El Calafate’s guided tours focus on the region’s natural wonders, with the magnificent Perito Moreno Glacier taking center stage. I’m especially impressed by the full-day glacier excursions, which combine comfortable transfers with expert naturalist guides who really know their stuff. The mini-trekking option on Perito Moreno itself is worth every penny – you’ll get to walk right on the ice while learning about glacier formation.
For active travelers, the guided hikes in El Chalten are a perfect match, offering just the right mix of challenge and scenery. Don’t miss the La Leona Petrified Forest tour, a fascinating look at Patagonia’s prehistoric past that most visitors overlook.
Let’s explore the best tour options available in El Calafate…
Key Points
- The Perito Moreno Glacier Excursion offers a guided experience with expert information, scenic transportation, and access to boardwalks and viewing platforms.
- The Guided Trek on Perito Moreno Glacier includes a 4-hour hike, exploring crevasses, ice caves, and waterfalls, with a boat ride on Lake Argentino.
- The El Chalten Hiking Tour provides a customized full-day experience with a scenic van transfer and a 4-hour hike, along with a break and a picnic lunch.
- The El Calafate Glacier Day Tour & Sailing offers a guided tour with a boat cruise and a 1-hour sailing excursion near the glacier, as well as scenic walkways.
- The La Leona Petrified Forest Hiking Tour takes visitors on a guided hike to explore the historic Hotel La Leona and the petrified forest, with stunning views of Mount Fitz Roy and Argentino Lake.
Excursion to the Perito Moreno Glacier, With Guide and Transfer To/From the Hotel
Although the Perito Moreno Glacier is one of the major attractions in El Calafate, the excursion includes more than just the glacier itself. Operated by Glaciar Turismo, the tour offers a guided experience with a maximum group size of 18 travelers.
The package includes air-conditioned transportation, an expert guide for Los Glaciares National Park, and the cost of the park entrance ticket. Lunch is also provided during the excursion, and an optional boat ride close to the glacier is available.
Travelers can expect a 1.5-hour scenic bus ride to the glacier, where they’ll receive guided information on the area and its glaciers. Once there, they’ll have access to boardwalks with panoramic glacier views and the opportunity to hike on marked trails. Comfortable viewing platforms are available for lunch and rest.
The excursion is wheelchair and stroller accessible, and infants can join the tour while sitting on laps.
With a high satisfaction rating of 4.9 from 60 reviews, this guided tour offers a comprehensive and enjoyable experience for exploring the Perito Moreno Glacier.
Read our full review: Excursion to the Perito Moreno Glacier, With Guide and Transfer To/From the Hotel Review
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Chalten: Short Guided Hike Included
For those seeking a more active adventure beyond the Perito Moreno Glacier, a personalized full-day tour to El Chalten offers a guided hiking experience through the stunning Fitz Roy range. Priced from $350 per person, the tour includes hotel pickup, a 3-hour van transfer, and a 4-hour hike with a local mountain guide.
Along the way, guests will enjoy a 20-minute break at a local café and a picnic lunch in the forest, all while taking in scenic views and wildlife.
The guided experience is customized to each group, with English and Spanish-speaking guides available. On clear days, hikers can expect stunning vistas of the Fitz Roy range.
The tour also includes necessary equipment like backpacks, trekking shoes, and weather-appropriate clothing. However, it’s not suitable for young children, wheelchair users, or those with certain medical conditions.
Comfortable shoes, sun protection, and rain gear are recommended for participants.
Read our full review: Chalten: Short Guided Hike Included Review
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Guided Trek Through Perito Moreno Glacier
Setting out on a guided trek across the awe-inspiring Perito Moreno Glacier is a once-in-a-lifetime experience for adventure-seekers visiting El Calafate. Priced at $1,192 per person, this 12-hour excursion offers a lowest price guarantee and free cancellation up to 24 hours prior.
Guests can reserve now and pay later, with a full refund available for timely cancellations.
The glacier trek includes a 4-hour hike, spending approximately 3 hours exploring the ice. Under the guidance of a professional, trekkers will navigate crevasses, ice caves, and waterfalls, learning about the glacier’s formation and geography.
The experience also features a 20-minute boat ride on Lake Argentino and breathtaking views of the glacier’s ice wall meeting the lake.
Included in the tour are hotel pickup and drop-off, trekking equipment, and national park entrance fees. Guests are advised to dress for variable weather and bring essential items like gloves, sunglasses, and snacks.
With an average rating of 4.4 out of 24 reviews, this glacier trek is an unforgettable highlight of any visit to El Calafate.
Read our full review: Guided Trek Through Perito Moreno Glacier Review
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El Calafate: Perito Moreno Glacier Guided Day Tour & Sailing
This guided tour to the Perito Moreno Glacier in El Calafate provides visitors an immersive experience exploring one of the most impressive natural wonders of Patagonia.
Priced from $226 per person, the 8-hour tour includes a guided visit to Los Glaciares National Park, a boat cruise, and a 1-hour sailing excursion near the glacier.
Travelers can enjoy scenic walkways with views of the Perito Moreno Glacier. Bilingual guides provide commentary, and transportation with hotel pick-up and drop-off is included.
The tour receives high ratings for the guide, transportation, and overall value. Reviewers praise the informative guidance and perfect organization, even with flight delays.
With free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, this tour offers a hassle-free way to witness the grandeur of Perito Moreno Glacier.
