Perito Moreno Glacier — Attraction in Santa Cruz Province

Ok some practical info based on my personal experience:

Entry to the park is 12k which you pay at entrance. Not all cards are accepted, I think either Mastercard or Visa for example did not work. So bring cash or different cards.

When you get at the parking lot, there is a small office to buy boat tickets if you want. The northern side is way prettier, so get tickets at Southern Spirit (yes the name is confusing). We were able to buy them the day before, but a few hours before it was all sold out. A few km back you have another company which had more spots, but they do the south side which is supposed to be a bit less pretty than north. Boat is 30k so like 30 euro/dollar.

There are toilets, a small shop for snacks, and a cafetaria for sandwiches etc. There are multiple pathways to follow, all with clear signs. However, for example the blue pathway was supposed to be 1.5 hours, but we walked it in a normal pace in like 20 to 30 minutes from the boardwalks to the car/parking lot. All on boardwalks so an easy walk, but worth it. Other option is to take the shuttle that leaves every few minutes, for free, from the boardwalks to the parking lot and other way around.

We ended up missing the boattour. I think the north side is definitely worth it. The southern side i heard different opinions. Either way it brings you closer than when you are on the boardwalk, but from there it also was quite impressive already. Also there are qr codes to scan at the start, for an audio tour with a few recordings with info on the glacier.

Timing: most people visit in the morning and stay until like 13.00, so if you can get a taxi or own car, I would say visit after most people are gone. We found that later in the day, like around 16.30, it was even less crowded. Also, you could easily take 2 hours for the boardwalks to experience it in a chill pace and view from different sides. The ride is like 1hr15 from Calafate.

Last but not least: transfer. We ended up renting a car with 2 others we met through the airbnb host. 75k for the day, with ServiCar near the main street. You do need creditcard to rent though. But had a good experience with them. Other companies were all sold out. Oh and parking is free.

Hope this info helps anyone who is still...

Absolutely breathtaking! Visiting the Perito Moreno Glacier was one of the most incredible experiences of my life, and I can’t recommend it enough to anyone traveling through Patagonia. The sheer size and beauty of the glacier are impossible to capture in photos—you really have to see it in person to believe it. The ice shimmers in every shade of blue and white, and the sound of the glacier cracking and shifting is both dramatic and unforgettable. The walkways are exceptionally well designed, allowing you to explore different viewpoints and get surprisingly close to the glacier. Even when it’s busy, there’s plenty of space to take photos and just stand in awe of the scenery. I was lucky enough to witness several massive chunks of ice calving off the glacier and crashing into the lake below—the noise is like thunder, and the sight is simply mesmerizing. I also joined the mini-trekking tour, which was a real highlight. Walking on the glacier with crampons and a knowledgeable guide was a once-in-a-lifetime adventure. The guides were friendly, professional, and made sure everyone felt safe and comfortable, even if you’ve never done anything like this before. Seeing the deep crevasses, sparkling blue pools, and unique ice formations up close was absolutely magical. The surrounding national park is stunning as well, with beautiful mountain views and opportunities to spot wildlife. The visitor center is modern and has a nice café and gift shop, although prices are a bit high, so bringing your own snacks is a good idea. There are also picnic areas with amazing views if you want to enjoy a meal outdoors. A few tips: Dress in layers, as the weather can change quickly, and don’t forget your camera—every corner offers a new, breathtaking view. Arriving early in the morning means fewer crowds and a more peaceful experience. If you’re interested in trekking, gloves are required, and the activity is suitable for most people, even if you’re not super athletic. Overall, Perito Moreno Glacier is a must-see natural wonder. Whether you’re admiring it from the walkways, taking a boat tour, or trekking on the ice, you’ll leave with memories you’ll never forget. Truly one of the highlights of Argentina and a place I’ll...

Perito Moreno Glacier

Location: Los Glaciares National Park, Argentina Located on the southwestern margin of the Southern Patagonian Ice Field

Description: A massive, advancing glacier One of the most accessible and awe-inspiring glaciers in the world Estimated age: 2,500 years

Dimensions: Length: Approximately 30 km (19 mi) Width: Up to 5 km (3 mi) Thickness: Up to 700 m (2,300 ft) at its thickest point Area: Approximately 250 km² (97 mi²)

Movement: Flows with an average speed of 2 meters (6.5 feet) per day The glacier advances into Lago Argentino, calving icebergs that collapse into the lake with a thunderous roar

Features: Calving front: The 60-meter (197 ft) high ice wall where the glacier meets the lake Icebergs: Spectacular ice formations that break off from the glacier and float away Seracs: Jagged towers and crevasses formed where the glacier is under stress Blue ice: The glacier's deep blue color is caused by the high density of ice crystals and the absence of air bubbles

Significance: A UNESCO World Heritage Site A major tourist destination, providing breathtaking views and opportunities for ice trekking and boat tours A showcase for the effects of climate change, as the glacier's behavior is closely monitored by scientists

Other Notes: The glacier is named after Francisco Moreno, an Argentine explorer who studied the region in the late 19th century. The Perito Moreno Glacier is a unique natural wonder that showcases the power and grandeur of glaciers. Visitors can take a leisurely boat ride to the calving front, witness the thunderous icefalls, and explore the surrounding glaciers...