From Editor to the Reader After 15 years working on incoming tourism, we decided to make a guide for our clients. But it´s not just a guide. It´s a tool to help you in the process of your booking decision, to choose this hotel better than the other one, or choosing this activity instead the other one. You will find here, a list of activities to do in El Calafate, El Chaltén and the area of the glaciers in Patagonia, with total lenght, available days of operation, meals included, seasons, and guide language. You will fiind also location and a brief description of the hotels we suggest for the area. Any advice is welcome of course, you can contact me to ramiro@ ripioturismo.com.ar Would be a pleasure for us to receive your comments. Thank you,
Lic. Ramiro Rodriguez Sales & Marketing Manager
VENEZUELA
COLMBIA
ECUADOR
PERU
BRAZIL BOLIVIA
PARAGUAY
Salta
Mendoza
Iguazu Falls
Cordoba
BUENOS AIRES URUGUAY
CHILE ARGENTINA Mar del Plata
Bariloche
Puerto Madryn
EL CALAFATE El Calafate
Is Malvinas
EL CALAFATE Buenos Aires
El Calafate is a city in Patagonia, Argentina. It is situated in the southern border of Lake Argentino, in the southwest part of the Santa Cruz Province, about 320 km Northwest of Río Gallegos. The name of the city is derived from a little bush with yellow flowers and dark blue berries that is very common in Patagonia: the calafate (Berberis buxifolia); the word comes from the word "calafate", which is Spanish for "caulk". El Calafate is an important tourist destination as the hub to visit different parts of the Los Glaciares National Park, including the Perito Moreno Glacier and the Cerro Chaltén and Cerro Torre. The history of El Calafate began in the first decades of the twentieth century. Originally, it was simply a sheltering place for wool traders. The town was officially founded in 1927 by the government of Argentina to promote settlement, but it was the creation of nearby Perito Moreno National Park in 1937 that sparked growth and the building of better road access. The 220 kilometers separating Calafate from El Chaltén on the other side of the Lake Argentino in the national park are paved, as well as the 315 kilometres to Río Gallegos. Other distances are: to Bariloche 1400 km ; to Esquel 1108 km (some dirt road[1]); Comodoro Rivadavia 959 km; Puerto Madryn 1388 km; Buenos Aires 2727 km; Ushuaia 863 km and in Chile Puerto Natales 362 km and Punta Arenas 605 km. The town is served by El Calafate International Airport
FTE 001 - EXCURSION TO PERITO MORENO GLACIER A must-see in the area: The incredible Perito Moreno Glacier El Calafate is 80 km from Perito Moreno Glacier along a paved road (50 km.). The last 30 are within Los Glaciares National Park. From de very beginning, the trip brings you many pleasant surprises. Upon leaving El Calafate, to your right, you encounter Redonda Bay, in Argentino Lake teeming with a great variety of fowls: black neck swans, flamingos, flying steamer ducks, Southamerican coots and upland geese. The distinctive yellow hue of the country side is due to a course grass that grows in this area called the broom sedge. During the first 40 km you travel through the Patagonian steppe. Then, once you enter the National Park there is a noticeable change in the vegetation, now basically formed by nires (nothofagus antartica), guindos (nothofagus betuloides) and lengas (nothofagus pumilio); some isolated canelos (drimys winteri) and many colored flowers, among them the intense red colored notro (embothrium coccineum), the typical flower of the Andean Patagonian Forest. Once at the Glacier, the visitor is overwhelmed by the impressive spectacle and can appreciate the many unforgettable vistas of the glacier from the walkpaths. There is a restaurant, a snack bar, restrooms and a pay campsite within the Moreno Glacier area. This is a full day excursion. Full Day Trip (8 hours aprox) English Speaking Guide Available all the year
Add the Nautical Safari during your visit to Perito Moreno Glacier, to enjoy a wonderful view from the lake. It´s an 1-hour boat navigation.
FTE 002 - NAUTICAL SAFARI The ideal extension to your visit to Perito Moreno Glacier This excursion takes you on a cruise across Lake Rico, passing beside icebergs which have calved off the front of the Perito Moreno glacier. Reaching the Icebergs Channel, the boat will stop at a safe distance from the glacier, continuing to sail down all its front, allowing a spectacular view of the high wall of ice. The boat departs from “Bajo de las Sombras” port, about 6 km before the glacier Balconies. The excursion lasts approximately one hour and provides a totally different perspective of the the glacier, with almost constant falling of ice from its front. This is a unique opportunity for photographers and nature lovers alike. We have daily departures, from 10:00 to 15:00 hs approximately. Check with our office for winter departures. 1-hour boat navigation English Guide Available all the year The last rupture occurred on March 10, 2016, and previously, March 4, 2012, 2008, 2006, 2004, 1988, 1986, 1980, 1977, 1975, 1972, 1970, 1966, 1963, 1960, 1956, 1953, 1952, 1947, 1940, 1934 and 1917. It ruptures, on average, about every four to five years
did you know?
FTE 003 - MINITREKKING OVER PERITO MORENO GLACIER A unique and unforgettable activity to walk over the ice of the Perito Moreno Glacier The excursion begins in the embarking pier located in “Bajo de las Sombras” port, about 6 km before the glacier Balconies- where you embark for a 20 minutes navigation across the Rico Arm, enjoying breathtaking views of the Perito Moreno glacier’s front wall. You disembark on the opposite shore, where specialized bilingual mountain guides welcome you and lead you to a small shelter. After checking the last details, groups of not more than 20, follow their guides along the lake’s shore towards the edge of the glacier. Once on the ice the guides put each participant a pair of crampons on, and explain how to use them.
WHAT TO BRING • Outfit: Sport shoes or trekking boots. Rubber and apres ski boots, as well as high heel shoes are not allowed. Comfortable sports wear, long trousers, warm sweater or pile, water or windproof jacket, sun glasses, sun block, gloves. • Lunch: Passengers must bring their lunch boxes. IMPORTANT • Restrictions: due to the degree of effort and difficulty that this excursion presents, is NOT allowed for; pregnant women, people with overweight, some type of disability, or health problems. • Age: Between 10 and 65 years old. • All these services are provided daily. The complete tour with transportation from El Calafate takes around 10 hours. • The price does NOT include the entrance fee to National Park Los Glaciares or lunch. • Land transportation from El Calafate to the National Park (80 km) is available if required. It includes an hour visit to the glacier balconies, where one of our guides will receive you. The mini trekking runs from early August to late May.
