How To Get To Perito Moreno Glacier: Best Tours and Accommodations

Which Patagonian glacier, also known as the “white giant,” should be on top of your Argentinian bucket list? The spectacular Perito Moreno Glacier is the only answer.

The Perito Moreno Glacier is one of the most popular attractions in Argentina, and it’s easy to see why. 

Located in Argentine Patagonia, the Perito Moreno glacier sits 8,890 feet (2,652 meters) above sea level — making it one of the highest glaciers in South America. It is also the largest in Patagonia, covering more than 96.5 square mi (250 square km) with walls as high as 197 ft (60 m). 

The Los Glaciares National Park, where Perito Moreno can be found, has a giant ice cap, the largest outside Antarctica and Greenland, which feeds over 40 glaciers. Because of these glaciers and other scenic beauties, the Park has been recognized as one of the UNESCO World Heritage Sites.

The breathtaking glacier contains many caves and tunnels formed during its lifespan, some as deep as 262.5 ft (80 m) below ground level. You will get to see many small and big glaciers; all concentrated in 1 region. It’s estimated that there are about 200 glaciers in the region alone. 

The best thing about exploring Patagonia and the most famous glacier of them all is the Perito Moreno Glacier. 

How To Get to Perito Moreno National Park

Perito Moreno Glacier is in Los Glaciares National Park in Argentina. Here are the main options to reach the glacier:

• By Bus

Several bus companies operate daily services from El Calafate to the glacier. The journey takes around an hour and 30 minutes, costing around 7,000 – 8,000 Argentine pesos (35 – 40 US dollars) in return.

• By Boat

Boat tours to the glacier are available from El Calafate and provide a unique perspective of the glacier from the water. The tours last around 3 hours and cost around 7,000 – 8,000 Argentine pesos (35 – 40 US dollars).

Perito Moreno Glacier Entry Fees

Currently, the entry fee for the Perito Moreno and Los Glaciares National Park is 4,000 ARS on the first day (around $20) and 2,000 ARS on the second day (around $10).

What To Do at Perito Moreno National Park?

You can do many things once you visit Perito Moreno, with the 2 best activities being a glacier tour and hiking. 

There are 2 walking trails available to visitors. The first is a short trail that takes you to the edge of Perito Moreno Glacier and gives you a nice view of its frozen surface, while the second is longer and takes you right up to its base. You can see the enormous ice blocks falling into the water from there.

You can also take a boat ride on Lago Argentino (Argentina Lake), which runs alongside Perito Moreno Glacier and has impressive views. We advise you to try both trails for a more holistic and serene experience.

Perito Moreno Glacier Tours

Argentina has many different tour operators, so you can choose one that best suits your needs. 

The tours will vary in length, price, and how much time you spend on Perito Moreno Glacier. Some companies offer more challenging routes than others, but all offer a great opportunity to experience this incredible natural wonder firsthand!

If you’re looking for an adventure that isn’t too difficult or expensive but still offers plenty of thrills (and maybe even some spills), consider booking a Perito Moreno Glacier excursion from the local guide. 

Here are some of the tours you might want to try:

• “Big Ice Trek” + optional boat ride in Argentina Lake – A full-day tour from El Calafate, including a 4-hour trek on the famous Big Ice and an optional boat ride along Lago Argentina
• Mini-trekking excursion in Los Glaciares National Park – A full, guided tour from the hotel to the trek to Glacier
• Sailing through the Argentina Lake – Get closer to the Perito Moreno glacier through a boat ride in the lake

Perito Moreno Glacier Trekking

A trek across Perito Moreno Glacier is one of the most amazing experiences in Argentina. It’s a great way to see the glacier up close and personal and get up close and personal with nature.

The trek will take you on an adventure through some of Argentina’s most beautiful scenery, including forests, rivers, lakes, and mountain peaks covered in snow all year round. You will also witness firsthand how glaciers work by observing their formation process through this guided tour around Perito Moreno Glacier Park (Gran Glaciar Perito Moreno y Parque Nacional).

You’ll get up close and personal with one of the largest, most accessible glaciers in the world as you trek along its edges and witness how they form. 

Accommodation Options 

Here are some accommodation options in the El Calafate and El Chalten areas near Perito Moreno Glacier:

Budget 

• America Del Sur Hostel. This hostel in El Calafate offers dorm and private rooms with shared bathrooms. 
• Hostal Posada Los Alamos. This guesthouse in El Chalten offers simple rooms with private or shared bathrooms. 

