Big Ice Perito Moreno Trek with Walkways and Navigation in El Calafate, Argentina
El Calafate, Argentina

Big Ice Perito Moreno Trek with Walkways and Navigation

Outty Ranking 59 4.4 · 24 traveler reviews12 hoursFrom $589
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Outty Ranking

59/100

Worth a Look. Our proprietary evaluation. How we score

Traveler rating

4.4/5

Based on 24 traveler reviews. Ratings and reviews provided by Viator and Tripadvisor.

Quick answer

Is Big Ice Perito Moreno Trek with Walkways and Navigation worth booking?

Big Ice Perito Moreno Trek with Walkways and Navigation is a 12-hour experience in El Calafate, Argentina, from $589 per person. It scores 59 out of 100 on the Outty Ranking, which we label “Worth a Look”, based on a 4.4/5 rating across 24 reviews. Cancellation is free up to 24 hours before the start time. Same-day spots are currently showing.

Outty Ranking
59 / 100
Rating
4.4/5 (24)
Duration
12 hours
From
$589 per person

Experience the magic of Patagonia's iconic Perito Moreno Glacier like never before with our captivating Big Ice Perito Moreno hike. Embark on a four-hour journey that will transport you to the heart of this magnificent glacier, where sparkling blue lagoons, hidden viewpoints, and mesmerizing sights await. Traverse through crevasses, marvel at cascading waterfalls, and explore enchanting ice caves, all under the expert guidance of our bilingual specialists. Ascend to various glacier viewing points strategically positioned at different elevations, offering unparalleled vistas from every angle imaginable. Indulge in a 20-minute boat excursion along one side of Perito Moreno, setting the stage for the ultimate glacier trekking experience. Don't let this extraordinary opportunity to walk upon the glacier slip away—immerse yourself in the wonder of Patagonia's Big Ice Perito Moreno hike today!

What you get

    About this experience

    Experience the magic of Patagonia's iconic Perito Moreno Glacier like never before with our captivating Big Ice Perito Moreno hike. Embark on a four-hour journey that will transport you to the heart of this magnificent glacier, where sparkling blue lagoons, hidden viewpoints, and mesmerizing sights await. Traverse through crevasses, marvel at cascading waterfalls, and explore enchanting ice caves, all under the expert guidance of our bilingual specialists. Ascend to various glacier viewing points strategically positioned at different elevations, offering unparalleled vistas from every angle imaginable. Indulge in a 20-minute boat excursion along one side of Perito Moreno, setting the stage for the ultimate glacier trekking experience. Don't let this extraordinary opportunity to walk upon the glacier slip away—immerse yourself in the wonder of Patagonia's Big Ice Perito Moreno hike today!

    What's included

    Included

    • Guided trek
    • Walkways Perito Moreno (if option selected)
    • Professional guide
    • Hotel pickup and drop-off (if option selected)
    • Boat ride across Lake Argentino
    • Trekking equipment including crampons

    Not included

    • Food and drinks (you must bring your own)
    • Entrance fee to Los Glaciares National Park.
    • Gratuities

    What you'll see and do

    1. El Calafate

      Your day begins bright and early as we pick you up from your hotel in El Calafate to journey to Los Glaciares National Park (80 km away).

      45 minutes here

    2. Perito Moreno Glacier

      Prepare yourself for an immersive experience as we make our way to the boardwalk positioned right in front of the glacier, setting the stage for an unforgettable exploration.

      15 minutes here · Admission not included

    3. Upon reaching the viewing platform, you'll be treated to a breathtaking sight: the glacier's imposing 196-foot (60 meter) front wall, adorned with its jagged white peaks.

      30 minutes here

    4. We'll then transfer to the dock where we'll embark on a 20-minute boat ride through the Rico Arm of Lake Argentino. During the journey, you'll relish stunning views of the front wall of the Perito Moreno Glacier.