FTE 004 - BIG ICE
did you know?
The minitrekking is available from August to May every season. Best season is from October to March
The two hours circuit that follows introduces you to the fascinating landscape of the glaciers: streams, small lagoons, gullies, cravasses and plenty of ice formations of the most incredible blues. The trekking is moderate. The ice surface over which you walk is irregular, but firm and safe. You will receive explanations about flora, fauna and general glaciology of the region and also about the particular phenomenon that happens in the Perito Moreno Glacier and eventually produces its rupture. After the walk, a stroll through the forest brings you back to the shelter.
An incredible 3 hours and half hiking over the Perito Moreno Glacier The excursion begins in the embarking pier located in “Bajo de las Sombras” port, about 6 km before the glacier Balconies- where you embark for a 10 minutes navigation across the Rico Arm, enjoying breathtaking views of the Perito Moreno glacier’s front walls. After checking the gear, we get ready, pick up the crampons and walk following the lateral moraine, for an hour and a half, until we reach the access to the glacier. After fitting harnesses and crampons on our footwear we start the ice trekking. There is a breathtaking view of the immense plateau of ice. During the walk you will be introduced to a number of features within the ice., huge moulins, crevasses, caves, and above all the special feeling of exploring the middle of the ice. Expert bilingual mountain guides will always lead you, looking after your safety and teaching you the “ways of the ice”. You will hike for about 3 hours and a half, and spend some time having lunch somewhere on the ice. Back on the moraine we start our descent back to the port, to take the boat and navigate for 20 minutes, very close to the southern wall. We are glad to be able to offer one of the most spectacular Ice-hikes in the world.
WHAT TO BRING • Outfit: Warm clothes, raincoat jacket, waterproof trousers, hiking boots, sunglasses, sun screen, gloves, hat, backpack (40lts). • Lunch: Passengers must bring their lunch boxes. IMPORTANT • Age: This walk is aimed at fit people between 18 and 50 years. • Restrictions: Due to the degree of effort and difficulty that this excursion presents, is NOT allowed for; pregnant women, people with overweight, some type of disability, or health problems. • All these services are provided daily. The complete tour with transportation from El Calafate takes around 12 hours. The total trekking time is 7 hours. • The price does NOT include the entrance fee to National Park Los Glaciares or lunch. • Land transportation from El Calafate to the National Park (80 km) is available if required. It includes half an hour visit to the glacier balconies.
Punta Bandera Private Port will be at 2:00 pm approximately, depending on the boat. * The tour may be modified depending on weather conditions and security and the decision of the captain of the boat. Full day program English Speaking Guide Available all the year
The big Ice runs from mid September up to end of April. FTE 006 – GLACIERS GOURMET EXPERIENCE
FTE 005 – RIOS DE HIELO EXPRESS It´s a full day boat navigation, in Argentino Lake, to enjoy glaciers and icebergs. Itinerary: Punta Bandera, North arm of the Argentino Lake, Upsala Channel, Upsala glacier, Spegazzini Channel, Spegazzini glacier, Punta Bandera. Boarding time, in the Punta Bandera (47 kilometers from the city of El Calafate), will be at 8:30 AM and the departure will be at 9 AM, after the passengers are informed about the safety and sailing conditions. Once on board we will sail through the North Arm of the Argentino Lake to reach the Upsala Canal, where we’ll find a spectacular Icebergs Barrier. From there we will have a panoramic view of the Upsala Glacier. Afterwards we will navigate the Spegazzini Canal, where we will observe the Seco Glacier to reach the front of Spegazzini Glacier, the highest in the National Park. The return to
It´s an amazing full day boat navigation with excellent service and gastronomy! Transfer from the hotels in El Calafate to Paraje Punta Bandera. Boarding time at 9:00 a.m. at the company’s own dock “La Soledad” (Bahía Tranquila, Paraje Punta Bandera). The navigation starts towards the northwest, crossing Punta Avellaneda and Boca del Diablo, the narrowest passage in the lake with almost 800 meters. After two hours of navigation, the series of ice floes, of the most varied colors and shapes, anticipates the proximity of Upsala glacier. We will stop in front of the barrier of ice floes which, at present, is blocking the entrance to Canal Upsala. If the weather conditions are good, we will observe the Upsala glaciers at the distance. We continue navigating Lago Argentino towards the South, taking the Canal Spegazzini in order to reach the glacier that bears the same name. The navigation allows us to get closer to the glacier, which has front walls between 80 and 135 meters (262 – 443 feet) above lake level. Lunch is served amidst this stunning landscape. Towards the afternoon, the Crucero Leal will arrive at Puesto de Las Vacas (an extremely quiet bay in the Canal Spegazzini), where its engines will be stopped to let passengers share an amusing walk coordinatedby our team of guides. In this stop, it is possible to see stunning panoramic views of the Spegazzini glacier. Once onboard, we will return through Brazo Norte and get back to the boarding dock La Soledad at 6:00 p.m.
did you know?
Glaciers Gourmet Experience is a wonderful option to enjoy the glaciers. But, if you want a bit more, the same company offer a 2-night cruise called Crucero Santa Cruz, with an excellent service aboard.
Guided walk up to Caterina River and Chapel and tour around the Estancia. Return to the boat 17:30hs. Arrival to Puerto Bandera approximately 19:00hs. Full Day Program English Speaking Guide Available from September to April
Boarding time: 9:00 a.m. Landing time: 6:00 p.m. 09:00 a.m.: Boarding at the company’s own dock La Soledad (Bahía Tranquila, Paraje Punta Bandera) | Navigation to the barrier of ice floes in Canal Upsala (which at present does not allow to get closer to Upsala glacier) | Spegazzini glacier | Lunch | Visit to Puesto de las Vacas with landing | Navigation back to the company’s owns dock La Soledad | Landing at 6:00 p.m. Full day excursion English Speaking Guide Available from September to April FTE 007 – ESTANCIA CRISTINA – CLASSIC A great boat navigatin to combine visits to Upsala Glacier + Estancia Cristina + Museum Boarding and departure at port Punta Bandera at 08.15 hours in our modern and comfortable boat. Sailing among icebergs and stunning scenery overlooking the western front of the Upsala glacier and then through Cristina Canal to the point of disembark at the Estancia. Arrival Estancia Cristina 11:30 hs. Stay at the Estancia for 6 hours.
