How to Plan Your El Calafate Perito Moreno Glacier Optional Boat Trip

A visit to the Perito Moreno Glacier in El Calafate is a must-do experience for any traveler visiting Argentina. This mammoth glacier is one of the few glaciers in the world that is still growing, making it an incredible sight to behold. The best way to experience it is through an optional boat trip, allowing you to get even closer to the glacier and feel its power. Below, we have put together a helpful guide on how to plan your El Calafate Perito Moreno Glacier Optional Boat Trip, including highlights, inclusions, and the best time to visit.

Highlights

The El Calafate Perito Moreno Glacier Optional Boat Trip is an incredible experience that will leave you dazzled. Here are some of the highlights of the tour: – Be amazed by the landslides of ice at the Perito Moreno Glacier – Admire this impressive natural attraction from different perspectives – Set aside time to explore the park and admire its other wonders – Enjoy an optional boat safari to get even closer to the glacier

Full Description

The tour starts with hotel pick-up in El Calafate at around 10:30 AM. From there, you will travel to the west end of the Magallanes Peninsula to reach the Perito Moreno Glacier inside the Los Glaciares National Park. Once you arrive, you will have plenty of time to explore this natural ice formation from various viewpoints. If you choose the optional boat safari, you will get even closer to the glacier and have the chance to see it from a completely different perspective. As you travel across the water, you will be able to hear the ice creaking and cracking, creating a unique and unforgettable experience. During the tour, you will also have time to explore the national park and admire its other wonders, such as forests, crystal-clear lakes, and the Mountains of the Andes.

What’s Included

The El Calafate Perito Moreno Glacier Optional Boat Trip is a fully inclusive tour. Here’s what you can expect to be included: – Hotel pick-up and drop-off – English- and Spanish-speaking guide – Boat ride (if option chosen) – Food and drinks – National park entry (ARS $5.500 per person or ARS $1.500 for Argentine residents)

Best Time to Visit

The best time to visit the Perito Moreno Glacier is during the spring and summer months from September to April. During this time, the weather is mild, and the days are longer, allowing more time for exploration. We recommend visiting in the morning, as the glacier is most active during this time. It’s also a good idea to bring warm clothing as temperatures can drop due to the constant wind and the chilling sensation created by the glacier.

Book Your Tour Now

The El Calafate Perito Moreno Glacier Optional Boat Trip is a once-in-a-lifetime experience that shouldn’t be missed. By following our guide on how to plan your tour, you will have all the information needed to make the most of your visit. Book your tour here and enjoy an unforgettable day exploring the wonders of the Perito Moreno Glacier.

Frequently Asked Questions about El Calafate

1. What is El Calafate?

El Calafate is a small town located in the Patagonian region of Argentina. It is situated on the southern shore of Lake Argentino, which is the largest freshwater lake in Argentina. The town is known for being the gateway to the Glacier National Park and for its stunning natural beauty.

2. How do I get to El Calafate?

El Calafate has its own international airport, which receives flights from major cities in Argentina and some neighbouring countries. You can also travel to El Calafate by road, either from other parts of Argentina or from Chile. There are regular bus services connecting El Calafate with major cities such as Buenos Aires and Bariloche.

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

The best time to visit El Calafate is during the summer months of December to February. During this time, the weather is mild and pleasant, and the days are long. It is the peak tourist season, so expect larger crowds and higher prices. The shoulder seasons of spring (September to November) and autumn (March to May) are also popular times to visit, as there are fewer tourists and the weather can still be pleasant. Winter (June to August) is the low season, but it can still be a great time to visit if you enjoy winter sports such as skiing and snowboarding.

4. What are the top tourist attractions in El Calafate?

The top tourist attraction in El Calafate is the Glacier National Park, which is home to some of the most impressive glaciers in the world. The most famous glacier is the Perito Moreno Glacier, which is over 30 km long and 5 km wide. Other popular attractions include the Glaciarium Museum, which tells the story of glaciers and their role in the environment, and the town’s main street, Avenida Libertador, which is full of restaurants, cafes and souvenir shops.

5. What activities are available in El Calafate?

There are many activities available in El Calafate, including hiking, fishing, horse riding, kayaking, and glacier trekking. Most activities are centred around Glacier National Park, where you can take guided tours that include trekking on glaciers, boat trips on the lake and even ice climbing. In the winter, skiing and snowboarding are also popular activities.

