The Majestic Southern Patagonian Ice Field: A Glacial Wonder

Getting There

• Car

  If you are traveling by car, start from the city of El Chaltén, which is a popular base for visiting the Southern Patagonian Ice Field. From El Chaltén, take Route 23 south for about 14 km until you reach the junction with Route 40. Turn left onto Route 40 and continue south for approximately 100 km. Look for signs indicating the turn-off to the Laguna Torre trailhead, where you can park your car. From here, you will need to hike approximately 11 km to reach the Southern Patagonian Ice Field area, which can take about 3-4 hours depending on your pace. Be prepared for changing weather conditions and carry enough water and snacks for the hike.

• Public Transportation

  For those using public transportation, you can take a bus from El Calafate to El Chaltén. Several bus companies operate this route, and the journey takes about 3 hours. Once in El Chaltén, you can either join a guided tour that includes transportation to the Southern Patagonian Ice Field or take a taxi to the Laguna Torre trailhead. If you choose the latter, the taxi ride will take around 20 minutes and will cost approximately 2000 ARS (Argentinian Pesos). From the trailhead, you will need to hike approximately 11 km to reach the ice field.

• Guided Tour

  An alternative way to visit the Southern Patagonian Ice Field is to book a guided tour from El Chaltén or El Calafate. These tours typically include transportation, a guide, and sometimes meals. They often cover the necessary permits and provide equipment for ice trekking if you plan to walk on the glacier. Prices for these tours can vary widely, typically ranging from 8000 ARS to 15000 ARS per person, depending on the inclusions and the season. Make sure to book in advance, especially during the peak tourist season.