Everything you need to know about the Perito Moreno Glacier
The South Patagonian Ice Field is one of the most breathtaking landscapes on Earth. The region's vast size and ecological importance attract many visitors to South America.
This unique environment, formed by hundreds of glaciers, can be explored by boat cruises for day trippers and multi-day expeditions for trekkers. The groaning ice fjords, soaring crevasses and glacial lakes appeal to adventurers drawn to dramatic environments.
As the most accessible glacier in the Southern Patagonian Ice Field, Perito Moreno Glacier captivates hundreds of thousands of visitors. Let’s explore why this glacier is such an iconic destination.
What is the Perito Moreno Glacier?
The Perito Morena Glacier is prominent in the South Patagonian Ice Field. Named after Argentinian explorer Francisco Pascasio Moreno, this sprawling glacier is one of the last advancing glaciers in the world.
The Perino Moreno Glacier moves about 2 metres a day. Meltwater at its base flows down the valley, pushed by gravity. It also grows as rain, sleet, and snow accumulate on the ice and freeze, adding to its mass.
As the glacier grows, cracks appear beneath the heavy ice and snow. This causes large icebergs to break off at the end, where it meets Lago Argentino.
Why is the Perito Moreno Glacier famous?
The Perito Moreno Glacier is one of the few easily accessible places in the world to watch ice cliffs crumble into the water. Witnessing this spectacular audiovisual display is a once-in-a-lifetime experience.
The unique topography of the Andean Mountains, in which the famous glacier sits, traps moisture from the air. This causes extreme rain and snowfall. These high levels of precipitation fuel the glacier's growth and stability.
From elevated walkways across the nearby cliffs to ice-hiking tours, multi-day expeditions and Lago Argentino cruises, there are multiple ways to explore this fascinating glacier.
Where is the Perito Moreno Glacier?
The Perito Moreno Glacier is in Argentine Patagonia, in the southern province of Santa Cruz. Formed in the Magallanes Region of Chile, the glacier sits within the Southern Patagonian Ice Field and flows down the eastern slopes of the Patagonian Andes.
Not to be confused with the town of Perito Moreno, which is 500km north, or the national park of the same name. The Perito Moreno Glacier is usually accessed from the vibrant town of El Calafate.
Is the Perito Moreno Glacier in Los Glaciares National Park?
Yes - the Perito Moreno Glacier is situated within Los Glaciares National Park.
Established in 1937, Los Glaciares National Park is the largest national park in Argentina, covering approximately 7,270 sq km, or 2,800 sq mi. It was named as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1981 owing to its exceptional natural beauty and outstanding natural value.
Southern Los Glaciares National Park
Split into two main areas, the southern sector is where you’ll find the Perito Moreno Glacier. Easily reached from El Calafate, Lago Argentino is a popular destination for hiking, ice climbing and boat touring opportunities found here. A few of the activities to enjoy here include:
- Exploring the boardwalks overlooking Perito Moreno Glacier
- Experiencing Argentinian ranch culture at a remote estancía
- Journeying by boat across the turquoise glacial waters of Lago Argentino
Northern Los Glaciares National Park
The northern section of the park is easier to reach from El Chaltén. Trekkers pilgrimage here to hike around Mount Fitz Roy, Cerro Torre and other famous peaks. Some of the things people enjoy here are:
- Spending a night camping in the Andean mountains at Poincenot Camp
- Hiking to Laguna de los Tres for unique vistas of Fitz Roy
- Discovering Laguna Torre and the Maestri Viewpoint for spectacular views of Cerro Torre
Named after the hundreds of glaciers it protects, Los Glaciares is approximately one-third ice! The national park includes vast areas of the Patagonian Ice Field and it protects the unique and fragile ecosystems found here.
How big is the Perito Moreno Glacier and how does it behave?
Stretching for almost 30 km, or 19 mi, in length, the Perito Moreno Glacier is around 250 sq km in mass. At approximately 18,000 years old, the glacier creeps along through the Andean fjords, where it towers over Lago Argentino at its terminus.
The weight of new ice on top, along with precipitation from the atmosphere, causes the glacier to crack and groan. Intermittently, huge chunks break away, tumbling into the lake below.
Renowned for its immense scale and dramatic beauty, the Perito Moreno Glacier is one of Argentina’s most unforgettable sights. The constant creaking and thunderous cracking of the moving ice make it even more spectacular. A visit here is an awesome audiovisual experience.
How to get to the Perito Moreno Glacier from El Calafate
El Calafate is the main gateway town from which to visit the Perito Moreno Glacier. You can also reach the glacier from Puerto Natales in Chile or El Chaltén in Argentina. However, both routes are longer and go through El Calafate to get there.