      30 minutes here

    5. Perito Moreno Glacier

      The trek has a high level of difficulty, but you'll always have the expertise and guidance of a knowledgeable guide by your side throughout the journey. You will be able to hike over the ice and breathe in the pristine beauty of the icy expanse. As you walk on the gently sloping surface, your guide will share facts about Perito’s geography and glaciology, and point out crevasses, lagoons, waterfalls, streams and caves, all formed by ice melt and in every possible shade of luminous blue. Amidst our journey, we'll pause at a sheltered spot to enjoy a lunch on the ice, providing an opportunity to rest and recharge for the second part of the excursion. Here, we can marvel at the stunning blue lagoons that form within the glacier and take in panoramic views of the National Park from designated lookouts.

      540 minutes here · Admission not included

    6. After a dream day, we will start our return with the second navigation where we will have the pleasure of admiring the majestic scenery for a few moments more. We will admiring the southern facade of the Perito Moreno Glacier.

      20 minutes here · Admission not included

    7. We prepare for the return to the city of El Calafate to reach our accommodation.

      40 minutes here

    Where it starts and ends

    Meeting point

    El Calafate

    If you do not require transfers, our guide will be waiting for you at the Puerto Bajo las Sombras.

    Hotel pickup

    Pickup is available for selected locations. Pickup begins about 60 minutes before departure.

    Ends at

    If you do not require transfers, our guide will be waiting for you at the Puerto Bajo las Sombras.

    Options you can book

    • Big Ice Trek with Transfers

      Pickup included

    • Big Ice Trek without Transfer

      Walkways excluded: The walkways will not be included in the excursion. Duration: 2 hours Transfers excluded: Transfers from and to the hotel are not included. You must make your own way to Puerto Bajo Las Sombras (80km). Pickup included

    Before you book

    Cancellation
    For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
    Languages
    pt, en, es
    Ticket
    Mobile Only
    Runs on
    Every day
    Group size
    Up to 9 travelers per booking
    Operated by
    Tangol

    Know before you go

    • Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries
    • Not recommended for pregnant travelers
    • Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
    • Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness
    • Minimum age is 18 years
    • Maximum age is 50 years
    • You must bring your own snacks, boxed lunch and drinks
    • Comfortable sportswear, long trousers, warm sweater or pile, water or windproof jacket, sun glasses, sun block and gloves are recommended
    • A good level of fitness is required
    • Date of birth, passport name, number, expiry and country is required at time of booking for ALL participants
    • IMPORTANT NOTE: Please send a copy of your passport as soon as possible to confirm the places.
    • IMPORTANT NOTE: Places are not confirmed if full information is not provided.
    • In case of not contracting the transfer, you must access on your own in a trip of 80km. The walkways will not be included in the excursion.

    Photos

    Full-Day Ice Trek of Perito Moreno Glacier from El Calafate, Big Ice Perito Moreno Trek with Walkways and Navigation in El CalafateHike to the glacier for an unforgettable experience!, Big Ice Perito Moreno Trek with Walkways and Navigation in El CalafateHike to the glacier for an unforgettable experience!, Big Ice Perito Moreno Trek with Walkways and Navigation in El CalafateHike to the glacier for an unforgettable experience!, Big Ice Perito Moreno Trek with Walkways and Navigation in El CalafateHike to the glacier for an unforgettable experience!, Big Ice Perito Moreno Trek with Walkways and Navigation in El CalafateFull-Day Ice Trek of Perito Moreno Glacier from El Calafate, Big Ice Perito Moreno Trek with Walkways and Navigation in El Calafate

    What travelers are saying

    Outty’s summary of the themes that recur across 24 traveler reviews. Written by us, not quoted from reviewers.

    The guide

    7 mentions

    Travelers single out the guide as the reason the experience works.

    Value for money

    5 mentions

    Travelers feel they got more than they paid for.

    Photo opportunities

    4 mentions

    The views and photo stops come up again and again.

    Food and drink

    4 mentions

    The tastings and food stops are a highlight for most reviewers.

    Physical effort

    3 mentions

    Expect real walking or climbing: reviewers mention the effort involved.

    Organization

    2 mentions

    Pickup, timing, and logistics are described as running smoothly.

    Traveler reviews

    24 verified traveler reviews for Big Ice Perito Moreno Trek with Walkways and Navigation. Ratings and reviews provided by Viator and Tripadvisor.

