Immerse yourself in the heart of Southern Patagonia with this essential program to El Calafate. The journey focuses on the spectacular Perito Moreno Glacier, where you will witness its towering ice walls and frequent calving events from the park’s extensive walkway system. With organized transfers, comfortable accommodations, and expert-led tours, this itinerary is designed for travelers who want to experience one of the world’s most iconic natural wonders with efficiency and professional service.
Trips focused on hiking and trekking
Independent trips, with a selection of guided activities
Expertos locales liderando el camino
Low-impact activities for everyone
Capture stunning vistas and memorable moments
Spot native animals in their natural habitats
Itinerary
Day 1: Buenos Aires – Calafate
Arrival at the airport for your flight to El Calafate. Upon arrival, transfer to your hotel.
Day 2: Ice trekking at Perito Moreno Glacier
We will embark in the Bajo de las Sombras port, and after sailing for 20 minutes, we will reach the southwest coast, accessing the refuge to start the trek on the Glacier, declared a UNESCO World Natural Heritage Site. We will start a walk along the shore until we reach the edge of the ice. The Ice trekking at Perito Moreno Glacier is an hour and a half long.
Day 3: Glaciers Gourmet Sailing Experience
On this day, we will take the Glaciers Gourmet Navigation on Lake Argentino, allowing us to admire various icebergs and glaciers that would otherwise be inaccessible.
Day 4: El Chaltén
Full-day excursion to El Chaltén with lunch or box lunch included.
Day 5: Calafate – Buenos Aires
Breakfast and transfer to the airport for your return flight.
Included Activities
Ice Trekking at Perito Moreno Glacier
This excursion begins with a 20-minute navigation from Bajo de las Sombras port, offering stunning views of the glacier's southern wall and the Icebergs Channel. Upon reaching the southwest shore, we'll hike to the guides' refuge where we'll prepare for the adventure.
We'll start with a 20-minute shoreline walk to the ice edge, where we'll be fitted with crampons and receive safety instructions. The glacier trekking lasts approximately 2 hours, during which we'll observe spectacular ice formations like crevasses, lagoons, and sinkholes, while guides explain the glacier's unique phenomena.
After completing the trek, we'll return via a Magellanic forest trail before reboarding the boat to navigate the Icebergs Channel again, approaching the glacier walls for unforgettable photographs. Passengers requiring transportation will have a bus available to return to El Calafate, including a one-hour stop at the Glacier Viewpoint and its walkways.
Glaciares Gourmet Sailing Experience
Enjoy a unique gourmet experience sailing among glaciers. The excursion begins with transfers from hotels to Punta Bandera, where we'll board at Puerto Privado La Soledad at 09:00 hs.
We'll navigate Lago Argentino passing Punta Avellaneda and the narrow Boca del Diablo (800m wide), heading to Spegazzini Channel to admire its namesake glacier. We'll disembark at Puesto de Las Vacas for a walk to observe local flora and fauna, with views of the historic settlers' post.
We'll continue to Upsala Channel and Herminita Peninsula for panoramic glacier views where gourmet lunch will be served. In the afternoon, the María Turquesa Cruise will take us to Icebergs Channel and Perito Moreno Glacier before returning to port at 18:00 hs.
Note:
The María Turquesa Cruise (180-person capacity) offers:
Premium Room (20 people): Gourmet Tasting Menu
Standard Room: Gourmet Lunch Box
Observations: Route subject to modifications at captain's discretion for passenger safety.
Full Day Chalten Soft with Lunch
Enjoy a full-day activity from El Calafate to El Chaltén, all in one unforgettable experience. With easy guided walks to scenic viewpoints, lunch at a traditional local restaurant, and free time to explore the charming town, you'll discover the beauty of Patagonia—no trekking expertise required.
Featured Hotels
Mirador del Lago
Located in the town of El Calafate, Santa Cruz, Mirador del Lago Hotel is just steps away from the main commercial district and sits right in front of Bahía Redonda—a stunning landscape in Argentine Patagonia. The hotel offers guests a warm and comfortable atmosphere paired with exceptional personalized service.
Xelena Hotel & Suites
Xelena Hotel & Suites combines comfort, hospitality, and cutting-edge technology in a paradisiacal setting. Located on the shores of Lake Argentino and surrounded by unparalleled natural beauty, it offers some of the most stunning landscapes in Argentine Patagonia. Its warm, signature style makes it the perfect destination to enjoy at any time of year.
Los Ponchos Hotel
Los Ponchos Hotel Boutique is an exceptional choice in El Calafate with a character of its own. Located just 2 km from the town center and 500 meters from Lake Argentino, it offers guests unique views of mountains, forests, and glaciers. Its personalized, warm, and efficient service transforms every stay into an unforgettable experience.
Important Notes
Reservations are subject to availability. In case the hotel booked is not available, we will provide a hotel in the same category.
