Planning Your El Calafate Glacier Kayaking Adventure

Seeing the ice from a kayak is a bucket-list experience for many. Most tours take place right in front of the Perito Moreno Glacier. You do not need previous experience to join these guided groups. The water is freezing, so the tour operators provide dry suits. These suits keep you warm and dry if you splash or fall. Always listen to your guide regarding safety distances from the ice.

The weather in Patagonia changes very quickly. Most Perito Moreno glacier guides recommend booking early. High winds can often lead to tour cancellations for safety. If your tour is cancelled, try to reschedule for the next day. Morning slots usually offer the calmest waters for paddling. This allows for the clearest reflections of the blue ice on the lake.

Costs for kayaking are higher than standard boat tours. However, the small group sizes make the price worth it. You will spend about 1.5 hours on the water. Most packages include transport from your hotel in El Calafate. You should also check if the Los Glaciares park entrance fee is included. Usually, you must pay this fee separately at the park gate.

11 Must-Do Experiences in El Calafate for 2026

El Calafate offers more than just ice. You can find wildlife, history, and great food. Here are the top items for your itinerary.

• Quick picks: Best overall is El Calafate glacier kayaking. Best for families is the Glaciarium museum. Best free activity is the Laguna Nimez hike.

1. Name: Perito Moreno Kayak Tour
   Type: experience
   Why go: To paddle safely among floating icebergs near the glacier face.
   Best for: Adventure seekers.
   Where: Los Glaciares National Park.
   Time: 2-3 hours on-site.
   Cost: High ($150-$250 USD).
   Getting there: Tour van from El Calafate.
   Tip: Wear thermal underwear under your dry suit.
2. Name: Minitrekking on the Ice
   Type: activity
   Why go: Walk on top of the glacier using metal crampons.
   Best for: Active travelers.
   Where: Perito Moreno South Side.
   Time: Half-day.
   Cost: Moderate to high.
   Getting there: Booked tour transport.
   Tip: Bring sunglasses to protect your eyes from the bright ice.
3. Name: Spegazzini Glacier Cruise
   Type: sight
   Why go: To see the highest glacier walls in the entire park.
   Best for: Photographers.
   Where: Lake Argentino.
   Time: Full day.
   Cost: Moderate.
   Getting there: Spegazzini Glacier boat tours leave from Puerto Bandera.
   Tip: Upgrade to the VIP deck for better views and snacks.
4. Name: Laguna Nimez Reserve
   Type: nature
   Why go: See pink flamingos and over 80 species of birds.
   Best for: Nature lovers.
   Where: Edge of El Calafate town.
   Time: 1-2 hours.
   Cost: Low.
   Getting there: Short walk from main street.
   Tip: Use the Laguna Nimez reserve tips to spot the best birds.
5. Name: Glaciarium Ice Museum
   Type: museum
   Why go: Understand glaciology through interactive screens and an ice bar.
   Best for: Rainy days.
   Where: 6km outside town.
   Time: 2 hours.
   Cost: Moderate.
   Getting there: Free shuttle from the city center.
   Tip: Visit the official Glaciarium site for shuttle times.
6. Name: Cerro Frías 4x4 Tour
   Type: experience
   Why go: Panoramic views of the Andes and Lake Argentino.
   Best for: Families.
   Where: Near the park entrance.
   Time: 4 hours.
   Cost: Moderate.
   Getting there: Tour pickup.
   Tip: Book sunset for the best lighting.
7. Name: Walichu Caves
   Type: sight
   Why go: View ancient rock paintings overlooking the lake.
   Best for: History buffs.
   Where: 7km from El Calafate.
   Time: 1 hour.
   Cost: Low.
   Getting there: Bike or taxi.
   Tip: The Walichu Caves rock art guide explains the local history.
8. Name: Avenida del Libertador
   Type: neighborhood
   Why go: Shop for leather goods and eat authentic Patagonian lamb.
   Best for: Foodies.
   Where: Town center.
   Time: Flexible.
   Cost: Free to walk.
   Getting there: Central location.
   Tip: Try the "Calafate berry" ice cream at local shops.
9. Name: Estancia 25 de Mayo
   Type: experience
   Why go: Watch a traditional sheep shearing demo and eat dinner.
   Best for: Cultural immersion.
   Where: Near the town edge.
   Time: 4 hours.
   Cost: Moderate.
   Getting there: Walk or shuttle.
   Tip: Check our estancia tour guide for booking options.
10. Name: El Chaltén Hiking
    Type: day trip
    Why go: Visit the hiking capital of Argentina for views of Mt Fitz Roy.
    Best for: Hikers.
    Where: 3 hours north.
    Time: Full day.
    Cost: Moderate.
    Getting there: Local bus or tour.
    Tip: Read about El Chalten day trips before you go.
11. Name: La Leona Petrified Forest
    Type: day trip
    Why go: See 70-million-year-old dinosaur fossils and petrified logs.
    Best for: Science enthusiasts.
    Where: Halfway to El Chaltén.
    Time: Full day.
    Cost: Moderate.
    Getting there: Guided tour only.
    Tip: The wind here is very strong; bring a buff.

Incredible Nearby Trips From El Calafate

While El Calafate is great, the surrounding area offers more wonders. The most popular excursion is to the town of El Chaltén. It is known as the National Hiking Capital. You can walk to the base of Mount Fitz Roy in a single day. The drive takes about three hours through the vast Patagonian steppe. Keep an eye out for guanacos along the road.

Another fascinating stop is the La Leona Petrified Forest. This lunar landscape feels like another planet. You can see ancient wood turned into stone over millions of years. This trip often includes a stop at the historic La Leona Roadhouse. Renowned outlaws like Butch Cassidy once stayed there. It is a perfect mix of history and geology.

For those interested in local life, visit a traditional ranch. Many visit Argentina to see Gaucho culture. These ranches show you how locals live in this harsh climate. You can enjoy a massive barbecue called an asado. It is the best way to end a day of exploring. Most ranches are just a 15-minute drive from the city.

Essential Travel Tips for Argentine Patagonia

The weather is the biggest factor in your trip planning. Patagonia is famous for its sudden and very strong winds. You should dress in layers to stay comfortable throughout the day. A high-quality windbreaker is essential for any outdoor activity. Even in summer, temperatures can drop near the glaciers. Always carry a warm hat and gloves in your daypack.

Entry to the national park requires a ticket. You can buy these at the entrance or online. According to National Park management, keep your ticket for the second day. You usually get a discount for a consecutive visit. Make sure to check the latest park hours before heading out. Most people spend at least two full days inside the park area.

Booking your El Calafate glacier kayaking should happen weeks in advance. These tours have very small group limits. If you wait until you arrive, they may be full. High season runs from November to March each year. Prices are higher during this time, but the weather is better. Traveling in the shoulder season can save you money.