Mid-range 

• Pudu Lodge. This is an inn located in El Chalten, inside Los Glaciares National Park, and offers a room with en suite bathrooms, underfloor heating, and free WiFi.
• Xelena Hotel & Suites. This hotel is close to the Argentino Lake in El Calafate, where guests can choose between rooms overlooking the city or lake, and offers a gym and pool.

Luxury 

• Llao Llao Hotel and Resort Golf Spa. This El Calafate hotel offers upscale rooms with private balconies, spa facilities, and a golf course. 
• Chalten Suites Hotel. This luxury hotel in El Chalten offers high-end rooms with private bathrooms, a minibar, and views of the surrounding mountains and garden.

For more accommodation options, you may click on the map.

Best Time To Visit Perito Moreno Glacier 

The best time to visit Perito Moreno Glacier is between December and March when the weather is warmer and there is less chance of rain. You can expect average temperatures of 50-68°F (10-20°C).

June to September is the peak season for visiting the glacier when temperatures are lower, and there is more ice and snow. The average temperature is around 32-50°F (0-10°C) during this time.

Regardless of the time of year, warm clothing is important, as the glacier can be cold and windy. A waterproof jacket and comfortable walking shoes are also recommended. Sunglasses, sunscreen, and a hat are also recommended to protect against the sun’s glare on the ice. 

How To Stay Safe In Perito Moreno Glacier During Your Tip?

When visiting the Perito Moreno Glacier, it’s important to prioritize safety by always following designated paths and observing all posted signage. Equip yourself with appropriate gear such as sturdy, waterproof hiking boots and cold-weather clothing to handle the glacial environment. Additionally, consider hiring a knowledgeable local guide who can provide valuable insights and ensure you navigate the area safely.

Additionally, consider protecting yourself with travel insurance such as SafetyWing, which can cover medical emergencies, trip cancellations, and other unforeseen incidents during your stay. Use the widget below to snag the perfect policy for your needs and travel with peace of mind knowing you’ve got your back covered, no matter what adventures come your way!

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) – Perito Moreno Glacier

Is Perito Moreno the Biggest Glacier in the World?

No, Perito Moreno Glacier is not the largest glacier in the world. It is, however, one of the most easily accessible glaciers and a popular tourist destination.

What’s the Best Way To See Perito Moreno Glacier?

There are several ways to see the Perito Moreno Glacier; the best depends on your preferences and travel plans. Here are a few popular options:

• Hiking: You can take a guided hike on the glacier to explore its unique terrain and ice formations.
• Boat Tour: You can also take a boat tour of the glacier from a nearby lake. 
• Viewing Platform: You can visit the main viewing platform at the Perito Moreno Glacier, which offers stunning views of the glacier and its ice formations. 

Do You Need to Book in Advance to Visit Perito Moreno Glacier?

It is recommended to book in advance if you have little time to visit the Perito Moreno Glacier, especially during peak season (December to February). 

Pre-booking is recommended for guided tours or hikes, which can fill weeks in advance.

Why Is Perito Moreno Glacier Famous?

Perito Moreno Glacier is famous for several reasons:

• Unusual stability: Perito Moreno Glacier is one of the few glaciers in the world that is advancing rather than retreating, making it a unique and impressive natural phenomenon.
• Accessibility: Perito Moreno Glacier is easily accessible, making it a popular destination for tourists and adventure seekers.
• Spectacular size: Perito Moreno Glacier is one of the largest glaciers in the world, covering an area of over 96.5 sq mi (250 sq km).

Conclusion – Perito Moreno Glacier

The Perito Moreno Glacier, one of the park’s main attractions, is one of the most impressive natural wonders in the world. 

If you’re planning a trip to Patagonia, visiting Perito Moreno National Park should be at the top of your itinerary. This majestic park offers adventurous treks through stunning landscapes, making it a once-in-a-lifetime experience for nature enthusiasts. 

With its diverse ecosystem and over 30 species of plants and animals, it’s a must-see destination for any traveler interested in exploring the unique places of South America. The park is also home to indigenous people who lived in the area for generations, adding a cultural dimension to the experience. 

Whether you’re a glacier enthusiast or simply seeking to immerse yourself in the breathtaking natural beauty of Argentina, a visit to Perito Moreno National Park is not to be missed. 

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