Los Glaciares National Park is so much more than the Perito Moreno viewpoint. To leave Patagonia with an itinerary that actually makes sense, base yourself in El Calafate for the glaciers and set aside separate days for the boat tour, the walkways, and—if time allows—El Chaltén.
The Short Answer
Book at least three nights in El Calafate to explore Los Glaciares National Park. One day for Perito Moreno, another for a boat tour or trekking, and a third as a buffer keeps the weather from dictating your whole trip.
El Calafate Is the Practical Base
El Calafate is where you’ll find hotels, restaurants, and departures to the park’s southern sector. Before choosing a neighborhood and accommodation, check out our guide to where to stay in El Calafate; location matters even more when tours leave early.
Perito Moreno: Walkways First, Boat Tour Later
The walkways let you observe the glacier’s front from different heights and are the best choice for a first visit. Come prepared for wind, rain, and long walks. For details on access, visit duration, and how to fit the tour into your day, see our article on how to visit Perito Moreno Glacier.
Don’t plan your day around a calving event: it might happen, but the real experience is in the landscape and the silence broken by cracking ice.
What to Combine in Your Itinerary
With more days, choose between a boat tour on Lake Argentino, ice trekking, and the extension to El Chaltén. Don’t try to cram everything into two days. Patagonia rewards you more when you accept the distances and drive times. For a bigger route, our guide to Torres del Paine on a first visit helps you decide whether it’s worth crossing into Chile.
Check the rules and visitor notices on the official Argentina National Parks website.
Frequently Asked Questions
How many days should I plan?
Three nights in El Calafate let you visit Perito Moreno without rushing and still have room for another excursion.
What’s the best base?
El Calafate is the most practical base for the Perito Moreno sector.
Do I need to book a tour?
Not for the walkways, but tours simplify transportation and activities like boat rides or trekking.
Conclusion
Los Glaciares gets more interesting when Perito Moreno is the beginning, not the final stop. Voyage Voyage recommends spreading out your days and leaving room for the weather.