Estancia Cristina offers three different options, the classic, the discovery and trekking. Choose your best option
FTE 008 – ESTANCIA CRISTINA – DISCOVERY A full day trip with navigation to see Upsala Glacier, visit to Estancia Cristina + 4×4 Upsala Viewpoint and Museum Boarding and departure at port Punta Bandera at 08.15 hours in our modern and comfortable boat. Sailing among icebergs and stunning scenery overlooking the western front of the Upsala glacier and then through Cristina Canal to the point of disembark at the Estancia. Arrival Estancia Cristina 11:30 hs. Stay at the Estancia for 6 hours. Guided visit to the Costumbrista museum (old shearing shed). Ascent in all-terrain vehicles, travelling 9.5 km through mountainous roads. Arrival to the Continental ice shelter. 30 minute walk. Visit the oriental front of Upsala Glacier. Lake Guillermo, Southern Patagonian Ice and Andes. Return to the farm house of the Estancia and board at 17:30 hs. Arrival to Puerto Banderas at 19: hs approximately. NOTE: If the maximum number of passengers is exceeded, visitors will be divided in turns by the tour coordinator of the Estancia. Duration of 4 wheel drive: 3 hours Drop: 550 m.s.n.m. English Speaking Guides Full Day Activity
PERITO MORENO GLACIER The Perito Moreno Glacier (Spanish: Glaciar Perito Moreno) is a glacier located in the Los Glaciares National Park in southwest Santa Cruz Province, Argentina. It is one of the most important tourist attractions in the Argentinian Patagonia. The 250 km2 (97 sq mi) ice formation, and 30 km (19 mi) in length, is one of 48 glaciers fed by the Southern Patagonian Ice Field located in the Andes system shared with Chile. This ice field is the world's third largest reserve of fresh water. The Perito Moreno glacier, located 78 kilometres (48 mi) from El Calafate, 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. At Punta Norte you will find an interpretive center and trails with information signs in all areas of allowed access to guide tourists during their visit. The Perito Moreno Glacier is one of only three Patagonian glaciers that is growing. The reason remains debated by glaciologists. The terminus of the Perito Moreno Glacier is 5 kilometres (3 mi) wide, with an average height of 74 m (240 ft) above the surface of the water of Argentino Lake, in Argentina. It has a total ice depth of 170 metres (558 ft). Rupture Pressures from the weight of the ice slowly pushes the glacier over the southern arm ("Brazo Rico") of Argentino Lake, damming the section and separating it from the rest of the lake. With no outlet, the water level on the "Brazo Rico" side of the lake can rise by as much as 30 meters above the level of the main body of Argentino Lake. Intermittently, the pressure produced by the height of the dammed water breaks through the ice barrier causing a spectacular rupture, sending a massive outpouring of water from the Brazo Rico section to the main body of Lake Argentina. As the water exits Brazo Rico, the scored shoreline is exposed, showing evidence of the height of the water build-up. This dam–ice-bridge–rupture cycle recurs naturally between once a year to less than once a decade. The last rupture occurred on March 2016, and previously, 2013, 2012, 2008, 2006, 2004, 1988, 1986, 1980, 1977, 1975, 1972, 1970, 1966, 1963, 1960, 1956, 1953, 1952, 1947, 1940, 1934 and 1917. It ruptures, on average, about every four to five years.
Ushuaia
FTE 009 – EL CALAFATE CITY TOUR WITH VISIT TO WALICHU CAVES In El Calafate you will find an enjoyable trip, a historical and natural ride around the city, going trough the most traditional places of town. We will travel on time from the first humans that lived in this place to the present, getting to know all the cultural and environmental changes that transformed El Calafate in the town we see today. The first stop will be in Punta Walichu, an archaeological site where you will know about the original people that lived in this area, from the prehistoric rock painting to the Tehuelches, the last of the original people that lived here. You will also get information about the landscape, geology, flora and fauna of the area. The ride will go around the oldest places of the town, visiting The ride will go around the oldest places of the town, visiting the first houses, the main buildings, the community center and the city hall.
FTE 010 – UPSALA KAYAK EXPERIENCE Kayaking between icebergs? Yes, it´s possible! Upsala Kayak Experience is an immersion in the heart of the Upsala Glacier Zone. It includes navigation in the Argentino Lake and double Kayak journey in the Upsala channel, a unique activity in the area, with more than 8 beaches to disembark.
Our staff, specialized in this activity guides have the aim to create an unbelievable experience for our visitors. Before touching land, they take care that every passenger has the necessary equipment (dry thermal suits, lifejackets) and explain how to row and safety measures. Some warming up and our visitors will be ready to start the Kayak experience in the beach that our staff considers the best taking the climate into consideration. The adventure starts in the Upsala channel with the possibility to see different size icebergs, very near and almost touch them. An experience which shows the insignificance of man facing Nature. You will visit the Bahia Redonda where we will be able to observe a myriad of fascinating birds. At the end we will stop at the History Exhibition Hall- Centro de Interpretation Historica-, where the exposition will take you through 14000 years of environmental and social evolution from the glaciations to the present. During this trip you will have the opportunity of being a witness of the development of the place and realize that you are also part of its evolution. Half day activity Available All the year English Speaking Guides
did you know?
