Standing at the edge of Patagonia, El Calafate serves as the perfect home base for exploring Los Glaciares National Park. The town’s top tours focus on two absolute must-sees: the magnificent Perito Moreno Glacier and Torres del Paine National Park. I especially love the full-day Perito Moreno tours that combine boardwalk viewing with mini-trekking on the ice – it’s a perfect mix of adventure and accessibility. For more active travelers, the multi-day Patagonia circuits are worth every peso, offering intimate encounters with glaciers, wildlife, and those iconic mountain peaks.
The small-group horseback rides through the Patagonian steppe are charming and authentic, while glacier kayaking provides a humbling perspective of these massive ice formations. Every tour I’ve taken here features well-informed local guides who know their stuff.
Let’s look at my favorite tours and their specific highlights…
Key Points
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Perito Moreno Glacier tours offer guided ice trekking and boat trips, providing visitors with close-up views of this iconic Patagonian glacier.
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Patagonia Adventure Tours from El Calafate to Ushuaia combine glacier climbing, hiking, and canoeing, offering a comprehensive exploration of the region.
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Horseback riding tours in the Estancia 25 De Mayo Nature Reserve provide a unique opportunity to experience Patagonian culture and scenery.
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Glacier navigation and kayaking tours allow visitors to explore the waterways surrounding glaciers, offering stunning photography opportunities.
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Guided tours in Los Glaciares National Park emphasize small group sizes, personalized attention, and interactive experiences with local flora and fauna.
Full-Day Tour to the Torres Del Paine National Park
Departing from El Calafate, this full-day tour whisks travelers into the heart of Chile’s renowned Torres del Paine National Park.
Highlights include the Grey Glacier, Grey Lake, and the iconic Salto Grande waterfall, all accompanied by stunning alpine landscapes.
With round-trip transport and a provided lunch, this tour offers an efficient and comprehensive introduction to the park’s natural wonders.
While the long travel times may limit time spent exploring, the knowledgeable bilingual guides work to optimize the experience.
With positive reviews and free cancellation, this tour provides an excellent opportunity to discover the beauty of Torres del Paine.
Read our full review: Full-Day Tour to the Torres Del Paine National Park Review
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Puerto Natales: Full Day Tour Torres Del Paine National Park
Travelers seeking to explore the renowned Torres del Paine National Park can embark on a full-day tour from the nearby town of Puerto Natales.
Priced from Kč 3,312 per person, the 10-hour tour includes hotel pickup, a professional bilingual guide, and entrance fees to the park and Milodón Cave.
Highlights include the Grey Lake viewpoint, a walk along the Grey Lake shore, and visits to Salto Grande waterfall and the Nordenskjold Lake viewpoint.
While not suitable for pregnant women or wheelchair users, the tour offers free cancellation and the option to reserve without upfront payment.
Read our full review: Puerto Natales: Full Day Tour Torres Del Paine National Park Review
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13-DAY Best of Patagonia Tour From El Calafate to Ushuaia: Los Glaciares, Torres Del Paine and Tierra Del Fuego National Parks
This expansive 13-day Patagonia tour takes travelers on a captivating journey from El Calafate to Ushuaia, showcasing the region’s remarkable natural wonders.
Explore the iconic Los Glaciares, Torres del Paine, and Tierra del Fuego National Parks through activities like glacier-climbing, mountain hikes, and canoeing.
With 12 nights of comfortable accommodations, daily breakfasts, and transportation, the tour provides a comprehensive experience.
Though communication and transportation issues have been noted, reviews praise the itinerary, organization, and highlights like the Perito Moreno Glacier and Beagle Channel.
For $2,450 per person, this Patagonia adventure offers unparalleled access to the area’s stunning landscapes and wildlife.
Read our full review: 13-DAY Best of Patagonia Tour From El Calafate to Ushuaia: Los Glaciares, Torres Del Paine and Tierra Del Fuego National Parks Review
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Horseback Riding Experience in the Estancia 25 De Mayo Nature Reserve
Nestled within the captivating Estancia 25 De Mayo Nature Reserve near El Calafate, the Horseback Riding Experience offers travelers a unique opportunity to explore the region’s striking canyons and rolling mounts.
Rated 5.0 from 22 reviews, this 4-hour adventure features a 3-hour horseback ride led by knowledgeable guides.
With a maximum group size of 6, guests can enjoy stunning scenery, delicious Creole meals, and a glass of wine.
Though not recommended for those with medical conditions or limited riding experience, the tour provides the perfect blend of adventure and comfort for intermediate equestrians.
With free cancellation and a pay-later option, this is a must-try activity for nature lovers visiting El Calafate.
