Plan your visit

Plan Your Visit

Prepare for a full day on Lake Argentino. The weather on the water is cold, and you will need warm layers and sun protection.

Spegazzini Glacier

Spegazzini Bay, Lake Argentino, Los Glaciares National Park

GPS -50.4167, -73.25

Open directions

Getting there

Getting to the departure port.

How	Time	Cost	Notes
Boat: Catamaran or boat tour departing from Puerto Punta Bandera navigating Lake Argentino.	7-8 hours	approx 330,000 ARS	The only way to reach and view the glacier. Most tours include a disembarkation at Spegazzini Base.
Bus: Shuttle transfer from El Calafate hotels to the boat departure port at Punta Bandera.	45 minutes	approx 65,000 ARS	Can be booked as an add-on alongside the boat ticket through local tour operators.
Car: Self-drive from El Calafate to Puerto Punta Bandera via RP 11 and RP 8.	45 minutes	null	Parking is available at the port for independent travelers.

When to go

QuietModerateBusyPeak

The tours operate year-round. September to April is the best time, offering longer daylight hours and milder weather. Even in summer, expect freezing winds on the outer decks of the boat.

What to bring

Waterproof and windproof jacket for the boat's outer decks
Warm, layered clothing (fleece, thermal base layers)
Gloves, a warm hat or beanie, and a scarf
High-SPF sunscreen (intense UV reflection from ice and water)
Sunglasses with strong UV protection
Comfortable walking shoes for the boardwalks at Spegazzini Base
Camera or smartphone with a power bank (batteries drain faster in the cold)
Your passport or ID to verify your National Park ticket category
Digital or printed copy of your National Park entrance fee receipt

Your ticks are saved in this browser only.

Remember your passport or ID to verify your park ticket.

Keep a digital or printed copy of your entrance fee receipt.

How the day runs

A typical timeline for a glacier cruise day.

A typical timeline for a 7-8 hour boat excursion starting from El Calafate.

07:30
Pick-up
Bus transfer from your El Calafate hotel to the port.
08:30
Puerto Punta Bandera
Arrive, pay park fees, and board the catamaran.
09:00
Navigation
Sail across Lake Argentino, passing Iceberg Channel.
11:30
Spegazzini Glacier
Arrive in front of the 135-meter ice walls.
12:30
Spegazzini Base
Disembark for lunch and walk the boardwalk trails.
15:00
Return Sail
Navigate back to Puerto Punta Bandera.
16:30
Transfer Back
Bus ride back to El Calafate.

Packing for the boat

Dressing appropriately is essential. The wind on the outer decks of the boat is freezing. Wear a windproof and waterproof jacket over thermal base layers. You will need gloves, a warm hat, and a scarf. Bring a power bank, as cold temperatures drain phone batteries quickly.

UV radiation is intense due to the reflection off the ice and water. Wear high-SPF sunscreen and sunglasses with strong UV protection. Comfortable walking shoes are needed for the boardwalks at Spegazzini Base.

Easiest way to do it

A child jumps happily next to an 'I Love Spegazzini' sign.

Scenic Glacier Cruise & Landing from El Calafate “Todo Glaciares”

11 h 4.9 (7)

Landing at Spegazzini Base
Boat tour
Roundtrip transfer from El Calafate [according to option selected].
Bilingual guide Spanish - English

From$290per person

Viator$290 GetYourGuideCompare

Cancellation terms differ by platform and listing. Check them before you pay.

Planning questions

Can you walk or trek on Spegazzini Glacier?

No. Visitors cannot walk or trek on Spegazzini Glacier. The glacier is only accessible by boat, and you view it from the water or from the lookouts at Spegazzini Base.

Is food available at the Spegazzini Glacier?

Yes. Refugio Spegazzini at the base has a dining hall where you can purchase hot food. Alternatively, you can bring your own packed lunch from El Calafate.

What should I wear for a glacier boat tour in Patagonia?

Dress in warm, windproof layers. A waterproof jacket, fleece, gloves, and a beanie are essential for the outer deck. Wear sunscreen and sunglasses to protect against UV reflection.