Currency & Money: Perito Moreno Glacier

The 'dólar blue' is an unofficial, parallel exchange rate for foreign currency (like USD or EUR) in Argentina. It typically offers significantly more pesos per foreign dollar than the official rate. As a tourist, paying with credit/debit cards often accesses a very favorable 'MEP' rate, which is close to or even better than the blue dollar. For cash needs, Western Union or informally exchanging USD bills usually yields a better rate than ATMs or official exchange houses.

In El Calafate (your base for the glacier), most hotels, larger restaurants, supermarkets, and official tour operators accept credit and debit cards (Visa, MasterCard predominantly), often at a favorable MEP rate. However, cash is crucial for smaller shops, some local eateries, taxis, and particularly for the Perito Moreno Glacier National Park entrance fee. Always carry sufficient cash.

ATMs are available in El Calafate but can be unreliable. They often have very low withdrawal limits (e.g., $50-100 USD equivalent per transaction in ARS) and charge high fees, both from the local bank and your home bank. They also frequently run out of cash, especially on weekends or holidays. It's best to use ATMs for emergencies only and rely on card payments or bringing USD/EUR for exchange.

For car rentals, major credit cards are universally accepted and typically required for both payment and the security deposit. For fuel, most larger service stations accept credit cards, which will process at the advantageous MEP rate. However, it is always wise to carry cash (pesos) as a backup, especially in more remote areas or smaller stations where card machines might be offline or cash is preferred due to exchange rate complexities.

The most advantageous method for obtaining ARS cash is via Western Union, where you send money to yourself and pick up pesos at a rate close to the 'dólar blue'. For direct purchases, using your credit or debit card often gives you an excellent 'MEP' exchange rate. Avoid using ATMs for large withdrawals due to high fees and low limits, unless it's an absolute emergency.

While card payments are sometimes accepted, it is highly recommended to bring sufficient Argentine Pesos in cash for the Perito Moreno Glacier National Park entrance fee. Card machines can be unreliable or offline at the entrance, and having cash ensures smooth entry without delays. Check current rates before your visit, expect around 20,000-30,000 ARS per person for foreigners in 2026, subject to change.

The main route to Perito Moreno Glacier from El Calafate generally does not have toll roads. However, if you are driving extensively through other parts of Patagonia or Argentina, be aware that some routes do have tolls. These are almost exclusively paid in local currency (Argentine Pesos) cash. Credit cards are very rarely accepted for tolls.

For a day trip, bring enough cash for the National Park entrance fee (check current rates, around 20,000-30,000 ARS per person for foreigners in 2026, subject to change), snacks/drinks, small souvenirs, and tips for your guide if applicable. A conservative estimate would be 30,000 - 50,000 ARS per person, in varying denominations, to be safe. Always have extra small bills.