El Calafate: Gourmet Upsala and Spegazzini Glaciers

Situated in the heart of Argentina’s Patagonia region, El Calafate offers visitors a chance to experience the breathtaking natural wonder of the Upsala and Spegazzini Glaciers. This gourmet journey combines scenic boat cruises, guided walks, and a luxury packed lunch, providing an immersive and unforgettable adventure amidst the region’s awe-inspiring landscapes. With stunning blue waters, majestic ice formations, and an opportunity to appreciate the local flora and fauna, this tour promises to leave a lasting impression on those seeking to explore the grandeur of Patagonia’s glacial wonders.

Good To Know

• Immersive tour showcasing the breathtaking Upsala and Spegazzini Glaciers, renowned for their vibrant blue hues and imposing ice walls.
• Cruise through the Upsala Canal for panoramic views and iceberg observation, providing a unique perspective of the glaciers.
• Guided walk at Puesto de Las Vacas to explore the local flora and fauna, enhancing the overall experience.
• Panoramic views of the glaciers from the Herminita Peninsula, offering a stunning natural backdrop.
• Luxury packed lunch included, adding a gourmet touch to the unforgettable glacial expedition.

Tour Overview

This immersive tour showcases the imposing ice walls and unique colors of the Upsala and Spegazzini Glaciers against bright blue waters in El Calafate, Argentina.

Travelers will journey by boat through the Upsala Canal, offering panoramic views and opportunities to observe icebergs.

The tour allows participants to experience the grandeur of these remarkable glaciers, renowned for their impressive ice formations and stunning natural beauty.

Whether you’re seeking an adventurous expedition or simply a chance to marvel at the majestic landscapes, this tour provides an unforgettable glimpse into the wonders of Argentina’s glacial region.

Itinerary and Activities

The tour begins with a transfer, where guests are picked up from selected hotels in El Calafate and transported to Paraje Punta Bandera, boarding the Maria Turquesa at the Private Port La Soledad at 9:00 AM.

Cruising aboard the Maria Turquesa, they pass through Punta Avellaneda and Boca del Diablo, reaching Spegazzini Glacier after two hours.

At Puesto de Las Vacas, guests disembark for a guided walk, observing the local flora and fauna, before continuing to Herminita Peninsula for panoramic glacier views.

The total tour time is approximately 5 hours.

Included in the Tour

The tour includes a boat trip among the icebergs near the Upsala and Spegazzini glaciers, as well as a cruise aboard the Maria Turquesa, offering a classic experience.

The tour also provides a luxury packed lunch. Plus, the package includes:

1. Transfer from selected hotels in El Calafate to the boarding location.
2. Guided walk at Puesto de Las Vacas, where visitors can observe the local flora and fauna.
3. Panoramic views of the glaciers from Herminita Peninsula.
4. A total tour duration of approximately 5 hours.

The tour is designed to showcase the impressive ice walls and unique colors of the Upsala and Spegazzini glaciers against the bright blue waters.

Excluded From the Tour

Aside from the inclusions mentioned, the tour excludes the entrance fee, which must be paid in cash or with a Visa card in Argentine pesos, as Mastercard isn’t accepted.

Plus, any optional gratuities for the crew aren’t covered.

The tour isn’t wheelchair accessible, though it’s stroller accessible with infant seats available.

With a maximum of 100 travelers per tour, most you will be able to join the experience.

Accessibility and Participation

The tour isn’t wheelchair accessible, though strollers can be brought along, and infant seats are available.

The maximum number of travelers per tour is 100, and most visitors are able to participate.

This tour offers several accessibility considerations:

1. Not wheelchair accessible.
2. Stroller accessible.
3. Infant seats available.
4. Maximum of 100 travelers per tour.

Tour Reviews and Ratings

This tour has received rave reviews from past participants, with a 5.0-star rating across 5 reviews on platforms like Viator and Tripadvisor.

Travelers have praised the impressive views, excellent navigation, and friendly crew service. One reviewer, Diego_S, described the experience as "impressive views and excellent navigation."

Another, MONICA_C, noted it was a "complementary experience for those who trekked." Reviewer luis_b found it "very interesting to see the enormous ice wall."

With free cancellation up to 24 hours prior, the tour offers an accessible and highly-rated way to explore the Gourmet Upsala and Spegazzini Glaciers in El Calafate, Argentina.

Booking and Cancellation Policy

Pricing for the El Calafate Glaciers tour starts from $299.00.

This tour has a free cancellation policy, allowing travelers to cancel up to 24 hours before the experience starts.

When booking, visitors can choose to add hotel pickup, which is included in the tour price.

The payment options for this tour are:

1. Cash or Visa in Argentine pesos.
2. Mastercard isn’t accepted.
3. Optional gratuities can be paid separately.
4. The tour has a maximum capacity of 100 travelers.

The El Calafate Glaciers tour provides an opportunity to explore the Upsala and Spegazzini glaciers, offering panoramic views and the chance to observe icebergs up close.

Exploring the Glaciers

What makes the El Calafate Glaciers tour such an immersive experience? Visitors can explore the impressive ice walls and unique colors of the Upsala and Spegazzini glaciers from the vantage point of a boat.

Cruising through the Upsala Canal offers panoramic views and the chance to observe icebergs up close. The guided walk at Puesto de Las Vacas allows travelers to appreciate the local flora and fauna.

Reaching the Herminita Peninsula provides sweeping vistas of the majestic glaciers. With a luxury packed lunch included, this tour combines natural wonders with thoughtful amenities, creating an unforgettable journey through the stunning landscapes of El Calafate.

Frequently Asked Questions

How Much Personal Gear Should I Bring for the Tour?

The tour doesn’t require extensive personal gear. Travelers should bring warm layers, comfortable walking shoes, and sun protection. The tour provides a packed lunch and transportation, so light day packs are recommended.

What Are the Typical Weather Conditions at the Glaciers?

The weather at the glaciers is typically cool and windy, with temperatures ranging from 5°C to 15°C. Visitors should dress in layers, including warm jackets and waterproof clothing, to stay comfortable during the boat tour and glacier exploration.

Are There Any Age Restrictions for This Tour?

The tour does not have any age restrictions. Infants are welcome, and child seats are available. Most travelers can participate in this experience, though it is not wheelchair accessible.

Can I Take Photographs During the Boat Cruise?

Yes, travelers can take photographs during the boat cruise. The tour overview mentions that the cruise provides "panoramic views and opportunities to observe icebergs", indicating that photography is encouraged throughout the experience.

Is There an Option to Extend the Tour Duration?

The tour doesn’t offer an option to extend the duration, which is approximately 5 hours. The itinerary includes a boat cruise, guided walk, and panoramic glacier views within the set timeline.

The Sum Up

Embarking on the gourmet glacier cruise in El Calafate offers visitors a truly immersive experience. The journey through the stunning blue waters and majestic ice formations is complemented by a guided nature walk and a luxury packed lunch, providing an unforgettable opportunity to savor the region’s natural beauty and culinary delights. This adventure promises breathtaking sights and unforgettable moments amidst the grandeur of nature.