Mayo Glacier Spirit Trek in El Calafate, Argentina
El Calafate, Argentina

Mayo Glacier Spirit Trek

Outty Ranking 57 4.1 · 8 traveler reviews11 hoursFrom $206
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Outty Ranking

57/100

Worth a Look. Our proprietary evaluation. How we score

Traveler rating

4.1/5

Based on 8 traveler reviews. Ratings and reviews provided by Viator and Tripadvisor.

Quick answer

Is Mayo Glacier Spirit Trek worth booking?

Mayo Glacier Spirit Trek is a 11-hour experience in El Calafate, Argentina, from $206 per person. It scores 57 out of 100 on the Outty Ranking, which we label “Worth a Look”, based on a 4.1/5 rating across 8 reviews. Cancellation is free up to 24 hours before the start time. Same-day spots are currently showing.

Outty Ranking
57 / 100
Rating
4.1/5 (8)
Duration
11 hours
From
$206 per person

Explore unique corners of Los Glaciares National Park with this exclusive sailing. From Puerto Punta Bandera, we sail to Seno Mayo to visit the glaciers of Cerro Mayo and Cerro Negro. We hike through Andean forests, waterfalls and hanging glaciers until we reach the base of the Black Glacier. The experience culminates with a breathtaking view of the Perito Moreno Glacier and a tour of its walkways. A perfect combination of sailing, hiking and unforgettable Patagonian landscapes.

What you get

    About this experience

    Explore unique corners of Los Glaciares National Park with this exclusive sailing. From Puerto Punta Bandera, we sail to Seno Mayo to visit the glaciers of Cerro Mayo and Cerro Negro. We hike through Andean forests, waterfalls and hanging glaciers until we reach the base of the Black Glacier. The experience culminates with a breathtaking view of the Perito Moreno Glacier and a tour of its walkways. A perfect combination of sailing, hiking and unforgettable Patagonian landscapes.

    What's included

    Included

    • Snacks
    • Pick up by your hotel

    Not included

    • Lunch
    • Carbonated beverages
    • Entrance to the National Park

    What you'll see and do

    1. The experience begins at Puerto Punta Bandera, from where we will embark to navigate the Canal de los Témpanos and enter the Seno Mayo del Lago Argentino, one of the least explored areas of Los Glaciares National Park, accessible only by lake.

      60 minutes here

    2. Cerro Torre

      Our first stop is in Toro Bay, where we disembark with a guide for an interpretative hike of 700 meters. We will enter the Patagonian Andean forest to discover a beautiful natural waterfall that gives rise to a crystal clear stream. From here, we can also observe limestone rock formations and, from the lake shore, enjoy the views of the hanging glaciers of Cerro Mayo and Cerro Negro.

      60 minutes here

    3. After a short boat ride, we disembarked in the Cerro Negro area for a 1,000 meter hike. Following the course of a stream, we will arrive at the base of the Black Glacier, an imposing mass of hanging ice from where numerous waterfalls that feed the river that you will border during the tour

      Pass by without stopping

    4. Pasarelas Perito Moreno

      Then, we continue to the emblematic Perito Moreno Glacier, one of the most recognized natural wonders of the world. We will sail in front of its north face, touring the area of the famous glacier break, and contemplating its imposing walls of more than 60 meters high. On the final leg of this excursion, we will disembark on the walkways of the Perito Moreno Glacier to tour one of its balconies and then set off back to your hotel in El Calafate.

      60 minutes here · Admission not included

    Where it starts and ends

    Hotel pickup

    Pickup is included for all travelers.

