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How to visit Perito Moreno Glacier from El Calafate: A complete guide

Organizing your visit 

  1. Top attractions
  2. How to get there
  3. Getting around
  4. More things to do
  5. Where to eat
  6. Where to shop
  7. Local tips

How to visit Perito Moreno Glacier

Perito Moreno Glacier with snow-capped mountains and turquoise lake in Patagonia, Argentina.

Visiting the Perito Moreno Glacier is one of Patagonia’s most unforgettable experiences, a day filled with icy blues, crisp air, and the sound of nature at its rawest. Whether you’re here to walk the viewing platforms, sail close to the glacier walls, or strap on crampons for an ice trek, this is the kind of adventure that stays with you long after you’ve left El Calafate.

Tourists boarding bus for transfers

Perito Moreno Glacier is about 80 km (50 miles) west of El Calafate, the main hub for all tours and transfers. Buses and guided excursions depart daily from the town, with travel times of roughly 1.5 hours each way.

If you prefer flexibility, renting a car is easy, and the road (Route 11) is well-maintained and scenic. Parking is available near the visitor area, but it can fill up mid-morning. Taxis also make the trip, but they’re pricier than group transfers. To make the most of your day, aim to leave El Calafate early, as crowds build up fast, especially around the viewing balconies.

Visitors on a viewing platform overlooking Perito Moreno Glacier in Argentina.

Quick visit (2–3 hours): Walk the main upper and lower walkways for panoramic glacier views. Watch massive ice chunks calve into Lago Argentino, a sight (and sound) you won’t forget.

Half day (4–5 hours): Begin with the boardwalks, then take the 1-hour glacier cruise from Bajo de las Sombras port. Add a short walk to the lookout points with the best photo angles. Enjoy lunch or a local snack before heading back to El Calafate.

Full day (6+ hours): Combine all of the above with a mini-trekking experience on the glacier. If you prefer to stay dry, opt for the full-day cruise exploring different glacier faces. Finish your day at the main lookout for golden-hour light across the ice field.

Cruise ship in front of Perito Moreno Glacier, Argentina, with tourists on deck.

Tickets: Book trekking tours and boat rides in advance, especially in summer (Nov–Mar). Entrance to Los Glaciares National Park is separate and paid upon arrival.

Best times: Arrive before 9am to enjoy quieter walkways, or stay till late afternoon for softer light and fewer crowds.

Rules: Dress in layers, as Patagonia weather can switch from sunshine to sleet in an hour. Drones aren’t allowed, and park staff may restrict access during strong winds.

Pro tip: Start at the farthest walkway section first; you’ll walk back with the best glacier views as the crowds move the other way.

Respect: Stay on marked paths, carry reusable bottles, and never touch the glacier surface unless you’re on a guided trek. It’s a fragile ecosystem worth protecting.

Top sights at Perito Moreno Glacier

Visitors on viewing deck at Perito Moreno Glacier, Argentina.

Perito Moreno Glacier boardwalks

This is where most visitors start, a network of elevated walkways with incredible angles for photos and calving ice views. Each platform offers a different perspective, from sweeping panoramas to close-up ice cliffs.

See Perito Moreno Glacier walkways highlights
Person walking towards Perito Moreno cruise boarding point with glacier in background.

Bajo de las Sombras Port

Located on the Brazo Rico arm of Lake Argentino, this port is your launch point for getting close to the glacier. Short boat rides offer stunning views from the water, while the Minitrekking and Big Ice tours begin here.

Interior view of boat with passengers looking at Perito Moreno Glacier through large windows.

Glacier cruises on Lake Argentino

Choose between a one-hour cruise or a full-day navigation that explores multiple glacier fronts. It’s the best way to appreciate the scale of Perito Moreno and feel the thunderous power of calving ice from up close.

Find the right Perito Moreno boat tour
Tourists with guide hiking on Perito Moreno Glacier, Argentina.

Trekking experiences

Slip on crampons and explore a world of blue crevasses, icy ridges, and meltwater streams. It’s a thrilling way to connect with Patagonia’s wilderness while learning how this glacier remains one of the few still advancing.

What makes the Perito Moreno Glacier Big Ice trek special
Visitor observing Perito Moreno Glacier from viewing deck in Argentina.

Curva de los Suspiros Viewpoint

True to its name (“Curve of Sighs”), this stop offers a breathtaking preview of the glacier before you even reach the main visitor area. A perfect photo stop to start your adventure.

Tourists at El Chaltén welcome sign with mountains in the background, Argentina.

El Calafate Town

This small Patagonian town is where your journey begins. Explore its restaurants, local craft stores, and lakefront promenade. Many travelers stay here to enjoy easy access to Los Glaciares National Park and nearby adventure tours.

Book Perito Moreno Glacier tours

Know before you book your tour

Choosing how to visit Perito Moreno Glacier comes down to how much time you have and how hands-on you want to be. Most visitors base themselves in El Calafate, where guided tours include round-trip transfers, saving you the hassle of renting a car or managing park entry times. If you prefer to explore at your own pace, a DIY tour is doable but requires coordinating bus schedules and park tickets separately.

