The stunning Perito Moreno Glacier dominates El Calafate’s safari offerings, and I’m completely wowed by the access visitors get to this massive ice giant. After exploring dozens of options, the standouts are clear: The full-day boardwalk tours give you the best overall glacier views, while boat safaris bring you thrillingly close to the towering ice walls. My personal favorite is the Ice Crossing excursion – nothing beats actually hiking on the glacier with experienced guides.
The best tours keep groups small and include bilingual guides who really know their stuff. They’re well-organized and reasonably priced, considering the incredible experience you’re getting. I especially love how the nautical safaris position you just 400 meters from the glacier’s face – close enough to hear the ice cracking!
Let’s look at the top glacier tours I recommend after multiple visits to El Calafate.
Key Points
- The Nautical Safari Experience offers a unique perspective of Perito Moreno Glacier, with a boat ride within 400 meters of the glacier’s southern wall.
- Blue Safari Adventures provides an all-inclusive Ice Crossing experience in El Calafate, suitable for ages 6 to 70, with a maximum group size of 10.
- The Full Day Perito Moreno Glacier Tour provides excellent value for money, with a guided walk, boat cruise, and round-trip transportation, at a price of $260 per person.
- The Los Glaciares National Park Exploration Tour offers an 8-hour tour with panoramic views, a boat ride, and a glacier walking experience, priced at $452.40 per person.
- Safari Azul Tour provides a unique boat and walking tour of Perito Moreno Glacier, with National Park entry and optional transfers from El Calafate, priced at $240 per person.
Perito Moreno Glacier Full Day Tour With Optional Boat Safari
The Perito Moreno Glacier Full Day Tour with Optional Boat Safari offers an immersive experience for visitors to El Calafate. This full-day tour takes travelers to the renowned Perito Moreno Glacier, where they’ll explore walkways with stunning views of the glacier.
The tour includes professional bilingual guides, hotel pickup and drop-off, and a scenic drive to the glacier. Travelers can also opt for an optional boat cruise to get even closer to the glacier’s impressive ice formations.
With a maximum group size of 24, this tour provides an intimate and well-organized experience. Travelers consistently praise the knowledgeable guides and the overall quality of the tour.
Read our full review: Perito Moreno Glacier Full Day Tour With Optional Boat Safari Review
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For those who seek an even more immersive experience with the Perito Moreno Glacier, the Perito Moreno Nautical Safari offers a unique opportunity to navigate the glacier’s ice walls from the water.
Priced at $280 per person, this 8-hour tour includes a boat ride within 400 meters of the glacier’s southern wall, offering a dramatic front-row view of its calving.
Participants will also explore the Perito Moreno Footbridges for a guided walking tour. The tour includes transportation, entrance fees, and a provided lunch.
With year-round availability and a minimum of 2 participants required, this nautical safari provides an unparalleled perspective of one of Patagonia’s most awe-inspiring natural wonders.
Read our full review: Perito Moreno NAUTICAL SAFARI Navigation and FOOTBRIDGES Review
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A thrilling Blue Safari Experience awaits adventurous travelers in El Calafate, Argentina. Rated 5.0 with a 100% traveler recommendation, this tour offers an unforgettable hike along the coast to a glacier and a navigation back to the port.
Priced at $180 per person, the tour includes entrance to Los Glaciares National Park and transportation from most El Calafate hotels. Suitable for ages 6 to 70, the experience isn’t wheelchair-accessible and not recommended for travelers with back problems or pregnant women.
Participants must bring appropriate clothing and provide a photo of their passport for booking confirmation. With a maximum of 30 travelers, this non-refundable tour promises an exciting glacier adventure.
Read our full review: Blue Safari Experience: Hiking and Navigation on Glaciers Review
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Ice Crossing: Blue Safari Excursion
Embarking on a thrilling adventure, the Ice Crossing: Blue Safari Excursion offers travelers a captivating glimpse into the icy wonders of El Calafate.
This 8-hour tour whisks participants from El Calafate to the shores of Lago Rico, where they’ll board a boat for a 20-minute journey across the lake.
From there, a 2.5-hour guided hike along the glacier’s south wall awaits, offering breathtaking views of the vibrant blues and whites.
An optional transfer to footbridges provides 2 hours of panoramic sightseeing within Los Glaciares National Park.
With a limited group size of 10, this excursion promises an intimate and immersive glacier exploration experience.
Read our full review: Ice Crossing: Blue Safari Excursion Review
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Perito Moreno Glacier With Nautical Safari
Travelers looking to witness the grandeur of the Perito Moreno Glacier can opt for the Perito Moreno Glacier with Nautical Safari tour in El Calafate.
This tour offers a comprehensive experience, including a walk along the coast to the glacier and a navigation back to the port. With a maximum of 30 participants, the tour provides a regular service transfer, a tour guide, and all necessary inclusions like food, beverages, and national park tickets.
While reviews are mixed, the tour boasts an average rating of 5.0 out of 8 total.
