In short
- Wear a windproof and waterproof outer jacket.
- Pack thermal base layers, gloves, and a warm hat.
- Bring high-SPF sunscreen and polarized sunglasses.
In this article
The boat ride across Lake Argentino exposes you to freezing winds and strong sun. Proper layering allows you to move comfortably between heated catamaran cabins and cold observation decks. Here is exactly what you need to bring for your tour.
How should I layer my clothing for the glacier tour?
Wear thermal base layers, a fleece mid-layer, and a waterproof shell.
Temperatures drop drastically when you walk from the heated cabins to the open decks. Start with thermal base layers to retain body heat. Add a fleece pullover for insulation. Finish with a windproof and waterproof jacket to block the icy winds.
What cold-weather accessories do I need?
You must pack gloves, a scarf, and a warm hat or beanie.
The wind coming off the 135-meter ice walls is freezing. A thick beanie protects your ears, while a scarf blocks wind at your neck. Wear insulated gloves so you can still operate your camera comfortably on the outer observation decks.
Why do I need sun protection in cold weather?
The ice and water heavily reflect intense Patagonian UV rays.
Do not let the cold air fool you. You must apply high-SPF sunscreen to your face before heading outside. Sunglasses with strong UV protection are mandatory to prevent eye strain from the bright glacier ice and water.
What shoes should I wear to Spegazzini Glacier?
Wear comfortable walking shoes suitable for the boardwalks at Spegazzini Base.
Most tours include a stop at the Spegazzini Base. You will walk on 350 meters of accessible wooden walkways through the Andean-Patagonian forest. Heavy hiking boots are unnecessary, but your shoes should offer good grip and warmth.
How does the cold affect my electronics?
Cold weather causes camera and smartphone batteries to drain much faster.
Keep your phone in an inside pocket close to your body heat when not in use. Always pack a fully charged power bank. You will spend 7 to 11 hours on the tour, and you need battery life for photos.
What documents do I need to bring on the boat?
Bring your passport or ID and your National Park fee receipt.
You must prove your ticket category for the Los Glaciares National Park entry. Keep a digital or printed copy of your 50,000 ARS entrance fee receipt. The boat tour operators check this before you board at Puerto Punta Bandera.
Questions travellers ask
Do I need heavy trekking boots for Spegazzini Glacier?
No. There is no ice trekking on Spegazzini Glacier. You only walk on the 350-meter wooden boardwalks at the base, so standard comfortable walking shoes are sufficient.
Can I stay inside the boat if I get too cold?
Yes. All catamarans feature heated interior cabins. You can view the glaciers through the large picture windows if the outer decks become too cold.
Is it colder from September to April?
These months offer milder weather and longer daylight hours. However, the wind off the glacier is always freezing, so you need windproof layers year-round.
