Step from the shore onto blue ice and traverse pressure ridges with crampons on a guided minitrek to Perito Moreno Glacier. This full-day tour combines boat transfers, walkways and a 90-minute ice walk for a close-up Patagonia experience.
More ways to explore the area's outdoor wonders
You arrive at the shore before dawn; the lake is cold and flat, and a hulking wall of blue-white waits across the water. The boat cuts toward Puerto Bajo Las Sombras, and the glacier seems to grow as you approach—layers of ice stacked like the pages of a slow-moving story. When you step onto the moraine and later clip on crampons, the ice underfoot has the character of a living surface: ridges that challenge your balance, small streams that dare you to step around them, and hollows that hold a hard, ancient light.
Difficulty
moderate
Duration
10 hours (full day)
Fitness Level
Moderate fitness required: comfortable walking for 2+ hours on uneven, icy terrain and short, steep sections.
Wildlife
History
Los Glaciares National Park protects landscapes carved by the Southern Patagonian Ice Field; Perito Moreno’s stability and periodic advances have long fascinated scientists.
Conservation
The park manages visitor flow via walkways and guided groups to reduce trampling and disturbance; visitors are asked to pack out waste and follow leave-no-trace principles.
Reserve your spot on the Perito Moreno Ice hike & walkways from El Calafate - Minitrekking today and enjoy a trusted, highly rated experience designed to help you make the most of your adventure.
Layer for wind and sun
Patagonian weather shifts quickly—wear moisture-wicking base layers, an insulated midlayer, and a waterproof shell.
Sunglasses and SPF
Glare from snow and water intensifies UV exposure—use high-SPF sunscreen and wraparound sunglasses.
Footwear grip
Sturdy, ankle-supporting hiking boots make transitions on rock, moraine and when donning crampons safer and more comfortable.
Hydrate and pace
Carry 1–2 liters of water and eat before the trek—ice walking demands steady energy and balance.
Sturdy hiking boots
Provides ankle support and a firm platform for crampons and moraine approaches.
Waterproof jacket and pants
Protects against wind, spray from the lake and sudden Patagonian showers.
Sunglasses & sunscreen
Blocks intense UV and glare from ice and water, even on cold days.
summer
Daypack with water and snacks
Carries layers, hydration, and personal items during the shore walk and moraine return.