This massive glacier in Patagonia moves forward 2 meters daily, creating ice bridges that collapse into Lake Argentino. One of the few advancing glaciers on Earth.
At Perito Moreno Glacier, you'll walk on ice that's over 18,000 years old, hear the crack of ice breaking off from the 60-meter wall, and watch chunks of glacier crash into Lake Argentino. The glacier stretches 30 kilometers across Patagonia's landscape in Los Glaciares National Park, and unlike most glaciers worldwide, it continues to grow, advancing two meters each day.
About the Glacier
The Perito Moreno Glacier spans 250 square kilometers within the Southern Patagonian Ice Field, Earth's third-largest freshwater reserve. Its front wall extends 5 kilometers and reaches 170 meters below Lake Argentino's surface. As you walk near the glacier, you'll see thousands of crevasses, ice caves, and seracs. The ice appears in various shades of blue and white, and you'll often hear loud cracks as sections of ice break off into the lake.
Getting to Perito Moreno
To reach the glacier, travel 80 kilometers from El Calafate. Buses run from El Calafate's terminal three times daily between October and March, with a 90-minute journey time. Remember to bring cash for the Los Glaciares National Park entrance fee. If you prefer driving, take Route 11 through the Patagonian steppe - the road is well-maintained and marked.
Viewing the Glacier
Metal walkways stretch several kilometers along the peninsula facing the glacier. You can choose from three circuits, taking between 45 minutes and 2 hours to complete. Walk to the lower balcony for close-up views of the ice wall, or climb to the upper circuits to see the ice field extending toward the Andes. Visit in the afternoon when sunlight improves visibility and ice ruptures happen more frequently.
Glacier Trekking
Choose between two trekking options on the glacier. The 1.5-hour "mini-trekking" works well for beginners and moderate fitness levels. For a more challenging experience, take the 5-hour "big ice" trek into the glacier's interior. Both tours start with crampon training and include guides who lead you safely across the ice. You'll walk past blue meltwater pools, streams, and deep crevasses while learning about glacial formation and movement.
Best Time to Visit
Plan your visit between November and March when temperatures range from 10°C to 20°C. February typically has clear skies and stable weather. The park opens from 8 AM to 6 PM daily. Morning visits mean smaller crowds and calmer conditions for boat tours. Winter visits (June to August) require warm clothing and weather preparation, but you'll see unique ice formations with fewer people around.