Read our full review: Horseback Riding Experience in the Estancia 25 De Mayo Nature Reserve Review
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Full Day Guided Tour Perito Moreno National Park and Glacier
Setting out on a full-day guided tour of Perito Moreno National Park and Glacier from El Calafate, Argentina, allows visitors to enjoy the breathtaking landscape of one of the region’s premier natural wonders.
The tour, priced at ARS$45,000 per non-resident Argentine, includes admission to the national park and a varied lunch menu with vegan and gluten-free options.
Accommodating up to 24 travelers, the tour features hotel pickup and English/Spanish-speaking guides praised for their knowledge and communication skills.
While not wheelchair accessible, the tour is stroller-friendly and welcomes service animals.
With free cancellation up to 24 hours prior and a 5.0 rating based on 5 reviews, this guided experience offers a seamless and memorable way to explore the awe-inspiring Perito Moreno Glacier.
Read our full review: Full Day Guided Tour Perito Moreno National Park and Glacier Review
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National Park – Perito Moreno Glacier – (Optional Nautic Safari)
The tour to Los Glaciares National Park and the Perito Moreno Glacier offers visitors a chance to witness one of the most breathtaking natural wonders in Patagonia.
During this full-day excursion, travelers will journey along the Patagonian Steppe and Magellanic forest, enjoying stunning vistas before arriving at the glacier.
Once there, they can explore the area on foot, marveling at the towering ice walls. For those seeking an even more immersive experience, an optional Nautic Safari is available.
The tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off, as well as a professional guide, though some past visitors have reported issues with transportation and lack of guidance.
Read our full review: National Park – Perito Moreno Glacier – (Optional Nautic Safari) Review
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For travelers seeking a more immersive adventure in Los Glaciares National Park, the Trek and Navigation tour offers an exhilarating experience.
This advanced hiking tour from El Calafate takes explorers on a 6-hour trek through ancient landscapes, including a boat cruise on Lake Roca and a hike around Lake Frias.
Along the way, guests can witness the stunning Cubo, Grande, and Dickson glaciers while enjoying a scenic box lunch.
With a maximum group size of 15, the tour provides an intimate and personalized experience led by expert multilingual guides.
Suitable for moderately fit travelers, the Trek and Navigation tour is available from October to April, starting at $350 per person.
Read our full review: Adventure Trek and Navigation in Los Glaciares National Park Review
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Travelers seeking a comprehensive exploration of the glaciers within Los Glaciares National Park will find the Full Day Tour Navigating Through the Glaciers an exceptional choice.
This full-day tour provides a seamless experience, with convenient in-out transportation and navigation through the park’s magnificent glaciers. Highlights include walking along the Perito Moreno catwalks and landing at the Spegazzini Refuge.
The tour accommodates a maximum of 10 travelers, ensuring a personalized experience. Pricing starts from $340 per person, with a lowest price guarantee, though no refunds are available for cancellations.
Operated by Que Hacer en Buenos Aires, this tour receives excellent reviews, making it a top pick for an unforgettable glacial adventure.
Read our full review: Full Day Tour Navigating Through the Glaciers of the National Park Review
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Kayak Experience in Los Glaciares National Park
Venturing beyond the Perito Moreno catwalks, the Kayak Experience in Los Glaciares National Park offers an immersive exploration of the park’s magnificent glaciers.
Operated by Que Hacer en Buenos Aires, this tour provides a double kayak, transportation, and specialized equipment for up to 16 participants. Priced from $700 per person, the experience includes the national park entrance fee, which can cost up to $14,000 for adults.
While not wheelchair accessible, the tour requires a moderate fitness level. Confirmation is received within 48 hours, though the policy is non-refundable in case of cancellation.
Read our full review: Kayak Experience in Los Glaciares National Park Review
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El Calafate: Full-Day Tour to Torres Del Paine National Park
Departing from El Calafate, this full-day excursion to Torres del Paine National Park in Chile provides an immersive exploration of the park’s stunning landscapes.
Operated by Gray Line Argentina, the tour includes an air-conditioned vehicle, box lunch, and English and Spanish-speaking guide.
Travelers will have the opportunity to admire the park’s iconic peaks, glaciers, and lakes, with the entrance fee to the park covered.
While not wheelchair accessible, the tour requires a moderate level of physical fitness.
With a maximum of 10 travelers, this tour offers a personalized experience.
According to a recent 5-star review, it’s an “excellent experience” with great photos and knowledgeable guides.
Read our full review: El Calafate: Full-Day Tour to Torres Del Paine National Park Review
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Sum Up
El Calafate offers a variety of exciting national park tours, from day trips to multi-day adventures. Visitors can explore the stunning landscapes of Torres del Paine, Perito Moreno, and Los Glaciares National Parks, experiencing activities like hiking, horseback riding, and kayaking. With so many options, travelers can tailor their Patagonian adventure to their interests and fitness level, ensuring an unforgettable experience in this remarkable region.