Lake Argentino

Lago Argentino

South America's largest freshwater lake, fed by multiple glaciers and offering stunning turquoise waters that connect to several major glaciers. Boat tours across the lake provide close-up glacier viewing and are essential for experiencing the region's full scale.

Things to do

• Perito Moreno Glacier Walk — Trek on the glacier's ice using crampons and ice axes with a guide, experiencing crevasses and blue ice formations up close.
• Boat Tour to Upsala Glacier — Navigate across turquoise lake waters to witness Upsala Glacier's massive calving cliffs and icebergs floating in the bay.
• Lago Argentino Lake Cruise — Take a full-day boat excursion departing from El Calafate that visits multiple glacier viewpoints and icebergs across the lake.
• Estancia Helsingfors Horseback Riding — Ride through Patagonian steppe on a working estancia (ranch) with views of the lake and surrounding peaks.
• Perito Moreno Glacier Viewpoint Walk — Hike the well-maintained trails along the glacier's front to view the ice wall and hear calving sounds from multiple angles.
• Kayaking Among Icebergs — Paddle kayaks on the lake's pristine waters surrounded by floating ice chunks, offering an intimate glacier perspective.

Food to try

• Cordero Patagónico — Slow-roasted Patagonian lamb seasoned simply with salt and herbs, a regional specialty reflecting the area's ranching heritage.
• Centolla — King crab prepared grilled or in stews, sourced from southern waters and served in El Calafate restaurants near the lake.
• Truchas a la Patagonia — Fresh lake trout caught from Argentino's waters and typically grilled with butter and local herbs.
• Helado Artesanal — Handmade ice cream made with local fruits and milk, particularly popular given the region's dairy traditions.
• Empanadas de Carne — Baked pastries filled with minced beef, onions, and spices, widely available as a quick meal or snack in El Calafate.

Local customs & good to know

• Book Tours in Advance — Glacier boat tours and trekking experiences fill quickly, especially December to February, so reserve several days ahead.
• Dress for Sudden Weather Changes — Patagonian wind and cold can arrive without warning; bring windproof and waterproof layers even on sunny days.
• Respect the Glacier Zones — Stay behind marked boundaries at viewing areas and follow guide instructions strictly, as glacier terrain is unstable and dangerous.
• Learn Basic Spanish — While El Calafate has English speakers, rural areas and smaller boat operators primarily speak Spanish; simple phrases help considerably.