    Before you book

    Cancellation
    For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
    Languages
    en, es
    Ticket
    Mobile Only
    Runs on
    Every day
    Group size
    Up to 15 travelers per booking
    Operated by
    Patagonia Dreams

    Know before you go

    • Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap
    • Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries
    • Not recommended for pregnant travelers
    • Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
    • Suitable for all physical fitness levels
    • Entrance to Los Glaciares National Park (Mastercard is not accepted, you can pay in cash or visa card in Argentine pesos upon arrival at the Park) Don't forget your DNI / Passport or Identity Card

    Photos

    Mayo Glacier Spirit Trek in El Calafate, photo 2Mayo Glacier Spirit Trek in El Calafate, photo 3Mayo Glacier Spirit Trek in El Calafate, photo 4Mayo Glacier Spirit Trek in El Calafate, photo 5Mayo Glacier Spirit Trek in El Calafate, photo 6Mayo Glacier Spirit Trek in El Calafate, photo 7

    What travelers are saying

    Outty’s summary of the themes that recur across 8 traveler reviews. Written by us, not quoted from reviewers.

    The guide

    5 mentions

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

    Knowledge and storytelling

    2 mentions

    Reviewers describe the commentary as informative rather than scripted.

    Food and drink

    2 mentions

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

    Traveler reviews

    8 verified traveler reviews for Mayo Glacier Spirit Trek. Ratings and reviews provided by Viator and Tripadvisor.

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    Matthew Scott H · February 2026

    Mayo Spirit Excursion— to do in El Calafate

    Excellent boat tour of several spots in the western via inlets of Lago Argentina, including the Perito Merena glacier. Guide was knowledgeable and experienced and excursion is highly recommended

    Response from the operator: Thank you, Matthew! The Mayo Spirit Trek takes you to a quieter corner of Los Glaciares National Park — we are glad it made your list. Come back and explore the walkways or the boat navigation to Perito Moreno. Patagonia Dreams — El Calafate

    via Tripadvisor

    Elisa_Navas · February 2025

    Bureaucracy before customer service

    We take the Mayo Spirit tour, (180 dollars) that ends with the visit to Perito Moreno. The previous afternoon we asked to be able to change the date of the tour, because of the weather and that she was somewhat ill. Initially, the response was favorable, technically it was totally viable, since the tours are not being filled. (The ship that took us did not have the removal of part of its occupied capacity.) Unfortunately, when everything seemed ready, it seems to be that it remained to be confirmed with the foreign agency with which he had bought the tours (Howlanders), which by time difference did not respond. We took the tour the next morning, as we were picked up at 7 and the service office does not open until 9, then impossible to make the change without any hassle. There was no willingness from the staff or the company to facilitate our stay, the excuses were purely bureaucratic. A trip that costs foreigners money. On another tour in Puerto Natales, with more tourist influx, there was no problem, all facilities. No color. In short, as Argentina faces, the tourist influx is not high, and I recommend not to set any tours with advance date, better to make the decision there and directly with local agency on site, but certainly not Patagonia Dreams.

    Response from the operator: Hola Elisa, Gracias por su comentario. Nos esforzamos día a día en mejorar nuestro servicio y nos comprometemos a optimizar la comunicación con la empresa donde ha contratado el servicio que, al ser del extranjero, muchas veces el cambio horario no ayuda. Hacemos todo lo posible para que nuestros pasajeros disfruten del destino y esperamos que puedas volver en un futuro cercano y brindarte una mejor experiencia. No dudes en acercarte a nuestra oficina o comunicarte por nuestros canales de atención al pasajero por cualquier consulta. Que tengas un lindo día.

    via Tripadvisor (translated)

    iaia21 · February 2025

    Navigation and Argentine Glaciers 🩵

    A complete excursion with navigation, interesting guide, attentive sailors and beautiful pre-glacier landscapes. A small trek to the black hill, waterfall and millennial tree and then free time to walk the walkways and enjoy the Argentine wonder the Perito Moreno glacier

    Response from the operator: Hola! Muchas gracias por compartir tu experiencia. Nos alegra saber que la actividad ha sido de tu agrado. Saludos! 🙌🏻

    via Tripadvisor (translated)

    jos_luism14 · December 2023

    If you like nature, don't miss the glaciers, it is the purest thing in life.

    Since we began to see the snow-capped mountains and later the glaciers, you realize the landscapes that you can see in nature, pure life without words.

