El Calafate: Perito Moreno Glacier Walkways & Boat Ride

Summary

Perito Moreno day trip from El Calafate with glacier walkways and boat navigation

You’ll step into Patagonia’s hush at Perito Moreno Glacier, walking winding paths above Lake Argentino with a local guide sharing stories as you go. Feel the cold up close during a boat ride along the towering ice wall—maybe even catch a chunk breaking off if you’re lucky. Includes hotel pickup from El Calafate so all you have to do is show up ready for something quietly unforgettable.

What’s the experience like?

You know that weird hush when everyone steps off the bus at Los Glaciares and just kind of stands there? That’s how it started for us — no one talking, just the sound of boots on gravel and this cold air that smells like nothing else. Our guide, Lucía, handed out tickets and grinned like she’d seen this moment a thousand times. I tried to take a photo but honestly, the first sight of Perito Moreno Glacier is too big for a phone screen. It’s almost blue in places, like someone painted shadows into the ice.

The walkways twist through lenga trees and sometimes you catch these flashes of turquoise water down below. There are benches if you want to sit (we did, after climbing one too many stairs — my legs still remember). Lucía pointed out some birds — caranchos? — circling overhead. She told us about how the glacier moves and cracks; I kept waiting for one of those famous thunderous splashes but only heard little pops echoing across Lake Argentino. We had about two hours to wander around, so we ate sandwiches on a bench while watching people try to pronounce “Perito” right (I definitely didn’t).

The boat ride was colder than I expected — bring gloves if you can. The captain got us so close to the glacier wall that you could see tiny waterfalls trickling down where the sun hit. Everyone went quiet except this one kid who kept asking if he could touch the ice (his dad just laughed). There’s something strange about being that close; it makes you feel small in a good way. Afterward, back on land, nobody really talked much on the drive to El Calafate. It felt like we were all trying to hold onto that last glimpse in our heads before normal life crept back in.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Perito Moreno Glacier walk and boat tour

• Transfer from El Calafate to Los Glaciares Park
• Stop at Mirador de los Sigurs viewpoint
• Walk the 4 km network of glacier walkways
• Enjoy 2 hours walking and optional lunch
• Take 1-hour boat ride near glacier wall
• Return to El Calafate in the afternoon

Top questions

How long does the Perito Moreno Glacier tour from El Calafate take?

The tour lasts most of the day, including transfers from El Calafate and time at both the walkways and boat ride.

Is hotel pickup included for this Perito Moreno Glacier day trip?

Yes, air-conditioned vehicle pickup from your accommodation in El Calafate is included.

Can I do the walkway section self-guided?

Yes, you can explore the walkways at your own pace or stay with an expert guide if you prefer.

How close does the boat get to Perito Moreno Glacier?

The boat brings you very close to the glacier wall on Lake Argentino for great views and photos.

Are meals included during this tour?

No meals are included; you can bring your own picnic or eat at nearby restaurants during your free time.

Is this tour suitable for kids or people with limited mobility?

The tour is suitable for all fitness levels; strollers are allowed and wheelchairs require a companion.

How much time do we spend on the walkways?

You’ll have approximately 2 hours to explore the 4 km network of walkways overlooking Perito Moreno Glacier.

What should I bring for the Perito Moreno Glacier day trip?

Dress warmly in layers, bring gloves for the boat ride, snacks or lunch, and your camera.

What’s included

Your day includes hotel pickup by air-conditioned vehicle from El Calafate, entry into Los Glaciares park with guidance from local experts if you want it, plenty of time to explore 4 km of glacier walkways at your own pace or with a group, plus an hour-long navigation by boat right up to Perito Moreno’s icy face before heading back in comfort that afternoon.