Situated in the southern Andes of Argentina’s Santa Cruz Province, Los Glaciares National Park is a mesmerizing natural wonderland of towering ice fields, jagged peaks, turquoise lakes, and rare wildlife. Spanning over 7,200 square kilometers, it is the largest national park in Argentina and a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1981.
The park is globally recognized for its stunning glaciers, especially the famous Perito Moreno Glacier, one of the few glaciers in the world that is still advancing. But there’s more to Los Glaciares than just ice: pristine forests, iconic trekking routes, and the granite spires of Mount Fitz Roy make it a dream destination for nature lovers and adventure seekers alike.
Where is Los Glaciares National Park?
Located in the Argentinian region of Patagonia, Los Glaciares National Park is divided into two main sections:
- Southern Sector: Home to the Perito Moreno Glacier and Lago Argentino, with El Calafate serving as the main gateway town.
- Northern Sector: Known for Mount Fitz Roy, Lago Viedma, and the hiking village of El Chaltén.
Both regions offer distinct experiences and should be included in a full tour of the park.
Top Attractions in Los Glaciares National Park
1. Perito Moreno Glacier
The star attraction, Perito Moreno is a 30 km-long glacier that frequently calves massive ice blocks into Lake Argentino. There are viewing platforms, guided glacier hikes, and boat tours that bring visitors up close to its towering ice walls.
2. Mount Fitz Roy
Located near El Chaltén, this iconic peak offers some of the best hiking and climbing in South America. The Laguna de los Tres hike provides a close view of Fitz Roy and is considered a must-do for trekkers.
3. Lago Argentino
Argentina’s largest freshwater lake, known for its vivid blue color and boat excursions that explore remote glaciers such as Upsala and Spegazzini.
4. El Chaltén
A picturesque trekking town in the northern sector, ideal for exploring Laguna Capri, Laguna Torre, and Glacier Piedras Blancas trails.
5. Flora & Fauna
The park is home to guanacos, condors, foxes, woodpeckers, and endangered species like the Andean deer (huemul). Native forests of ** lenga beech and ñire trees** add color to the rugged landscape.
Best Time to Visit Los Glaciares National Park
- Spring to Early Fall (October to April): Best time for trekking, boat tours, and glacier viewing. December to February is peak season, with longer days and warmer temperatures.
- Winter (May to September): Limited access, cold weather, and reduced services, but offers peaceful solitude and snow-covered scenery.
How to Get to Los Glaciares National Park
Via El Calafate (Southern Sector):
- By Air: Flights from Buenos Aires to El Calafate Airport (FTE).
- By Bus: Regular routes from major Patagonian towns.
- By Car: Scenic drives connect El Calafate with the park’s southern entrances.
Via El Chaltén (Northern Sector):
- Bus or car from El Calafate (3 hours drive, approx. 220 km).
- No airport, but well-connected by road.
Things to Do in Los Glaciares National Park
🧊 Glacier Trekking
- Try a mini-trekking or Big Ice tour on the Perito Moreno Glacier with crampons and expert guides.
🥾 Hiking & Mountaineering
- Laguna de los Tres, Laguna Torre, and Loma del Pliegue Tumbado are top trails.
- Fitz Roy and Cerro Torre are popular among advanced climbers.
🛶 Kayaking & Boat Tours
- Paddle around icebergs or join a cruise to get up close to glaciers.
📸 Photography & Wildlife Watching
- Capture stunning panoramas and spot condors soaring over the mountains.
Where to Stay
In El Calafate:
- Luxury: Eolo – Patagonia’s Spirit
- Mid-range: Kosten Aike Hotel
- Budget: America del Sur Hostel
In El Chaltén:
- Luxury: Destino Sur Hotel & Spa
- Mid-range: Hostería Senderos
- Budget: Rancho Grande Hostel
Sustainability & Preservation
Los Glaciares is a protected area, so visitors are encouraged to:
- Stick to marked trails
- Take waste with them
- Avoid disturbing wildlife
- Use refillable bottles and eco-friendly gear
Tourism helps support local conservation efforts when done responsibly.
Read about all the World Heritage Sites
10 Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. What is Los Glaciares National Park famous for?
It’s famous for its massive glaciers, especially Perito Moreno, and stunning Patagonian landscapes including mountains, lakes, and hiking trails.
2. Do I need a guide to visit Perito Moreno Glacier?
No, you can visit the walkways independently, but a guide is needed for glacier trekking or ice hikes.
3. Is there an entrance fee to the park?
Yes, there’s an entrance fee to the southern sector. As of 2025, it is around $15–$30 USD for foreign visitors.
4. Can I see glaciers other than Perito Moreno?
Yes, glaciers like Upsala, Spegazzini, and Viedma can be seen via boat tours or hikes from El Calafate or El Chaltén.
5. Is the park family-friendly?
Absolutely! There are activities for all ages, including boat tours, short hikes, and wildlife spotting.
6. How long should I stay in Los Glaciares?
Plan 3–5 days to explore both sectors, especially if you want to hike and see multiple glaciers.
7. Can I camp inside the park?
Yes, there are designated camping areas near trails in the northern sector and a few near El Calafate. Permits may be required.
8. What should I pack?
Layered clothing, waterproof jacket, hiking boots, sunscreen, and refillable water bottle.
9. Are there restaurants or food options in the park?
Food is available in El Calafate and El Chaltén. Inside the park, options are limited, so pack snacks or meals for the day.
10. Is Los Glaciares National Park open year-round?
Yes, but access to some areas may be limited during winter months due to weather.
Conclusion: Why Visit Los Glaciares National Park?
Los Glaciares National Park is more than a travel destination—it’s a natural cathedral carved in ice and rock, where glaciers thunder into turquoise lakes and granite peaks pierce the sky. Whether you’re trekking under Mount Fitz Roy, walking the platforms of Perito Moreno, or kayaking among icebergs, this park will move you with its beauty, scale, and raw power.
Perfect for adventurers, photographers, families, and eco-tourists, Los Glaciares is a bucket-list destination in Argentina that should not be missed.
