Big Ice: Perito Moreno Glacier Ice Trek

Embark on one of Patagonia’s most intense and unforgettable glacier experiences with this full-day Big Ice adventure on the legendary Perito Moreno Glacier. Carefully designed for those seeking a true challenge, this excursion combines navigation, trekking, and ice exploration in a truly extraordinary natural setting.

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Your journey begins in El Calafate, followed by a scenic drive to Los Glaciares National Park, where your guides will share fascinating insights into the region’s glaciology, landscapes, and native ecosystems. Upon arrival at “Bajo de las Sombras” Port, located 70 km from town, you’ll board a boat for a 20-minute navigation across Lake Rico, sailing along the glacier’s dramatic south face.

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After disembarking, you’ll reach a mountain shelter where professional guides organize participants into small groups to ensure a safe and personalized experience. The adventure begins with a two-hour hike across the moraine, offering sweeping panoramic views of the glacier and surrounding forests—an ideal introduction to the scale and beauty of this environment.

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Before stepping onto the ice, guides will provide all necessary equipment, including crampons, helmets, and harnesses, along with essential safety instructions. Once on the glacier, the landscape transforms into a breathtaking frozen world of deep crevasses, blue lagoons, towering moulins, and shimmering ice caves.

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During approximately three hours on the ice, you’ll explore this ever-changing terrain while learning about its unique formations. Along the way, take in spectacular views of nearby peaks such as Dos Picos, Pietrobelli, and Cervantes, and enjoy a 30-minute break to have lunch surrounded by one of the most extraordinary natural settings on Earth.

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After completing the ice trek, you’ll return along the same route to the shelter and board the boat once again. Before heading back, enjoy a final navigation close to the glacier’s imposing south wall. The full experience lasts approximately 12 hours, including a guided visit to the glacier walkways, allowing for additional panoramic views. Travelers arriving independently can complete the excursion in around 7.5 hours.

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Because Big Ice takes place in a wild and dynamic environment, conditions vary daily—making each departure a truly unique encounter with one of the world’s most remarkable glaciers. Experience Patagonia at its most raw, powerful, and unforgettable.

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What should you bring?

• Wear warm and comfortable clothing, including a jacket, trekking or sports shoes, gloves, a wool hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen.

• Bring a backpack for personal items.

• Carry your own food and drinks, as none are available during the tour.

• National Park tickets must be presented at the entrance and can be purchased online or paid in cash (Argentine pesos).

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Important considerations before booking

Due to the high physical demand of this activity—featuring steep, uneven terrain and prolonged effort—the excursion is not suitable for the following individuals:

• People with obesity (BMI ≥ 30, according to World Health Organization standards).

• Pregnant travelers.

• Individuals with physical or cognitive conditions affecting mobility, coordination, or attention.

• Travelers under 18 or over 50 years old (no exceptions).

• People with a history of cardiac or vascular conditions, including stents, bypasses, pacemakers, or those taking anticoagulants.

• Individuals with respiratory diseases such as COPD, asthma, or emphysema.

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This demanding adventure is designed for those in excellent physical condition who are ready to fully immerse themselves in the power and beauty of Patagonia’s ice fields.