Bajo de las Sombras Pier
Walk on ancient ice at Perito Moreno Glacier, a breathtaking natural wonder in Patagonia, Argentina. Experience its immense scale up close.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
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Best Time
Best light for photos
Bajo de las Sombras Pier
Best Time
Best light for photos
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Walk on ancient ice at Perito Moreno Glacier, a breathtaking natural wonder in Patagonia, Argentina. Experience its immense scale up close.
"A truly out of the world experience. It's a must visit when you visit the Glacier."
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
Sturdy, closed-toe shoes are essential for glacier trekking.
🧥 Dress in Layers
Patagonia's weather is unpredictable; pack layers for warmth and protection.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Mini-Trekking on Perito Moreno
Perito Moreno Glacier
Walk directly on the ancient ice of the Perito Moreno Glacier, an unforgettable, once-in-a-lifetime adventure.
Glacier Boat Tour
Perito Moreno Glacier
Get up close and personal with the colossal Perito Moreno Glacier from the water for a truly awe-inspiring perspective.
Glacier Overlooks
Perito Moreno Glacier
Explore various viewpoints and boardwalks offering stunning panoramic vistas of the Perito Moreno Glacier.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Book Your Glacier Adventure Early
Understand Tour Inclusions
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
Sturdy, closed-toe shoes are essential for glacier trekking. +1
🧥 Dress in Layers
Patagonia's weather is unpredictable; pack layers for warmth and protection.
🧊 Glacier Ice Drink
Enjoy a unique drink with ice directly from the glacier – a cool experience!
📸 Capture the Majesty
Bring your camera to photograph the breathtaking scale and beauty of the glacier.
Tips
from all over the internet
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
Sturdy, closed-toe shoes are essential for glacier trekking. +1
🧥 Dress in Layers
Patagonia's weather is unpredictable; pack layers for warmth and protection.
🧊 Glacier Ice Drink
Enjoy a unique drink with ice directly from the glacier – a cool experience!
📸 Capture the Majesty
Bring your camera to photograph the breathtaking scale and beauty of the glacier.
⏰ Mind Your Tour Schedule
Be aware of tour timings; don't assume overlooks are part of shorter treks.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently describe the Perito Moreno Glacier experience as 'once in a lifetime' and 'amazing,' highlighting the awe-inspiring scale of the ice and the thrill of walking on it. The organization of tours and the professionalism of guides receive high praise, ensuring a safe and memorable adventure. Some note that tours can be pricey and that specific timings need careful consideration.
"It was a great day, hiking and exploring seeing something unique. Bathrooms available (and coffee) on both sides of the boat ride out to the glacier. Guides and the assistants for your strap-on boot spikes were helpful. And having a drink with fresh glacier ice was cool; pun intended."
M P
"Highly reputable. We did the mini trek tour (not the fullday one) and it was amazing. We did the latest booking, thinking we'd have time for the overlook area (which is another 10 minute drive) after, but it was not part of the tour. Just be mindful and plan to go a little before (if youre booking the later tour).
Felt very safe the whole time. They provide crampons for trekking and give you safety tips the whole time.
Once in a lifetime experience! Unless you trek to Iceland also...
Definitely worth it!!!"
Jenna RxTravelBug
"A very relaxing tour, where you have the possibility to pay a bit more to go on the boat and have a closer look of the perito moreno. Ice cold but worth it. And you also have a time to visit a few viewpoints above the glaciar on diffrent trails."
Jasmin Bürgelin
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Bajo de las Sombras Pier is typically accessed via organized tours from El Calafate. Most mini-trekking and boat tours include transportation from your hotel in El Calafate to the pier. +3
The most common way to reach El Calafate is by flying into Comandante Armando Tola International Airport (FTE). Flights are available from Buenos Aires and other major Argentine cities. +2
Many tours, especially the mini-trekking excursions, include round-trip transfers from El Calafate. Always confirm this when booking your tour. +1
While it's possible to drive to the area, most visitors opt for organized tours that handle transportation to the pier and the glacier.
