Perito Moreno Glacier

Glaciar Perito Moreno

One of the world's most spectacular glaciers located in Los Glaciares National Park, renowned for its massive blue ice walls and dramatic calving events. Visitors can view it from walkways, boat tours, or up-close hiking experiences in this UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Things to do

• Balcony Walkways — Walk the elevated wooden and metal platforms with unobstructed views of the glacier's 70-meter ice wall and watch for spontaneous calving events.
• Boat Tour on Lago Argentino — Take a catamaran from Puerto Bandera to get within meters of the glacier's face and hear the thunderous sound of falling ice.
• Big Ice Trek — Join a guided hike across the glacier's surface wearing crampons, exploring ice caves and seracs on a half-day adventure.
• Mirador del Hielo Viewpoint — Hike to this elevated observation point for panoramic views of the entire glacier advancing across the landscape.
• Upsala Glacier Visit — Take a day-trip boat tour from nearby Puerto Bandera to see this retreating glacier with towering blue icebergs floating in the lake.
• Lago Desierto Kayaking — Paddle among icebergs in this turquoise glacial lake in the northern region, surrounded by pristine Patagonian wilderness.

Food to try

• Cordero Patagónico — Succulent slow-roasted Patagonian lamb seasoned with regional herbs, a signature dish reflecting the area's ranching heritage.
• Trucha a la Mantequilla — Fresh local trout caught from glacial lakes, pan-seared in butter with local herbs and served at riverside lodges near the glacier.
• Pastel de Centolla — King crab pie with a golden pastry crust, representing Patagonian seafood traditions adapted to the region's cuisine.
• Choripán — Grilled chorizo served in crusty bread with chimichurri sauce, the iconic Argentine street food found at lodge cafés and park vendors.
• Té de Hierbas Patagónicas — Herbal tea blended from native Patagonian plants like calafate and coihue, served warm at mountain refugios after hikes.

Local customs & good to know

• Book Tours in Advance — Reserve boat tours and ice-trekking expeditions weeks ahead during peak season (December–February) as spots fill quickly and weather can close activities.
• Respect Glacial Dynamics — Understand that ice calving is unpredictable and dangerous; stay behind marked barriers and follow guide instructions precisely during all activities.
• Learn Patagonian History — The glacier is named after Francisco Perito Moreno, a 19th-century explorer and diplomat; locals take pride in this heritage and appreciate visitors who understand the region's exploration legacy.
• Dress for Extreme Weather — Patagonian weather changes rapidly; locals and guides expect visitors to wear windproof, waterproof layers and sturdy hiking boots regardless of forecast.