Trekking on the Perito Moreno Glacier: Mini-trekking and Big Ice
Walking on the Perito Moreno Glacier is possible and is one of the most impressive experiences in Patagonia. There are two tours available to do this: the Minitrekking (the classic walk, from $320,000 ARS) and the Big Ice (The extreme version starts at $490,000 ARS). In this guide, we tell you what each one is like, which one is right for you based on your age and fitness level, and how to book.
Is it possible to walk on the Perito Moreno Glacier?
Yes, but only with an excursion authorized by Los Glaciares National Park and specialized guides. Walking on the glacier independently is not permitted: access to the ice is in small groups, with crampons provided by the operator, and after a 20-minute boat trip across the Brazo Rico. The two authorized excursions are the Minitrekking and the Big Ice, and they depart daily from El Calafate.
Mini-trekking: the classic hike
Patagonia's most iconic excursion: 1 hour and 30 minutes walking on ice, Exploring blue crevasses, sinkholes, and small lagoons that change daily with the glacier's advance. The full day trip lasts about 9 hours from El Calafate and includes a boat trip on the Brazo Rico arm of the glacier, a hike through the coastal forest, and time spent on the boardwalks. It concludes with a whisky served with ice from the glacier itself.
- Difficulty: medium — no prior experience is necessary.
- Age: 8 to 65 years old.
- Price: from $320,000 ARS.
Big Ice: The Extreme Version
The most intense experience on the Perito Moreno Glacier: about 4 hours of walking on the ice, Venturing into areas of the glacier inaccessible to the Minitrekking trail—deep lagoons, caves, and crevasses of an unreal blue—the full day takes about 12 hours. It is designed for adventurers in good physical condition: the challenge is real, and the restrictions are strict.
- Difficulty: medium/difficult — requires good physical condition.
- Age: 18 to 50 years old.
- Price: from $490,000 ARS.
Minitrekking vs Big Ice: Which one to choose?
| Minitrekking | Big Ice | |
|---|---|---|
| Time on Ice | 1 h 30 min | ≈ 4 hours |
| Total duration | ≈ 9 hours | ≈ 12 hours |
| Physical exertion | Media: suitable for first-time users | Medium/high: you need to be trained |
| Age allowed | 8 to 65 years old | 18 to 50 years old |
| Price from | $320,000 ARS | $490,000 ARS |
| Ideal for | Families and their first time on a glacier | Athletes and repeaters looking for more |
Still unsure? If it's your first time at a glacier or you're traveling with family, go for the Minitrekking. If you're in good physical shape and really want to get into the ice, the Big Ice It has no comparison.
How to walk step by step
- Departure from El Calafate: We'll pick you up from your hotel and travel 80 km to Los Glaciares National Park.
- Navigation on the Brazo Rico: 20 minutes of sailing crossing in front of the south face of the glacier.
- Walk through the forest: a coastal path to the refuge, where the guides equip you with crampons, helmet and walking sticks.
- On the ice: 1 h 30 (Minitrekking) or ≈ 4 h (Big Ice) walking among crevasses, lagoons and blue formations, always in a group and with two guides.
- Perito Moreno footbridges: Free time to explore the balconies overlooking the glacier before returning. Would you prefer to view it only from the viewpoints, without stepping on the ice? That's another excursion: the classic tour along the walkways.
Requirements and ages
- Minitrekking: Ages 8 to 65 inclusive (strictly enforced by insurance regulations). Children aged 8 to 15 must present identification and proof of relationship to the accompanying adult. Moderate physical level: if you can walk briskly for 2 hours, you can participate.
- Big Ice: Ages 18 to 50, with good physical condition verifiable in the approach walk. Not suitable for pregnant women or people with heart or motor limitations.
- For both: the entrance to the National Park It's purchased separately (not included in any park excursion). Bring your ID, water, and something to eat.
What to wear
The Patagonian rule: layers. Thermal base layer, fleece, waterproof/windproof jacket, comfortable pants (not jeans), hat, gloves, and sturdy trekking shoes Crampons are attached over your own shoes, so they need to be rigid. Sunglasses and sunscreen are mandatory: the glare from the ice is intense even on cloudy days. You can find the complete guide at [link/website/etc.]. What clothes to wear to the Perito Moreno Glacier.
Prices 2026
The Minitrekking starts from $320,000 ARS and the Big Ice since $490,000 ARS per person, with transfers from El Calafate, navigation, bilingual guides, and ice equipment included. entrance to Los Glaciares National Park It's paid separately. Spaces are limited—especially from December to March—and sell out weeks in advance, so it's best to book early. book online as soon as you have a date.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does it cost to go trekking on the Perito Moreno Glacier?
The Minitrekking starts at $320,000 ARS and the Big Ice starts at $490,000 ARS per person (2026). Both include transfers, navigation, and equipment; the entrance fee to the National Park is purchased separately.
How long does the ice walk last?
The Minitrekking tour involves a 1 hour and 30 minute walk on the glacier (the complete excursion lasts about 9 hours from El Calafate). The Big Ice tour is around 4 hours on the ice, with a total day of about 12 hours.
How is trekking on the glacier done?
You reach the base of the glacier by sailing 20 minutes across the Brazo Rico. There, the guides will fit you with crampons and a helmet, and you'll walk in small groups along a route that changes depending on the ice movement. No prior experience is necessary: you'll get the hang of using the crampons in the first few minutes.
Is there an age limit?
Yes, and it is strict due to insurance regulations: the Minitrekking accepts people from 8 to 65 years old (those under 8 to 15 with documentation and accredited kinship) and the Big Ice from 18 to 50 years old with good physical condition.