Lago Argentino
A vast, turquoise freshwater lake in Patagonia, home to immense glaciers and dramatic ice formations.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Longer days, better weather
Lago Argentino
Best Time
Longer days, better weather
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A vast, turquoise freshwater lake in Patagonia, home to immense glaciers and dramatic ice formations.
"The scenery is just fantastic and moreover, the local people you meet there are friendly and welcoming. "
Book Glacier Mini-Trekking
More expensive but worth it for the full glacier experience! :ticket:
Consider a Boat Tour
See glaciers like Upsala & Spegazzini up close from the water. :ship:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Perito Moreno Glacier
Southern arm of Lago Argentino
Witness the awe-inspiring Perito Moreno Glacier, a dynamic ice giant that calves icebergs into the lake.
Glacier Boat Tours
Lago Argentino
Navigate Lago Argentino to get up close with massive glaciers like Upsala and Spegazzini.
Mini-Trekking on Perito Moreno
Perito Moreno Glacier
An unforgettable adventure: hike directly on the Perito Moreno Glacier with crampons.
El Chaltén Day Trip
Near Lago Argentino
Explore the trekking capital of Argentina, with stunning views of Fitz Roy and Cerro Torre.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Book Glacier Tours in Advance
Prepare for Wind and Weather
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Book Glacier Mini-Trekking
More expensive but worth it for the full glacier experience! +1 :ticket:
Consider a Boat Tour
See glaciers like Upsala & Spegazzini up close from the water.
El Calafate is Pricey
It's expensive for Argentina, but cheaper than global glacier destinations. :moneybag:
Dress in Layers
Patagonia is windy! Bring waterproofs and warm layers. :cloud:
Tips
from all over the internet
Book Glacier Mini-Trekking
More expensive but worth it for the full glacier experience! +1 :ticket:
Consider a Boat Tour
See glaciers like Upsala & Spegazzini up close from the water.
El Calafate is Pricey
It's expensive for Argentina, but cheaper than global glacier destinations. :moneybag:
Dress in Layers
Patagonia is windy! Bring waterproofs and warm layers. :cloud:
Rent a Car for Flexibility
Great for exploring El Chaltén and surrounding areas. :car:
Visit Walkways Early
Beat the crowds at Perito Moreno's walkways for better photos. :camerawithflash:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise Lago Argentino for its breathtaking, otherworldly glacial landscapes and the sheer scale of its ice formations. The opportunity to witness calving events and explore via boat tours or glacier trekking are highlights. Some find the destination expensive, and the strong winds can be a challenge, but the overall experience is deemed unforgettable and highly recommended.
"You can explore the lake on a cruise ship “Marpatag” when you book tours such as Glaciers Gourmet and Todos Los Glaciares.
In hindsight I recommend doing the Glacier Mini Trekking over the above 2 tours. The trekking is more expensive but it has all the glacier activities: 1. the cruise ride beside the glacier, 2. the trekking on the glacier, 3. the glacier walkways from above
You can go outside from the bottom terrace or the top terrace of the ship. I recommend going to the very top terrace for better photos.
I also recommend sitting on the 2nd level.
The lake displays many different types of glaciers and beautiful views. Careful, it is very windy."
Vu Dang
"Geography: The lake covers an area of approximately 1,466 square kilometers and reaches depths of up to 500 meters. Its striking turquoise color is a result of glacial meltwater.
Glaciers: The lake is fed by several glaciers, including the famous Perito Moreno Glacier. Visitors can witness stunning calving events where chunks of ice break off and fall into the lake.
I saw Argentino Lake from all possible angles, and each perspective revealed a new facet of its beaut - from the dramatic ice formations at the glacier’s edge to the tranquil reflections of the mountains on the water’s surface. It truly is a mesmerizing experience!"
Iryna Kabanchuk
"Lago Argentino is a beautiful and peaceful destination that offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains and glaciers. The crystal clear waters of the lake reflect the serene landscape, making it a perfect place to relax and enjoy the tranquility of nature, full if birds and local flowers."
sebastian ferreyra
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Airport shuttles and taxis are readily available. Many accommodations also offer transfers. The drive is about 20-30 minutes.
Yes, frequent bus services run between El Calafate and El Chaltén, taking about 3 hours. Renting a car also offers flexibility.
Yes, many tours depart from El Calafate town, and you can walk to some attractions. However, a car or organized tours are best for reaching Perito Moreno and El Chaltén.
The most popular ways are by boat tours on Lago Argentino or by visiting the walkways at Perito Moreno Glacier. Mini-trekking on the glacier is also a highly recommended option. +2
El Calafate (FTE) has an international airport with direct flights from Buenos Aires and other major Argentine cities.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
The entrance fee for foreigners is around US$10, and for Argentinians, it's about US$3. Prices can change, so check the official park website.
It's highly recommended, especially for popular tours like glacier mini-trekking or specific boat excursions, to book in advance to secure your spot. +1
The entrance fee grants access to the extensive network of walkways offering stunning views of the glacier. Boat tours and mini-trekking are separate excursions.
