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Hi, I’m Annia, and I’m excited to share my experience on the Minitrekking Perito Moreno excursion! It was, without a doubt, the highlight of my trip to Patagonia.
The day before the tour, I received a WhatsApp message confirming my pick-up time at the accommodation. It also included a helpful reminder of what to bring: a water bottle, snacks, gloves, a hat, and suitable footwear (trekking boots). Don’t forget the entrance fee for Los Glaciares National Park, which can be purchased online or at the park itself.
That afternoon, I headed to the supermarket in El Calafate (La Anónima) to pick up some supplies, drinks, and snacks. Since we were in Argentina, grabbing an alfajor was a must! We also stopped by a kiosk called “El Panda” to get empanadas and a sandwich for the next day.
Minibus to Perito Moreno National Park
We were ready and excited to start the adventure! The next day, a minivan picked us up from our hostel around 10:30 a.m. (it holds about 10 people). After a few more stops to gather the rest of the group, we began our journey to Los Glaciares National Park. Our two guides, Tobias and Nicolas, joined us and shared fascinating details about the landscape, flora, and fauna along the way. The drive was short but scenic, as we enjoyed the stunning views and learned about the unique environment.
For example, did you know that the cauquén is a type of goose native to Patagonia that always travels in pairs? The male is white, and the female is reddish-brown. This monogamous species stays with the same partner for life and is known to move and stay together constantly. If the female dies, the male usually survives only a few more days before passing as well. These geese are commonly seen in the landscapes surrounding El Calafate and the park.
Once we arrived at the park, we stopped to purchase or show our entrance tickets. A park staff member entered the minivan to collect cash and distribute tickets, while a few passengers opted to pay by card at the office. However, paying by card isn’t ideal due to limited network connection in the area, which can lead to payment issues. I recommend bringing the 30,000 ARS entrance fee in cash.
TIP: If you visit the park on multiple days, keep your ticket. Showing it on a second visit will give you a 50% discount, making the entrance fee 15,000 ARS.
Inside the park, we drove another 10 minutes to the Perito Moreno Footbridges. The guide had previously shown us a map with the various routes and advised us on which paths to take. The trails are color-coded and allow you to view the glacier from different angles.
First stop: the walkways of the Perito Moreno Glacier
There we had two hours free to visit the walkways and see the glacier from up close. I was amazed with the view! Undoubtedly impressed by the size of the glacier and the radiant blue color. We immortalized the moment with many photos and enjoyed the walk.
After exploring the walkways, we headed to the nearby Refugio Cafeteria, where we could grab a drink. Since bringing outside food inside isn’t allowed, we decided instead to relax on the benches around the area and recharge before the main activity. Our guides had advised us to eat at that point, as there wouldn’t be any more breaks ahead. After enjoying a hot coffee, we made our way to the meeting point, where the minivan would pick us up and take us to Punta Banderas.
Boat to Perito Moreno Glacier
Once we arrived at Punta Banderas, we boarded a catamaran that took us to the glacier and the tour’s starting point in just 20 minutes. From there, we walked alongside the lake, getting incredibly close to the glacier. Along the way, we paused to take photos, thrilled to be so near and excited for what lay ahead.
Glacier Trekking begins
Once we arrived, we were divided into groups—one for Spanish speakers and another for English speakers. From there, each language group was split into smaller groups of about 15-20 people. We were each assigned two guides: one main guide who would lead us and provide explanations along the route, and an assistant guide to support group safety and monitor the path.
Next, we put on our helmets and crampons, and we were ready to step onto the glacier! For almost everyone, it was their first time using crampons, and our reactions while trying to walk were pretty amusing. The guide gave us clear instructions on how to walk safely: keep your feet apart, step firmly, and focus on each step. He also reminded us to avoid distractions, like using our cell phones, during the hike.
We walked for nearly 2 hours, covering about 3 km. It was a truly unique experience to be inside the glacier, witnessing its various formations, such as caves, tunnels, and crevasses. As the glacier is constantly moving, the route changes daily, adapting to new formations that emerge. The feeling of grandeur and freedom was simply unforgettable!
Learning about Glaciers
The guide shared fascinating facts about the glacier, such as how it is currently in retreat—losing mass over the past few years. However, we must remember that these are cyclical processes, and hopefully, we can continue to enjoy this natural wonder for many more years to come.
Additionally, we made stops at the most interesting spots to take pictures and enjoy the surroundings. The assistant guide remained behind the group, ensuring our safety. Whenever we encountered more difficult or challenging sections, he was there to help us navigate the terrain and offer support.
A surprise ending
Finally, a big surprise awaited us ….: a glass of whiskey with ice from the glacier! The guides had prepared this farewell for us and together with a chocolate bonbon, we all made a toast and continued enjoying the moment.
Finally we left the ice behind and took off our crampons. We took a short walk through the forest, along some footbridges that would take us back to the port where the catamaran was waiting for us at 6:30 pm to return us to Punta Banderas. There the minivan was waiting for us to return to El Calafate.
Return to El Calafate
The return journey took us about an hour and a half, and it was much quieter since everyone was tired. We spent the time taking in the scenery, reflecting on everything we had experienced. When we arrived back in El Calafate, the guides asked if we preferred to go directly to our accommodation or stop in the town center. We decided to get off in the center, as we were hungry and ready for dinner.
We had been recommended Buenos Cruces Pasta Bar, and it truly exceeded our expectations. The place was cozy, with a unique layout—featuring a terrace and two small houses that serve as dining rooms. I had the best pasta I’d tasted in ages! It was the perfect meal, accompanied by a glass of wine, great company, and even live music. A local musician with his ukulele came to perform some of his own compositions.
I hope you enjoyed hearing about my experience. Now, would you like to embark on this adventure for yourself?
