Online Booking for Argentina National Parks

Buying park tickets online in Argentina is straightforward. You must use the official portal run by the government. The Administración de Parques Nacionales manages these sales. You will need your passport number for the transaction. The site usually accepts major international credit cards. It is better to book at least 48 hours before your visit. Sometimes the system can be slow during peak season.

Once you pay, you receive a PDF voucher via email. There is no need to print it if you have a smartphone. Just ensure your battery is charged for the park gate. Most entry points have scanners for digital codes. If you prefer paper, a printed copy works well too. Remember that prices can change throughout the year. Reviewing the Los Glaciares national park ticket prices 2026 helps with budgeting.

• Quick Pick (Best Overall): Perito Moreno Glacier walkways.
• Quick Pick (Families): Glaciarium Ice Museum.
• Quick Pick (Nature): Laguna Nimez Reserve.
• Quick Pick (Free/Low Cost): Glaciarium Shuttle (Free) or City Stroll.

12 Top Attractions Near Los Glaciares

El Calafate is the gateway to some of the world's most amazing ice features. This list includes the best spots to visit once you have your entry voucher. Each location offers a unique perspective on the Andean landscape. Many of these sites require a full day to truly appreciate. Make sure to wear layers as the wind can be very cold.

1. Name: Perito Moreno Glacier Walkways
   Type: sight
   Why go: This is a UNESCO World Heritage site. You see massive ice chunks fall into the lake.
   Best for: Photos and first-time visitors.
   Where: Península de Magallanes.
   Time: 4 hours.
   Cost: Park entrance fee.
   Getting there: Shuttle or car from El Calafate.
   Tip: Visit after 2 PM to avoid the morning tour crowds.
2. Name: Minitrekking on the Ice
   Type: experience
   Why go: It is a once-in-a-lifetime chance to walk on a glacier. You wear crampons and explore blue crevasses.
   Best for: Adventurers and fit hikers.
   Where: Perito Moreno Glacier east side.
   Time: 7-8 hours.
   Cost: Very high (includes gear).
   Getting there: Tour operator transport.
   Tip: Book several months ahead as slots fill fast.
3. Name: Safari Náutico Boat Tour
   Type: experience
   Why go: You sail within 300 meters of the ice walls. It provides a sense of scale you cannot get from land.
   Best for: Everyone, especially seniors or families.
   Where: Brazo Rico.
   Time: 1 hour.
   Cost: Affordable add-on.
   Getting there: Near the lower catwalks.
   Tip: Check our guide to boat tours El Calafate for the best companies.
4. Name: Glaciarium Ice Museum
   Type: museum
   Why go: Learn the science behind the ice. It is an educational and visual treat with high-tech displays.
   Best for: Rainy days or afternoon visits.
   Where: 6 km outside El Calafate.
   Time: 2 hours.
   Cost: Moderate.
   Getting there: Free shuttle from city center.
   Tip: Use the on-site Glaciobar where everything is made of ice.
5. Name: Spegazzini Glacier
   Type: sight
   Why go: It has the highest walls in the park, reaching 135 meters. It is accessible only by boat.
   Best for: Seeing the grandest ice formations.
   Where: Northern section of the park.
   Time: Full day.
   Cost: Nautical tour price.
   Getting there: Boat from Puerto Bandera.
   Tip: Look for the "Captain's Club" tickets for heated cabins.
6. Name: Upsala Glacier
   Type: sight
   Why go: This is one of the largest glaciers in South America. It is famous for its massive floating icebergs.
   Best for: Nature lovers and iceberg hunters.
   Where: Lake Argentino.
   Time: Full day.
   Cost: Expensive boat tour.
   Getting there: Private boat excursion.
   Tip: The boat often navigates through a field of blue ice.
7. Name: Laguna Nimez Reserve
   Type: nature
   Why go: A peaceful spot for birdwatching. You can often see flamingos at certain times of the year.
   Best for: Calm walks and birders.
   Where: Near Lake Argentino shoreline.
   Time: 1-2 hours.
   Cost: Cheap entrance fee.
   Getting there: Short walk from main street.
   Tip: Bring binoculars for a better view of the shore.
8. Name: Estancia Cristina
   Type: experience
   Why go: A historic ranch reachable only by water. It offers 4x4 tours and trekking.
   Best for: History buffs and rural views.
   Where: remote area of Lake Argentino.
   Time: 10-12 hours.
   Cost: High.
   Getting there: Ship from El Calafate.
   Tip: The museum at the ranch tells a great pioneer story.
9. Name: Los Glaciares Cat catwalks (Alternative Views)
   Type: experience
   Why go: Different levels of stairs offer varied angles. It helps you see the glacier's full width.
   Best for: Sightseeing.
   Where: Perito Moreno central area.
   Time: 2-3 hours.
   Cost: Park fee.
   Getting there: Part of a Perito Moreno glacier guide tour.
   Tip: The "inferior" circuit gives the best sound of cracking ice.
10. Name: El Chaltén (Day Trip)
    Type: day trip
    Why go: Known as the trekking capital of Argentina. It features the iconic Mount Fitz Roy peak.
    Best for: Serious hikers.
    Where: 3 hours north of El Calafate.
    Time: 12+ hours.
    Cost: Bus ticket or car rental.
    Getting there: Bus from El Calafate station.
    Tip: Spend a night there if you have time.
11. Name: Walichu Caves
    Type: sight
    Why go: See ancient rock paintings by the Tehuclche people. It offers great views of the lake.
    Best for: History and archaeology lovers.
    Where: 8 km from town center.
    Time: 1-2 hours.
    Cost: Moderate.
    Getting there: Taxi or bike rental.
    Tip: The walk along the lake to get there is beautiful.
12. Name: Avenida del Libertador
    Type: neighborhood
    Why go: This is the main street for shopping and dining. It has a lively Patagonian atmosphere.
    Best for: Souvenirs and dinner.
    Where: Downtown El Calafate.
    Time: 2 hours.
    Cost: Free to walk.
    Getting there: Center of town.
    Tip: Try the "Cordero Patagónico" (lamb) at a local parrilla.