Read our full review: El Calafate: Perito Moreno Glacier Guided Day Tour & Sailing Review
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Discover La Leona Petrified Forest: Guided Hiking Tour
Nestled near the captivating town of El Calafate in Patagonia, the La Leona Petrified Forest beckons visitors to embark on an enchanting guided hiking tour. This unique experience allows travelers to explore the historic Hotel La Leona, once a roadhouse for the infamous Butch Cassidy.
Along the way, guests will be treated to stunning views of Mount Fitz Roy and Argentino Lake. The guided trek through the otherworldly, moon-like forest offers the chance to observe fossilized remains and petrified trees.
Requiring a moderate level of fitness, the tour is open to participants aged 6 and up, though it’s not wheelchair accessible. Guests should come prepared with sunblock, comfortable clothing, and sturdy shoes.
Roundtrip air-conditioned transport and a boxed lunch are included in the tour. With a minimum of 2 people per booking and a maximum of 30 travelers, the activity operates seasonally from October to April.
Reviews praise the knowledgeable guides and the educational value of this captivating Patagonian experience.
Read our full review: Discover La Leona Petrified Forest: Guided Hiking Tour Review
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Full Day Guided Tour Perito Moreno National Park and Glacier
Explore the majestic Perito Moreno National Park and witness the breathtaking Perito Moreno Glacier on this full-day guided tour.
You’ll receive a confirmation at the time of booking, and infants must sit on laps during the tour. Service animals are allowed, and strollers are accessible for participants. The tour accommodates a maximum of 24 travelers.
Most travelers can participate, but the tour isn’t wheelchair accessible. An optional boat ride is available for an additional fee. The tour includes approximately 2 hours to explore the boardwalks, and communication is provided in both Spanish and English.
Cancellations are allowed up to 24 hours in advance, with a full refund issued for timely cancellations. No refunds are provided for late cancellations.
If you have any questions, visit the Viator Help Centre, reference the product code 317261P11, and contact customer service for assistance.
Reviewers praise the excellent guides, communication, comfort, and organization of the tour, as well as the breathtaking views of the Perito Moreno Glacier.
Read our full review: Full Day Guided Tour Perito Moreno National Park and Glacier Review
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Travelers embarking on the Perito Moreno Glacier With Guide + GPS Navigation Travel can expect a comprehensive exploration of the renowned Los Glaciares National Park.
This tour features the Perito Moreno Glacier experience, guided by a bilingual expert from the National Parks. With a maximum capacity of 24 travelers, the tour ensures personalized attention throughout the day, which runs from 8:45 a.m. pickup to 4:30 p.m. drop-off.
Included in the tour are the bilingual guide, accommodation pick-up and drop-off, a comfortable air-conditioned/heated vehicle, the national park entrance fee, and food and drinks.
Cancellation is flexible, with a full refund available for cancellations made 24 hours in advance.
The tour has received an overall rating of 5.0 based on positive reviews, highlighting the exceptional experience provided.
Read our full review: Perito Moreno Glacier With Guide + GPS Navigation Travel Review
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Moreno Glacier Full Day With Guide
The Moreno Glacier Full Day With Guide tour offers visitors a comprehensive exploration of the renowned Perito Moreno Glacier within Los Glaciares National Park.
Travelers can expect timely confirmation of their booking and accessible facilities, including wheelchair and stroller accommodations. Service animals are permitted, and infants must sit on laps during the experience.
The tour is designed to cater to various needs, with a maximum of 19 travelers allowed per group. Detailed itineraries are provided upon booking, and additional services may be offered based on availability.
Cancellations made 24 hours in advance qualify for a full refund, but no refunds are available for cancellations within 24 hours.
Pricing for the tour starts at $120.00, subject to demand-based changes. Discounts may be offered for group bookings, and additional fees may apply for optional services.
Travelers can refer to the Viator website for more information and FAQs or contact customer support for immediate assistance.
Read our full review: Moreno Glacier Full Day With Guide Review
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Frequently Asked Questions
Is the Guided Tour Suitable for Children?
The guided tour can be suitable for children, depending on the specific tour and the children’s age and interests. Many tour operators offer family-friendly options with activities and information tailored to engage younger participants.
Can I Purchase Souvenirs at the Tour Locations?
Yes, visitors can typically purchase souvenirs at the tour locations. Many offer a variety of local crafts, artisan products, and other mementos to commemorate the experience.
What Should I Pack for the Hiking Tours?
When going on hiking tours, it’s best to pack layers of clothing, sturdy hiking boots, a backpack, water, snacks, sun protection, and any necessary medications. Bringing the right gear will ensure a comfortable and enjoyable experience on the trails.
Are There Any Age or Fitness Restrictions?
Many tour operators don’t have strict age or fitness requirements, but some activities may have limitations. Guests should check with their chosen tour provider to ensure the experience matches their abilities and interests.
Can I Take My Own Photography Equipment?
Most guided tours allow visitors to bring their own photography equipment. However, it’s best to check with the tour operator beforehand to ensure there aren’t any restrictions on the type or size of equipment allowed.
The Sum Up
El Calafate offers a range of guided tours to explore the stunning Perito Moreno Glacier. From day trips to multi-day treks, visitors can discover this natural wonder with the expertise of local guides. Whether you prefer a leisurely boat ride or an adventurous hike, there’s a tour to suit every preference and fitness level. With so many options, travelers can choose the best way to experience the awe-inspiring Perito Moreno Glacier.