How to Plan Your El Calafate 1 Day Perito Moreno Glacier Ice Trek

Are you planning a trip to Argentina and looking for some amazing outdoor experiences? The El Calafate 1 Day Perito Moreno Glacier Ice Trek should definitely be on your list of activities! This adventure combines a sightseeing cruise, a hike with ice crampons and the chance to admire the stunning Patagonian forest. In this blog post, we will take you through all the necessary steps on how to plan your El Calafate 1 Day Perito Moreno Glacier Ice Trek.

Step 1: Booking your Tour

To start your planning process, you will need to book your tour. There are various vendors available, but we highly recommend booking it through GetYourGuide . By booking it in advance, you can ensure availability and also save yourself time and money. The tour costs around $160, and you will need to pay for transport to and from El Calafate, which is not included in the price.

Step 2: Preparing for the Tour

Once you have booked your tour, you will need to prepare yourself for the exciting adventure ahead. Here are some tips to help you get ready:

Clothing

It’s essential that you dress appropriately for this activity. You will need warm clothes, waterproof jackets, a hat, gloves, and good hiking boots. Remember, you will be trekking across the ice, so make sure you are comfortable and warm.

Food and Water

The tour provides snacks during the trip, but it’s a good idea to carry extra food and water. This will give you the energy you need to enjoy the trek.

Camera and Binoculars

You will have the chance to experience some breathtaking scenery, so be sure to bring your camera and binoculars to capture the stunning natural beauty.

Step 3: Day of the Tour

On the day of the tour, you will be picked up from your hotel in El Calafate in the early morning. The transportation is comfortable, and the journey is about 1 hour and 30 minutes long. Upon arriving at Bajo de la Sombras Port, you will take a sightseeing cruise across the Rico Channel, where you can take some incredible photos of the glacier. After that, you will descend on the southwestern coast of Patagonia to reach Perito Moreno Glacier. This is where the real adventure begins! You will start with a 1 hour and 30-minute hike along a path next to the glacier. This hike takes you to a magnificent viewpoint where you can marvel at the vast frozen landscape that stretches out before you. From there, attach the iron crampons to the ground and begin your trek across the ice. Trek across the ice for around 4 hours admiring the fascinating ice formations from start to finish. Your expert guides will also share some information about the flora and fauna that thrive in this region. During the trek, you will be able to see the glacier from different angles as you stroll along the boardwalks. It’s an incredible experience and one that you will never forget.

Book Your Tour Now

Planning your El Calafate 1 Day Perito Moreno Glacier Ice Trek is an exciting adventure that you will cherish forever. By following the above steps, you can ensure that everything goes smoothly during your journey. So, book your tour today, prepare yourself properly, and get ready to experience some of the best natural beauty that Argentina has to offer!

FAQ: Everything you need to know about El Calafate

El Calafate is a breathtaking town located in the Patagonian region of Argentina. It is known for its stunning glacier views, pristine lakes, and remarkable hiking trails. If you’re planning a trip to El Calafate, you may have many questions about the area. Here is everything you need to know in this comprehensive FAQ.

1. Where is El Calafate located?

El Calafate is located in the Patagonian region of Argentina. It is situated on the southern shore of Lago Argentino, which is the largest lake in Argentina.

2. What is the weather like in El Calafate?

The weather in El Calafate can be unpredictable. The summer months (December to February) have an average temperature of 15°C to 20°C during the day and around 4°C to 6°C at night. During the winter months (June to August), the temperature can drop to below freezing at night, and snowfall is common.

3. How do I get to El Calafate?

You can get to El Calafate via a flight or bus from major cities in Argentina such as Buenos Aires, Bariloche, and Ushuaia. The El Calafate International Airport is located just 20 minutes from the town center. If you prefer to travel by road, you can take a bus from some cities in Argentina such as Buenos Aires, Bariloche, and Puerto Madryn.

4. What are some of the top places to visit in El Calafate?

Some of the top places to visit in El Calafate include: – Perito Moreno Glacier: This is the most popular attraction in El Calafate. The glacier is considered one of the most impressive in the world and is part of the Los Glaciares National Park. – Upsala Glacier: This is the largest glacier in South America and is located in the Argentine Patagonia. – Lago Argentino: This is the largest lake in Argentina and is located in the southern Patagonia region. It is known for its rugged beauty and stunning scenery.