6. What is the local cuisine like in El Calafate?

El Calafate is known for its excellent cuisine, which is a mix of traditional Argentinean dishes and Patagonian specialties. Local dishes include grilled meats (asado), empanadas (a type of pastry filled with meat, cheese or vegetables), and grilled trout. El Calafate is also famous for its homemade chocolates and ice cream.

7. Where should I stay in El Calafate?

There are many accommodation options available in El Calafate, ranging from budget hostels to luxury hotels. Most hotels are located in and around the town centre, close to restaurants, cafes and shops. If you prefer a more secluded location, there are also several lodges and cabins located in the surrounding countryside.

8. Can I visit El Calafate on a day trip?

While it is possible to visit El Calafate on a day trip, we recommend that you stay for at least two or three days in order to fully appreciate the natural beauty of the surrounding area. If you are short on time, consider taking a guided tour that includes transport to and from El Calafate, as well as guided walks and other activities.

9. Is it safe to visit El Calafate?

El Calafate is a safe destination for tourists, but like any other tourist destination, it is important to take precautions and be aware of your surroundings. Be sure to keep your valuables secure and don’t carry large sums of cash with you. It is also important to be aware of the weather conditions, which can change rapidly in Patagonia.

10. What should I pack for my visit to El Calafate?

Be sure to pack warm and waterproof clothing, as the weather in Patagonia can be unpredictable. You will also need sturdy walking shoes or hiking boots, as well as sunglasses, sunhat and sunscreen for the sunny days. Don’t forget your camera, as there will be plenty of photo opportunities!

How to Spend Your Time as a Tourist in El Calafate, Argentina

El Calafate is a small town located in Argentina’s Santa Cruz province, nestled in the foothills of the Andes Mountains. It’s the perfect destination for tourists who love adventure, nature, and wildlife. If you’re lucky, you may even catch a glimpse of a puma, fox, or guanaco. Here are some tips for how to spend your time as a tourist in El Calafate.

1. Visit the Perito Moreno Glacier

Perito Moreno Glacier is one of the most popular tourist attractions in El Calafate. It’s a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a must-visit spot for anyone visiting the town. The glacier towers over Lake Argentino and is over 19 miles long. You can take a boat tour to see the glacier up close, or hike on the glacier with a guide. If you’re lucky, you may see chunks of ice breaking off the glacier and falling into the lake.

2. Explore Los Glaciares National Park

Los Glaciares National Park is another popular attraction in El Calafate. It’s home to over 40 glaciers, including the Perito Moreno Glacier. You can take a guided tour to explore the park’s various hiking trails, lakes, and mountains. The park is also home to various wildlife, including foxes, guanacos, and Andean condors.

3. Visit the Upsala Glacier

The Upsala Glacier is another glacier worth visiting in El Calafate. It’s located in the Southern Patagonian Ice Field and is over 35 miles long. You can take a boat tour to see the glacier up close or hike on its shores. However, it’s important to note that access to the glacier can be limited due to its location and weather conditions.

4. Horseback Riding

El Calafate’s surrounding countryside is the perfect spot for horseback riding. It’s an excellent way to explore the region’s rugged terrain, natural beauty, and wildlife. A horseback ride can be tailored to your skill level, so whether you’re a beginner or an experienced rider, you’ll have an enjoyable experience.

5. Take a 4×4 Off-Road Tour

If you’re looking for an adventure that’s off the beaten path, a 4×4 off-road tour in El Calafate is the perfect choice. You can explore the region’s hidden gems and remote spots, such as Lago Roca, which provides an excellent backdrop for birdwatching or simply soaking up the view.

6. Go Bird Watching

El Calafate is an excellent destination for bird watchers. The region is home to over 100 species of birds, including Andean condors, flamingos, and southern caracaras. You can take a guided bird watching tour to see them all up close.

7. Enjoy Traditional Argentine Cuisine

No trip to Argentina is complete without trying the traditional cuisine. El Calafate has many restaurants serving traditional Argentine cuisine, including asado (barbecue), empanadas, and empanadas de choclo (corn empanadas). You can also try some of Argentina’s famous wines while you’re there.

Book Your Tour Now

El Calafate is a beautiful location that offers visitors plenty of adventure, natural beauty, and wildlife. Whether you’re interested in hiking in the mountains, exploring glaciers, or simply enjoying traditional Argentine cuisine, there’s something for everyone in El Calafate. By following these tips, you’ll be sure to make the most of your time as a tourist in El Calafate.