Upsala Glacier

Glaciar Upsala

The largest glacier in Los Glaciares National Park, featuring a dramatic landscape of turquoise ice-filled lakes and towering glacier walls. Access is typically by boat tour from El Calafate, offering intimate views of this remote and pristine wilderness.

Things to do

• Boat Tour to Glacier Face — Navigate the turquoise Lago Argentino by catamaran to approach the towering ice walls of Upsala Glacier, typically stopping within 1 km of the calving face.
• Photograph Iceberg Formations — Capture images of massive blue and white icebergs floating in the glacial lake, with dramatic mountain backdrops perfect for landscape photography.
• Wildlife Observation — Spot guanacos, Andean condors, and occasionally pumas in the surrounding steppe landscape during boat approaches and shore stops.
• Witness Glacier Calving — Experience the dramatic event of large ice chunks breaking away and crashing into the lake, a powerful display of glacial dynamics.
• Visit Interpretation Center at El Calafate — Learn about glacier formation, climate change impacts, and the ecology of Los Glaciares National Park before or after your glacier visit.
• Trek Along Glacier Viewpoints — Hike designated trails near the glacier terminus for alternative vantage points and closer interaction with the surrounding forest and rock formations.

Food to try

• Cordero Patagónico (Patagonian Lamb) — Slow-roasted lamb seasoned with local herbs and cooked over wood fires, a signature dish in El Calafate restaurants celebrating the region's ranching heritage.
• Fresh Trout from Lago Argentino — Grilled or pan-seared lake trout caught from the pristine glacial waters, often served with butter and lemon at local lodges.
• Empanadas Tucumanas — Stuffed pastries filled with spiced beef or cheese, widely available in El Calafate as a portable snack before boat departures.
• Helado Artesanal (Artisanal Ice Cream) — Rich, locally-made ice cream featuring regional fruits like calafate berries, a refreshing treat unique to Patagonia.
• Asado (Argentine Barbecue) — Grilled meats including beef, sausages, and offal cooked over open flame, traditionally served at lodges and restaurants throughout El Calafate.

Local customs & good to know

• Book Tours in Advance — Glacier boat tours fill quickly during peak season (December-February), so arrange your tickets through El Calafate tour operators at least one day ahead.
• Dress for Extreme Weather — Layer clothing and bring waterproof jackets and gloves, as Patagonian wind and cold conditions on the water are intense year-round.
• Respect Park Regulations — Stay on designated trails and boat paths to protect fragile ecosystems; no climbing on glaciers or disturbing wildlife is permitted within the national park.
• Learn Basic Spanish Phrases — While English-speaking guides are available on major tours, locals appreciate visitors making effort with simple Spanish greetings and polite expressions.