Glaciar Upsala, El Calafate Travel Guide

Experience the grandeur of Glaciar Upsala, one of Patagonia's largest glaciers, with stunning ice formations and breathtaking landscapes.

Glaciar Upsala, one of the largest glaciers in Los Glaciares National Park, is a breathtaking spectacle of ice and nature. Named after Sweden's Uppsala University, it flows from the Southern Patagonian Ice Field into Lake Argentino, showcasing stunning ice formations and a dramatic landscape. Witness its grandeur on a boat tour and marvel at the surrounding mountains and icebergs.

A brief summary to Glaciar Upsala

El Calafate, Santa Cruz Province, Z9405, AR

From Eve

Know before you go

Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring Glaciar Upsala.

Book a boat tour in advance, especially during peak season (November to March), to ensure availability.
Wear warm, layered clothing as the weather on the lake can be unpredictable and cold.
Bring sunscreen and sunglasses to protect yourself from the intense Patagonian sun reflecting off the ice.
Consider a tour that includes a visit to Estancia Cristina for a more comprehensive Patagonian experience.
Be prepared for potential tour cancellations due to weather conditions, and check the refund policy when booking.

Do you manage this location?

Take control to get all the benefits, like improved information, better appearance, and stronger visibility across AI-powered discovery. Learn more

Activate your presence

Other nearby places you may find interesting

The closest places of the same kind, if this one is not quite what you had in mind.

Argentine Toy Museum

Plaza de Los Pioneros

Pickup for Glacarium

Punto panorámico

Reserva Laguna Nimez

Explore Glaciar Upsala on the Map

A handpicked selection of must-see spots near Glaciar Upsala, mapped for you.

Getting There

Boat Tour

The primary way to access Glaciar Upsala is via a boat tour from El Calafate. These tours typically depart from Puerto Bandera, located 47 km (29 miles) from El Calafate. Several tour operators offer full-day excursions that include transportation to and from the port, a boat trip on Lake Argentino, and views of the Upsala Glacier. From El Calafate, take a shuttle or taxi to Puerto Bandera. Shuttle services can be booked through various tour agencies in El Calafate. The boat tour navigates through the Upsala Channel, offering views of icebergs and surrounding glaciers. Some tours include a visit to Estancia Cristina, with 4x4 and trekking options for closer views of the glacier. Typical costs for the final approach: * Shuttle from El Calafate to Puerto Bandera: ARS 51,000 (round trip). * Entrance fee to Los Glaciares National Park: ARS 45,000 per person (subject to change). * Full-day boat tour: ARS 219,000 - ARS 390,000 per person, depending on the tour and inclusions.

Discover more about Glaciar Upsala

Glaciar Upsala, located in Argentina's Los Glaciares National Park, is a massive valley glacier renowned for its stunning beauty and significant size. Covering approximately 870 square kilometers and stretching 60 kilometers in length, it is one of the largest glaciers in South America. The glacier's name honors Uppsala University in Sweden, which sponsored early glaciological studies in the region.Formed by the Southern Patagonian Ice Field, Glaciar Upsala flows into Lake Argentino, creating a landscape dotted with colossal icebergs. These icebergs, calved from the glacier's face, drift in the milky waters, presenting a surreal and unforgettable sight. The glacier has been in retreat since it was first documented in 1810, a phenomenon often cited as evidence of climate change.Visiting Glaciar Upsala offers a unique opportunity to witness the power and fragility of nature. Boat tours from El Calafate provide access to the glacier, navigating through the Upsala Channel and offering panoramic views of the ice formations. Some tours include visits to nearby Estancia Cristina, providing a glimpse into Patagonian rural life and offering trekking opportunities with unique viewpoints of the glacier.