    5 star
    18
    4 star
    3
    3 star
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    michelle_c · April 2024

    Book directly with Hieloya y Ventura

    The tour itself was great but it was done by a 3rd party, Hieloya y Ventura, and they charge £150 less per person directly on their site so this particular tour is a rip off. Do not book and go direct with them. Viator refuses to stand by their lowest price guarantee because it’s a different currency which is ridiculous and not an excuse to charge £150 more.

    via Viator

    Rebecca_H · January 2024

    Incredible day tour, once in a lifetime

    Incredible day trip on the ice. We were picked up from our hotel on time, and taken to a coach which dropped us off in Los glaciares national Park. We had an hour to walk around the walkways to get a view - it was colder and windy there so bring layers. Then we got taken to the boat to be transferred to the hike on the other side of Lago Argentina, nice views from the boat. The hiking was great, they give you a harness and helmet to wear, and you have to bring gloves because the ice is sharp. Recommend wearing hiking boots as well be more comfortable when you put the crampons on on the ice. The hike was about 45 minutes through forest, then 3-4 hours on ice with a lunch stop. There are some ravines to avoid in the ice, but the guides are very helpful and sturdy, guiding you over the hardest parts. Bring layers as we kept on changing depending on wind and sun conditions, a face buff and ear warmers are good as well, and lots of sunscreen! We were back in town by 7.30pm. Everything was very prompt and professional, highly recommend!! The big ice hike has barely anyone, just 40 a day, so it feels undisturbed and the views and unparalleled. It's stunning, don't miss.

    Response from the operator: Dear Rebecca, Thank you for sharing your incredible experience at Perito Moreno Glacier! We're thrilled to hear that you had such an amazing time exploring this destination. We hope to see you again soon! Best regards, Tangol Tours.

    via Viator

    ina g · January 2024

    Once in a lifetime experience

    It is definitively worth the effort to take the BigIce tour! The landscapes are magnificent, we literally saw a natural cave and a waterfall in the glacier. For people with generally good physical condition, it is fine. If you are unable to hike uphill don t go, take the minitrekk option

    Response from the operator: Dear Traveler, We appreciate your time to write this review! It's wonderful to hear that you found delight in exploring the stunning landscapes of Southern Argentina. We hope to see you again soon! Best regards, Tangol Tours.

    via Tripadvisor

    Alexander_M · October 2023

    Just do it

    If you're going to Perito Moreno, this is the trip you want to do. Very challenging, but worth it. The views are unmatched.

    Response from the operator: Dear Alexander, Thank you very much for your comments! We are glad to know that the experience has fulfilled your expectations. We look forward to welcoming you back as our guest soon! Kind regards, Tangol Tours

