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Glaciar Tronador: A Thundering Spectacle of Ice and Stone

Experience the awe-inspiring Glaciar Tronador in Patagonia, where thundering icefalls meet breathtaking mountain vistas.

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Glaciar Tronador, nestled in the Andes Mountains on the border of Argentina and Chile, is a majestic glacier known for the thunderous sound of its calving ice. This natural wonder offers breathtaking views and a unique Patagonian experience.

A brief summary to Glaciar Tronador

  • Peulla, Puerto Varas, Los Lagos, CL

Local tips

  • Check weather conditions before visiting, as access can be restricted due to snow or ice.
  • Wear layers, as temperatures can change rapidly in the mountains.
  • Bring comfortable hiking shoes for exploring the trails.
  • Book tours or transportation in advance, especially during peak season.
  • Carry cash in Argentine Pesos for park entrance fees and other expenses.
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Getting There

  • Car

    From Bariloche, take Route 40 south for 35 kilometers until you reach the fork with provincial route 81, where the gravel road begins. After driving for a few kilometers along route 81 the road splits in two: To the right you reach the base of Tronador mount after about 40 kilometers of gravel road. Note the traffic restrictions: from 10:30 am to 2 pm only entrance to the hill, from 4 pm to 6 pm only exit from the hill, from 7:30 pm to 9 am two-way without restrictions. Parking is available at Pampa Linda near the base of the mountain.

  • Public Transport

    While there is no direct public transportation to Glaciar Tronador, you can take a bus from Bariloche to Pampa Linda during the summer months (December to March). Check with the Club Andino Bariloche for schedules and availability. From Pampa Linda, it's a short walk to the glacier viewpoints. Alternatively, consider a day tour from Bariloche which includes transportation.

  • Park Entrance Fee

    To access Glaciar Tronador, you must pay the Nahuel Huapi National Park fee. As of 2025, the fees are: Foreigners: 20,000 pesos; Argentine residents: 7,000 pesos; Provincial residents: 5,000 pesos; Children under 6 years old and senior citizens: free of charge. Purchase tickets from the official website of Parques Nacionales or at the park entrance (cash only).

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Discover more about Glaciar Tronador

Glaciar Tronador, part of the imposing Mount Tronador, stands as a natural border between Argentina and Chile, within the Nahuel Huapi and Vicente Pérez Rosales National Parks. Its name, derived from the Spanish word for 'thunderer,' perfectly captures the sound of ice breaking off its glaciers, a constant reminder of nature's power. Mount Tronador, an extinct stratovolcano, reaches a height of 3,470 meters (11,380 feet), dominating the surrounding landscape. The area is home to eight glaciers, including Ventisquero Negro, a unique black glacier caused by sediment mixing with the ice. Visitors can explore the area through various trekking routes, offering stunning views of the glaciers, forests, and waterfalls. Popular trails lead to the Otto Meiling refuge and the Castaño Overa Glacier viewpoint. The glacier's ever-changing landscape and the constant 'thundering' of icefalls create an unforgettable experience. However, warmer temperatures in the region are causing the glaciers to destabilize and retreat, making a visit to Glaciar Tronador a poignant reminder of the effects of climate change. Despite this, the area remains a stunning testament to the raw beauty and power of nature, offering a unique glimpse into the glacial landscapes of Patagonia.

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