The Perito Moreno Glacier is one of only three Patagonian glaciers that is growing. The reason remains debated by glaciologists
After rowing for about two Hours we go back to the ship. Lunchbox and return to El Calafate. Unique activity in the world of kayaking between ice bergs in Argentine lake in Los Glaciares National Park. The Upsala Glacier is one of the most important in the National Park and the second largest in Argentina. With a surface of approximately 850 km2 and the high of its front of 60meters over the level of the lake. Its main front was previously visited by sailing the Upsala channel and had been unseen for several years because of huge lumps of icebergs impeding it. This glacier is famous worldwide due to the amount of icebergs that break away and float as large ice rafts in the Argentine Lake gathering together side by side. The Upsala Kayak Experience program is done totally in the Upsala cannel of the Argentine lake and allows sailing in double touring kayaks with the possibility to view giant icebergs, always following safety protocols. With professional guides and small groups of passengers, a two hour guided excursion, with slow paddling and adapted to the levels of each group and weather conditions. You will also be able to see flora and fauna of the area (condors, eagles, wild cows, and lenga and ñire trees) as well as passing closely to many cliffs and mountains.
FTE 011 – BALCONY OF EL CALAFATE (4x4) A unique 4x4 ride excursion to enjoy an awesome viewpoint Its access is by the chairlift of the Balcony with 55 double seats, security rod and highly qualified staff. With the most stunning views of the Argentine Lake and its mountain range, you will be able to enjoy 360degreesof the best sights of El Calafate. With the different options to enjoy the Mt. throughout the whole year. From this natural viewpoint you will be able to enjoy the panoramic views of El Calafate and the main portion of Argentine Lake. This tour will offer sights of the Andres Mountain range and the area of accumulation of the glaciers, towards Bocas del Diablo (Devils mouth, the narrowest part of the lake, to the Upsala arm). And if it’s a nice day we will be able to see Mt. Fitz Roy and Mt. Torre in El Chalten. We will also have the opportunity to see the condors fly. During the excursion a local lunch or snack will be provided. Departure: 9.00 am (3hs) at 2.00 pm (lunch) and 3.30pm (snack) English Speaking Guides Half Day Activity (3-4 hours) Available all the year
Upsala Kayak Experience has been prepared and supported by European leaders in kayak and rafting, Rocroi. Additional information can be found in rocroi.com Minimum age: 18 years old Available from November to April, on Mondays, Wednesdays, Fridays, and Saturdays English Speaking Guides • Quantity to confirm departure: Minimum 2 • Maximum capacity per day: 15 passengers • Duration: whole day • Kayak tour: 2 hours of rowing • Minimum age required: 18 years old. • No previous Kayak experience needed. • Double stable kayaks with tiller. • Equipment included : kayaks, paddles, waterproof dry suit, boots, life jackets, waterproof bags • Included: Images of the activity. • Fitness level: medium.
did you know?
The terminus of the Perito Moreno Glacier is 5 kilometres (3 mi) wide, with an average height of 74 m (240 ft) above the surface of the water of Argentino Lake, in Argentina. It has a total ice depth of 170 metres (558 ft).
FTE 012 – BIKING IN EL CALAFATE A unique great biking activity in the area of the glaciers The 13km of descends will take us to the most remote places like Escondida lake (Hidden Lake). The terrain is soft and wide with slopes that will take us to constant drops. On the way we will be able to see some stunning sights of El Calafate, Argentine Lake and Mt. Fitz Roy. It’s also the longest route in el Calafate Mountain Park. Calafate Mountain Park is a unique and exclusive proposal in El Calafate. Its access is by the chairlift of the Balcony with 55 double seats, security rod and highly qualified staff. With the most stunning views of the Argentine Lake and its mountain range, you will be able to enjoy 360degreesof the best sights of El Calafate . With the different options to enjoy the Mt. throughout the whole year, this year this unique
option of Calafate Bike Park. A place where adventure, adrenaline and the best panoramic views come together in one place. Located in mt. Huyliche 1050 m over the sea level offers the possibility to do many circuits and props. In mountain bike. Cross Fire circuit designed for groups, family and incentive trips will take us to the most remote places like Escondida Lake (Hidden Lake), The terrain is soft and wide with slopes that will take us to constant drops. Available for private groups only. Green track Itinerary: 13 km. Included: Pass + equipment + guide FTE 013 – EXCURSION TO LA LEONA: PETRIFIED FOREST Enjoy visiting the petrified forest in La Leona Departing East from El Calafate, we turn left at “highway” 40 and drive North. We travel mostly trough open steppe with magnificent views of the lake Argentino, cross mighty Santa Cruz river, coast along the valley of La Leona river and panoramic sight of the mount Fitz Roy. We reach La Leona hotel (historical landmark) and stay for 15 minutes. Continue west for other 10 km along the southern shore of lake Viedma until we get to Los Hornos hill. Near the top stars a large depression formed by water erosion where most of the fossils can be found.Here our walk starts trough a loose, dry and claylike soil almost saturated with petrified wood that “sprouts” from the soil. Wind and water erosion takes place at a very fastrate, so every season we encounter new surprises.
We get to see tree trunks in diameters that range from 0.50 to 1,20 meters, heaps of fossilized After 3 hours of walking about (including the time for lunch) we return to El Calafate the same way with stopover of 15 minutes at Hotel La Leona. The following services are included: transfer by bus, guides on buses and also during the trekking, box lunch, insurance coverage during the whole excursion. We strongly recommend to bring your own medication if you are allergic to insects, dust, food etc. People who are not allowed to do the tour: those, with heart problems, with backbone, knees or ankles problems, who have been operated on recently, who suffer from vertigo, pregnant women, who are younger than 6 year-old. Full day activity English Speaking Guide Available all the year
FTE 014 – SOFT ADVENTURE IN CERRO FRIAS Enjoy some good soft adventure activities in Cerro Frias The “Estancia Alice” (ranch) is located 25 kms West of El Calafate, and close to a vast nature reserve in the mountains, near to the National Park Los Glaciares. Our trips are a great opportunity to discover the region. This area is considered a unique part of Patagonia. The dense glacial colour of the Argentino Lake offers stunning vistas of the circling mountains. Majestic landscapes await you on the Cerro Frias trip. The Frias Mount, 1095 mt high, is located in the middle of a valley, offering unique views of the Argentino Lake and Andes Mountains. The hills of the National Park Los Glaciares with panoramic views is breathtaking. Also potencial wildlife viewing. All our trips depart from your hotel in El Calafate. After a short trip by the same route to Perito Moreno Glacier, you’ll arrive to the gate of the Estancia Alice. Fantastic scenery surrounds as you climb up Cerro Frias. In the Estancia we offer 4 guided activities (4x4 -Trekking Zip Line - Horseback riding) at the same time, by differents trails, allowing to the groups to do differents activities and join them to eat together, at the end of each activity. Departing in the morning gives you the possibility of enjoying a typical barbecue accompanied by vegetables grilled in oven baked goods. On the other hand people who take the afternoon excursion will find inside the quincho of the Alice estancia a place where they can relax and enjoy the snack bar service
did you know?