Adventure-seekers should look for tours that include the a initrekking or Big Ice hike, while those who prefer sightseeing can opt for a 1-hour glacier cruise or a full-day cruise that includes lunch. Travelers with more time often pick a day trip to El Chaltén for mountain views and hiking.

Getting to Perito Moreno Glacier

The easiest and most popular way to visit from El Calafate.

Guided tours include hotel pick-up, park entry coordination, and stops at the best viewpoints or boat docks. Ideal if you want a seamless experience without driving or queueing for tickets.

  • Time: 8–10 hours round-trip transfers
  • Cost: $50–$500 (varies by cruise or trekking add-ons)
  • Pros: Hassle-free, expert guides, small groups
  • Cons: Fixed schedule, limited flexibility
Getting to Perito Moreno Glacier location made easy

A reliable, budget-friendly option connecting El Calafate to the glacier’s visitor centre.

Buses depart from the main terminal and make one or two scenic stops en route. Great for independent travelers who don’t mind arranging park tickets separately.

  • Time: 1.5–2 hours each way
  • Cost: $25–$35 USD
  • Best for: Solo travelers, budget trips
  • Cons: Fixed departure times, limited onboard commentary

Perfect for those who want flexibility and photo stops along the scenic Route 11.

Roads are well-paved and easy to navigate, though parking fills up quickly mid-morning. Ideal for small groups or those combining the glacier with nearby estancias or lookouts.

  • Time: 1.5 hours (80 km from El Calafate)
  • Cost: Rental + park entry + fuel ($60–$100 USD total)
  • Pros: Flexible, great views, multiple stops possible
  • Cons: Parking can be tight; watch for icy patches in winter

A comfortable option if you prefer door-to-door service without joining a group.

Taxis or private drivers can be arranged through El Calafate hotels or agencies. Best for small groups or travelers short on time.

  • Time: 1.5 hours each way
  • Cost: $100–$150 USD round trip (per vehicle)
  • Pros: Private, direct, no waiting
  • Cons: More expensive; return times must be prearranged

How to get around in Perito Moreno Glacier

Visitors observing Perito Moreno Glacier from viewing deck in Patagonia, Argentina.

Walking around

The main visitor experience is designed for walking. Elevated metal boardwalks wind through several viewing circuits, each offering different perspectives of the glacier’s face and Lago Argentino. Surfaces are well-maintained, with rest spots and railings throughout.

  • Time: 1–2 hours to cover all routes
  • Cost: Free (after park entry)
  • Best for: Everyone, including families, solo travelers, and photographers
  • Cons: Fully outdoors; weather can shift quickly
Passengers on a shuttle bus from Amsterdam using mobile devices.

Shuttle (Parking area ↔ walkways)

A short internal shuttle links the main car park with the top of the walkway network. It’s optional but useful for visitors who want to avoid steep sections or long climbs.

  • Time: 5 minutes each way
  • Cost: Usually included in park access fee
  • Best for: Older visitors, families with kids
  • Cons: Limited frequency at peak times
Tourists seated inside Perito Moreno Cruise with guide speaking at front.

Boat transfers (tours & treks only)

If you’ve booked a glacier cruise or trekking experience, you’ll board a small catamaran at Bajo de las Sombras Port, a short drive from the main walkways. The boat crosses Brazo Rico and brings you close to the glacier wall or trekking trailhead.

  • Time: 15–20 minutes each way
  • Cost: Included with tour packages
  • Best for: Cruise or trekking participants
  • Cons: Weather and wind can affect schedules

More things to do in Perito Moreno Glacier (if you have the time)

Upsala Glacier with icebergs in Los Glaciares National Park, Argentina.
Glacier Spegazzini towering over turquoise waters, El Calafate, Patagonia, Argentina.
Tourists on a hiking trail overlooking El Chaltén village and mountains in Santa Cruz, Argentina.
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Upsala Glacier

A vast ice giant accessible by a full-day cruise across Lake Argentino. Known for its floating icebergs and sheer scale, a stunning contrast to Perito Moreno.

More about cruises to the Upsala Glacier

Spegazzini Glacier

The tallest glacier in Los Glaciares National Park, often visited on navigation tours. Its deep-blue face towers over the water, creating incredible photo moments.

Know all about the cruises to Glaciar Spegazzini

El Chaltén

A scenic mountain village about three hours from El Calafate. Ideal for an extra day of hiking amid dramatic peaks like Mount Fitz Roy and Cerro Torre.

Find your perfect day trip to El Chaltén

Where to eat near Perito Moreno Glacier

There aren’t many dining spots this close to a glacier, which makes the few that exist feel extra special. Whether you’re pausing mid-adventure or winding down after a day of icy wonder, these local favorites serve up hearty Patagonian flavors with unforgettable views of Argentina’s wild south.

​Top El Calafate restaurants you shouldn’t miss ➜

Lamb roast garnished with rosemary on a white platter.