Visitors should note that the tour isn’t wheelchair accessible, and the national park entrance fee may apply.
Read our full review: Perito Moreno Glacier With Nautical Safari Review
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Full Day Perito Moreno Glacier With Nautical Safari Private
For those seeking a more comprehensive and personalized experience, the Full Day Perito Moreno Glacier with Nautical Safari Private tour offers an exceptional opportunity.
Priced from $400 per person, this full-day excursion includes a guided tour of the Perito Moreno Glacier and a nautical safari on Lago Argentino.
Travelers will enjoy a scenic journey through Los Glaciares National Park, explore the glacier’s walkways, and witness the stunning ice calving from the Velo de Novia lookout.
With private transportation, a professional guide, and the entrance fee included, this tour provides a tailored and immersive experience for a full day of glacier exploration.
Read our full review: Full Day Perito Moreno Glacier With Nautical Safari Private Review
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Perito Moreno Glacier With Nautic Safari
This exceptional Perito Moreno Glacier with Nautic Safari tour offers a comprehensive exploration of one of Argentina’s most iconic natural wonders.
Priced from $148.58 per person, this small-group tour accommodates up to 18 travelers and includes a navigation through the Perito Moreno Glacier, national park tickets, lunch, and round-trip transportation.
With wheelchair and stroller accessibility, the tour is suitable for most travelers.
The overwhelmingly positive reviews, all rating the experience 5 out of 5 stars, praise the tour’s organization, guidance, and the glacier’s breathtaking beauty.
Flexible cancellation and rescheduling policies further enhance the convenience of this must-do activity for visitors to El Calafate.
Read our full review: Perito Moreno Glacier With Nautic Safari Review
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Frequently, the Calafate 4-Day Tour: Glaciers, Premium Navigation & Safari provides visitors to El Calafate with an immersive experience showcasing the region’s breathtaking natural wonders.
Priced from $1,190 per person, the 4-day tour includes glacier exploration, premium navigation, and a photographic safari. Highlights include a full day at the renowned Perito Moreno Glacier, an optional all-glaciers navigation in a VIP cabin, and a half-day photographic safari.
Travelers enjoy 3 nights of 4-star accommodation, select meals, and professional bilingual guides.
While the tour isn’t suitable for certain medical conditions, it operates from September to December, making it an ideal choice for those seeking an unforgettable Patagonian adventure.
Read our full review: Calafate 4-Day Tour: Glaciers, Premium Navigation & Safari Review
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El Calafate: Perito Moreno Glacier & Nautical Safari
Visitors to El Calafate often embark on the El Calafate: Perito Moreno Glacier & Nautical Safari, a comprehensive tour that showcases the region’s natural wonders.
Priced from $249 per person, the 9-hour excursion includes transportation, guided tours, and a nautical safari for closer glacier views. Guests can enjoy photo opportunities, hiking, and observing the glacier’s complex choreography.
The tour is available in English and Spanish, with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance. Based on 3 reviews, the tour earns an impressive 4.7/5 rating, with high marks for value, safety, service, and organization.
Travelers are advised to bring warm clothing and must provide personal details during booking.
Read our full review: El Calafate: Perito Moreno Glacier & Nautical Safari Review
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Los Glaciares National Park: Blue Safari
For a comprehensive exploration of Los Glaciares National Park, the Blue Safari tour offers an immersive experience. Priced from $365 per person, the tour departs at 8 AM and includes round-trip transfers, boat boarding, a coastal walk to the glacier, and access to the catwalks.
While the tour doesn’t include a walk on the Perito Moreno Glacier, it provides stunning views and an experienced guide. With a maximum group size of 10 travelers, the tour isn’t suitable for those with physical limitations or medical conditions.
Though the current price is considered high, the tour has received excellent reviews praising the hike and boat ride. Travelers should bring appropriate clothing for the climatic conditions.
Read our full review: Los Glaciares National Park: Blue Safari Review
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El Calafate: Blue Safari and Perito Moreno Glacier Tour
The El Calafate: Blue Safari and Perito Moreno Glacier Tour offers a comprehensive exploration of Los Glaciares National Park. Priced at $452.40 per person, this 8-hour excursion allows you to touch the famous Perito Moreno Glacier, take in panoramic views from the walkways, and enjoy a boat ride across Lago Rico.
While the tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off, National Park entry, and walking on the glacier, it excludes meals and personal expenses.
It’s important to note that this tour may not be suitable for young children, pregnant women, or those with mobility issues. Overall, it provides a well-rounded experience in this stunning glacial region.
Read our full review: El Calafate: Blue Safari and Perito Moreno Glacier Tour Review
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Safari Azul: Perito Moreno Boat + Walking Tour. Touch the Ice!
Safari Azul offers travelers a unique opportunity to explore the Perito Moreno Glacier up close.
This boat and walking tour takes guests to the edge of the glacier, where they can hike along the coast and even visit the footbridges for a closer look.