- El Calafate, Argentina → Perito Moreno Glacier. Approx. 80 km/50 mi – 1.5 hrs by road.
- El Chaltén, Argentina → Perito Moreno Glacier. Approx. 280km/175 mi – 4-5 hrs by road.
- Puerto Natales, Chile → Perito Moreno Glacier. Approx. 340 km/210 mi – 6-8 hrs by road.
Provincial Route 11 is a paved highway from El Calafate in Argentina to Los Glaciares National Park. The most straightforward way to get to the Perito Moreno Glacier from El Calafate is by road.
The entrance to Los Glaciares National Park is roughly 50km, or 30mi, west of El Calafate. From here it is another 30km, or 18mi, to the Magallanes Peninsula. This rocky cliff facing the Perito Moreno Glacier is the access point for boat tours, strolling the walkways or longer ice hiking expeditions.
What to expect when visiting the Perito Moreno Glacier
Now that you know about the glacier, its location, and features, you can see why visiting this region is a must.
The vivid blue ice, turquoise glacial lake and unique soundscapes make the Perito Moreno Glacier one of the most breathtaking sights in Patagonia. Not only is it possible to visit the glacier as a day trip from El Calafate, but there are also plenty of ways to explore this ancient wonder. More on that in a minute.
First, here are 7 tips when visiting the Perito Moreno Glacier.
- Allow enough time to simply sit and watch. It’s HUGE! Nothing will prepare you for the sheer size and scale of this phenomenal glacier.
- Bring lots of layers. This includes waterproofs and thermals, sunscreen and sturdy shoes. The weather can be unpredictable.
- Be prepared for loud noises. The glacier creaks, groans and cracks constantly throughout the day. You’ll also hear thunderous roars as ice breaks away and falls into the lake below.
- Watch from the boardwalks. There are 5 km/3 mi of boardwalks lacing the cliff opposite the glacier, where you can view the ice from a safe distance.
- Get up close with the ice. Boat trips are the best way to get really close to the glacier. Book in advance to ensure a place at your preferred time.
- Bring your sunglasses! The ice and water create lots of glare, so sunglasses are essential for prolonged exposure.
- Allow at least half a day at the glacier itself. This ensures you explore and appreciate its entirety.
Can you walk, hike or take a boat trip to the glacier?
Yes, yes and yes!
A large part of the attraction of the Perito Moreno Glacier is its accessibility. You can visit the glacier on foot or by boat, trek near it and on it.
Boat trips to Perito Moreno Glacier
Offering a perspective you won’t find on foot, boat tours are a popular way to view the impressive Perito Moreno Glacier. Short boat trips usually last 1-2 hours and tour either the northern or southern face of the glacier.
These boat trips are ideal for single-day visits and those short on time. You can book them on arrival, at one of the two ports, or in advance. Independent travellers may prefer to book a bus and boat excursion where transport to and from El Calafate is included.
Longer boat trips may venture to neighbouring glaciers and often include lunch and a short walking tour. These must be booked in advance to ensure a space.
Walking around Perito Moreno Glacier
To walk around the Perito Moreno Glacier, arrive either by bus, car or taxi, and pick up the coastal footpath that navigates the Magallanes Peninsula. There are boardwalks cut into the cliffs that offer wonderful views of the glacier, just a short distance across the water. Using these is included in the park entry fee to Los Glaciares National Park.
Hiking on the Perito Moreno Glacier
For more intrepid travellers and those with more time, consider hiking on the glacier itself. A guide is required for safety reasons, and only one operator is currently licensed to offer glacier hiking on the Perito Moreno Glacier. Packages to do this can be booked in El Calafate.
Hiking on the glacier is often sold as a short excursion, which includes a boat ride and time to walk the boardwalks. A longer package also includes exploring some of the surrounding woodlands. Longer hiking trips offer more opportunities to discover the caves, crevasses and lagoons around the Perito Moreno Glacier.
Visit the Perito Moreno Glacier with Kandoo Adventures
The Kandoo team LOVES Patagonia! With soaring mountains, ancient glaciers, high altitude lakes and stunning coastline, this region truly delivers. Exciting adventures wait around every corner, and you can do a little or a lot here.
Both the world-famous W Trek and the O Trek visit the outer Southern Patagonian Ice Field, and our Ultimate Patagonia itinerary includes a boat trip to the Perito Moreno Glacier itself.
The remote landscapes of Patagonia make it a real wilderness destination, ripe for exploration. With an adventure specialist like Kandoo, your whole journey is meticulously planned to ensure your experience here is totally unforgettable.Get in touch with our travel experts today to discuss your Patagonian adventure.