La Leona is an enormous and deep depression in the ground, where 70 million year old petrified tree trunks can be found and from where we begin our adventure among the fossils.
(not included) before coming back to El Calafate. Restrictions: This excursion is suitable only for 6 to 60 yearold people. It is not recommendable for overweighed persons. Pregnant women, people with heart illnesses, coordination and motricity problems or other kind of medical
issues will not be allowed to take this excursion. Half Day Trip´ English Speaking Guide Available all the year
is an ideal spot for immersing yourself in the life of an authentic Patagonian estancia. Departing from El Calafate (9:00 a.m or 5:00 p.m) along the unmade road of the Provincial Route 15, also know as “the road to the estancias”. Along the way it is common to come across condors, foxes and hares, with Cerro Frías taking centre stage. After crossing over the Río Rico, the landscape changes suddenly from the steppe-land to mountain scenery. The estancia is reached after travelling along the edge of Lago Roca and having entered Los Glaciares National Park. The host guide welcomes you to the Estancia and takes you to the Quincho [rustic dining room] where you will be invited to have a hot drink (tea, coffee or mate) accompanied by home-made cakes and pastries. A good moment to pause and enjoy a magnificent view of the Andes mountain range. The walk starts around the main building, the perfect example of a typical Patagonian estancia which was formerly devoted to sheep rearing and nowadays has become the most prestigious Hereford breeding ranch of these latitudes, while still retaining a small herd of sheep. At the stables, those who have paid the extra to do a horse-ride will be given a mount and go out to explore the surroundings accompanied by a guide.
FTE 015 – GLACIAIUM: MUSEUM OF ICE A unique place, to know more about glaciers… Glaciarium enables visitors to discover the wonderful world of glaciers and supplement their knowledge and enjoyment of any trip to Patagonia. It is a perfect introduction before visiting Los Glaciares National Park, or to find answers afterwards. It is the first Interpretive Centre and Museum dedicated to Ice and Glaciers, a place to visit to understand this natural phenomena in depth. A modern space, designed to entertain and educate; full of audiovisual stimuli. The Glaciarium will not be forgotten easily as many thousands of travelers have already noted, finding answers to many of their questions. Many years of exploration, research and knowledge about Patagonia and it’s glaciers are shown through the exhibits; accessible by all to explore and learn. Once inside Glaciarium, we recommended about 2hrs to fully appreciate the films, and various exhibits. Half Day visit English Guides Available all the year Add this visit to Glaciarium and Museum of ice to your visit to the park. A good combination is with a boat navigation to see the glaciers FTE 016 – EXCURSION TO ESTANCIA NIBEPO AIKE Estancia Nibepo Aike, retains the essence of the old Patagonian estancias. Originally named La Jerónima. Nibepo Aike covers an area of over 12,000 hectares, bounded by the Southern Arm of Lago Argentino and the border with Chile, set in the Andes mountain range. Dedicated to cattle rearing with a breeding herd of Hereford and many remnants from the times when sheep production was at its height, it
Meanwhile the rest of the group has a good long walk during which there are excellent views of the Southern Arm of Lago Argentino, discovering the diverse rocky outcrops eroded by glacial action and the changes of water level in the lake (due to the periodic closure of the way out by the Perito Moreno glacier and its subsequent breaking). The folds of the earth’s crust can clearly be appreciated there, differentiated by the variety of sediments from which they originate. These formations continue until they reach a point where the rocks form a natural amphitheatre, creating quiet beaches of curious shapes. The footpaths lead through native woodland of lenga and ñire, a habitat for caranchos, Austral parakeets, hares, woodpeckers, eagles and an abundant variety of native flora and fauna. The route may vary according to weather conditions. After the walk or horse-ride, the group meets up again at the door of the shearing shed. This is a chance to see inside such a shed with all its skilled hands and understand the work of the shearing teams. The process is described from the shearing of the animal to the baling of the fleece, ready for the wool to be stored and transported. Manual shears are used for the shearing as they were on all the estancias until the appearance of the mechanical handle with cutting
comb, a much faster and more practical system, although not so kind to the animal and does not give such a good cut. Then a demonstration is given of horse handling skills, or according to the rural activities of the day, working with the herd in the corrals close to the main buildings. Between the daily activities the guest could also be able to participate at the morning of the cow milking and at the afternoon of the herding sheep, concluding therefore with a typical work day at the Estancia. These activities are subject to the weather conditions.
Included: - Transfers - 10.00/18.00 hs Reception with tea/coffee/mate and cakes (tortas fritas) - 10.30/18.30 Start the activities: Visit to the old house (hosteria), walk in the surroundings, shearing demonstration, horse handling skills. - Feedding a lamb with a feeding bottle. - Milking at the morning. - Herding sheep at the afternoon. - Visit to the vegetables garden. - Visit to the old wool truck. - 12.30/20.30 Lunch/Dinner: Charcoal roast lamb with salad and dessert. - A glass of wine or soft beverages during meals. - 14.00/22.00 End of the Excursion. - Bilingual guide (Spanish/English). Not included: - Drinks during the meal (alcoholic or soft drinks). Half Day Trip English Speaking Guides Available all the year
Returning to the Quincho where a whole lamb is being roasted on a vertical stake in traditional Patagonian fashion, emphasis is on the history of the place, retelling anecdotes and stories from the early settlers. Crossing through the vegetable plot where most of the vegetables consumed on the estancia are grown, we will visit the old truck (chata) wich used to transport the wool production. Finally we arrive at the Quincho where the person doing the roasting has the meat ready to delight the diners with tasty Patagonian lamb while enjoying the impressive view of the mountain range. Meanwhile the life of the estancia carries on and it is not uncommon to see the gauchos ride past herding the cattle and/or sheep and disappearing over the horizon. People who choose the Ranch Day Program + 3 h Horse-Ride, after having lunch will meet the guide to start with the long ride through the different trails around the property. Back in El Calafate, the experience of life on a typical Patagonian estancia will have given a fresh outlook on things, making more sense of the wide open Patagonian landscapes characteristically stretching out into the remoteness of infinity.
did you know?
