The Perito Moreno glacier
El Calafate
El Calafate · Gateway to the great glaciers
GlaciersPatagoniaNature
On the edge of the Patagonian steppe, El Calafate exists for one astonishing sight — the Perito Moreno glacier, a vast wall of blue ice that calves into a milky lake. It is the base for exploring Los Glaciares National Park.
Top sightsSights
01
Perito Moreno Glacier
A colossal advancing glacier with boardwalk views.
02
Los Glaciares NP
A UNESCO park of ice fields and peaks.
03
Glacier boat trips
Cruises to the faces of remote glaciers.
04
Ice trekking
Crampon walks on the surface of Perito Moreno.
05
Laguna Nimez
A birding reserve with flamingos on the edge of town.
What to eatFood
Cordero al palo
Patagonian lamb grilled on a stake.
Calafate berry
The local berry made into jams and desserts.
Trucha patagonica
Regional trout, often smoked.
Good to know
- Give the glacier a full day and dress for cold wind.
- El Chalten, the trekking capital, is 3 hours north.
- Book ice trekking and boat trips in advance.
Getting there
El Calafate Airport (FTE) links to Buenos Aires and Ushuaia; the glacier is about 80km away.
Next city
Ushuaia