Los Glaciares National Park, a huge area comprised of snow-capped mountains and spectacular glaciers, is located in the far south of Argentina, in the region known as Patagonia.
The park can be accessed from two separate towns, which are approximately three hours apart by bus. The larger of the two towns, El Calafate, is where many tourists flock every year to catch a glimpse of the famous Perito Moreno glacier.
Perito Moreno is a unique glacier, remaining in a state of equilibrium. While fragments of the glacier continue to break off into the surrounding glacial lakes, the glacier is growing at a rate fast enough to sustain it.
Getting There – Los Glaciares National Park
Perhaps the best way to visit the Perito Moreno glacier is to rent a car from El Calafate and drive to Los Glaciares National Park. It is easy to follow the one long paved road from town to the park. Renting a car allows for more freedom on the journey to take in interesting landscapes and wildlife and stop for photos. Closer to the park entrance, there are also opportunities to stop and view the Perito Moreno glacier from a distance.
It is also possible to get to the park by bus. Scheduling information can be found at the local tourist information center or any of the hotels in town.
Viewing the Perito Moreno Glacier
The viewing platforms in Los Glaciares National Park offer spectacular views of the glacier from a variety of angles and heights. It’s mesmerizing to look at the ever-changing shades of blue and white across the glacier. Perhaps the most thrilling and unique part of this experience is the opportunity to see huge chunks of the glacier break off and crash loudly into the water below.
It is possible to purchase a boat ride to view the Perito Moreno glacier from inside the park. There are two points of departure, with prices based on the best view. Weather inside the park can be unpredictable, so it’s best not to purchase tickets too far in advance.
Tours of Perito Moreno, Upsala, and More
There are several tours that can be arranged with any of the various tour agencies or directly with some hotels in El Calafate. Those interested in hiking on the Perito Moreno glacier must book a tour to do so, as this cannot be done individually. There are also tours available to view some of the other glaciers in the area by boat, such as the massive Upsala glacier.
Patagonian Highlights
The Perito Moreno glacier is just one of the many sites to see within Los Glaciares National Park and Patagonia. Other highlights include incredible hiking in El Chalten, seeing unique wildlife in Peninsula Valdes, and exploring the end of the earth in Ushuaia.