The name Patagonia comes from the word patagón used by Magellan in 1520 to describe the native people that his expedition thought to be giants. It is now believed that the people he called the Patagons were Tehuelches, who tended to be taller than Europeans of the time
FTE 017 – VISIT TO ESTANCIA EL GALPON DEL GLACIAR Enjoy visiting the El Galpon del Glaciar, with lunch included Only 20 kilometers away from El Calafate, on the same way to the Perito Moreno Glacier, is an old sheep farm named “El Galpón del Glaciar”. The establishment is surrounded by 3,5 kilometers of shore of the Lago Argentino and by 1,5 kilometers of riverbank of the Centinela River: both offer an ideal environment to enjoy activities in contact with nature. Welcome. We will be waiting for you to know and to enjoy Patagonia. We invite you to discover our field trip, an ideal program to enjoy Patagonia and get in close contact with nature. We will greet you with a traditional reception in our old fashioned shearing shed, which was built in 1912. Then you will get to know the Estancia and learn about its history, the place and all the typical activities in Patagonia: a guided walk to the shores of the Lago Argentino, sheepherding with kelpies dogs and gauchos, shearing demonstration and other rural activities are all part of our proposal. Right after our welcome tea, we’ll invite you to participate in different rural activities: shearing demonstration in the old shed (est. 1912), sheep herding with kelpies dogs, and steppe trekking among local flora and fauna. The Andes Mountain Range, the Laguna de los Pájaros Natural Reserve and the Lago Argentino are the scene for this wonderful trip. By the end of the activities, we’ll offer a typical lamb “asado” and a “folklore” show performed by local artists.
FTE 018 – VISIT TO ESTANCIA 25 DE MAYO Enjoy a typical estancia with unique roasted lamb included! In one of the most stunning natural environments in the world, the establishment has 17,000 hectares of countryside and it is located steps from El Calafate downtown. It is an ideal place to relax and enjoy the scenery at the foot of the Cerro Calafate, breathing the purest patagonian air. After we pick you up at your hotel in El Calafate, we will welcome you in the estancia with mate and fried cakes to, then, walk to the path Arroyo Calafate. Afterwards, you can participate of the traditional activity of patagonian sheep herding with dogs and visit the old shearing shed and yards of the estancia. There will be a demonstration of sheep shearing and, finally, the staff will guide you to the restaurant “The Quincho” where you can have lunch or dinner. For starter you will have Creole turnovers, marinades and stews. Enjoy a main course of grilled roasted patagonian lamb accompanied by other courts and the organic garden salads. For dessert we offer homemade custard with caramel and coffee or tea finishing with a folk show performed by local artists and a tour through the country dances. Half Day Activity English Guide Available all the year
Suggested stay for El Calafate is 3 nights, as you will need two full days to visit at least Perito Moreno Glacier and a full day boat navigation.
FTE 019 – FULL DAY TORRES DEL PAINE NATIONAL PARK A full day trip to Torres del Paine National Park Crossing the Patagonian Steppe from North to South, we arrive at the border pass of Cancha Carrera (2,2 hours travel), from where we start visiting the beautiful South of Chile until we get into Torres del Paine National Park (“Azules” according to the Tehuelche language, which refers to its predominant colour) From the moment you get to the Park, we offer trekkings and rides in our vechicles. Among the possible centres of attraction and lookouts than can be visited, we can find: - Sarmiento de Gamboa Lake (lookout) - Laguna Azul - Panoramic view from Las Torres - trekking to Sierra Masle: optional 1 hour and a half. - Paine River waterfalls (descent to the river 30 minutes)
- Almirante Nieto Hill / Cuernos del Paine - lookout from the top - Portería Laguna Amarga - optional trekking along the fauna trail to Sarmiento Porter´s lodge, 1 and a half hours - Nordenskjold Lake - Lookout - Salto Grande - Lookout - Cuernos del Paine Nordenskjold Lake lookout (2 hours´trekking) - Pehoe Lake - optional trekking to Laguna Cóndor (pond) lookout from the top to the whole Paine Chaine) - National Park Information/ Interpretation Centre - explanation of the geological phenomenon - fauna - flora - glaciation At midday we offer you a picnic in the mountain as well as a snack including tea or coffee. We return to Calafate 5 pm arrival 8.40 pm approx.
EL CHALTÉN & FITZ ROY
Monte Fitz Roy (also known as Cerro Chaltén, Cerro Fitz Roy, or simply Mount Fitz Roy) is a mountain located near El Chaltén village, in the Southern Patagonian Ice Field in Patagonia, on the border between Argentina and Chile. First climbed in 1952 by French alpinists Lionel Terray and Guido Magnone, it remains among the most technically challenging mountains for mountaineers on Earth. Argentine explorer Francisco Moreno first saw the mountain on 2 March 1877. He named it Fitz Roy, in honour of Robert FitzRoy, who, as captain of the HMS Beagle had travelled up the Santa Cruz River in 1834 and charted large parts of the Patagonian coast. Cerro is a Spanish word meaning hill, while Chaltén comes from a Tehuelche (Aonikenk) word meaning "smoking mountain", due to a cloud that usually forms around the mountain's peak. Fitz Roy, however, was only one of a number of peaks the Tehuelche called Chaltén
The mountain has a reputation of being "ultimate", despite its average height (although being the highest peak in the Los Glaciares park, it is less than half the size of the Himalayan giants), because the sheer granite faces present long stretches of arduous technical climbing. In addition, the weather in the area is exceptionally inclement and treacherous. It also attracts many photographers thanks to its otherworldly shape. The area, while still fairly inaccessible, was even more isolated until the recent development of El ChaltĂŠn village and El Calafate international airport. The mountain climb, however, remains extremely difficult and is the preserve of very experienced climbers. Today, when a hundred people may reach the summit of Mount Everest in a single day, Monte Fitz Roy might only be successfully ascended once during the span of a year.