The tour departs from El Calafate, Argentina, and costs $240 per person. Transfers from El Calafate are optional, and the entrance fee to the National Park is an additional 12,000 CLP.
While food and drinks aren’t included, the tour accommodates up to 30 travelers and has been rated 5.0 out of 5 based on one review.
Guests should note that the tour isn’t wheelchair accessible and isn’t recommended for those with certain medical conditions.
Read our full review: Safari Azul: Perito Moreno Boat + Walking Tour. Touch the Ice! Review
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Perito Moreno Glacier and Boat Safari
Perito Moreno Glacier and Boat Safari
Set out on a 10-hour journey from Calafate to explore the magnificent Perito Moreno Glacier. The $224 per person tour includes a boat ride, round-trip transfers, and an English-speaking guide.
Depart at 9 AM, drive 40 kilometers along Lago Argentino, and discover the glacier’s breathtaking vistas. Walk along balconies for panoramic views before a 1-hour boat ride to observe the glacier’s ice walls and detachments.
The tour returns to Calafate around 4 PM. Reviewers praise the smooth pickup, well-organized schedule, and excellent guide, though some find the price high.
Bring comfortable shoes, warm clothes, and snacks for an unforgettable glacial adventure.
Read our full review: Perito Moreno Glacier and Boat Safari Review
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Blue Safari Excursion in Ice Crossing
For those seeking a unique glacial adventure, the Blue Safari Excursion in Ice Crossing stands out as an exceptional option in El Calafate.
This all-encompassing tour includes an air-conditioned vehicle, navigation, a guided walk, and lunch, as well as entry to the National Park. With a maximum of 10 travelers, the experience offers an intimate and personalized exploration of the area’s stunning glacial landscape.
However, it’s important to note that the tour may not be suitable for those with certain medical conditions or mobility limitations.
The Blue Safari Excursion promises an unforgettable journey amidst the ice and snow of El Calafate.
Read our full review: Blue Safari Excursion in Ice Crossing Review
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Full Day Perito Moreno Glacier With Nautical Safari
Exploring the breathtaking Perito Moreno Glacier is a must-do activity for visitors to El Calafate. The Full Day Perito Moreno Glacier with Nautical Safari tour offers an unparalleled opportunity to experience this natural wonder.
Priced from $260 per person, the 8-hour tour includes a guided walk along scenic boardwalks, a boat cruise near the glacier, and round-trip transportation from El Calafate.
Travelers can witness the awe-inspiring sight of ice calving into the lake, while enjoying hot beverages from the boat’s bar.
With a 4.7/5 rating based on 18 reviews, this tour provides excellent value for money and a thoroughly immersive experience.
Read our full review: Full Day Perito Moreno Glacier With Nautical Safari Review
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El Calafate: Blue Safari Los Glaciares Trekking Tour
Situated within the stunning expanse of Los Glaciares National Park, the Blue Safari Los Glaciares Trekking Tour offers adventurous travelers an immersive encounter with the region’s captivating glacial landscapes.
Priced from $385 per person, this 8-hour excursion includes a boat ride across Lago Rico, a trek across varied terrain, and the opportunity to touch the Perito Moreno Glacier’s ice wall.
With pickup included and free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, the tour caters to Spanish and English speakers.
While not suitable for young children or those with mobility issues, the trekking experience earns high marks for transportation, value, and visitor highlights like panoramic views and a packed lunch.
Read our full review: El Calafate: Blue Safari Los Glaciares Trekking Tour Review
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Frequently Asked Questions
Is Transportation Provided to and From the Safari Tours?
Most safari tours provide transportation to and from the safari sites. Guests are typically picked up from their accommodations and dropped off at the end of the tour. This convenient service is often included in the tour package.
What Is the Recommended Attire for the Safari Tours?
The recommended attire for safari tours typically includes comfortable, lightweight clothing, closed-toe shoes, and layers to account for changing weather conditions. Participants should also bring sun protection and any necessary medications.
Are There Any Age or Physical Fitness Requirements?
Most safari tours have age and physical fitness requirements. Children must typically be at least 8-12 years old, and participants should be reasonably fit to handle hiking and other activities. It’s best to check with the tour operator for specific policies.
Can the Tours Be Customized for Individual Preferences?
Many safari tour companies offer customized tours to accommodate individual preferences. Clients can often choose activities, duration, and focus areas to suit their interests and ability levels. Customization allows for a more personalized and enjoyable safari experience.
What Is the Cancellation Policy for the Safari Tours?
The cancellation policy for safari tours typically allows full refunds for cancellations made within 24-48 hours of the scheduled departure. Policies may vary by tour operator, so it’s best to check the specific terms before booking.
Recap
El Calafate offers a variety of safari tours that allow visitors to explore the stunning Perito Moreno Glacier. From full-day excursions with boat safaris to hiking and navigating on glaciers, there’s a tour to suit every traveler’s interests and fitness level. These tours provide an unforgettable opportunity to witness the natural beauty of this remarkable destination.