
The trek begins with a 10 to 15 minute short hike through lush forests leading to the glacier’s edge.
Once you reach the glacier, it’s time to put on your crampons. These metal spikes are crucial for navigating the slippery ice safely. Don’t worry – the guides are there to help if it’s your first time using them.
Trekking on the glacier is like stepping into another world. You’ll encounter towering ice formations, deep crevasses, and shimmering pools of meltwater.
Your guide will share fascinating insights about the glacier, including how it’s one of the few in the world that’s still advancing. They’ll also highlight safety protocols, like steering clear of crevasses and avoiding unstable ice bridges.
One of the highlights? Sampling a drink cooled with glacier ice – an unforgettable way to toast this unique adventure.
The trek concludes at a stunning viewpoint where you can soak in panoramic views of the glacier.
Costs & Expenses
The Perito Moreno Glacier offers a range of experiences with varying costs. Here's an overview of the expenses you can anticipate.
Note: For the most current information, it's recommended to check official websites or contact tour operators directly before planning your visit!
Park Entrance Fee
The entrance fee for foreign visitors to Los Glaciares National Park as of September 2024 is ARS 30,000 (~$24 USD) and is said to increase to ARS 45,000 per person in 2025.
This ticket is valid for one day and can be purchased using credit cards (Visa/Mastercard), debit cards (Electron), or in cash (Argentine pesos).
Source: Stingy Nomads
Guided Tours
Guided tours from El Calafate to the Perito Moreno Glacier typically include transportation, a guided visit to the glacier's viewing platforms, and sometimes additional activities.
Source: Denomades
If you're not joining a guided tour, you can reach the glacier from El Calafate by bus, with prices varying depending on the service. For instance, a bus trip from El Chaltén to El Calafate costs around 20 dollars.
Source: Stingy Nomads
Specialized Activities
Glacier Trekking: The "Mini Trekking" experience, which involves a guided walk on the glacier, is priced at approximately ~$370 USD per person as of 2020, expect $500 in 2025. This includes transportation, a boat ride across the lake, and necessary equipment.
Kayaking: A kayaking tour near the glacier is available for around $390 USD, including transportation and necessary gear.
Source: Destination Less Travel
Boat Tours: Scenic boat tours that approach the glacier's face are offered, with prices starting at $34 USD per person.
Source: Worldly Adventurer
