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Lago Argentino: Patagonia's Majestic Iceberg Lake

Explore Patagonia's largest lake, witness colossal glaciers, and cruise amidst stunning icebergs on the turquoise waters of Lago Argentino.

Lago Argentino, the largest lake in Argentina, is a Patagonian jewel renowned for its stunning turquoise waters and the colossal glaciers that feed it. Located near El Calafate, it offers breathtaking views of icebergs and the surrounding snow-capped Andes, making it a must-see destination for nature lovers.

A brief summary to Lago Argentino

  • El Calafate, Santa Cruz Province, Z9405, AR

Local tips

  • Book boat tours in advance, especially during peak season, to ensure availability and the best prices.
  • Dress in layers, as the weather in Patagonia can change rapidly. Include waterproof and windproof outerwear.
  • Bring sunscreen and sunglasses, as the sun's reflection off the ice and water can be intense.
  • Consider purchasing a multi-day pass for Los Glaciares National Park if you plan to visit both the Perito Moreno Glacier and El Chalten.
  • Pack binoculars for enhanced viewing of the glaciers, wildlife, and surrounding landscapes.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    From the El Calafate city center, walking along the waterfront towards the lake offers scenic views. The distance to the closest accessible shore areas is approximately 2-3 km. This provides a free, easily accessible introduction to Lago Argentino's beauty. Note that specific lake access points may have varying terrain.

  • Public Transport

    Local buses connect El Calafate to various points around Lago Argentino, including the Perito Moreno Glacier within Los Glaciares National Park. A round-trip bus fare to the Perito Moreno Glacier is approximately 40,000-50,000 ARS. Check local bus schedules for the most up-to-date information.

  • Taxi/Ride-Share

    Taxis and ride-sharing services are readily available in El Calafate. A taxi ride from the city center to the shores of Lago Argentino will cost approximately 5,000-6,000 ARS. For longer distances, such as to the Perito Moreno Glacier, negotiate a fare in advance.

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Discover more about Lago Argentino

Lago Argentino, situated in the Santa Cruz province of Argentinian Patagonia, is a breathtaking spectacle of nature. Spanning 1,466 square kilometers, it ranks as Argentina's largest lake and South America's third largest. Its mesmerizing turquoise waters are fed by the meltwater of numerous glaciers, including the famed Perito Moreno, Upsala, and Spegazzini glaciers, all located within Los Glaciares National Park. The lake's unique color comes from the fine sediment, known as "glacial milk," produced by the grinding action of the glaciers. Icebergs of varying sizes and vibrant hues float serenely on the lake, creating a surreal and unforgettable landscape. Boat tours are a popular way to explore the lake, offering close-up views of the glaciers and the chance to witness dramatic ice calving events. Lago Argentino has a rich history of exploration. In 1873, sailor Valentín Filberg encountered the lake but mistakenly identified it as Lake Viedma. It wasn't until 1877 that Francisco Moreno correctly identified and named it Lago Argentino. Today, the lake is a major tourist destination, attracting visitors from around the globe who come to marvel at its stunning natural beauty and experience the raw power of Patagonia's glaciers.

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