Perito Moreno Glacier

The iconic Perito Moreno glacier is one of the most famous glacier in the world, best known for the dramatic ice falls from its front wall, into Lake Argentino. Perito Moreno glacier is one of the major tourist attractions in southern Patagonia, and the rupture of this glacier is considered one of the most impressive natural spectacles in the world.

Located in the Los Glaciares National Park, in southwest Santa Cruz Province, Argentina, the glacier is 78 km. (48 mi) from El Calafate township. Perito Moreno glacier was named after the explorer, Francisco Moreno, a pioneer who studied the region in the 19th century and played a major role in defending the territory of Argentina in the conflict surrounding the international border dispute with Chile.

Spanning 30 km (19 mi) in length, and 250 square km (97 sq mi) and still growing, Perito Moreno glacier is one of the largest of the 48 glaciers fed by the Patagonia’s Southern Ice Field situated in both Argentina and Chile. The ice field is the world’s third largest reserve of fresh water.

The Los Glaciares National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage site, is an area of exceptional natural beauty, with rugged, towering mountains and numerous glacial lakes, of which Perito Moreno Glacier is part of. The park is home to many birds, such as condors and black-chested buzzard eagles. There is a large visitor centre, featuring a walking circuit for visitors to view the southern flank and east-facing edge of the glacier. It also has boat trips around the base and trekking tours which include walking on parts of the glacier itself.