Important: take into account that this is not a pleasure activity but an adventure excursion with the purpose of getting to know the mountainous region of Torres del Paine National Park and its sorrounding areas. We will travel 700 km in al -rubbly roads, mostly. It takes 3 and a half hours one way 3 and a half hours back- Customs takes additional time. The estimated time touring inside the Park is 6 hours.
FTE 020 – FULL DAY TRIP TO EL CHALTÉN A full day trip from El Calafate, to visit El Chaltén The excursion begins at 7.30 hs from El Calafate. We take the mythic Route 40, that goes along the Argentino Lake up to La Leona river. We will pass by the canyon with the same name “Cañadón La Leona” and after 1.15 h ride we will arrive to the ancient route hotel “La Leona”, almost a museum of the Route 40, where you can have coffee and cakes. Our trip continues along the Lake Viedma, from where we will have magical views of glaciers, hidden lakes and the overpowering presence of the Mount Fitz Roy. We will make some photo stops at the viewpoint of the Viedma Glacier and Lake and after a 3 h ride we will arrive to this andean village called “The Capital of the Trekking”. As soon as we arrive at El Chalten we make another stop at the National Park Interpretation Centre. Once there, you can enjoy some activities Full day trip English speaking guide Available all the year
FTE 021 – VIEDMA LIGHT A great boat navigation to enjoy Viedma Glacier Viedma Glacier is located in Los Glaciares National Park in the Province of Santa Cruz and is the largest in Argentina. It was thought to believe that the Upsala Glacier was the largest but recent studies indicate that the Viedma glacier has major surface (978km2). It flows directly from the Southern Patagonian Ice Field to the lake. Its front is 40mt from the level of the lake. Their risings are located in the heart of the ice field between 1.500 and 2.200 msnm. It has some dark, deep lines on the surface that are volcanic ashes strips mixed with ice. Also, it has suffered many repressions but not as important as the rest of the glaciers. Viedma Lake was discovered by Antonio de Viedma, in 1877 when Francisco Pascacio Moreno and Carlos María Moyano where on an expedition and discovered is location and characteristics. It belongs to the hydric basin of the Santa Cruz River, located 49 º and 50 º south latitude. It rises in the Andes range even though its oriental lobe stands in the sub Andean region. The Western coast of the lake is high, eroded by the ice; instead the oriental coast is lower. (You can find route Nº23) an arm shaped as a fjord is extended at the base of Mt. Campana.
did you know?
El Chaltén is a small mountain village in Santa Cruz Province, Argentina. It is located in the riverside of Rio de las Vueltas, within the Los Glaciares National Park (section Reserva Nacional Zona Viedma) at the base of Cerro Torre and Cerro Fitz Roy mountains, both popular for
With arid edges and beautiful mountains covered with snow and an extension of 85km long and 20km wide, the basin does not count with important affluent so it mainly receives water from the glacier. It breaks away from the West of Mariano Moreno range by the valley that is located between mts Huemul (2.677 m) and mts. Campana (2.570 m). VIEDMA LIGHT (2 hs. 30’) We will sail by Viedma lake to the front of the glacier were we will be able to see Mt. Huemul. A guide from Los Galciares National Park will accompany us. Tunel Bay, located 17 km south of El Chalten, where we will embark and sail to the Viedma Glacier. We will sail south by the bay allowing us to sail by the shore so we can see the stunning Mt. Fitz Roy as well as Mt. Huemul. Once we arrive Hornos cape (Far south east), the boat turns
west and we will set our eyes on the stunning Viedma glacier. The sailing is done in the front of the glacier’s wall of 40mt high above the level of the lake, were you will be able to see big ice bergs as well. This is an ideal place for lectures on glaciology that are given by our guides. Depart the glacier to Tunel bay. · Itinerary 1 - 11:45 Embarkation and sailing on the Viedma Glacier. - 12:00 the sailing begins on time. - 13:15 sailing at the front of the glacier. - 14:30 Arrive to Tunel Bay. · Itinerary 2 - 14:45 Embarkation and sailing on the Viedma Glacier. - 15:00 the sailing begins on time. - 16:15 sailing at the front of the glacier. - 17:30 Arrive to Tunel Bay. Included: - Guides (Los Glaciares National Park) - Snack and hot beverage. No Included: - Transfer to and from Chalten – Tunel Bay port.
WEATHER & SUGGESTIONS. For your stay in El Chalten we recommend you to pay attention to the following points: WEATHER: In Southern Patagonia the weather can change drastically several times a day. In summer, the temperature oscillates 18 º (when there is over 17 hours of day Light) and its does not reach 2º in winter with 8 hours of daily light. To bring proper clothing is very important. CLOTHES: It is necessary to bring warm and waterproof clothing. We recommend you to bring clothing that you can use in “layers”. It is necessary to bring gloves, woolen hat, waterproof jacket, comfortable footwear and scarf. For those who will do trekking activities it is important to bring good trekking boots that protect the ankles, because of the rocky terrain. SUN: The trek on Viedma Glacier is a unique spectacle. It is important to use sunglasses in order to enjoy the activities so you can protect your eyes of the intense reflection of the glacier and lake. Also to take care of your skin it is important to use a good sunblock.
FTE 022 - VIEDMA ICE TREKKING A great activity to walk with crampons over the Viedma Glacier We will sail on the Viedma Lake; walk with crampons where we will be able to find cracks and caves and other interesting places. Located 17 km south of El Chalten a small picturesque bay called Tunel Bay is located, in a natural bay a few hundreds of meters away from the delta that forms the river. We will sail south by the bay allowing us to sail by the shore so we can see the stunning Mt. Fitz Roy as well as Mt. Huemul. Once we arrive Hornos cape (Far south east), the boat turns west and we will set our eyes on the stunning Viedma glacier. We will sail by the front of the glacier and we will be able to enjoy the sight of huge icebergs, the warm blue skies and walls that reach 40mts over the level of the lake. Disembark on the rocky promontory and passengers are invited to descend and regroup. The guide in charge of the group will introduce himself, from there we will do a brief walk on the terrain that a few years before was covered by the glacier. After a few minutes we will reach the edge of the glacier were each passenger will be given crampons that will be used to walk the glacier. From here we start our two hour walk on the glacier; guides will take care of the safety of the passengers as well as lectures on glaciology and the area. Once the excursion has ended we will stop for lunch and return to the boat.
did you know?