    via Viator

    K775BDadamg · December 2022

    Dec 2022

    Not many new reviews or up to date info on the tour here so I feel compelled to give you all a heads up. Overall, this is a great trip and I’d highly recommend it to anyone up for the challenge. We went in Dec 2022, so my review is based around the summer months. Things you’d thank yourself for having…good boots, good socks, light gloves (mostly for protection, not insulation) sunscreen, sunglasses, snacks, lunch and water. I wore some REI waterproof hiking pants with little to no insulation and a light Arc’teryx Atoms hoody jacket. Didn’t need the jacket until we got onto the glacier (mostly for wind, it was hot out). You can fill up water on the glacier and at a waterfall, I would not rely solely on that. It’s a long day. We did the big trek, full day experience. The round trip was 12 hrs from hotel pickup to drop off. Bring cash for the park entry, you can pay with card but you may slow down the entire group depending on the park entry line. Once in the park, you view the glacier from a walkway for about an hour. This has the best bathroom of the day. Then you board a boat and head out for the hike. Best view of the glacier on the way in is on the right of the boat. Once you land you get your helmet and harness. The hike is about 8 miles in total. My guess is about 3.5 of those miles is on land headed to and from the glacier. The glacier is not as easy to get to as years past, even more difficult since 2020. It is melting and the previous entry point for the big trek is no longer safe. The way to enter as of Dec 2022 felt just under 2 miles. This part of the hike is steep, there are stairs in many sections of the first half… you go up, then down, then up, then down again. This is not an easy hike, you need to be able to handle steep grade both up and down for long periods of time. The last push onto the glacier is across steep loose rock, rock slides are possible here, this is most likely why you have a helmet. It’s not too bad, just take it easy and stay aware. Once on the glacier you get help putting on the crampons and the glacier hike begins. The crampons used are generic and a little heavy. There are two guides per group on the glacier. On the long trek, our guide took us pretty far out there to see multiple crevasses, rivers, ponds, etc. The views are phenomenal! We went through the middle of a crevasse, with both legs spread over the crack and our hands out against the wall, below us was a giant crack with ice water that went down in the abyss. It was pretty intense, but everyone did it with ease and we were all stoked to have done that. The hike back takes you the same way through the mountain back. But don’t be fooled! It’s not over yet. There is then another ~.5miles to the “refuge” where you walk on a wooden walkway through the woods to a building with free tea and coffee. You then take the boat back to the bus and the bus back to your hotel. We started the hike at about 10:30am and finish at about 5pm. If you don’t think you can physically handle 6-8hrs of hiking with reasonable rest periods for water, lunch, etc. then save yourself the stress and do the shorter glacier hike. You won’t see as many intense glacier features, but you can still walk on it. Throughout the hike the guides will pressure you to stay tight to the group and keep pace for safety. If you cannot, they’d recommend you stop and will send someone out to return with you. Depending on the time, they may offer you the possibility of doing the shorter glacier walk instead of the long trek. I believe anyone with moderate physical strength can do this hike. I do not regularly work out and I did this hike a few days after ~13 miles to see Fitz Roy. You will have to push yourself, but it is totally worth it and you will be proud of yourself for doing it, too. The experience is one of a kind and I strongly recommend this experience to anyone up for the adventure! You can do it!!! *pic with red line shows where entrance used to be around 2018, you gotta hike about another mile to get to the new entrance

    via Tripadvisor

    Good to know

    Duration
    12 hours
    Free cancellation
    Up to 24h before
    Minimum age to book
    All ages
    Availability
    Bookable today
    Runs on
    Every day
    Price range
    $589 to $742
    Hotel pickup
    Available for selected locations
    Booked in 30 days
    8
    Verdict
    Worth a Look

    Who runs this experience

    Operated by Tangol, who run 256 experiences we rank across 22 cities, with an average Outty Ranking of 48.8.

    See everything Tangol runs

    Why this scores 59

    The Outty Ranking is a weighted composite. Here is how this experience performed on each component.

    Traveler sentiment (30% weight)62
    Review evidence (18% weight)56
    Booking momentum (14% weight)47
    Value for money (12% weight)35
    Listing quality (10% weight)85
    Local standing (8% weight)41
    Booking flexibility (8% weight)100

    Big Ice Perito Moreno Trek with Walkways and Navigation: questions travelers ask

    Practical detail on this experience, plus the wider planning questions for El Calafate.

    How much does Big Ice Perito Moreno Trek with Walkways and Navigation cost?

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    Prices start at $589 per person. The final price depends on the date, the time slot and the number of travelers, and peak weekends in El Calafate usually price higher than midweek mornings. Live pricing and remaining availability are confirmed on the booking screen before you pay.

    How long does Big Ice Perito Moreno Trek with Walkways and Navigation take?

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    Plan for about 12 hours from start to finish, not counting travel to the meeting point. Most travelers leave another 30 minutes on either side so the rest of the day in El Calafate is not rushed.

    Is Big Ice Perito Moreno Trek with Walkways and Navigation worth it?

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    It holds an Outty Ranking of 59 out of 100, which we label "Worth a Look". That score blends traveler sentiment (4.4/5 across 24 reviews), the depth of that review evidence, recent booking momentum, value for money against comparable most popular in El Calafate, and how flexible the cancellation terms are.

    Can I cancel or reschedule Big Ice Perito Moreno Trek with Walkways and Navigation?

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    Yes. Cancel free up to 24 hours before the start time for a full refund. Inside that window the booking is non-refundable, and no-shows are not refunded.

    Is Big Ice Perito Moreno Trek with Walkways and Navigation suitable for kids and families?

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    Yes, all ages are welcome. Families should still weigh the 12-hour running time, and strollers are easier on the earlier, quieter departures.

    How far in advance should I book Big Ice Perito Moreno Trek with Walkways and Navigation?