    Response from the operator: Hola! Muchas gracias por tu comentario

    via Tripadvisor (translated)

    diegogrillotrubba · March 2023

    Tourism for you to enjoy tourism and not to consume extras

    Very good Service. That's three landings. The first one is fine, it is even a very beautiful waterfall. The second one is half loose, you do a kilometer on a mountain climb to reach a place from where you can see a glacier hidden behind a mountain. The last part is great. First you sail very close to Perito Moreno, and then walk on the walkways. The excursion was done with a small group, we were about 30 people and on the boat, although small, it was traveled very comfortably and it was easy to take pictures. Another great virtue is that the Excursion doesn’t aim for commerce: they don’t try to sell you food (you have to take theirs) and they don’t drive you crazy trying to sell you photos. All right. 10 congratulated.

    Response from the operator: Querido Diego Tu comentario nos super ayuda, ya que hay otros viajeros leyendo el portal. Gracias por tomarte el tiempo de describir lo que te gusto y lo que no tanto, realmente lo valoramos. Tambien GRACIAS por elegirnos y esperamos verte de nuevo en nuestra casa. Atentamente Patagonia Dreams

    via Tripadvisor (translated)

    Good to know

    Duration
    11 hours
    Free cancellation
    Up to 24h before
    Minimum age to book
    All ages
    Availability
    Bookable today
    Runs on
    Every day
    Hotel pickup
    Included for all travelers
    Booked in 30 days
    3
    Verdict
    Worth a Look

    Who runs this experience

    Operated by Patagonia Dreams, who run 20 experiences we rank across 3 cities, with an average Outty Ranking of 56.7.

    See everything Patagonia Dreams runs

    Why this scores 57

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

    Traveler sentiment (30% weight)58
    Review evidence (18% weight)38
    Booking momentum (14% weight)29
    Value for money (12% weight)90
    Listing quality (10% weight)72
    Local standing (8% weight)34
    Booking flexibility (8% weight)100

    Mayo Glacier Spirit Trek: questions travelers ask

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

    How much does Mayo Glacier Spirit Trek cost?

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    Prices start at $206 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 Mayo Glacier Spirit Trek take?

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    Plan for about 11 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 Mayo Glacier Spirit Trek worth it?

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    It holds an Outty Ranking of 57 out of 100, which we label "Worth a Look". That score blends traveler sentiment (4.1/5 across 8 reviews), the depth of that review evidence, recent booking momentum, value for money against comparable last minute in El Calafate, and how flexible the cancellation terms are.

    Can I cancel or reschedule Mayo Glacier Spirit Trek?

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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 Mayo Glacier Spirit Trek suitable for kids and families?

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    Yes, all ages are welcome. Families should still weigh the 11-hour running time, and strollers are easier on the earlier, quieter departures.

    How far in advance should I book Mayo Glacier Spirit Trek?

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    Around 3 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 11-hour experience runs outdoors or after sunset.

    Where does Mayo Glacier Spirit Trek 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 Mayo Glacier Spirit Trek?

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    Included: Snacks; and Pick up by your hotel. Not included: Lunch; Carbonated beverages; and Entrance to the National Park. Always check the voucher for the final list before you travel.

    Does Mayo Glacier Spirit Trek include hotel pickup?

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    Yes, pickup is offered for every traveler from 68 listed pickup locations in and around El Calafate.

    What languages is Mayo Glacier Spirit Trek offered in?

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    It is offered in 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 Mayo Glacier Spirit Trek?

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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 Mayo Glacier Spirit Trek wheelchair or stroller accessible?

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    The operator notes: Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap; and Not recommended for pregnant travelers. If accessibility is critical, contact the operator after booking to confirm arrangements for your date.

    What happens to Mayo Glacier Spirit Trek 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 Mayo Glacier Spirit Trek?

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    Across 8 reviews averaging 4.1 out of 5, recurring themes include the guide, knowledge and storytelling, food and drink. Travelers single out the guide as the reason the experience works.

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