Perito Moreno Glacier, is an impressive sight spanning a whopping 250km squared. The sounds of the ice cracking and crashing into the glacial waters below is certainly grand. It may only be the third largest glacier in Argentina but it is arguably the most famous. But with a cost of $45 per person is it worth the visit?
El Calafate
El Calafate is the gateway town to the famous Perito Moreno Glacier in Pareque Nacional Los Glaciares. The town itself is a vibrant place with tree lined streets resting on the shore of Lago Argentina. With many breweries, hotels and eateries for all budgets it’s a great holiday retreat or stop on your journey. The Glacier is 77km drive from El Calafate and there are many busses available for transport from the town.
Perito Moreno Glacier
We were very excited to visit the breath taking glacier along Route 40, but the $90 entrance fee (for the two of us) seemed a little pricey for our budget. Considering most of the national parks are asking the same entrance fee, we really need to be picky on where we choose to visit as we simply can’t afford to do it all.
Entering the national park to reach Perito Moreno Glacier there is a short drive snaking through the hills with glimpses of Lago Argentina and the Glacier in the distance. It is a nice drive but depending the time of day could potentially be very busy. We arrived at the park two hours before closing so the roads were quiet, however on the drive to the national park we saw countless busses on their way back to El Calafate.
Arriving later in the day worked very much in our favour as it was much quieter and we were able to park in the top carpark at the start of the trail. This is also where the cafe and gift shop is.
There are several trails available, including a wheelchair friendly route to a view point mid-way down. All the trails were very easy on boardwalks and the longest trail was roughly 30 minutes return.
Though the dramatic scenes of the glacier were striking with it’s spectacular size and glacial blue colours we were a little disappointed with the trails themselves. Several viewpoints are offered, each one getting a little closer but still pretty much the same view. I must admit we were expecting a little more from the national park.
Of course we don’t regret visiting Perito Moreno Glacier, it is certainly a beautiful place, we are just unsure if it is worth $90. Not exactly budget friendly. The Glacier is absolutely worth a visit, especially for those who are interested in such a natural beauty. But personally we were disappointed with the price tag attached.
Let us know your thoughts!
Hints and tips
- To avoid crowds head to the park either early morning or later in the day
- Concession rates are available for residents of Argentina, elderly, children and students
- Treks out onto the ice and boat rides are available- book in advance
- Following the initial entrance fee, you can then get a discounted rate entering the national park next time
- The cafe and tourist shop closes early- if you arrive later in the day check the closing times to not be disappointed
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