Walk across the Exploradores Glacier on a full-day guided trek from Puerto Río Tranquilo. This remote Patagonia excursion combines a long valley approach with hands-on glacier travel—crampons, axes and unforgettable ice scenery.
More ways to explore the area's outdoor wonders
The river valley opens to ice. You leave Puerto Río Tranquilo at dawn, the road sketching across broad, wind-brushed pastures before tightening into the Exploradores Valley where waterfalls cut the hillsides and the air sharpens with cold. By mid-morning the glacier’s blue edge appears over a moraine—a living, moving surface that dares you to put a cramponed foot down and keep going.
Difficulty
challenging
Duration
8–12 hours
Fitness Level
High cardiovascular fitness and strong legs are required; previous multi-day hiking experience recommended.
Wildlife
History
The Exploradores outlet drains the Northern Patagonian Ice Field; explorers and scientific surveys in the 20th century documented its movement and connection to Mount San Valentín.
Conservation
The ice field is retreating due to climate change; follow Leave No Trace principles, stick to guide routes and avoid disturbing fragile moraine vegetation.
Reserve your spot on the Exploradores Glacier Ice Trek: Full Day from Puerto Tranquilo today and enjoy a trusted, highly rated experience designed to help you make the most of your adventure.
Train for long terrain
Build endurance with multi-hour hikes and stair or hill workouts; the day includes sustained uphill and technical footing on ice.
Use stiff, waterproof boots
Semi-rigid mountaineering or backpacking boots work best with crampons and provide ankle support on uneven moraine and ice.
Watch the weather window
Patagonian conditions change fast—start early and follow guide briefings; expect wind and sudden temperature drops on the glacier.
Protect your eyes and electronics
High-reflectivity ice intensifies UV—bring glacier sunglasses and keep batteries warm in inner pockets to preserve charge.
Waterproof insulated shell
Protects against wind and wet weather during glacier approach and on the ice.
Stiff-soled, waterproof hiking or mountaineering boots
Necessary to fit crampons and give ankle support on uneven moraines and ice.
Glacier sunglasses and sunscreen
Reduces glare and UV exposure on reflective ice surfaces.
summer
Base layers and down or synthetic midlayer
Layering keeps you warm during stops and in changing conditions on the glacier.