Perito Moreno Glacier Day Trip & Optional Boat Ride

Summary

Perito Moreno’s blue walls echo in the Patagonian silence

You’ll travel from El Calafate into Patagonia’s heart, hearing stories from your local guide as you approach Perito Moreno Glacier. Walk along panoramic paths above Lake Argentino, then get even closer on an optional boat ride where you might witness ice calving firsthand. It’s a day full of raw nature and quiet moments you’ll remember long after you leave.

What’s the experience like?

"Sometimes the glacier talks back," our guide Martín grinned as we rolled out of El Calafate before sunrise. He was right — later, I’d hear it: deep cracks echoing across Lake Argentino, like distant thunder. The drive along Route 11 was quiet at first, just frost on the grass and that pale morning light you only get in Patagonia. Martín pointed out guanacos grazing near the road and told us how Perito Moreno is one of the few glaciers still advancing — not shrinking. That stuck with me for some reason.

The first glimpse at Curva de los Suspiros really did make people sigh (I heard someone behind me do it). There’s this blue wall rising out of nowhere — not bright blue, but cold, heavy blue, almost gray in places. We shuffled off the coach and I could smell wet earth mixed with that sharp icy air you get near snowmelt. Walking the metal walkways in Los Glaciares park felt a bit surreal; people were whispering or just standing still, staring at all those jagged ice peaks. I tried to take photos but honestly, none of them captured what it felt like to be there.

I went for the optional boat ride from Puerto Bajo Las Sombras — if you’re thinking about it, do it. The boat got so close to the glacier’s face that when a chunk calved off (the sound is wild), spray hit my cheeks. Everyone gasped, even Martín laughed and said he never gets tired of that moment. My hands were freezing but I didn’t care; I just wanted to watch those slow ripples spreading across Lake Argentino.

Lunch after was simple — sandwich and mate from my backpack — but sitting with that view made it feel special anyway. Some folks went to the restaurant nearby for something hot; I just wanted to sit outside and let my legs dangle over a bench for a while. On the way back to El Calafate, I kept thinking about how small we all looked next to that glacier, and how sometimes it’s good to feel small.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Perito Moreno Glacier full-day tour

• Travel by coach along Route 11
• View glacier at Curve of Sighs
• Explore glacier walkways and viewpoints
• Optional boat ride on Lake Argentino
• Free time for lunch and relaxation
• Return to El Calafate by coach

Top questions

How long does the Perito Moreno Glacier day trip take?

The full-day trip lasts around 8-10 hours including travel time from El Calafate.

Is hotel pickup included for this tour?

Yes, hotel pickup and drop-off in El Calafate are included.

Can I book a boat ride at Perito Moreno Glacier?

Yes, there’s an optional 1-hour boat ride available from Puerto Bajo Las Sombras during the tour.

Are entrance fees to Los Glaciares included?

No, entrance fees must be paid separately in cash (Argentine pesos) upon arrival at the park.

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

The tour is wheelchair accessible and suitable for all fitness levels; infants can use strollers or prams.

What should I bring on a Perito Moreno Glacier day trip?

Wear warm clothes and comfortable shoes; bring water, snacks, sunscreen, and cash for park entry.

Where does the boat ride depart from?

The optional boat ride departs from Puerto Bajo Las Sombras on Lake Argentino.

What’s included

Your day includes hotel pickup and drop-off in El Calafate, guided walks along Los Glaciares’ scenic walkways with a professional local guide sharing stories along the way, comfortable coach transport through Patagonia’s landscapes, plus an optional boat ride if you choose it—lunch is on your own time overlooking those wild glacier views.