Explore the Majestic Parque Nacional Los Glaciares
Discover the stunning landscapes and unique glaciers of Parque Nacional Los Glaciares, a UNESCO World Heritage site in the heart of Patagonia, Argentina.
Parque Nacional Los Glaciares is a spectacular expanse of natural beauty located in Santa Cruz Province, Argentina. Spanning over 600,000 hectares, this national park is famed for its iconic glaciers, particularly the massive Perito Moreno Glacier, which is one of the few advancing glaciers in the world. The park's breathtaking scenery includes turquoise glacial lakes, rugged mountains, and dense forests, making it a haven for photographers and outdoor enthusiasts. As you traverse the well-marked trails, you will have the opportunity to witness the vibrant flora and fauna that call this park home, including the elusive Andean condor and the endangered South Andean deer. The park also features numerous viewpoints where visitors can marvel at the striking blue hues of the glaciers and listen to the thunderous sounds of ice calving into the water below. Beyond hiking, Parque Nacional Los Glaciares offers various activities such as boat tours that navigate close to the glaciers, allowing for an up-close encounter with these majestic ice formations. Visitors can also engage in kayaking, trekking, and even ice climbing for the more adventurous souls seeking a unique experience in the rugged wilderness of Patagonia. The park's remote location adds to its charm, offering a sense of tranquility that is hard to find elsewhere. Remember to pack appropriately for the varying weather conditions, and take the time to immerse yourself in the stunning landscapes that have earned this park a place on the UNESCO World Heritage list. Whether you're looking for a serene escape into nature or an adrenaline-pumping adventure, Parque Nacional Los Glaciares is sure to leave an indelible mark on every traveler's heart.
Local tips
- Visit early in the morning or late afternoon for fewer crowds and the best lighting for photography.
- Dress in layers, as the weather can change rapidly in the park.
- Bring binoculars for bird watching; the park is home to a variety of unique bird species.
- Consider hiring a local guide for an in-depth understanding of the park's ecology and history.
- Check for boat tour schedules in advance, as they can fill up quickly during peak season.
A brief summary to Parque Nacional Los Glaciares
- Santa Cruz Province, AR
- +54290249-1005
- Visit website
Getting There
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Car
Start your journey from Punta Arenas, the capital of the Magallanes Region. Take Route 9 north towards Puerto Natales. This scenic drive will take approximately 3 hours (approximately 250 km). Once you reach Puerto Natales, continue on Route 9 until you reach the junction with Route 5 (Carretera Austral). Follow the signs towards El Calafate, Argentina. After crossing the border into Argentina and going through customs, continue on Route 40 until you reach the entrance of Parque Nacional Los Glaciares, which is well-marked. Be aware that entry fees apply, and it's advisable to have cash in Argentine pesos for this purpose.
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Public Transportation
From Punta Arenas, take a bus to Puerto Natales. The bus ride takes about 3 hours and costs around CLP 15,000. Once in Puerto Natales, you can catch another bus heading to El Calafate, Argentina. This journey takes approximately 5 hours and costs around ARS 3,000. After arriving in El Calafate, you will need to take a local taxi or shuttle service to the entrance of Parque Nacional Los Glaciares. Ensure you check the bus schedules in advance, as they may vary seasonally.
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Taxi or Rideshare
If you're looking for a more direct route, consider hiring a taxi or rideshare service from El Calafate to the park entrance. This option is more expensive, typically costing between ARS 5,000 to ARS 10,000, but provides convenience and flexibility in your schedule. Be sure to agree on a fare before starting your trip, and confirm with the driver that they can take you directly to the entrance of Parque Nacional Los Glaciares.
Attractions Nearby to Parque Nacional Los Glaciares
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Baia de Toro
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Los Glaciares National Park
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Bahía Ameghino
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Glaciar Spegazzini
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Since cows
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Canal de los Témpanos
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Perito Moreno Glacier
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Puerto F. P. Moreno
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Iceberg Canal
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Glaciar perito Moreno sector norte
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Mirador Perito Moreno
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Perito Moreno Glacier Walkways
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Glaciar Perito Moreno
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Mirador Primer Balcón
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Perito Moreno Glacier Base
Landmarks nearby to Parque Nacional Los Glaciares
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Estancia Tierras Patagonicas
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EOLO - Patagonia´s Spirit
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Mount Murallón
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Campground Los Perros (Vertice)
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Balcones de El Calafate
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Calafate Anfiteatro Aparts
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Visit Patagonia
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Vagones de la Patagonia
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Calafate Parque Hotel
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Los Glaciares, Intendencia National Park
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Calafate Tours
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Solo Patagonia
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Zona Patagonia
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Calafate Viejo
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Patagonia Extrema