Los Glaciares Boat Tours: Explore Ice Giants
Discover the breathtaking beauty of Argentina's Los Glaciares National Park with a variety of boat excursions, offering unique perspectives on massive glaciers and pristine Patagonian waters.
Los Glaciares National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage site in Argentinian Patagonia, is renowned for its colossal ice formations, and what better way to witness their grandeur than from the water? Boat excursions here are not merely sightseeing trips; they are immersive expeditions into a landscape sculpted by ice over millennia. These journeys provide unparalleled access to the park's most iconic glaciers, including the world-famous Perito Moreno Glacier, Upsala Glacier, and Spegazzini Glacier, allowing visitors to get remarkably close to these frozen giants. The sheer scale and dynamic nature of these glaciers, with their calving icebergs and ever-changing formations, create a truly awe-inspiring spectacle. Beyond the towering ice walls, boat tours offer a unique vantage point to appreciate the vastness and raw beauty of Argentinian Patagonia. Imagine cruising on the turquoise waters of Lago Argentino or Lago Viedma, surrounded by dramatic mountain scenery, and hearing the thunderous crack of ice breaking off into the lake. These excursions often navigate through fjords and past smaller icebergs, revealing a diverse ecosystem and showcasing the power of glacial forces. For many, the highlight is witnessing the Perito Moreno Glacier's natural dam-building phenomenon, where ice encroaches across the lake, eventually leading to spectacular collapses. These boat trips are designed to maximize your encounter with this extraordinary natural wonder, offering perspectives and experiences that are simply not possible from land.
Featured Boat Excursions Tours
Discover our top picks for boat excursions in Los Glaciares National Park
Our kayak experience in front of the Perito Moreno Glacier is special because it offers an unforgettable panoramic view of the majestic glacier from a unique perspective. In addition, our highly trained guides and high-quality equipment ensure your safety and comfort during the activity. We also offer hot drinks and snacks after the activity so you can relax and share your emotions with other participants. Do not miss the opportunity to live a once in a lifetime adventure with us. Reserve your place now!
Don't miss the opportunity to live a unique experience in Patagonia! Embark on an exclusive expedition that will immerse you in the beauty and mystery of this unique place. On board our luxury cruise, you will enjoy maximum comfort and gourmet cuisine that will make every moment even more special. Imagine spending a night on board in an elegant room of your choice, with all meals included so you can focus solely on enjoying yourself. Every moment of this trip is designed to offer you an unforgettable experience.
Discover the beauty hidden in the world of glaciers. In this tour you will tour the southernmost landscape of Los Glaciares National Park. The Adventure Trekking Tour includes a tour through the route of the Estancias (ranchs) until the border with Chile where we will be able to see glaciers traces of more than 20,000 years, navigating in the South Arm of Lago Argentino and a hike to Lago Frias where we will sail in a small boat to the amphitheater of glaciers and enjoy a lunch with a privileged view of the national park.
Why Choose Boat Excursions in Los Glaciares National Park?
Up-Close Glacier Views
Get within safe viewing distance of immense glaciers like Perito Moreno and Upsala, witnessing their scale and power.
Unique Aquatic Perspectives
Experience the Patagonian lakes and fjords from the water, offering a different visual appreciation of the landscape.
Photographer's Paradise
Capture stunning shots of glaciers, icebergs, and the surrounding mountainous terrain from ideal vantage points.
Wildlife Spotting Opportunities
Keep an eye out for condors soaring overhead and various bird species that inhabit the glacial lakes and surrounding areas.
Educational Commentary
Many tours include informative narration about the glaciers' formation, history, and the park's unique environment.
Value for Money
Boat tours provide a comprehensive way to see multiple glacial highlights efficiently, offering significant value for the experience.
Types of Boat Excursions in Los Glaciares National Park
Perito Moreno Glacier Navigation
These tours focus specifically on the Perito Moreno Glacier, taking you across Lago Argentino to view its vast southern face. You'll witness calving events and marvel at its dynamic, living presence. Some tours offer extended navigation for more comprehensive views.
Todos los Glaciares (All Glaciers) Cruise
A comprehensive day trip that visits multiple major glaciers on Lago Argentino, typically including Upsala and Spegazzini, in addition to offering views of Perito Moreno from the water. This is the most popular option for seeing the park's glacial diversity.
Mini-Trekking & Glacier Kayaking
For the adventurous, these specialized tours combine a boat trip to a glacier (often Perito Moreno or Upsala) with activities like ice trekking on the glacier itself or kayaking amongst icebergs. These offer a truly hands-on encounter with the ice.
What to Expect on Boat Excursions Tours
Duration
Most full-day excursions range from 5 to 10 hours, including transfers to the port and sailing time. Shorter tours focusing only on Perito Moreno might last between 2.5 to 4 hours.
Weather
Patagonian weather is notoriously unpredictable. Expect strong winds, sunshine, and rain, often within the same day. Layers are essential, and waterproof gear is highly recommended.
Group Size
Boat sizes vary greatly. Larger vessels can accommodate 100+ passengers for general sightseeing, while smaller boats for mini-trekking or kayaking tours are more intimate, with group sizes often under 20.
What's Included
Typically includes the boat cruise itself and onboard commentary. Some full-day tours include lunch or snacks. Excursions involving trekking or kayaking will include specialized equipment.
