El Calafate Tours






























































Imagine standing in front of a wall of blue ice taller than a 20-story building. It creaks, it groans, and every few minutes, a thunderous crash echoes as a massive chunk breaks off into the turquoise lake below. Tucked deep inside Los Glaciares National Park, Perito Moreno is a colossal glacier that stretches over 30 kilometers long and rises more than 70 meters above the shimmering surface of Lago Argentino.

If the regular viewing platforms make your jaw drop, the El Calafate Big Ice trek will absolutely blow your mind. It’s a once-in-a-lifetime expedition that takes you deep into the heart of the glacier. The Perito Moreno Big Ice experience lasts around 8 to 9 hours, with roughly 3.5 hours spent trekking directly on the glacier. It’s immersive, adventurous, and dare we say, “life-changing”.

Big Ice vs. Minitrekking: What's the difference?

FeatureBig Ice trekMinitrekking

Duration

8–9 hours total (3.5 hours on ice)

5 hours total (1.5 hours on ice)

Difficulty

Moderate to high

Easy to moderate

Age limit

18 to 50 years old

10 to 65 years old

Glacier access

Deep into the glacier

Edge of the glacier

Plan your visit

The Big Ice Perito Moreno trekking tour runs from September through April (Patagonia’s warmer months).

  • November to February: Peak season; long days, stunning light, but busier.
  • March to April: Cooler weather, fewer crowds, and spectacular autumn colors.
  • September to October: Crisp, peaceful, and perfect for photographers.
Your quick guide to Perito Moreno Glacier opening hours

Forget fancy gear. What matters for the Perito Moreno Big Ice hike is comfort and warmth.

Essentials for the Perito Moreno Big Ice:

  • Thermal base layers and fleece jackets
  • Waterproof outer shell (wind is strong)
  • Trekking boots (no sneakers allowed)
  • Gloves, sunglasses, and sunscreen
  • A refillable water bottle and snacks
  • A camera or GoPro (trust us, you’ll want proof)

The tour operator will provide all the glacier gear (crampons, helmets, harnesses).

Age restriction: Participants must be between 18 and 50 years old.

Medical form: To confirm your reservation, it’s mandatory to submit a medical form for each passenger.

Who should not participate:

  • Have a physical or mental disability that limits mobility, balance, or coordination
  • Are affected by obesity (BMI over the recommended limit for strenuous activity)
  • Are pregnant at any stage
  • Suffer from severe vertigo or dizziness
  • Have cardiovascular disease or reduced cardiac or vascular capacity
  • Use stents, bypasses, pacemakers, or other similar cardiovascular prostheses
  • Suffer from chronic respiratory diseases such as COPD, emphysema, or asthma
  • Have undergone recent surgery or are currently under anticoagulant medication
  • Have grade III varicose veins (multiple or very thick)

Frequently asked questions about the Perito Moreno Glacier Big Ice trek

Is the Big Ice trek suitable for beginners?

Yes, as long as you’re reasonably fit and enjoy hiking. The guides make it accessible for adventurous first-timers.

What’s the age limit for the trek?

Participants must be 18 to 50 years old. This ensures everyone can handle the physical challenge safely.

How far do you walk on the Perito Moreno Glacier trail?

You’ll spend around 3.5 hours on the ice, covering several kilometers of breathtaking terrain.

Can I do the Big Ice trek in winter?

No, it’s only offered from September to April due to weather and safety conditions.

What if the weather turns bad?

Tours run in most conditions, but high winds or storms can lead to rescheduling for safety reasons.

Is the El Calafate Big Ice hike worth it compared to other treks?

Absolutely. The Perito Moreno Big Ice experience takes you deep inside the glacier. It’s more intense, remote, and rewarding.

How long should I plan to spend at Perito Moreno Glacier?

Allow 3–4 hours to explore all circuits at a comfortable pace. If you’re planning a boat tour or mini-trek, budget a half day or more.

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