Glaciers in Patagonia: 4 reasons Why The Perito Moreno is Unique in this world

I’ve said it once; I’ll say it a million more times – There is nothing quite like Patagonia. The kind people, the delicious cuisine, the rich culture, the places to stay, and the imposing landscapes…. It’s one of my favorite regions in the world, and I’m lucky to be able to say that. So far, I’ve explored over ten times Patagonia and its different regions….

Imagine being face to face with this impressive mass of Ice…

Monumental view of the Perito Moreno glacier, Patagonia, Argentina - 📸 Eolo Lodge

Yes…this is one of the most unusual natural occurrences on the planet…One of the most stunning places I’ve seen in my life.

For places like this it is worth traveling to the end of the world 🙌

Navigate to where you want to go: Glaciers in Patagonia

1. Some Facts about the Perito Moreno

2. Why is the Perito Moreno Unique

2.1 Glaciers in Patagonia: Perito Moreno size and colors

2.2 Glaciers in Patagonia: Perito Moreno activity

2.3 Glacier in Patagonia: Perito Moreno freshwater

2.4 Glaciers in Patagonia: Perito Moreno proximity 

3. Glaciers in Patagonia: Perito Moreno Local tips for Hiking

4. Save this post

First, Some facts about the Perito Moreno Glacier in Patagonia

Los Glaciares National Park in Argentina Patagonia is home to the Perito Moreno glacier. The park is located near El Calafate, roughly 78 kilometers to the west of this Patagonian city, and is slightly less than two hours by ground transportation.

Getting there: El Calafate has a small but modern airport with several daily non-stop flights to and from Buenos Aires (3.5 hours), operated by Aerolineas Argentinas. 

Where to Stay: Stay at Eolo Lodge, a small corner of paradise in Patagonia.  This luxury spot set near El Calafate, Argentina is perfect not only as a base to visit the phenomenal Perito Moreno Glacier but as a place to relax completely, star-gaze, and disconnect. And the perfect place to stay to avoid the crowds that usually visit the glacier!

When to go: the most popular season in El Calafate is summer, so expect it to be crowded and have higher prices. If you travel during the summer, try to visit the park early in the morning after it opens or before the park close to avoid the crowds. I wouldn’t recommend visiting during the low season (winter) as it’ll be freezing and many activities and hotels are closed.  The best time to visit is during the shoulder season. ( September-December/ march-may )  Prices will be more reasonable, and you’ll enjoy all that The region has to offer without the hoards of tourists.

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Read More: Unique Accommodation in Patagonia You Will Never Want to Leave

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But, why I'm telling you that the Perito Moreno Glacier in Patagonia is unique?

👉 It’s Very Big

At over 3 miles in width, it boasts an impressive height of 240 feet above the surface of Lago Argentino and reaches a total depth of 558 feet below the water’s surface.

👉 It's Active and Growing

Glacier Perito Moreno is one of only three glaciers that grows rather than retreat. It’s advancing, moving forward around 2 meters a day. But the most interesting about Perito Moreno is how active it is. It manages to replace anything that it loses by creating an equal amount of new glacier ice at the top as much as it breaks off from it at the bottom.

So, be ready for Showtime; the glacier walls constantly break off, providing quite a show when it happens!

👉 It's freshwater

The Perito Moreno glacier is the third-largest freshwater reserve after Antarctica and Greenland.

👉 You will be face to face with the Glacier

It’s not very often you can see one of the fascinating attractions in nature up close and personal. The glacier's proximity to land makes it easily accessible for visitors of all ages and modalities…

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READ MORE : Everything you could want to know about planning a trip to Patagonia and Visiting El Calafate & El Chalten. Read Here 🤍

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If you plan to visit Patagonia, Visiting the Perito Moreno glacier in Patagonia is a top priority.

The combination of the size, the possibility of seeing it all so convenient, and the bonus of the crashing walls of ice taking place before your eyes makes it a unique place in this world.

It's a mind-blowing experience. 

Clara Barciela

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Our LOCAL EXPERTS NOTES regarding the Mini trekking Experience

Dolores and Alex traveled to Patagonia in march with us and shared this stunning video from their mini trekking experience in the Perito Moreno Glacier.

Don't miss their video 👉 👉

⭐️ WHO IS THIS EXPERIENCE FOR

Everybody! You will need to walk for 1.5 hours at a leisurely pace. There are some hills, but most people will find the experience very easy and enjoyable.

⭐️ AGE RESTRICTION

If you are  10-65 years old, you can participate in glacier mini trekking. If you don't fit this age and are active- don't worry - there are other not-to-miss experiences you can do in El Calafate - we have all planned for you

⭐️ THE EXPERIENCE

A scenic 30 minutes boat cruise right next to the glacier, with amazing views.  3-hour trekking on the glacier and the woods. One-hour visit to the Perito Moreno Boardwalk.

⭐️ DURATION OF EXPERIENCE Approximately 9.30 hours - it's long but worth each minute.

⭐️ WHEN YOU CAN DO IT

From July 15th to May 31st.

⭐️ DIFFICULTY

It is an easy hike in the woods and parts on the ice. So, no trekking experience is required! It is highly safe as long as they have a moderate fitness level.

⭐️ IMPORTANT TIP

Make sure you book ahead in the high season (December to April).

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