What is Perito Moreno Glacier
Perito Moreno is among the three largest freshwater reserves on the planet. Length — 30 km, area — 250 sq km. Unlike most glaciers in the world, it's not melting — replenishment from the Southern Patagonian Ice Field roughly equals losses.
The glacier is a UNESCO World Heritage site as part of Los Glaciares National Park.
How to get from El Calafate to Perito Moreno?
El Calafate is the nearest town to the glacier, just 80 km away. Flight from Buenos Aires to FTE airport takes 3 hours, airport → hotel transfer — $120. From town to the glacier is ~1.5 hours: either private transfer with guide for the whole day ($750), or scheduled bus ($60 Flexipass round-trip). No need for your own car — all parking is at the entrance.
From town to the glacier — ~1.5 hours by transfer ($750 full day with guide) or bus ($60 Flexipass round-trip).
Excursions — what to choose
Cruise along the glacier wall — $40/person, ~1.5 hrs. Boat circles the glacier front at 500 m distance. Most accessible format.
Minitrekking — $260/person, half-day. Boat to shore + one-hour walk on the glacier in crampons. Suitable without special training. Age requirement: 10–65 years.
Big Ice — $503/person, 5–6 hrs. Extended glacier route with longer crossing. Requires good physical fitness.
Kayak Perito Moreno — from $215/person. Excursion only, no transfer; with transfer and lunch — $274. Paddle next to icebergs.
Aventura Viedma — $120/person, ~3 hrs. Different glacier (Viedma), less touristy.
Estancia Nibepo Aike
Day at a Patagonian ranch — $150/person. Horses, sheep shearing, traditional lamb lunch. 50 km from El Calafate.
Nativos — cave excursion and dinner
Small group, cave dinner with Argentine wine and Patagonian products. Group $53/person; private — $142/group.
Practical data
| Parameter | Value |
|---|---|
| Glacier area | 250 sq km |
| Wall height | up to 74 m |
| National park entrance ticket | $30/person (1 day) |
| Flexipass 3-day ticket | $60 |
| Guide service (Ivan) | $400 / day |
Frequently asked questions
When is the best time to go? Year-round — the glacier is stable. December–February — long daylight hours. March–April — fewer travelers, golden autumn colors.
Is insurance required? For Minitrekking and Big Ice — medical insurance with active recreation coverage is mandatory.
Can you go without a guide? Technically yes, but with a guide you get context — and won't lose time on logistics.