If you are traveling to Patagonia and want a truly unforgettable experience, the Minitrekking Perito Moreno is one of the most exciting adventures you can do in Argentina.
Located inside Los Glaciares National Park, near El Calafate, the Perito Moreno Glacier is one of the few glaciers in the world that is still advancing. Walking on its surface is an experience unlike any other.
What Is the Minitrekking Perito Moreno?
The Minitrekking is a guided ice trekking excursion that combines:
• Transfer from El Calafate (optional)
• Navigation across Lake Argentino
• Forest walk along the Patagonian Andes
• Glacier ice trekking with crampons
• Panoramic viewpoints from the walkways
• A traditional whisky toast with glacier ice
This excursion allows you to walk directly on the glacier’s surface with certified mountain guides.
The Experience Step by Step
1. Transfer to Los Glaciares National Park
If you choose the option with transportation, you will be picked up from your hotel in El Calafate. The journey to the park is approximately 78 km (about 1.5 hours), passing through stunning Patagonian landscapes.
Alternatively, you can meet at Puerto Bajo de las Sombras.
2. Boat Navigation Across the Brazo Rico
You will board a boat for a short 20-minute navigation across the southern arm of Lake Argentino. This provides spectacular views of the towering ice wall of the Perito Moreno Glacier.
The scale of the glacier becomes truly impressive as you approach its southern face.
3. Forest Walk and Glacier Preparation
After disembarking, you will walk through native Andean forest trails alongside a specialized mountain guide.
Before stepping onto the glacier, guides will help you put on crampons, which are essential metal spikes that allow you to walk safely on ice.
A safety briefing and equipment instructions are always included.
4. Trekking on the Glacier
This is the highlight of the experience.
You will walk on the glacier for approximately 1.5 hours, exploring:
• Deep blue crevasses
• Ice caves
• Seracs (towering ice formations)
• Natural meltwater lagoons
• Ice sinks and fissures
The glacier surface is irregular but stable, creating a thrilling yet safe adventure.
During the trek, guides explain glacier formation, climate impact, and the unique geology of Patagonia.
5. Whisky Toast with Glacier Ice
At the end of the trek, you will enjoy a memorable toast with whisky served over thousand-year-old glacier ice — a true Patagonian tradition.
6. Visit to the Walkways (Pasarelas)
After returning by boat, you will have time to explore the panoramic walkways in front of the glacier.
These platforms offer the best views of the famous glacier walls, where ice calving events often occur.
Duration and Schedule
Typical departure: Around 7:00 AM
Return to El Calafate: Around 5:00 PM
The full excursion lasts approximately 10 hours.
Schedule may vary depending on weather and operational logistics.
Difficulty Level
Moderate.
Participants must:
• Be between the authorized age limits (usually 10 to 65 years)
• Be in good physical condition
• Not have severe mobility issues
• Be able to walk on uneven terrain
This excursion is not suitable for pregnant travelers or individuals with significant cardiovascular conditions.
What Is Included
• Professional bilingual mountain guides
• Ice trekking with crampons
• Navigation across Lake Argentino
• Whisky toast with glacier ice
• Visit to the glacier walkways
• Optional round-trip transfers from El Calafate
What Is Not Included
• Entrance fee to Los Glaciares National Park
• Meals (bring snacks and water)
What to Bring
• Waterproof jacket
• Comfortable trekking shoes
• Sunglasses
• Sunscreen
• Gloves
• Small backpack
Weather in Patagonia can change quickly, even in summer.
Why Choose the Minitrekking Perito Moreno?
This experience allows you to:
• Walk on one of the most iconic glaciers in the world
• Get close to natural ice formations
• Enjoy small-group guided trekking
• Experience Patagonia beyond traditional sightseeing
It is one of the most requested and highly rated excursions in El Calafate.
