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Travel Tips: Perito Moreno Glacier

Witness the awe-inspiring Perito Moreno Glacier, a colossal ice formation in Patagonia, Argentina, renowned for its dramatic calving events and accessible viewpoints.

6 min readUpdated for 2025–2026 Season
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The Perito Moreno Glacier, located in Los Glaciares National Park near El Calafate, Argentina, is one of Patagonia's most iconic and dynamic natural wonders. Unlike many glaciers, it is advancing, offering visitors incredible opportunities to observe its massive ice walls and hear the thunderous roars as ice breaks off into Lago Argentino. This guide provides essential tips for a safe, enjoyable, and unforgettable visit to this incredible Patagonian marvel.

Tips by Category

💡

Dress in Layers

Critical

Patagonian weather is notoriously unpredictable. Even in summer, temperatures can drop, and winds can be strong. Dress in multiple layers, including a waterproof and windproof outer shell, warm base layers, and a hat and gloves.

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Book Ice Trekking Tours in Advance

Critical

If you plan to do the 'Mini-Trekking' or 'Big Ice' excursions (walking on the glacier), book these well in advance, especially during peak season (November to March). Spots are limited and fill up quickly.

💰

Bring Cash for Park Entrance

Critical

The entrance fee for Los Glaciares National Park is often required in Argentine Pesos (ARS) cash only for foreigners. Check current rates and bring sufficient cash.

🏥

Protect Against Sun and Wind

Important

Even on cloudy days, the sun's reflection off the ice can cause severe sunburn. Bring high SPF sunscreen, sunglasses, and lip balm. Strong winds are common, so secure hats and personal items.

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Utilize All Viewing Platforms

Helpful

The network of boardwalks offers various perspectives of the glacier. Take your time to explore them all; each viewpoint provides a unique angle and photo opportunity.

💡

Pack Snacks and Water

Helpful

While there are a few cafes at the park, prices can be higher and options limited. Bring your own water and snacks to stay hydrated and energized during your visit.

💡

Charge Your Devices

Important

Ensure your camera, phone, and power banks are fully charged. You'll be taking many photos and videos, and power outlets are scarce.

Safety

Safety Rating:Safe

Perito Moreno Glacier and Los Glaciares National Park are generally very safe for tourists. The main risks involve natural elements like unpredictable weather, strong winds, and sun exposure. Always stay on marked paths and platforms, especially near the glacier, and follow all instructions from park rangers or tour guides.

Emergency Numbers

General Emergency (Police, Fire, Ambulance)911

Common Scams

  • !While rare at the glacier itself, general tourist scams like inflated taxi fares, pickpocketing in crowded areas (like bus terminals in El Calafate), and counterfeit money exchanges can occur in Argentina. Always use official services and be vigilant with your belongings.

Money

Currency

Argentine Peso (ARS)

ATMs Available

Yes

Card Acceptance

Credit and debit cards are widely accepted in El Calafate's larger restaurants, hotels, and tour agencies. However, smaller shops, some tour operators, and importantly, the national park entrance often prefer or require cash. ATMs are readily available in El Calafate but can sometimes run out of cash or have high fees.

Tipping

Tipping is customary in Argentina. For restaurants, a 10% tip for good service is appreciated. For tour guides, a small tip (e.g., ARS 1000-2000 per person for a full-day tour) is common. For taxi drivers, rounding up the fare is typical.

Exchange Tips

It's advisable to bring US Dollars (USD) as they are widely accepted for exchange at better rates than official bank rates in many places in El Calafate. Exchange houses (casas de cambio) or some hotels can offer good rates. Always check current rates and count your money carefully. Ensure you have smaller denominations of ARS for park entrance and minor purchases.

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Language

Main LanguageSpanish
English Levelmoderate

Useful Phrases

PhraseMeaning
HolaHello
GraciasThank you
Por favorPlease
Cuánto cuesta?How much does it cost?
Dónde está...?Where is...?
BañoBathroom
AdiósGoodbye
PermisoExcuse me (to pass)

Connectivity

Cell Coverage

Cell phone coverage is generally good within El Calafate but becomes very limited or nonexistent once you enter Los Glaciares National Park and approach the Perito Moreno Glacier. Major carriers like Claro, Movistar, and Personal offer the best coverage.

WiFi Availability

Wi-Fi is widely available in hotels, guesthouses, and many restaurants and cafes in El Calafate. At the Perito Moreno Glacier itself, Wi-Fi is generally not available, except possibly in the main visitor center or restaurants for a fee.

SIM Card Advice

Purchasing a local SIM card (chip) from Claro, Movistar, or Personal in El Calafate is recommended for reliable local data and calls, especially if you plan to travel extensively in Argentina. You'll need an unlocked phone and your passport for registration.

Cultural Etiquette

  • 1Argentinians are generally warm and friendly. A handshake is a common greeting, and friends often greet with a 'beso' (a single kiss on the cheek).
  • 2Patience is key; things might operate on a more relaxed schedule than you are used to.
  • 3Always ask for permission before taking photos of people.
  • 4Environmental awareness is important in the national park; stick to marked trails and do not litter.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

  • ✕Underestimating the weather: Many visitors don't bring enough warm or waterproof clothing, leading to discomfort.
  • ✕Not booking tours in advance: Popular excursions like ice trekking sell out quickly, especially during high season.
  • ✕Forgetting cash: The park entrance fee often requires cash, and many smaller vendors or remote services only accept cash.
  • ✕Ignoring sun protection: The sun's rays reflecting off the ice are intense, leading to easy sunburn.
  • ✕Rushing the visit: Allow ample time (at least half a day) to explore all the boardwalks and witness multiple calving events.
  • ✕Not packing snacks and water: Limited and expensive options are available at the park.

Driving Advice

The road to Perito Moreno Glacier (Ruta Provincial 11) from El Calafate is paved and well-maintained, making for an easy 1.5-hour drive. However, strong Patagonian winds can make driving challenging, so maintain a firm grip on the steering wheel. Fuel stations are available in El Calafate, but not at the glacier itself, so fill up before you leave. There is ample paid parking available at the national park entrance and near the viewing platforms. Be aware of speed limits and wildlife crossings.

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