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Los Glaciares National Park: A Patagonian Ice Age

Explore the stunning glaciers, mountains, and lakes of Los Glaciares National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage site in Argentinian Patagonia.

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Los Glaciares National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage site in Argentina's Santa Cruz province, is a breathtaking landscape of glaciers, mountains, lakes, and forests. Established in 1937, the park protects a vast area including the Southern Patagonian Ice Field, one of the largest continental ice masses. The iconic Perito Moreno Glacier is a highlight, known for its dynamic calving events.

A brief summary to Parque Nacional Los Glaciares

  • Monday 8 am-4 pm
  • Tuesday 8 am-4 pm
  • Wednesday 8 am-4 pm
  • Thursday 8 am-4 pm
  • Friday 8 am-4 pm

Local tips

  • Wear layers, as the Patagonian weather can change rapidly. Be prepared for wind, rain, and sunshine all in one day.
  • Book accommodations and tours in advance, especially during peak season (November to March).
  • Bring sunscreen and sunglasses, as the sun reflects strongly off the ice and snow.
  • Stay on marked trails to protect the fragile environment and ensure your safety.
  • Check the park's website for current conditions, trail closures, and safety information.
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Getting There

  • Car

    From El Calafate, take Ruta Provincial 11 west for 80 km (50 miles) to the Perito Moreno Glacier. The drive takes approximately 1.5 hours. The road is mostly paved, with a few unpaved sections near the end. Parking is available near the glacier, with separate areas for general and accessible parking. Parking is free.

  • Bus

    Several bus companies offer daily services from El Calafate to the park. The bus terminal in El Calafate is located at C. 510 87. The bus ride takes about 1.5 hours to reach the Perito Moreno Glacier. A round-trip bus ticket costs approximately $18 (USD). Check schedules with Taqsa Marga, 12Go, or Chaltén Travel. Remember to factor in the park entrance fee.

  • Taxi

    Taxis and 'remises' (private car services) are available in El Calafate. A taxi to the Perito Moreno Glacier averages $70 (USD) for two people, $75 (USD) for three, and $100 (USD) for four. Negotiate the price and duration beforehand. The park entrance fee is not included. The journey takes around 1 hour and 19 minutes.

Unlock the Best of Parque Nacional Los Glaciares

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Discover more about Parque Nacional Los Glaciares

Los Glaciares National Park, located in the southwest of Santa Cruz province, is Argentina's largest protected area, spanning 7,269 square kilometers. Created in 1937, the park was established to preserve a vast region of glaciers, subantarctic forests, and Patagonian steppe. UNESCO recognized it as a World Heritage Site in 1981. The park's name comes from the numerous glaciers fed by the Southern Patagonian Ice Field, the largest ice field in the Southern Hemisphere outside of Antarctica. This massive ice field sustains 47 large glaciers, with 13 flowing into the Atlantic Ocean. The erosive power of these glaciers has shaped the landscape, creating U-shaped valleys now filled by Viedma and Argentino Lakes. The Perito Moreno Glacier is the park's most famous attraction, known for its constant movement and dramatic icefalls. Visitors can witness massive chunks of ice breaking off and plunging into the turquoise waters. Other notable glaciers include Upsala and Spegazzini, accessible by boat from El Calafate. The park also features towering mountains like Mount Fitz Roy and Mount Torre, making it a haven for climbers and trekkers. Los Glaciares National Park offers diverse activities, including ice trekking, sailing, hiking, climbing, and fishing. Visitors should wear appropriate trekking footwear, especially on the Perito Moreno Glacier walkways.

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