Perito Moreno Glacier Guide: Argentina's Stunning Natural Wonder

Located within Los Glaciares National Park in Patagonia, Perito Moreno Glacier is one of the most magnificent glaciers in the world. This awe-inspiring natural wonder spans 250 square kilometers and stands as one of the few glaciers on the planet that is still growing. Known for its dramatic ice calving events, where huge chunks of ice break off and crash into the water below, Perito Moreno Glacier offers an exhilarating experience for travelers seeking to explore Patagonia's rugged beauty.
 

The glacier is a key highlight for visitors in El Calafate, a nearby town that serves as the gateway to this incredible ice formation. Whether you’re trekking on the ice, viewing the glacier from various observation decks, or cruising through the nearby waters, Perito Moreno guarantees a truly unforgettable adventure.

🧭 Quick Facts

📍 Location: Los Glaciares National Park, Patagonia, Argentina

🌍 Area: 250 square kilometers (97 square miles)

🧑‍🤝‍🧑 Accessibility: Easily accessible from El Calafate (80 km away)

🏔️ Height: 74 meters (243 feet) above the water level

🌊 Length: 30 kilometers (18.6 miles)

🌐 Best Time to Visit: November to March (Patagonia summer)

🌟 Why Visit Perito Moreno Glacier?

🏞️ Stunning views: Witness massive ice walls and floating icebergs

🚶‍♂️ Trekking and hiking opportunities on the glacier itself

🚢 Boat tours for an up-close look at the glacier and surrounding landscapes

🌎 Active glacier: Perito Moreno is one of the few glaciers that continues to grow

📸 Perfect for photographers seeking epic landscape shots

🧊 Ice calving: Watch huge chunks of ice break off and crash into the lake

🗺️ Top Things to Do at Perito Moreno Glacier

1. 🏞️ View the Glacier from Observation Decks

There are several observation platforms located around the glacier that offer unparalleled views of its massive ice walls, which rise 60 meters (197 feet) above the surface of Lago Argentino. From these vantage points, you can watch as enormous ice blocks break off and crash into the lake.

Best spots:

Main Viewing Area: A great spot for panoramic views of the glacier.

Mirador de los Suspiros: A peaceful spot for a quiet moment with fantastic views.

2. 🧊 Trek on Perito Moreno Glacier

For those looking for a more immersive experience, the Perito Moreno Glacier Trekking is an unforgettable adventure. Guided ice treks take you onto the glacier itself, where you’ll walk across jagged ice formations, blue crevasses, and frozen rivers.

Mini Trekking: A half-day tour suitable for those with moderate fitness levels.

Big Ice Trekking: A full-day trekking experience for those looking for a more challenging adventure.

3. 🚢 Cruise to Get Up Close to the Glacier

Take a boat tour on Lago Argentino to get a closer look at the glacier. These boats will take you right up to the glacier’s ice walls, offering spectacular views of its icy blue surfaces and towering heights.

🛳️ The boats often pass by floating icebergs that have calved from the glacier

🌊 Listen to the eerie sounds of ice cracking and breaking as you approach the glacier

4. 🏔️ Hike the Surrounding Trails

For a unique perspective, several hiking trails are available around the glacier, allowing you to explore the surrounding landscape while taking in stunning views of the ice. The trails are well-marked and suitable for various fitness levels.

Cañadón del Río: A short, easy hike offering impressive views of the glacier

Trail to the Viewing Decks: A longer, moderate trail that connects the main observation decks

5. 🌊 Witness Ice Calving from the Viewing Platforms

One of the most awe-inspiring aspects of Perito Moreno Glacier is its active calving process, where enormous blocks of ice break off and crash into the lake. This spectacle is a must-see and can happen throughout the day, making it an exhilarating experience for visitors.

📸 Be ready to capture the moment when the glacier's ice breaks apart and creates dramatic splashes

🍽️ What to Eat and Drink near Perito Moreno Glacier

While there are limited dining options directly at the glacier, the nearby town of El Calafate offers a variety of dining experiences:

Patagonian lamb: A local delicacy often roasted and served with rustic potatoes or vegetables

King crab (Centolla): A regional specialty, typically served with butter and herbs

Traditional Argentine asado (barbecue): A staple of Argentine cuisine, often enjoyed in local restaurants or as part of a group dinner

🏨 Where to Stay Near Perito Moreno Glacier

💎 Luxury

Eolo Patagonia’s Spirit – A luxurious boutique hotel offering stunning views of the Patagonian landscape

Xelena Hotel & Suites – A sophisticated hotel located on the shores of Lago Argentino, with an on-site restaurant and spa

🛏️ Mid-Range

Hotel Kosten Aike – A comfortable hotel in the center of El Calafate with great amenities and excellent service

Hostería Los Hielos – A cozy, mid-range option with views of the surrounding glaciers and lakes

💼 Budget

Hostel del Glaciar Pioneros – An affordable hostel in El Calafate, with great views and a friendly atmosphere

Calafate Parque Hotel – A budget hotel offering basic amenities and easy access to the town’s main attractions

🗓️ Best Time to Visit Perito Moreno Glacier

✅ Best time for trekking: December–March
✅ Best time for viewing ice calving: December–March

🛫 How to Get to Perito Moreno Glacier

✈️ By Air: Fly into El Calafate Airport (FTE), with direct flights from Buenos Aires (3 hours).

🚗 By Car: The glacier is located 80 km (50 miles) from El Calafate, accessible via Route 11. The drive offers scenic views and is well-maintained.

🚍 By Bus: There are daily bus services from El Calafate to the glacier and Los Glaciares National Park.

🗓️ Suggested 2-Day Itinerary for Perito Moreno Glacier

🗓️ Day 1: Arrival in El Calafate and Glacier Tour

Morning: Arrive in El Calafate and check-in at your hotel

Afternoon: Explore Perito Moreno Glacier – Visit observation decks, take a boat tour, and watch ice calving

Evening: Enjoy a traditional Argentine asado dinner

🗓️ Day 2: Glacier Trekking and Outdoor Adventures

Morning: Go on a Mini Trekking or Big Ice Trekking experience on the glacier

Afternoon: Hike the Cañadón del Río trail for stunning views of the glacier

Evening: Relax at your hotel or explore the town of El Calafate

🛍️ What to Buy in El Calafate

🧣 Patagonian wool scarves

🧊 Ice-themed souvenirs, such as mini-glaciers made from glass

🍷 Patagonian wines, especially those produced in Neuquén and Rio Negro

🏞️ Handcrafted wooden items and local handicrafts

🌍 Perito Moreno Glacier vs. Other Glaciers in Patagonia

✅ Final Thoughts: Why Perito Moreno Glacier is a Must-See

Perito Moreno Glacier offers a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to experience the raw power of nature in one of the most beautiful places on Earth. Whether you’re trekking on its ice, cruising past floating icebergs, or simply enjoying the views from the observation decks, a visit to this breathtaking glacier should be on every nature lover’s bucket list.