The journey from El Calafate to the Perito Moreno Glacier area, including Bajo de las Sombras Pier, typically takes about 1.5 to 2 hours by road.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
The entrance fee for Los Glaciares National Park is approximately $20 USD for foreigners and less for residents. Glacier tour costs vary, with mini-trekking tours around $220 USD. +1
Yes, it is highly recommended to book glacier tours, especially the mini-trekking, well in advance as they are very popular and can sell out. +1
The mini-trekking tour typically includes transportation, a boat ride to the glacier, crampons for walking on ice, and guidance from experienced mountaineers. +2
Yes, options range from boat tours for close-up views to mini-trekking on the glacier, and visits to the boardwalks and viewpoints.
Tours generally operate throughout the day, with morning and afternoon departures. It's best to check specific tour operator schedules for exact times.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Wear warm, layered clothing, waterproof outer layers, sturdy hiking boots, and sunglasses. The tour operators provide crampons for your boots. +1
Yes, glacier trekking tours are conducted by experienced guides who provide safety instructions and equipment like crampons, making it feel very safe.
Photography is usually permitted during glacier treks and from the viewpoints. Be mindful of your surroundings and follow guide instructions.
Yes, bathrooms are available on both sides of the boat ride to the glacier, and often at the pier as well.
Morning tours often offer better lighting for photography, but afternoon tours can be less crowded. The glacier's appearance changes throughout the day.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
While there might be limited snack options at the visitor center or pier, it's advisable to pack your own food and drinks or have a meal in El Calafate before or after your tour.
Some tours offer the unique experience of enjoying a drink made with ice directly from the Perito Moreno Glacier.
Dining options are scarce directly at the pier. Most visitors eat in El Calafate before or after their excursion.
📸 📸 Photography
The boardwalks offer incredible panoramic views. Boat tours get you close for dramatic shots, and mini-trekking provides unique ice formations.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the vastness. A telephoto lens can be useful for details. Protect your gear from moisture and cold.
Yes, guides often allow time for photos during the mini-trekking. Ensure your camera is easily accessible and protected.
Early morning or late afternoon can offer softer light and fewer crowds, but the glacier is stunning at any time.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
While mini-trekking might be too demanding for very young children, older kids and teenagers often find it an incredibly exciting adventure. Ensure you check age restrictions with tour operators. The boat tours are also a great option, providing close-up views of the glacier in a more relaxed setting.
💰 Budget Travelers
While mini-trekking and boat tours are more expensive, look for package deals or book in advance to potentially secure better prices. Some tours might offer discounts for students or children.
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
Mini-trekking provides unique opportunities to photograph ice formations and crevasses up close, while boat tours offer dramatic perspectives of the glacier face and its interaction with the water. Protect your gear from the elements, and be prepared for changing light conditions.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Thrill of Mini-Trekking on Perito Moreno
This excursion typically starts with a boat ride across Lago Argentino to reach the glacier's edge. Once on the ice, the trek lasts for about 1.5 to 2 hours, covering a moderate distance. While it's an active experience, it's designed to be accessible to most fitness levels. Remember to wear comfortable, sturdy footwear and dress in warm layers, as the weather can be unpredictable.
Booking in advance is essential for the mini-trekking tour, as it's one of the most sought-after activities in El Calafate. The cost is significant, often around $220 USD per person, plus the national park entrance fee. Despite the price, most travelers deem it a once-in-a-lifetime experience that is absolutely worth the investment.
Navigating the Perito Moreno Glacier from the Water
Several boat tours are available, some offering a more extended cruise that allows for closer proximity to the glacier's face. These tours are generally more relaxed than trekking and suitable for a wider range of visitors. Bathrooms are typically available on board, and guides provide commentary on the glacier's history and significance.
While the boat tour provides a spectacular overview, it's important to note that it doesn't involve walking on the ice itself. However, it perfectly complements visits to the glacier's boardwalks and can be combined with other activities for a comprehensive experience of this natural wonder.
Exploring the Perito Moreno Boardwalks
From the boardwalks, you can witness the glacier's immense size, its vibrant blue hues, and listen for the thunderous sound of ice breaking off. The network of trails allows you to explore at your own pace, stopping at various platforms to take photos and soak in the scenery. This is often the first introduction visitors have to the glacier and remains a profoundly impressive experience.
These viewpoints are easily reachable by tour buses or private vehicles from El Calafate. They are equipped with facilities like restrooms, making it a comfortable way to experience the grandeur of the Perito Moreno Glacier.
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