While specific discounts might vary, it's always worth checking for student or senior rates if applicable. The fee for Argentinians is significantly lower.
For some tours, yes, but for popular activities like glacier trekking, booking weeks or months in advance is crucial. +1
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
The extensive network of walkways offers multiple levels and perspectives. The top terraces provide panoramic views, while lower ones get you closer to the ice.
This is a short boat trip on Lago Argentino that takes you close to the southern face of the Perito Moreno Glacier, offering a different perspective.
Wear warm, waterproof clothing, sturdy hiking boots (often provided or rentable), and sunglasses. Crampons are usually provided by the tour operator. +1
Absolutely! Boat tours, visiting the glacier walkways, and scenic drives offer incredible experiences without strenuous hiking.
The area is rich in birdlife, and you might spot condors, eagles, and various waterfowl. Keep an eye out for guanacos and foxes on land.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Try Patagonian lamb (cordero patagónico), trout, and local craft beers. Don't miss the chance to try a unique dining experience like the 'Patagonia Profunda' cave dinner.
While traditional Patagonian cuisine is meat-heavy, many restaurants are increasingly offering vegetarian and vegan dishes. It's best to check menus or ask.
This experience, offered by Patagonia Profunda, combines a scenic ride with a visit to an archaeological site, offering insights into indigenous culture and local cuisine.
The main street in El Calafate has numerous restaurants. For a unique experience, consider places offering Patagonian lamb or those with lake views.
Dining can be on the pricier side compared to other parts of Argentina, but it's generally considered good value when compared to similar international destinations.
📸 📸 Photography
The walkways at Perito Moreno offer dramatic angles. Boat tours provide unique perspectives of the glaciers, and El Chaltén's Fitz Roy is a photographer's dream.
Late afternoon can offer beautiful light, but mornings are often less crowded on the walkways. The calving events can happen anytime!
A wide-angle lens is great for landscapes. A telephoto lens can capture calving events. A sturdy tripod is useful, and ensure your gear is protected from wind and moisture.
Drone usage is generally restricted in national parks to protect wildlife and the environment. Always check the latest regulations before flying.
Include a person or a boat in your frame to give a sense of scale. Shooting from different vantage points, like from a boat or a higher walkway, can also emphasize size.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
For slightly older children, the Glacier Mini-Trekking can be an incredible, albeit more expensive, experience. Ensure they meet the age and physical requirements. Day trips to El Chaltén offer shorter, scenic walks suitable for families, like the trail to Laguna Capri. Pack plenty of snacks and be prepared for windy conditions.
💰 Budget Travelers
Consider staying in hostels or more basic accommodations. While glacier mini-trekking is an investment, simply visiting the Perito Moreno walkways and taking a standard boat tour offers incredible value for experiencing the glaciers.
🚶♀️ Solo Travelers
Consider staying in hostels where you can easily connect with other travelers. The trails around El Chaltén are well-trafficked, making it safe and enjoyable for solo hikers. Don't hesitate to strike up conversations with locals and fellow visitors for tips and camaraderie.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Exploring the Glaciers of Lago Argentino
Beyond Perito Moreno, boat tours offer access to other magnificent glaciers like the Upsala Glacier, one of the largest in South America, and the towering Spegazzini Glacier, known for its impressive height. These tours navigate through icebergs of all shapes and sizes, providing an intimate encounter with the raw beauty of glacial landscapes.
Visitors can experience these icy giants through various means: from the extensive walkways offering panoramic views of Perito Moreno, to thrilling boat excursions that get you close to the glacier faces, and the ultimate adventure: mini-trekking directly on the ice. Each offers a unique perspective on these frozen titans.
El Calafate: Gateway to Patagonia's Wonders
From El Calafate, you can easily arrange excursions to the Perito Moreno Glacier, embark on boat tours across Lago Argentino, or venture further afield. The town itself provides a comfortable respite after a day of exploring, with opportunities to sample local cuisine and learn about the region's natural history.
While El Calafate is a destination in its own right, its true magic lies in its proximity to unparalleled natural beauty. It's a place where the raw power of glaciers meets the serene vastness of the Patagonian steppe, offering an unforgettable travel experience.
Adventures Beyond the Glaciers: El Chaltén
El Chaltén offers a network of well-marked trails catering to all fitness levels. Popular hikes include the trek to Laguna de los Tres for breathtaking views of Fitz Roy, and the path to Laguna Capri, offering stunning reflections of the mountains. Even shorter walks provide incredible vistas of the surrounding peaks and glacial valleys.
Visiting El Chaltén is a must for anyone seeking to immerse themselves in the dramatic landscapes of Patagonia. Whether you're an avid trekker or simply enjoy scenic walks, the raw beauty and majestic peaks of El Chaltén are an unforgettable complement to the glacial wonders of Lago Argentino.
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from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit