Traverse ancient blue ice on a full-day Big Ice trek at Perito Moreno Glacier. This demanding guided hike pairs moraine approaches, a boat crossing, and 3+ hours of glacier walking with crampons and expert guides.
More ways to explore the area's outdoor wonders
You step off the skiff onto moraine gravel with the glacier wall to your right — a fractured, living cliff the color of old sapphires. A cold wind pushes across Rico Lake and the guide’s voice becomes the map you follow as the group threads a valley that opens onto blue ice.
Difficulty
challenging
Duration
8–14 hours
Fitness Level
Requires good cardiovascular fitness and lower-body strength for sustained walking on moraine and ice.
Wildlife
History
Perito Moreno is fed by the Southern Patagonian Ice Field and lies within Los Glaciares National Park, created to protect these dynamic ice systems and the Patagonian steppe.
Conservation
Visitors must stick to marked routes and carry out waste; the park enforces ticketed access to limit impact and supports research into glacial behavior.
Reserve your spot on the Big Ice Perito Moreno from El Calafate - Longest glacier trek today and enjoy a trusted, highly rated experience designed to help you make the most of your adventure.
Book entrance ticket in advance
Los Glaciares National Park requires an entrance ticket; buy it online or bring cash (VISA accepted) to avoid delays at the park gate.
Bring waterproof, broken-in boots
Crampons fit over sturdy, waterproof hiking boots — avoid new shoes to prevent blisters during the 3+ hours on ice.
Protect eyes and skin
High-reflectance ice increases UV exposure — polarized sunglasses and SPF 50+ sunscreen are must-haves.
Know the fitness requirement
This is a long, physically demanding day with uneven terrain; if you have heart, back, or pregnancy concerns, opt for the shorter minitrek.
Waterproof hiking boots
Provide ankle support and a secure platform for crampons on icy, uneven surfaces.
Insulating mid-layer (fleece/down)
Traps heat during stops on the ice and during windy boat crossings.
Gloves and warm hat
Protect extremities from wind chill and cold contact with ice during photo stops.
Sunglasses and high-SPF sunscreen
Reduce glare and prevent sunburn from intense reflected UV on snow and ice.
summer