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For decades, the Perito Moreno glacier has been one of the main tourist attractions in Argentina. And no wonder: this natural monument is a true wonder of nature. But why is the Perito Moreno famous? In this post, we tell you everything that makes it special.
What is the Perito Moreno glacier?
Yes, the Perito Moreno glacier is very famous, but do you know what it is? It is a mass of ice located in Los Glaciares National Park, in the province of Santa Cruz, Argentina. It is one of the largest and best preserved glaciers in the world. Its surface area is approximately 250 km² and it reaches 100 m thick in some areas. Here is a post about the technical characteristics of the Perito Moreno glacier so that you can learn more about it in detail.
The history of the Perito Moreno glacier
For thousands of years, the Perito Moreno glacier has stretched across the mountains of Patagonia. This mass of ice is one of the few glaciers in the world that is still advancing, and is known for its breathtaking beauty. Over the years, the glacier has attracted many visitors, who want to see it up close.
The Perito Moreno began its formation more than 2500 million years ago, in the last ice age. It is believed that its current form, as we know it today, is approximately 20,000 years old. The park where it is located was created in 1937 to protect the glacier, and today it is one of the most popular tourist destinations in the country.
Characteristics that make the Perito Moreno Glacier unique
With what we have told you so far, you may already have an idea of why the Perito Moreno is so famous. But there are also some characteristics that make this glacier unique.
- In 1981 it was declared a World Heritage Site by Unesco for being an example of the geological processes of glaciation (in addition to its natural beauty of course).
- It is one of the few glaciers that does not melt. As you read it, it does not grow daily, but it is rebuilt and maintains a balance with the melting of global warming.
- Because it advances, every so often it produces a detachment that has become a tourist attraction.
- The front of the glacier (the one that can be visited), is about 5 kilometers long and about 70 meters high above the level of Lake Argentino.
- It has a real depth of 170 meters.
- Its surface measures about 250 square kilometers, so it is larger than the surface of Buenos Aires (203 square kilometers).
- It is one of the easiest for travelers to visit, and you can even trek over it.
These are just a few facts to help you understand why is Perito Moreno famous. We can summarize it in that it is the easiest to visit, and closer. So it has become known among travelers. Of course it is a wonder of nature and if you visit Argentina, it is a mandatory stop on any itinerary. You can dare to make a route over the glacier or just watch it from the walkways in front. Either way, it is worth it. Have you felt like traveling to Patagonia?