Viedma Glacier is a large glacier that is part of the huge Southern Patagonian Ice Field, located at the southern end of mainland South America. Viedma Glacier is a valley glacier and its moraine-rich terminus flows into the western end of Lake Viedma, which is fed primarily by its melting ice
· Itinerary 1 - 8:45 Embarkation and sailing on the Viedma Glacier. - 9:00 Departure from Tunel Bay port to Viedma Glacier. - 10:30 Disembark on the rocky promontory near the glacier. - 13:30 Return to the boat. - 14:30 Arrive to Tunel Bay port. · Itinerary 2 - 11:45 Embarkation and sailing on the Viedma Glacier. - 12:00 Departure from Tunel Bay port to Viedma Glacier. - 13:30 Disembark on the rocky promontory near the glacier. - 16:30 Return to the boat. - 17:30 Arrive to Tunel Bay port.
FTE 023 - VIEDMA PRO An incredible Ice Climbing Activity on Viedma Glacier The glacier is an ideal place to practice ice climbing. Its cracks and walls allow a full day activity and make this program a highly attractive alternative hen starting to practice this sport or just simply live a different experience for those adventures and outdoor lovers.
IMPORTANT: - This product is suggested for people with good physical condition, who are used to do moderates walks on irregular terrains. - Minimum age: 12 years old Included: - Guides (Los Glaciares National Park) - Snack. - Crampons for the trekking activity on the glacier. Not Included: - Transfer from and to Chalten – Tunel Bay port. - Personal gear (coat, trekking shoes, gloves, hats, etc) - Lunch DURATION: 6 hours WEATHER & SUGGESTIONS. For your stay in El Chalten we recommend you to pay attention to the following points: WEATHER: In Southern Patagonia the weather can change drastically several times a day. In summer, the temperature oscillates 18 º (when there is over 17 hours of day Light) and its does not reach 2º in winter with 8 hours of daily light. To bring proper clothing is very important.
CLOTHES: It is necessary to bring warm and waterproof clothing. We recommend you to bring clothing that you can use in “layers”. It is necessary to bring gloves, woolen hat, waterproof jacket, comfortable footwear and scarf. For those who will do trekking activities it is important to bring good trekking boots that protect the ankles, because of the rocky terrain. SUN: The trek on Viedma Glacier is a unique spectacle. It is important to use sunglasses in order to enjoy the activities so you can protect your eyes of the intense reflection of the glacier and lake. Also to take care of your skin it is important to use a good sunblock.
Located 17 km south of El Chalten a small picturesque bay called Tunel Bay is located, in a natural bay a few hundreds of meters away from the delta that forms the river. We will sail south by the bay allowing us to sail by the shore so we can see the stunning Mt. Fitz Roy as well as Mt. Huemul. Once we arrive to Hornos cape (Far south east), the boat turns west and we will set our eyes on the stunning Viedma glacier. We will sail by the front of the glacier and we will be able to enjoy the sight of huge icebergs, the warm blue skies and walls that reach 40mts over the level of the lake. Disembark on the rocky promontory and passengers are invited to descend and regroup. The guide in charge of the group will introduce himself.
did you know?
Viedma Glacier’s glacier terminus is about 2 kilometres (1.2 mi) wide at the point it enters Lake Viedma. Chunks of ice fall off the terminus and float off into the lake, eventually melting.
Walk up to the school area. Once the technical gear is assigned and distributed, our guides will go through caves and crack to reach the School area were we will begin the climbing. Once the team is introduced and security mechanism explained the activities will begin. The guides will teach basic skills in a correct order so passengers can progress easily. People who take this course will be astonished by the improved and quick techniques learned. Later on we will stop for lunch (box lunch is not included). We will return to the rocky promontory and sail back to the port. Arrival to Tunel Bay port. Program - 8:45 Embarkation and sailing on the Viedma Glacier. - 9:00 Departure from Tunel Bay port to Viedma Glacier. - 10:30 Disembark on the rocky promontory near the glacier. - 16:45 Return to the boat. - 17:30 Arrive to Tunel Bay port.
did you know?
Los Glaciares National Park (Spanish: Parque Nacional Los Glaciares, “Glaciers National Park”) is a federal protected area in Santa Cruz Province, Argentina. The park covers an area of 726,927 ha (7,269.27 km2; 2,806.68 sq mi), making it the second largest national park in the country
IMPORTANT: - This product is suggested for people with good physical condition, who are used to do moderates walks on irregular terrains. - Minimum age: 12 years old. Included: - Guides (Los Glaciares National Park) - Snack. - Technical crampons + harness + ice axe + helmet + ropes. Not Included: - Transfers to and from El Chalten – Tunel Bay port. - Personal gear (coat, trekking shoes, gloves, hats, etc) - Lunch DURATION: 9 hours WEATHER & SUGGESTIONS. For your stay in El Chalten we recommend you to pay attention to the following points: WEATHER: In Southern Patagonia the weather can change drastically several times a day. In summer, the temperature oscillates 18 º (when there is over 17 hours of day Light) and its does not reach 2º in winter with 8 hours of daily light. To bring proper clothing is very important. CLOTHES: It is necessary to bring warm and waterproof clothing. We recommend you to bring clothing that you can use in “layers”. It is necessary to bring gloves, woolen hat, waterproof jacket, comfortable footwear and scarf. For those who will do trekking activities it is important to bring good trekking boots that protect the ankles, because of the rocky terrain. SUN: The trek on Viedma Glacier is a unique spectacle. It is important to use sunglasses in order to enjoy the activities so you can protect your eyes of the intense reflection of the glacier and lake. Also to take care of your skin it is important to use a good sunblock.