Explore The Wonders Of Perito Moreno Glacier Argentina

The Perito Moreno Glacier in Argentina is a natural wonder you don’t want to miss on your trip to South America.

Parque Nacional Los Glaciares is one of the oldest in Argentina.

The park was established in 1937.

It is named in honor of the Argentinian naturalist and explorer Francisco Moreno.

One of 47 major glaciers inside Parque Nacional Los Glaciares, Perito Moreno is probably the easiest to reach.

Where the glacier meets the lake water it is 5 km (3.1 miles) across and rises some 60 meters (197 feet) above the water level.

The glacier’s constant movement causes frequent breaks, producing thunder-like sounds.

Chunks of ice of various sizes frequently break off from the glacier’s wall, offering a spectacular display.

Visiting Perito Moreno was one of the highlights of my trip to Argentina.

I hope these tips help you plan a visit to Perito Moreno that you will remember for years.

Getting To El Calafate

For many, the gateway to the Perito Moreno Glacier is El Calafate.

Calafate is located on the Southern border of Lago Argentino.

The town serves as a hub for visitors to Los Glaciares National Park, Perito Moreno Glacier, Cerro Chalten, and Cerro Torre.

The easiest way to reach El Calafate is to fly into Calafate Airport (FTE).

You can fly directly from Buenos Aires using Aerolineas Argentinas and be in El Calafate in under 4 hours.

Driving from Buenos Aires takes more than one day.

So unless you’re road-tripping through Argentina, flying is the most convenient way to reach the glacier area.

If you want to explore the parks and El Calafate at your own pace, you can rent a car directly at the airport.

What To Do At Perito Moreno Glacier

Boat Ride on Lago Argentino

When visiting Perito Moreno, a popular activity is taking a boat ride in Lago Argentino.

You can reach Perito Moreno from two sides of Lago Argentino.

The easiest and most popular is through Brazo Rico.

You’ll arrive at a dock from where you will take your boat.

As you navigate towards the glacier wall you’ll encounter smaller icebergs floating in the lake.

The view of the glacier from this vantage point is breathtaking and humbling.

I don’t think I’ve ever seen so many different tones of blue at one time.

The glacier itself is impressive but it looks even more striking against the black backdrop of the Andes Mountains.

Another option is to take a boat ride on the other side of the lake through the Canal de los Tempanos (Chanel of the Icebergs).

Many of the boat rides on this side of the lake have lunch packages so you can enjoy the view of the glacier while also having lunch.

Either option is a great way to get up close and personal with Perito Moreno Glacier and I highly recommend the experience.

View the glacier from Peninsula Magallanes

Another enjoyable way to see Perito Moreno Glacier is on foot, using the wooden pathways on Peninsula Magallanes.

The pathways lead you through the Patagonian woods and reveal different views of the glacier, one more beautiful than the other.

These paths and viewing platforms are perfect for photography.

Whether you’re taking a family picture or your next nature masterpiece the views are stunning.

Another great thing about Peninsula Magallanes is the accessibility.

The wooden pathway network has ramps and elevators leading to scenic viewing platforms.

This makes it a perfect alternative for people in wheelchairs, children in strollers, or people with limited mobility.

Just about anyone can enjoy the majestic Perito Moreno Glaciers and the stunning background of The Andes.

Minitrek on the glacier

If you like adventure then a mini-trek on the glacier might be for you.

Mini-treks are 90-minute to 4-hour walks on the Perito Moreno glacier itself.

Most tour companies include the crampons you’ll need to walk on the glacier.

Almost all the tours include options for a boat ride and for hiking the nearby pathways.

But read the details well as the activities included and things like pick-up locations vary greatly from outfitter to outfitter.

You can use Viator and Get Your Guide to book the mini-trekking tours or contact the operators directly when you get to El Calafate.

Tips For An Enjoyable Visit To Perito Moreno Glacier

Two things to keep in mind when planning your visit to Perito Moreno; climate and season.

The temperatures seldom rise beyond 60F (18C) in the summer.

It is more common for the temperatures to be 40F or 50F (5-14C) throughout the year.

There is a high probability that you will experience strong winds during your visit.

The park experiences strong and persistent westerly winds throughout the year.

Also, remember that being in the southern hemisphere December, January, and February have the highest temperatures as it is summer, and the opposite for June, July, and August.

Be Prepared for your visit

As with any outdoor activity, preparation is key to having a great experience.

I found the following things helped me have a great time during my visit:

• Wear an impermeable top layer, a raincoat or waterproof jacket is ideal.
• Use a warm second layer like fleece or a breathable puff vest. You can always take this off if it is too warm.
• The sun reflecting off the glacier can hurt your eyes, so don’t forget your sunglasses.
• For the same reason make sure to lather on some sunscreen and use lip balm to protect your lips.
• Have gloves and a hat accessible in case the temperatures drop and to protect you from the wind.
• If you’re trekking on the glacier secure your gloves, losing one can be dangerous as you can get frostbite on your fingers.
• Be alert to any changes in the weather, and seek shelter if the weather starts to deteriorate.
• There is a cafeteria-restaurant near one of the ranger stations, but once you start exploring there are no more eating facilities. Make sure you have snacks in your day pack.
• All the walking, the wind, and the sun can lead to dehydration, so carry a thermos or bottle of water.
• Also, make use of the bathroom facilities before you head out to explore as these are not frequent throughout the park.
• Don’t forget to pack your camera or charge your phone so that you can take some of the most outstanding photographs and videos you can imagine.

Some final pointers when visiting Perito Moreno Glacier in Argentina

A few miscellaneous things that can make a difference in your experience:

• Entrance fees to the park, rides, and other activities many times are not included in the cost of your tour, only the transportation. Make sure you’re clear about what is covered before purchasing.
• Ask your tour operator what is the cost of the entrance fees in Argentinian pesos.
• Park fees can only be paid in Argentinian pesos and they DO NOT take major credit cards. Have enough CASH.
• Temperatures during the boat ride or a minitrek can be much lower than during a walk on Peninsula Magallanes. Plan accordingly.

For more information on Parque Nacional Los Glaciares visit their website.

Perito Moreno Glacier; part of your Argentina itinerary

The Perito Moreno is an easy and accessible way to experience this remarkable wonder of nature.

Visiting Perito Moreno will expose you not only to the glacier but also to the scenic Patagonian steppe that surrounds the glacier sheet.

A visit to the Perito Moreno Glacier gives you the opportunity to experience one of the largest ice caps still in existence.

If you love nature and like exploring these astonishing places on earth; then Perito Moreno Glacier is a must-do stop in your Argentina visit.

Have fun!