Restó del Glaciar Perito Moreno

A gourmet restaurant perched at the edge of the glacier’s bay, offering elevated Patagonian cuisine in a glass-walled setting facing the ice.

  • Where it is: Inside Los Glaciares National Park, beside the main visitor area [View on map →]
  • Cuisine: Fine Patagonian cuisine 
  • Rating: 4.2/5 
  • Price point: $40–60 USD per main dish (upper-mid to upscale)
  • Must-try: Patagonian lamb roast; pairing it with a local Malbec, a signature experience here
Roast lamb with vegetables at Orbit Revolving Restaurant, Kuala Lumpur.

Natives of Patagonia

Nestled along RP11 110 en route to the glacier, this rustic stop delivers hearty Patagonian fare with wide-open views.

  • Where it is: RP11 110, El Calafate, Santa Cruz Province, Argentina [View on map →]
  • Cuisine: Traditional Argentine and Patagonian grill 
  • Rating: 4.1/5 
  • Price point: USD 25-40 per main dish (mid-range)
  • Must-try: Slow-cooked Patagonian lamb with chimichurri and a local craft brew

Travel tip: Food options inside the park are limited, and service hours align with park timings. Bring a refillable water bottle and a few snacks if you plan to stay all day on the walkways.

Where to shop near Perito Moreno Glacier

Woman admiring a crystal souvenir in a bustling gift shop.

Perito Moreno visitor centre souvenir shop

Small store beside the main café inside Los Glaciares National Park. Ideal for quick mementos after your glacier walk—postcards, magnets, books, and glacier-themed gifts.

Must buy: Locally made Calafate-berry jam or “Glaciar Patagonia” branded gear.

Friendly tips from locals

  • Arrive before 9am → The light is soft, the walkways are quiet, and you’ll have the glacier almost to yourself before tour buses arrive around 10.
  • Do the walkways in reverse → Start from the farthest lower balcony first; you’ll walk back toward the main area as most visitors move in the opposite direction.
  • Wind picks up after lunch → Mornings are calmer, ideal for boat rides or trekking. Afternoon gusts can close sections of the walkways in summer.
  • Pack your own snacks → Food options inside the park are limited and pricey. Locals stock up at El Calafate bakeries before heading out.
  • Stop at Curva de los Suspiros → The first glacier view from the road. Locals never skip it for that perfect “first sight” photo stop.
  • Dress for all seasons in one day → Patagonia weather turns on a whim—layers, a windproof jacket, and sunglasses are essentials year-round.
  • Bring cash (ARS) → The park entry gate and small souvenir stalls sometimes struggle with card readers; having pesos saves time.
  • Stay late if you can → The glacier glows golden at sunset, and by then the crowds are gone, it’s the quietest, most magical moment of the day.

Frequently asked questions about your visit to Perito Moreno

Where is the Perito Moreno Glacier located?

Perito Moreno Glacier sits inside Los Glaciares National Park in the province of Santa Cruz, Argentina, about 80 km (50 miles) west of the town of El Calafate in southern Patagonia.

How to visit Perito Moreno Glacier from El Calafate?

The easiest way to visit Perito Moreno Glacier is on a guided tour with round-trip transfers from El Calafate. The drive takes about 1.5 hours each way. You can also rent a car, take a taxi, or ride a Perito Moreno Glacier bus from the town’s terminal.

Can I take a taxi to Perito Moreno Glacier?

Yes, you can. Taxis and private transfers are available from El Calafate to the glacier, but they’re more expensive than bus or tour options. The journey takes about 90 minutes, and it’s best to arrange your return trip in advance since taxis are not readily available inside the park.

How long does a visit to Perito Moreno Glacier take?

Plan at least 4 to 6 hours for a full Perito Moreno visit, enough time to walk the viewing trails, enjoy the viewpoints, and take a short boat ride. If you’re doing the mini-trekking or Big Ice experience, allow a full day.

What is the best time of year to visit Perito Moreno Glacier?

The glacier is open year-round, but the best months are October to April (spring to early autumn), when the weather is milder and all tours are running. For fewer crowds, aim for early November or late March.

Do I need to book tickets in advance to visit Perito Moreno Glacier?

Yes. Book your Los Glaciares National Park entry ticket and any glacier tour (boat cruise or trek) in advance, especially in peak season. You can buy park tickets at the entrance, but tour spots often sell out days ahead.

Are there buses from El Calafate to Perito Moreno Glacier?

Yes, several daily buses run between El Calafate and Perito Moreno Glacier. They depart from the main terminal and drop passengers at the visitor area. The journey takes around 1.5–2 hours, and tickets can be purchased online or at the terminal.

Are there places to eat inside the Perito Moreno Glacier?

Yes, the Restó del Glaciar Perito Moreno restaurant sits inside the park near the main walkways, serving regional Patagonian dishes and coffee. For quick snacks, you can bring your own food or stop at Nativos de la Patagonia on Route 11 before entering the park.

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