Boat Tour Lago Argentino
Embark on a breathtaking boat tour across Lago Argentino to witness the majestic Perito Moreno, Upsala, and Spegazzini glaciers.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
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Best Time
Fewer crowds, better light for photos
Boat Tour Lago Argentino
Best Time
Fewer crowds, better light for photos
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Embark on a breathtaking boat tour across Lago Argentino to witness the majestic Perito Moreno, Upsala, and Spegazzini glaciers.
"This tour's itinerary is a combination of cruise, bus and short and easy yet beautiful hikes in nature, a perfect balance for all age groups."
🚢 Boat Tour Value
Some find boat tours essential for glacier views, others prefer free walkways. Consider your priorities!
💰 Cost Considerations
El Calafate can be pricey, but glacier tours are often cheaper than similar global destinations.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Perito Moreno Glacier
Lago Argentino
Witness the awe-inspiring Perito Moreno Glacier, a massive ice wall that calved icebergs with thunderous roars.
Upsala Glacier
Lago Argentino
Navigate through icebergs to reach the majestic Upsala Glacier, one of the largest in South America.
Spegazzini Glacier
Lago Argentino
Marvel at the towering Spegazzini Glacier, known for its dramatic height and stunning blue ice formations.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Book Tours in Advance
Consider the Season
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚢 Boat Tour Value
Some find boat tours essential for glacier views, others prefer free walkways. Consider your priorities!
💰 Cost Considerations
El Calafate can be pricey, but glacier tours are often cheaper than similar global destinations.
🧥 Pack Layers
Weather on Lago Argentino changes rapidly. Bring warm, waterproof layers, even in summer. :cloud:
🥪 Bring Your Own Food
Many tours don't include meals, so pack snacks and lunch to save money. Complimentary tea/coffee is often provided. :sandwich:
Tips
from all over the internet
🚢 Boat Tour Value
Some find boat tours essential for glacier views, others prefer free walkways. Consider your priorities!
💰 Cost Considerations
El Calafate can be pricey, but glacier tours are often cheaper than similar global destinations.
🧥 Pack Layers
Weather on Lago Argentino changes rapidly. Bring warm, waterproof layers, even in summer. :cloud:
🥪 Bring Your Own Food
Many tours don't include meals, so pack snacks and lunch to save money. Complimentary tea/coffee is often provided. :sandwich:
📸 Capture the Ice
The sheer scale and beauty of the glaciers are incredible. Don't forget your camera! :camerawithflash:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Boat tours on Lago Argentino are highly praised for their stunning glacier views, particularly Perito Moreno, Upsala, and Spegazzini. Many appreciate the informative guides and well-maintained vessels, with some tours offering a balanced mix of cruising and hiking. However, some visitors find the tours to be expensive and suggest that the free walkways offer a comparable, more peaceful experience.
"If you want to be picked up from your accommodation and experience Perito Merino glacier from a boat, then this might be worth your while considering. Many of the trips have age limits for going on to the glacier - this one is open irrespective of your age.
Be warned nearly all of them now are extremely expensive.
The guide was informative; you still need to pay Park entry and for a full day trip even bring your own food (they do provide complimentary tea and coffee. There are alternative ways of doing this IF seeing the glacier from the northern side is not an essential way to do it. Hire a car and you can go on the walkways and spend as much time as you want there."
Margaret Sharp
"i booked 5 tours in el calafate and i ranked this one first with a huge gap to the next tours. this tour’s itinerary is a combination of cruise, bus and short and easy yet beautiful hikes in nature, a perfect balance for all age groups. the trails were well kept in the shade through the patagonian forest ( and yes, thick and green forest and a 500 years old tree), several multiple tiered waterfalls and glaciers that are “off the beaten track). the boat’s 2 restrooms are immaculate and yes, it is always fresh and spotless. the boat has recyclable bin (!!!) and amazingly clean with no risk of flying trash. there is hot tea, fresh water on board always. the tea area is always tidy.
the crew is fantastic. among the several disembarkation, the gangway is always perfect and safe and not at all “challenging” for any one. the guide is knowledgeable and confident though very firm in protecting the treasures of patagonia.
i highly recommend this tour."
BHH Rieffel
"Price is 8.000 ARS p.p. (6.400 for kids). I believe the boat tour is worth it and is an added value to the walk, as you get closer to the gaclier. We took the boat of 1 p.m. (March 2023), and were with only 30-40 people, while the boat before (11.45 a.m.) was completely full. I believe this improved the experience as you were able to take plenty of pictures, without having all the people on the deck. To my experience, it's less busy in the afternoon (but could be off course depending from day to day). Staff was very friendly and the guide spoke Spanish and English. Duration is about 1h. The office located next to the parking lot."
