One of the few advancing glaciers in the world, a vast wall of blue ice that visitors can watch calve dramatically into a lake.
One of the World's Few Advancing Glaciers
A relatively stable mass balance, unlike most shrinking glaciers.
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About Perito Moreno Glacier
The Perito Moreno Glacier, part of the UNESCO-listed Los Glaciares National Park, is one of the few glaciers in the world that is still advancing rather than retreating, its massive wall of blue-tinged ice stretching roughly 5 kilometres wide and rising up to 70 metres above Lake Argentino. Unlike many of the world's shrinking glaciers, Perito Moreno maintains a relatively stable mass balance, periodically advancing far enough to form a natural ice dam across the lake before dramatically collapsing in a process known as 'rupture'.
Visitors can observe the glacier from an extensive network of balconies and walkways directly facing its towering ice face, often rewarded with the thunderous sound and sight of large chunks of ice calving and crashing into the lake below. For a more immersive experience, guided ice trekking excursions, known as 'minitrekking' or 'big ice', allow visitors to walk directly on the glacier's surface wearing crampons, exploring its crevasses and striking blue ice formations up close.
Why Visit Perito Moreno Glacier?
Local story
Good to Know
Perito Moreno Glacier suits families, couples, groups and nature lovers, for a stay of 2 to 3 days based from the nearby town of El Calafate. The viewing balconies offer excellent views without requiring any hiking, making the glacier accessible to visitors of all fitness levels.
Ice trekking excursions require booking in advance and typically include a boat transfer across part of the lake before beginning the guided walk on the ice itself.
How to Reach Perito Moreno Glacier
- 01
Pakistan to Buenos Aires
Fly from Islamabad, Lahore or Karachi to Buenos Aires, usually with connections through a European or Middle Eastern hub. Check current routes, visa requirements and book early.
- 02
Buenos Aires to El Calafate
Take a direct domestic flight, about 3 hours, to this Patagonian gateway town.
- 03
El Calafate to the Glacier
Take a road transfer, about 1.5 hours, into Los Glaciares National Park.
- 04
Explore
Walk the viewing balconies, and join an ice trekking excursion if booked.
Things to Do in Perito Moreno Glacier
Best Time to Visit Perito Moreno Glacier
Excellent
Spring and Summer
October to March
Warmer temperatures and longer daylight hours, ideal for viewing and trekking.
Recommended season
Good
Autumn
April
Cooler but still generally good conditions for a visit.
Good time to visit
Good
Winter
May to September
Cold, with shorter daylight hours, though the glacier remains a dramatic sight.
Good time to visit
Travel smart
Travel Tips for Perito Moreno Glacier
A few useful things to know before you go there.
Book Ice Trekking in Advance
Popular excursions have limited daily capacity.
Allow Time at the Viewing Balconies
Ice calving events can happen unpredictably, so patience rewards visitors.
Dress Warmly
Even in summer, Patagonian weather can turn cold and windy quickly.
Base Yourself in El Calafate
The most convenient town for accessing the national park.
Bring a Camera
The glacier's scale and colour are major photographic highlights.
Wear Sturdy Shoes for Trekking
Crampons are provided, but good footwear underneath matters.
Carry Cash and Cards
Both are accepted at the park entrance and in El Calafate.
Nearby Attractions
Location
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Explore Perito Moreno Glacier in Argentina and get directions easily.
Perito Moreno Glacier
Argentina
Frequently Asked Questions
It is one of the few advancing glaciers in the world, part of Los Glaciares National Park in Argentine Patagonia.
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