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    Around 8 people booked this in the last 30 days, so popular slots go early. Two to three weeks ahead is comfortable in shoulder season, while summer weekends and holidays in El Calafate can sell out a month out. Same-day spots do open up when other travelers cancel, so it is worth checking if you are already in town.

    What should I bring or wear?

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    Bring photo ID, your booking confirmation on your phone, a refillable water bottle and comfortable shoes. Dress for the weather in El Calafate and add a light layer if any part of the 12-hour experience runs outdoors or after sunset.

    Where does Big Ice Perito Moreno Trek with Walkways and Navigation start and how do I get there?

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    The exact meeting point and directions are on your voucher once you book, and they sit in central El Calafate within reach of public transport. Arrive 15 minutes early: late arrivals are treated as no-shows by most operators.

    What are the best things to do in El Calafate?

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    On Outty we rank every El Calafate experience on the same 0 to 100 scale, and alongside this one the highest scorers right now include Kayak Full-Day Activity in La Leona River from El Calafate, Perito Moreno Glacier with Navigation from El Calafate, Perito Moreno Glacier Full Day Tour with Optional Boat Safari. The city page groups everything into most popular, highest reviewed, last minute and family-friendly so you can build a day around what actually delivers.

    When is the best time to visit El Calafate?

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    Booking patterns follow the same curve: prices and queues climb in peak weeks, while shoulder season gives you better availability on the top-ranked experiences and more room to change plans.

    How many days do you need in El Calafate?

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    Three full days covers the headline sights without sprinting. A workable rhythm is one anchor experience each morning, such as this one, an unhurried afternoon in a single neighborhood, then a food or nightlife booking in the evening. Five days lets you add a day trip outside the city.

    Do I book through Outty or through the operator?

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    Outty ranks and explains the experiences, then hands you to Viator to complete the booking with the operator directly. The price is the same as booking on Viator yourself, and Outty earns an affiliate commission on the referral, which is how the rankings stay free to read.

    What is included in Big Ice Perito Moreno Trek with Walkways and Navigation?

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    Included: Guided trek; Walkways Perito Moreno (if option selected); Professional guide; Hotel pickup and drop-off (if option selected); and Boat ride across Lake Argentino. Not included: Food and drinks (you must bring your own); Entrance fee to Los Glaciares National Park; and Gratuities. Always check the voucher for the final list before you travel.

    Does Big Ice Perito Moreno Trek with Walkways and Navigation include hotel pickup?

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    Yes, pickup is offered, or you can meet at the start point instead from 35 listed pickup locations in and around El Calafate. Be ready about 60 minutes before the start time. You can also enter a custom pickup address when booking.

    What languages is Big Ice Perito Moreno Trek with Walkways and Navigation offered in?

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    It is offered in Portuguese, English and Spanish. Pick your language when choosing a date and time, as not every departure runs in every language.

    Will I get instant confirmation and a mobile ticket for Big Ice Perito Moreno Trek with Walkways and Navigation?

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    Confirmation is sent by the operator after booking, usually within 48 hours; if it is not confirmed you are not charged. Mobile tickets are accepted, so you can show the voucher on your phone.

    Is Big Ice Perito Moreno Trek with Walkways and Navigation wheelchair or stroller accessible?

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    The operator notes: Not recommended for pregnant travelers. If accessibility is critical, contact the operator after booking to confirm arrangements for your date.

    What happens to Big Ice Perito Moreno Trek with Walkways and Navigation if the weather is bad?

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    This experience depends on good weather. If it is canceled because of poor weather, you are offered a different date or a full refund.

    What do travelers say about Big Ice Perito Moreno Trek with Walkways and Navigation?

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    Across 24 reviews averaging 4.4 out of 5, recurring themes include the guide, value for money, photo opportunities. Travelers single out the guide as the reason the experience works. One thing to know: Expect real walking or climbing: reviewers mention the effort involved.

    What booking options are available for Big Ice Perito Moreno Trek with Walkways and Navigation?

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    There are 2 options to choose from, including Big Ice Trek with Transfers, Big Ice Trek without Transfer. Prices and start times differ by option, so compare them on the booking screen.

    Ready to lock in your spot?

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