Friho
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Most boat tours depart from El Calafate. You can fly into El Calafate (FTE) from Buenos Aires and other major Argentine cities. From El Calafate, tour operators often provide pick-up from accommodations or have central meeting points near the port.
Yes, if you rent a car, you can drive to the ports where the boat tours depart. However, many visitors opt for tours that include transportation from El Calafate for convenience.
The most common way to reach El Calafate is by flying into its international airport (FTE). Direct flights are available from Buenos Aires, and other cities may require a connection.
Yes, long-distance buses connect El Calafate with other cities in Argentina, including Buenos Aires. This is a more budget-friendly option but significantly longer than flying.
Many boat tour operators offer hotel pick-up services in El Calafate, which is a convenient option for travelers. Confirm this when booking your tour.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Prices vary significantly depending on the tour operator and itinerary. Expect to pay around 8,000 ARS per person for a standard tour, with discounts for children. Booking in advance is recommended.
Yes, it is highly recommended to book your boat tours in advance, especially during peak season, as they can sell out.
Yes, there is an entrance fee for Parque Nacional Los Glaciares, which is separate from your boat tour cost. This fee is usually paid upon entry to the park.
Some tours that involve trekking on the glacier may have age restrictions, but standard boat tours around the glaciers are generally open to all ages.
While it might be possible to buy tickets on the day, it's not recommended as tours can sell out. Booking in advance is the safest bet to secure your preferred tour and time.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Reviews suggest tours that combine a cruise with short hikes offer a balanced experience. The 'Todo Glaciares' tour is often highly recommended for its comprehensive itinerary and well-maintained trails.
You'll typically cruise on Lago Argentino, getting close to the glacier's face. Some tours offer disembarkation for short hikes with stunning views. Expect to hear the ice calving!
Most boat tours on Lago Argentino last for a full day, typically around 5-8 hours, including travel time to and from El Calafate.
Walkways offer panoramic views from a distance and are free, while boat tours get you closer to the glaciers and icebergs, providing a different perspective.
Yes, especially when visiting glaciers like Upsala, you'll often navigate through a field of icebergs that have calved off the glacier.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Generally, meals are not included on most boat tours. It's advisable to pack your own lunch and snacks. Some tours offer complimentary tea and coffee.
El Calafate offers a range of dining options, from casual cafes to restaurants serving Patagonian lamb and trout. Some unique dining experiences include eating in a cave. +1
Patagonian lamb (cordero patagónico) and local trout are popular dishes. You can also find delicious ice cream and pastries.
While traditional Patagonian cuisine is meat-heavy, many restaurants in El Calafate are increasingly offering vegetarian and vegan options. It's best to check menus or ask.
There are usually limited options for purchasing food and drinks at the port, so it's best to come prepared with your own provisions.
📸 📸 Photography
Afternoon tours often provide softer light for photography. The dynamic nature of the glaciers means any time can offer incredible shots, especially when icebergs calve.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the vastness of the glaciers and landscapes. A telephoto lens can be useful for distant wildlife. Protect your gear from moisture and cold. :camerawithflash:
Absolutely! The boat provides unique vantage points to photograph the glaciers, icebergs, and surrounding Patagonian scenery.
While not guaranteed, you might spot birds like condors or marine birds. Keep your camera ready for any unexpected sightings. :bird:
From the walkways, you get a broad view. From the boat, you can capture the immense scale and details of the ice face, and the calving events.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
While some glacier trekking tours have age limits, the standard boat tours are usually accessible. Ensure you check specific tour details for any age restrictions. The sheer scale of the glaciers is awe-inspiring for all ages, making it a fantastic educational and adventurous outing.
💰 Budget Travelers
For a more budget-friendly glacier experience, explore the free walkways near the Perito Moreno Glacier. This offers stunning views without the cost of a boat tour.
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
Boats provide unique perspectives, allowing you to photograph the intricate details of the ice and the vastness of the lake. Don't forget to capture the surrounding Patagonian scenery as well. While wildlife sightings aren't guaranteed, keep your camera ready for any birds or other creatures you might encounter.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Exploring the Glaciers of Lago Argentino
Key glaciers you'll encounter include the Perito Moreno Glacier, famous for its dramatic ice calving events,
While the boat tours offer unparalleled views, some travelers suggest that the free walkways near Perito Moreno Glacier provide a more peaceful and equally beautiful experience for those who prefer to avoid crowded tours.
Navigating El Calafate and Tour Logistics
Transportation within El Calafate is generally straightforward. Many tour operators offer pick-up services from accommodations, simplifying logistics for visitors.
When planning your trip, consider the time of year. Summer offers the best weather but also the highest crowds. Shoulder seasons like spring and autumn provide a good balance of pleasant conditions and fewer tourists, potentially enhancing your experience.
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from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit