The Perito Moreno Glacier (a valley glacier) is located within the Los Glaciares National Park, on the shore of Lago Argentino about an hour and a half drive from El Calafate. The Perito Moreno Glacier flows down 22km skirting the Federico Reichert range in front of the Magallanes Peninsula, between Canal de los Tempanos and the south branch of Lago Argentino.
Even from afar, the Perito Moreno Glacier is an awesome sight, due to its sheer magnitude. It stretches 5km across Lago Argentino and 30km back into the mountains. Its walls tower 60 vertical metres above the milky green water of Lago Argentino. At this height, equivalent to a 15-20 storey building, the glaciers holds a commanding presence. From the viewing platform you can see the intense blue that radiates from within, the spiky white peaks and the brown streaks of sediment that snake through the marble like ice.
The most notable feature about the Perito Moreno Glacier is its dynamic and ever-changing facade. Unlike nearly every other glacier on the planet, which recede and dwindle in size, Perito Moreno is an active glacier. It advances up to 2m a day, as the ice swells and expands outwards, gradually occupying more and more territory. Due to its continual advancement you’re sure to witness it calve if you wait long enough. Crowds anxiously wait to hear a thundering rumble just before a huge chunk of ice breaks away and splashes into the lake, displacing large amounts of water in each direction. This natural phenomenon makes viewing the glacier all the more unpredictable and exciting. It’s an unforgettable experience. But to truly appreciate Perito Moreno, you need to get on top of it. It really is a very memorable day out.
Glacier trekking (or ice-hiking) is the most first-hand way to experience the Perito Moreno formation. By trekking across the icy surface, you’ll feel the chill of Patagonia, hear the roar of falling ice blocks, and see beautiful vistas of Lago Argentino. At the end of the trek, guides often crack the glacial ice and pour over a blend of scotch and Perito Moreno ice drink, and if you’re lucky they might throw in some chocolate truffles.
The guides will also give you a full explanation of equipment such as the crampons and training advice before the hike across the glacier, so don’t worry if you’ve never ice-trekked before, most people haven’t!
(NB. children under the age of 8 are not usually permitted on ice-trekking excursions).
There are also a number of boat excursions that allow you to observe the vastness of the Perito Moreno Glacier but without actually setting foot on the ice’s surface. While the boat will maintain a safe distance from the glacial walls, you’ll still experience the exhilarating feel of rocky waters caused by the icy debris falling from the glacier. Atop a turquoise sea of chilly waters spotted with countless icebergs, your journey can last anywhere from a single hour to an entire day.
If you want to do something a little bit special, follow Charlotte’s advice and visit Perito Moreno after hours. You will have the glacier to yourself and the thundering sounds of the ice crashing into the water will create a rather spooky and magical atmosphere.
Swoop offers several trips from 4 days to 26 days, with prices ranging from £599 – £2,890. Find a Perito Moreno adventure that’s right for you!