Meeting Point
Tours usually depart from ports near El Calafate, such as Puerto Bandera for Lago Argentino cruises. Hotel pick-up and drop-off in El Calafate are commonly offered as an add-on service.
Additional Costs
Entrance fees to Los Glaciares National Park are usually not included in the tour price and must be paid separately. Personal expenses, drinks, and gratuities are also typically extra.
Expert Tips for the Best Experience
Book your boat excursion in advance, especially during peak season (November to March), as popular tours sell out quickly.
Dress in layers: synthetic or wool base layers, a fleece or insulated mid-layer, and a waterproof and windproof outer shell are essential.
Don't forget sunglasses, sunscreen, and a hat, even on cloudy days, as the glare off the ice and water can be intense.
Bring binoculars to get closer views of glacier formations, wildlife, and distant icebergs.
Consider a tour that includes lunch if you're doing a full-day excursion; it's convenient and often offers great value.
Check the specific departure port when booking, as some are a significant drive from El Calafate, and factor in transfer time.
Be prepared for wind; it's a constant companion in Patagonia and can make even a sunny day feel chilly on the water.
Listen to your guides; they provide invaluable information about the glaciers, the park's ecology, and safety procedures.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q:Can I really get close to the glaciers on a boat tour?
A: Yes, boat tours are designed to bring you safely to the front of major glaciers like Perito Moreno and Upsala. You'll have incredible views and can often feel the chill from the ice. The exact distance is managed for safety and to allow for optimal viewing.
Q:Is the Perito Moreno Glacier the only one I can see by boat?
A: Absolutely not! While Perito Moreno is the most famous, boat excursions also explore the vast Upsala Glacier and the towering Spegazzini Glacier on Lago Argentino. Some 'Todos los Glaciares' tours visit several of these in one day.
Q:What's the difference between a short Perito Moreno tour and a full-day glacier tour?
A: Short tours typically focus solely on Perito Moreno, offering a good overview. Full-day 'Todos los Glaciares' tours are more extensive, venturing further into Lago Argentino to see other significant glaciers like Upsala and Spegazzini, often including navigation through ice fields.
Q:Do I need to be physically fit for these boat tours?
A: For standard boat cruises, no significant fitness is required, as you'll be on the vessel. However, if you opt for glacier trekking or kayaking tours, a moderate level of fitness is necessary, as these activities involve walking on ice or paddling.
Q:Is food provided on the boat tours?
A: This varies by tour. Shorter excursions may not include food. Many full-day tours offer lunch, which can be a simple packed meal or a more formal plated meal. Always check the specific inclusions when booking.
Q:What if the weather is bad on the day of my tour?
A: Tours typically run rain or shine, as the Patagonian weather is so changeable. However, in extreme conditions (like very high winds or storms), operators may cancel for safety reasons. If this happens, you'll usually be offered a reschedule or a refund.
Q:Are there any age restrictions for boat excursions?
A: For standard boat cruises, there are generally no age restrictions. However, specialized activities like glacier trekking or kayaking may have minimum age requirements (often 10-12 years old) due to the physical demands and safety considerations.
Q:How do I get to the port from El Calafate?
A: Most tour operators provide an option for hotel pick-up and drop-off in El Calafate for an additional fee. Alternatively, you can arrange your own transport, such as a taxi or rental car, to the specific departure port, which is usually Puerto Bandera.
Why Visit Los Glaciares National Park?
Witness the awe-inspiring Perito Moreno Glacier calve ice, a truly unforgettable spectacle in Los Glaciares National Park.
Experience the raw Patagonian wilderness with stunning mountain vistas and vast ice fields surrounding El Chaltén.
Embark on world-class trekking adventures amidst dramatic peaks, offering a challenging yet rewarding journey.
Discover the region's indigenous history and the enduring spirit of gaucho culture in this wild frontier.
Savor traditional Patagonian lamb and fine Argentine wines after a day exploring glacial landscapes.
Connect with nature's grandeur, feeling incredibly small yet profoundly alive amidst immense ice and rock.
Best Time to Visit
Weather
Los Glaciares National Park experiences a harsh Patagonian climate, characterized by strong winds and unpredictable weather year-round. Summers (December to February) are milder with longer daylight hours, while winters (June to August) are cold and snowy, with many park areas becoming inaccessible.
Best Months
The best months to visit Los Glaciares National Park are generally from October to April, with the peak summer months of December, January, and February offering the most stable weather and longest daylight.
Peak Season
Peak season runs from December to February, coinciding with summer. Expect the warmest weather, longest days, and most accessible trails, but also higher prices and larger crowds at popular sites like Perito Moreno.
Off Season
The shoulder seasons (October-November and March-April) offer a good balance with fewer crowds and still decent weather. Winter (May-September) sees significantly fewer visitors, lower prices, and stunning snowy landscapes, but many services and trails may be closed.
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Plan Your Los Glaciares National Park Trip
Transportation Tips
Getting around Los Glaciares National Park involves several options. Buses connect El Calafate (the main gateway town) to El Chaltén and the Perito Moreno Glacier. Renting a car offers flexibility for exploring different trailheads and viewpoints at your own pace. Within El Chaltén, most attractions are accessible by foot. Boat tours depart from Puerto Bandera for glacier excursions on Lago Argentino. Taxis are available in El Calafate, but less common for park access.
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