The Perito Moreno Glacier is one of Argentina’s most breathtaking natural wonders, drawing thousands of travelers each year to the remote beauty of Patagonia. This massive ice formation, located in Los Glaciares National Park, stretches for miles and offers some of the most awe-inspiring views and unique experiences in the region. Whether you choose to take in panoramic views from the park’s walkways, embark on a boat ride to the base of the towering ice wall, or even tackle a thrilling hike across the glacier’s icy surface—a visit to Perito Moreno is an adventure you won’t soon forget.
In this guide, you’ll find everything you need to know about the best ways to experience the glacier, the ideal seasons to visit, and essential tips for making the most of this unforgettable destination.
Where is the Perito Moreno Glacier Located in Argentina?
Perito Moreno Glacier is nestled in Los Glaciares National Park, in southwestern Argentina, in the province of Santa Cruz near the Chilean border. This glacier stretches roughly 30 kilometers in length and spans 5 kilometers across, making it a remarkable natural wonder.
Important: If you’re planning your route, avoid going to the town of Perito Moreno! While it shares the glacier’s name, it’s actually quite far from the glacier itself.
The closest city to the glacier is El Calafate, located about 80 kilometers away. This charming town serves as the main base for visitors to Los Glaciares National Park and is well-connected by flights from cities like Buenos Aires, Ushuaia, and Bariloche.
Most visitors choose to stay in El Calafate, which offers a variety of accommodations, from budget-friendly hostels to luxurious hotels. Some favorites include Hotel Posada Los Alamos for its great location, Folk Hostel for a budget-friendly stay, Esplendor by Wyndham El Calafate for those seeking a bit of luxury, and Estancia Nibepo Aike for an authentic estancia experience. From El Calafate, you can reach the glacier by bus, car, or organized tour.
Let op: ga niet naar het plaatsje Perito Moreno. De plaats en gletsjer hebben misschien wel dezelfde naam, maar het plaatsje ligt niet eens in de buurt van de gletsjer.
Why is the Perito Moreno Glacier a Must-Visit?
The Perito Moreno Glacier stands out as one of the world’s most incredible natural wonders and is a highlight of Patagonia. Spanning over 250 square kilometers, this massive glacier extends 30 kilometers in length and towers 60 meters above the surface of Lake Argentino. The surrounding Los Glaciares National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage site, is filled with other glaciers and offers an extraordinary ecosystem. Visitors will encounter unique flora and fauna that have adapted to the harsh climate of Patagonia, adding to the magic of the experience.
What truly sets Perito Moreno apart is that, unlike many glaciers around the world that are rapidly melting, it remains remarkably stable. The glacier constantly moves forward, advancing by up to two meters each day, causing large chunks of ice to break off and fall into Lake Argentino in a spectacular event called “glacier calving.” This process produces thunderous cracks and booms as the ice collapses, a thrilling natural show that leaves a lasting impression.
In March 2018, the glacier made headlines for an especially dramatic event: a massive ice bridge collapsed into the lake. This natural cycle of building and breaking happens when water pressure builds up beneath the glacier, eventually forcing its way through the ice to create a massive rupture. These events, which occur roughly every few years, capture worldwide attention due to their sheer power and breathtaking beauty.
Visiting the Perito Moreno Glacier
Four Ways to Experience the Glacier
There are four fantastic ways to experience the Perito Moreno Glacier, each offering a different perspective depending on your budget and interests. The most accessible and affordable option is to visit the park’s viewpoints. Here, specially built walkways take you to stunning platforms with panoramic views of the glacier. Although you won’t be standing at the base of the ice wall, these platforms offer a breathtaking vantage point from which you can truly appreciate the glacier’s immense size.
Another popular choice is a boat tour, which departs from a nearby pier and brings you up close to the glacier’s towering ice wall. These boat tours usually last between one and two hours and provide an amazing front-row view of the glacier, making it easy to see the dramatic calving events as massive chunks of ice break off into the water. You can book this tour in El Calafate, often with an option to combine it with a trip to the viewpoints for a more complete experience.
For the adventurous at heart, two ice hikes are available on the glacier itself, accessible only with a guided tour. These hikes offer the rare chance to walk on the glacier, giving you a unique perspective on its rugged beauty. The “Mini Trek” allows you to spend around one and a half to two hours on the ice, while the more intense “Big Ice” hike takes you deep into the glacier, lasting up to four hours and leading you past deep crevasses and striking ice formations. Both hikes include a visit to the viewpoints and come with crampons provided by the tour operators. While these treks are on the pricier side, the unforgettable experience of standing on the glacier itself is well worth the cost for many travelers.
Note: Entrance to Los Glaciares National Park is required, and this is usually not included in the price of the tours. Be sure to check in advance.
Getting to the Park
If you’re exploring Patagonia by car, you can easily drive yourself to the park. Alternatively, there are daily bus services from El Calafate to the glacier, a scenic ride that takes about 90 minutes. While the bus can be costly, sharing a taxi with three or four other people can be a comparably priced option and gives you a bit more flexibility. However, if you want to actually step onto the glacier, you’ll need to book a guided tour, as these are the only way to access the ice itself. Many tours include transportation to the park, making it easier to plan your trip.
Avoiding the Crowds
To enjoy a more peaceful experience, consider visiting early in the morning or later in the afternoon. These times give you a better chance to take in the incredible sounds of the calving ice without the background noise of too many visitors.
Best Season to Visit the Perito Moreno Glacier
The Perito Moreno Glacier is accessible year-round, and each season offers its own unique appeal. Summer (December to February) brings warmer weather and long days, with frequent calving events as the ice melts more quickly. However, this is also the busiest season, so be prepared for larger crowds. Autumn (March to May) brings the brilliant reds and oranges of fall foliage, creating a stunning contrast with the glacier’s blue ice and generally fewer visitors than in summer.
Winter (June to August) is the quietest season, with smaller tour groups and a more tranquil atmosphere, though calving events are less frequent due to colder temperatures. Spring (September to November) offers blooming landscapes around the glacier, providing a vibrant setting with fewer visitors than the busy summer months.
Glaciarium: The Glacier Museum in El Calafate
For a deeper dive into the story of the Patagonian glaciers, consider a visit to the Glaciarium Glacier Museum, one of the best things to do in El Calafate. This interactive museum explores the geology, ecology, and history of the region’s glaciers, with engaging exhibits that explain how these massive ice formations developed and how they’re affected by climate change. The museum includes 3D films, detailed models, and exhibits on historic glacier expeditions.
A unique feature of the Glaciarium is its ice bar, where the temperature is kept at minus ten degrees and visitors can enjoy a drink in a unique ice-world setting. This museum provides a fascinating background on the natural forces shaping Patagonia, making it an ideal complement to your glacier experience.
Tip: Some glacier tours include entrance to the Glaciarium, so check before buying a separate ticket.
