Spend a full Patagonian day combining ranch culture and glacier spectacle: Estancia Nibepo Aike’s shearing demonstration and a boat navigation along Perito Moreno’s southern face, then return via the park’s catwalks. Practical logistics and landscape notes to plan your visit.
More ways to explore the area's outdoor wonders
The morning drive along Route 15 opens like a ledger of Patagonia: wind-swept steppe, low shrubs, and the distant blue teeth of ice. Guests transfer from El Calafate to Estancia Nibepo Aike where corrals, stone sheds and weathered posts speak to a century of ranching. A demonstration of manual shearing and a quincho roast bring the human story forward—smoke, lamb and conversation—before a short walk to Los Pioneros pier launches a boat into the cool arms of Lake Argentino.
Difficulty
moderate
Duration
9 hours
Fitness Level
Able to walk up to 1.5 hours on uneven boardwalks and manage boat embarkation; no special fitness required but expect a full day
Wildlife
History
The estancia culture here grew from Tehuelche territories and 19th–20th century pioneer ranching; Estancia Nibepo Aike preserves manual shearing traditions more than a century old.
Conservation
Los Glaciares National Park is a protected UNESCO area; visitors should stick to trails and catwalks to minimize erosion and avoid disturbing wildlife as glaciers continue to change.
Reserve your spot on the Tour Calafate Estancia Nibepo Aike and South Navigation Perito Moreno today and enjoy a trusted, highly rated experience designed to help you make the most of your adventure.
Layer for variable conditions
Temperatures can swing quickly near the glacier; pack a warm mid-layer and a waterproof outer shell.
Bring sun protection
Reflected UV from ice and water intensifies exposure—use SPF, sunglasses and a hat.
Wear sturdy shoes
Catwalks and short shoreline walks are uneven and can be slippery—trail or trekking shoes recommended.
Charge your camera and carry spare batteries
Cold reduces battery life and the day offers many photographic opportunities during navigation and on the catwalks.
Windproof waterproof jacket
Protects against glacier winds and potential rain or spray during the boat navigation.
Sturdy hiking or trekking shoes
Provides traction on catwalks, dirt trails and pier approaches.
Sunhat and high-SPF sunscreen
Ice and water reflect UV—protection is important even on cold days.
summer
Insulating mid-layer (fleece or down)
Keeps you warm during cool mornings and when wind increases near the glacier.
spring