If you’re visiting El Calafate and dreaming of a once-in-a-lifetime experience, the minitrekking on Perito Moreno Glacier is an adventure you can’t miss. This impressive glacier is one of the most renowned attractions in Argentinian Patagonia. This guided tour combines the thrill of ice trekking with stunning views and an easy, well-organized itinerary inside Los Glaciares National Park.
It’s not just about walking on the glacier—it’s about the entire journey. From the boat ride across Lago Rico, to the leisurely walk on the southern wall of the glacier, every step is unforgettable. The mini trek option is particularly popular, often selling out quickly compared to the larger ice trekking experience.
Overview of the Mini Trekking Tour
The Mini Trekking Tour is a unique and unforgettable experience that allows visitors to explore the Perito Moreno Glacier, one of the most iconic glaciers in the world. This full-day adventure begins with a scenic boat ride across Lago Rico, offering breathtaking views of the glacier’s southern face. Once you reach the opposite shore, expert guides will lead you on a guided hike across the glacier’s surface. The tour is suitable for people aged 10-65 with a moderate level of fitness, making it accessible to a wide range of adventurers. Whether you’re marveling at the glacier’s natural formations or enjoying a celebratory toast with whisky over glacier ice, the Mini Trekking Tour is a fantastic way to experience the natural beauty of Perito Moreno.
About the Perito Moreno Glacier
Nestled within the stunning Los Glaciares National Park in Argentina, the Perito Moreno Glacier is one of Patagonia’s most awe-inspiring natural wonders. Spanning over 250 square kilometers and towering 74 meters above the water’s surface, this massive glacier is a sight to behold. Known for its dynamic activity, the glacier frequently sheds enormous chunks of ice, creating a spectacular display of nature’s power. Composed of ancient ice, the Perito Moreno Glacier is not only a popular destination for tourists but also a significant site for scientific research. Its impressive size and constant movement make it one of the most remarkable glaciers in the world.
The Excursion Begins: Visiting Perito Moreno Glacier
Like most tours in El Calafate, this day trip starts with pick up at your hotel and a scenic drive along Route 11 into Los Glaciares, Argentina’s most iconic national park.
The first stop is the panoramic view from the Perito Moreno Glacier walkways—an absolute must-see. You’ll have some free time to explore and take photos. This is important: don’t pay for a separate excursion to the walkways—it’s already included in the mini trekking tour.
It's crucial to book directly with a tour operator like Hielo y Aventura to ensure you get the best experience and avoid intermediaries. Early booking is recommended, especially during peak seasons.
Afterwards, the group continues to Las Sombras Port, located on the shores of Brazo Rico, where the real adventure begins.
Boat Tour Across Lago Rico
The boat tour lasts about 20 minutes, taking you across Lago Rico with stunning views of the south face of the Perito Moreno Glacier. Seeing its jagged edge, deep cracks, and towering ice walls from the water is breathtaking.
It’s a part of the glacier you usually can’t access unless you join a mini trekking or Big Ice tour. Once you arrive at the opposite shore, expert mountain guides greet you and help prepare for the ice trekking portion.
Itinerary of the Mini Trekking Tour
The Mini Trekking Tour kicks off with a convenient pickup from your hotel in El Calafate, a charming town located about 80 minutes from the Perito Moreno Glacier. As you journey into Los Glaciares National Park, you’ll pay the entrance fee and prepare for an unforgettable day. The adventure begins with a scenic boat ride across the Brazo Rico of Lake Argentino, providing stunning views of the glacier’s imposing southern face. Upon reaching the opposite shore, you’ll be greeted by expert guides who will fit you with crampons and lead you on a guided hike across the glacier. This 1.5-hour trek takes you through the glacier’s mesmerizing natural formations, including crevasses, seracs, and sinkholes. After the hike, you’ll enjoy a toast with whisky and ice from the glacier, celebrating your incredible journey. The tour concludes with a visit to the balconies, offering a different perspective of the breathtaking landscape.
Trekking on the Glacier: A Safe and Surreal Walk
After a short walk through the forest, the group reaches the base of the glacier where you'll gear up with crampons and a safety briefing. Don’t worry—no previous experience is required, and it’s a moderate difficulty route suitable for most tour groups. The only restriction is age (8–65) and not having any physical or mental disability, as stated by the tour companies for insurance reasons.
The ice surface is irregular but firm, and the guides make sure the pace stays relaxed. The walking portion lasts about 30–45 minutes, enough time to explore glacier ice features like deep crevasses, blue sinkholes, and the mesmerizing texture of ancient ice. It’s surreal.
And the best part? At the end of the trek, they hand you a glass of whisky over glacier ice to celebrate the experience.
What to Bring and Expect
- Trekking boots or sturdy shoes (you’ll attach the crampons to them).
- Warm clothes and windproof layers.
- Gloves and sunglasses.
- Money to buy lunch or snacks (not included).
- Your national park entrance fee is not included—remember to pay that separately.
Note: This is not a physically demanding tour, but it’s not suitable for pregnant women or people with mobility issues. If you’re in great shape and want something more challenging, the Big Ice tour might be a better fit.
Reviews from Other Travelers
🟢 Martin J. (Canada): “Awesome package deal. Expensive, yes, but everything is handled for you. A unique experience, and the staff is super friendly.”
🟢 Ronald D.: “Like walking on the moon. Worth doing once in a lifetime.”
🟢 Carla R.: “You only need gloves, sunglasses, and the desire to go. A hand-in-hand with nature.”
🟢 Aaron F.: “Unbelievable experience. Our group ranged from 10 to 60 years old—everyone loved it. The boat ride was fun, and the guides were amazing.”
🟢 Jose P.: “Unique. Not cheap for locals, but 100% worth it. Something nature only offers once.”
🟢 Martha G.: “Best part of our trip. From the pick-up to the drop-off, everything was perfect. My 9-year-old daughter did the tour and loved it.”
Final Thoughts: Is It Worth It?
Absolutely. The Minitrekking Perito Moreno is one of the best ways to truly connect with the ice. It’s well organized, safe, and gives you access to a part of the glacier you wouldn’t see otherwise. The logistics are smooth thanks to companies like Hielo y Aventura, and the expert guides take care of everything.
Whether you're staying in El Calafate, heading to El Chaltén, or just passing through, this day trip is an experience you’ll remember forever.
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Thanks for reading about my experience on the Perito Moreno Glacier. If you're curious about ice trekking in Patagonia, this is a stunning tour that blends natural wonder with just the right dose of excitement.
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