Los Glaciares National Park was created in 1937 and named a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1981. Covering more than 726,000 hectares, over 30% of the park is covered by ice fields and glaciers connected to the Southern Patagonian Ice Field, the third-largest continental ice mass on Earth.
These glaciers have been forming for millions of years and remain constantly active, shifting, cracking, and reshaping the landscape in real time.
Los Glaciares National Park is divided into two distinct regions. To the south lies the legendary Perito Moreno Glacier and the town of El Calafate. To the north rise the dramatic peaks of the Andes, including Mount Fitz Roy and the mountain village of El Chaltén, widely known as Argentina’s trekking capital.
PERITO MORENO GLACIER IS NATURE’S MOST SPECTACULAR SHOW
The Perito Moreno Glacier is one of the few glaciers in the world that continues to advance rather than retreat. It moves forward approximately two meters per day while massive chunks of ice break away from its face and crash into the waters below. Its front wall stretches nearly three miles wide and rises about 240 feet above Lake Argentino.
And then there is the glacier’s most extraordinary event, one that no one can predict with certainty. As the glacier moves, it eventually reaches the Magallanes Peninsula, blocking the Brazo Rico section of the lake. The pressure from the trapped water creates a difference in water levels of up to 30 meters, until the ice barrier dramatically collapses in what is known as “the rupture.” The most recent major rupture occurred in March 2024 and no one knows when the next one will happen.
Small ice ruptures happen every single day. That’s what makes every visit to Perito Moreno completely unique and impossible to repeat.
HOW TO EXPERIENCE THE GLACIER DEPENDING ON THE TYPE OF TRAVELER YOU ARE
Los Glaciares National Park offers several ways to experience the glacier, depending on the type of adventure you’re looking for.
- 🚶 Panoramic walks: The park’s network of panoramic walkways stretches between 4 and 5.5 kilometers across multiple levels, with scenic viewpoints overlooking the entire face of the Perito Moreno Glacier. No special equipment or advanced fitness level is required, making it ideal for all types of travelers.
- 🚢 Glacier boat safari: This one-hour boat excursion navigates along the glacier’s northern wall through the Iceberg Channel, bringing visitors within just a few hundred meters of the ice face. Admiring the glacier from the water offers a completely different and unique perspective.
- 🧊 Mini ice-trekking: This hike lasts around 90 minutes and it allows you to walk directly on the glacier wearing crampons. Suitable for visitors between the ages of 10 and 65 with a moderate fitness level. Without a doubt, it’s one of the most memorable ways to experience Patagonia.
SO MUCH MORE TO EXPLORE BEYOND THE GLACIER
One of the biggest mistakes travelers make is thinking this is all abut the glacier.
To the north of the park, El Chaltén is known as Argentina’s trekking capital, with trails leading to the base of Mount Fitz Roy and Cerro Torre, two of the most photographed granite peaks in the world. The trails are free to access and range from easy half-day hikes to challenging multi-day adventures for experienced trekkers.
it’s also worth staying a few extra days at El Calafate, there you can visit the Laguna Nimez Reserve, where flamingos and other birds are commonly spotted. Patagonia’s cuisine deserves its own spotlight, Patagonian lamb, fresh trout, wild berries, and an impressive selection of Argentine wines surprise all type of travelers. Learn more about our members’ favorite destinations
WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW BEFORE VISITING PATAGONIA
The best time to visit Los Glaciares National Park is between October and April, when temperatures are milder and roads are easier to navigate. Southern Hemisphere autumn that goes from March through May, is especially appealing since there’s less people and a nice temperature.
Keep in mind that Patagonia’s weather is very unique, so follow these tips:
- 🧥 Pack thermal layers, a waterproof jacket, and comfortable walking shoes
- ☀️ Conditions can shift from sunshine to strong winds and rain in a matter of hours
- 📅 Reserve glacier trekking excursions in advance, as availability fills up quickly
- ✈️ El Calafate has an international airport with direct flights from Buenos Aires, getting there in around three hours
YOUR STARTING POINT IN PATAGONIA
Argentine Patagonia is massive, and choosing the right spot to stay can completely change your experience. Located in San Carlos de Bariloche, Hotel Aldea Andina sits among pine, cypress, and larch forests overlooking Lake Nahuel Huapi, and it is the best spot to easily get to all the activities during the year.
This hotel combines comfort, relaxation, and nature with amenities including a spa, jacuzzi, heated indoor pool, and the best local Patagonian cuisine.
From Bariloche, travelers can continue their route toward El Calafate and Los Glaciares National Park, or spend additional time exploring the lakes, forests, and mountains surrounding the city.
For Royal Holiday members, Vacation Credits can be used toward your stay at Hotel Aldea Andina, making it easier to plan excursions, glacier trekking experiences, and customized Patagonia itineraries. Through Royal Travel, flights and transfers can also be arranged with your membership benefits.
SOME JOURNEYS LIVE BEYOND THE CAMERA ROLL
Patagonia is more than a destination, it’s the kind of journey that leaves a lasting impression.
Whether you’re drawn by the glaciers, the mountains, the hiking trails, or simply the scale of the landscape itself, this is a trip that can be tailored to every travel style.
Discover more destinations on our website, follow along on social media for inspiration, or connect with your Holiday Advisor to start planning your perfect Patagonia adventure.