Perito Moreno Glacier: Minitrekking & Boat Tour from El Calafate

Walk across Perito Moreno’s wild ice then sail beneath its blue walls

You’ll cross Lake Argentino by boat from El Calafate and trek across Perito Moreno Glacier with expert guides—crampons strapped on tight—exploring crevasses and tasting fresh glacier water along the way. End with a toast overlooking blue ice before wandering Los Glaciares’ walkways above crashing bergs. It stays with you.

What’s included

Your day includes hotel pickup from central El Calafate (if booked), all transfers by air-conditioned vehicle and boat across Lake Argentino, entry fees for Los Glaciares Park, use of crampons and safety gear for trekking on Perito Moreno Glacier with expert local guides leading every step—and ends with a celebratory toast overlooking those wild blue walls before heading back home again.

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Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Perito Moreno Glacier trekking and views

• Transfer from El Calafate accommodation
• Board port and sail 20 minutes
• Start glacier trek with crampons
• Explore glacier formations and crevasses
• Sail 20 minutes in front of glacier
• Walk the National Park walkways
• Return to El Calafate accommodation

The Experience

The first thing I remember is the sound — this weird, hollow thunk of boots on metal as we stepped onto the little boat at El Calafate’s dock. The air was sharp, not exactly cold but clean in a way that made my nose sting. Our guide, Martín, handed out life jackets with a grin and told us to keep our eyes open for “the big show” — I had no idea what he meant yet. Twenty minutes later, we were gliding past these jagged blue cliffs of ice that seemed to glow from inside. People got quiet, just watching. I caught a whiff of lake water and something crisp I couldn’t name.

After landing on the shore near Perito Moreno Glacier, Martín checked everyone’s boots before helping us strap on crampons (I’d never worn them — it felt clumsy at first). He showed us how to walk “like penguins” so we wouldn’t trip. The first step onto the glacier was honestly kind of nerve-wracking — you hear all these creaks and pops under your feet, like the ice is talking back. Sunlight bounced off everything; at one point I had to squint so hard my cheeks hurt. We stopped at a deep crevasse where Martín tossed a pebble in and waited for the splash. It took forever — that’s how deep it was. Someone tried to ask about glacier movement in Spanish; Martín answered in both languages without missing a beat.

I didn’t expect how thirsty I’d get out there, or how sweet glacier water tastes when you scoop it up with your hand (Martín said it’s safe — “the purest you’ll ever drink”). There was this moment where everyone just stood still listening to distant cracks echoing across the ice field. Kind of eerie but beautiful too. On the way back, we toasted with whisky poured over glacier ice while looking out at Lake Argentino — which felt almost too perfect, but nobody complained.

We ended by walking the wooden walkways above the glacier face in Los Glaciares Park. My legs were tired but I kept stopping to watch chunks of ice calve off into the lake below — each crash sent up spray and startled birds overhead. Heading back toward El Calafate in the van, someone asked if anyone else could still feel that cold tingle in their hands. I could; honestly, I still do sometimes when I think about it.

Top questions

How long is the Perito Moreno Glacier minitrekking tour?

The minitrekking tour lasts around 1 hour on the glacier itself, plus transfers and additional time for sailing and walkways.

Is hotel pickup included from El Calafate?

Yes, if you book the option with transfer, pickup from central hotels in El Calafate is included.

Are guides provided during the glacier hike?

Yes, specialized guides lead you throughout the minitrekking experience on Perito Moreno Glacier.

What should I wear for trekking on Perito Moreno Glacier?

Wear comfortable clothes suitable for outdoor activity; sturdy shoes are required as crampons will be fitted over them.

Is lunch included during this day trip?

No lunch is included; however, there is a toast with whisky or water using glacier ice after trekking.

Are there age or health restrictions for this tour?

The activity is not allowed for people over 65 years old or under 8 years old; certain health conditions also restrict participation.

How do we get onto Perito Moreno Glacier?

You’ll take a short boat ride across Lake Argentino from within Los Glaciares Park before starting your trek on foot to reach the glacier edge.