5. What are some of the best hiking trails in El Calafate?

Some of the top hiking trails in El Calafate include: – Laguna de los Tres: This is a challenging eight-hour hike that leads up to a lake with incredible views of Fitz Roy Mountain. – Laguna Torre: This is a moderate four-hour hike that takes you to a peaceful lagoon with views of the Torre Glacier. – Lomo del Pliegue Tumbado: This is a nine-hour hike that takes you to a viewpoint that offers incredible views of El Chalten and the surrounding mountains.

6. What is the food like in El Calafate?

The cuisine in El Calafate is heavily influenced by Patagonian culture. You can expect to find dishes such as lamb, trout, and other local meats. There are also plenty of restaurants that serve international cuisine. One popular dish is the “Cordero Patagónico” (Patagonian lamb) which is cooked on a spit.

7. What is the currency in El Calafate?

The currency in El Calafate is the Argentine Peso (ARS). Most places in El Calafate accept credit and debit cards, but it is always a good idea to have some cash on hand.

8. What is the language spoken in El Calafate?

The official language of Argentina is Spanish, and it is the most commonly spoken language in El Calafate. However, you will find that many people in the tourist industry speak English.

9. What is the best time of year to visit El Calafate?

The best time to visit El Calafate is during the summer months (December to February) when the weather is milder and the days are longer. However, this is also the peak tourist season, so expect larger crowds and higher prices. If you prefer to avoid the crowds, consider visiting during the shoulder season (September to November or March to May).

10. What is the nightlife like in El Calafate?

El Calafate is a small town, so the nightlife is relatively quiet. However, you can find a few bars and restaurants that stay open late. The majority of nightlife venues are located in the town center along Avenida Libertador. In conclusion, El Calafate is an excellent destination for those who want to experience the natural beauty of Patagonia. With its stunning glaciers, crystal-clear lakes, and remarkable hiking trails, it is a must-visit for outdoor enthusiasts. With this comprehensive FAQ, you can now plan your trip to El Calafate with ease.

How to spend your time as a tourist in El Calafate

El Calafate is a charming small town located in Argentina’s southern Patagonia region. It is famous for its breathtaking blue glaciers and incredible natural wonders. If you’re planning to visit El Calafate, you’re in for a real treat! In this guide, we will share with you some of the best things to do and see in El Calafate so you can make the most of your time there.

1. Visit the Perito Moreno Glacier

The Perito Moreno Glacier is one of the most popular tourist destinations in El Calafate. It is a stunning natural wonder that covers an area of 250 square kilometers and has a height of over 60 meters. This glacier is unique among other glaciers because it is still growing and advancing despite other glaciers that are receding with time. You can book a tour or take a public bus to visit the glacier. There are several viewing platforms that offer a fantastic view of the glacier, so don’t forget your camera!

2. Take a boat tour on Lake Argentina

Lake Argentina is the largest lake in the region and offers some of the most beautiful views in El Calafate. Taking a boat tour is a great way to experience the lake and see the local wildlife such as the Andean condor, guanacos, and flamingos. You can also book a tour that includes a visit to the Upsala Glacier.

3. Hike to Laguna de los Tres

If you’re looking for a challenging hike, then the Laguna de los Tres trek is definitely worth it. It is a full-day hike that will take you through the beautiful Patagonian landscape till you reach the turquoise Laguna de los Tres. From this spot, you will be able to get an excellent view of the famous Mount Fitz Roy. Make sure you are well equipped with proper hiking gear and take a packed lunch with you.

4. Explore the Glaciarium Museum

Learn about glaciers and the Patagonian ice field by visiting the Glaciarium museum. The museum is located just outside of El Calafate and provides an immersive experience to understand the evolution of the glaciers throughout the years. You can also see many interactive exhibits, learn the history of the glacier area, and watch videos about the changing climate.

5. Sample the Local Cuisine

No trip to El Calafate is complete without sampling the local cuisine. One of the most popular foods in the region is the roasted Patagonian lamb, which is tender and flavorful. Other local delicacies include the King crab and river trout. For dessert, try the traditional Argentinean sweet treats such as alfajores, dulce de leche and torta frita, a kind of fried dough served with mate (an Argentine drink).

6. Visit the Walichu Caves

The Walichu Caves are ancient indigenous caves that date back to over 4,000 years. They are located near the Lake Argentino and are known for their stunning cave paintings. Taking a guided tour is the best way to experience the caves, and you’ll learn about their history and significance to the region’s indigenous community.

Book Your Tour Now

El Calafate is a stunning destination with natural beauty and cultural significance that makes it a must-see place for adventurers and nature lovers. There are plenty of things to do and see, from visiting glaciers to patagonian cuisine exploration. We hope this guide has given you some inspiration for your trip to El Calafate, and you enjoy every moment you spent there.