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Los Glaciares National Park

Argentina🇦🇷 | national parksLos Glaciares National Parkice fields, Perito Moreno Glacier, Patagonian steppe, jagged peaks | things to do and best time to go

Explore Los Alerces National ParkExplore Nahuel Huapi National Park

Backpacking in Los Glaciares
UNESCO World Heritage site
🏆 Top picknational park ranked #2
By Johan Kruseman 🇳🇱 | Updated July 30, 2026

Most people only realize on the bus out that Los Glaciares is one of the few world‑class trekking areas where you can day-hike to marquee viewpoints without paying for guides, refugios, or complex permits. It sits in southwest Santa Cruz Province, Patagonia, hugging the Chilean border around El Chaltén and El Calafate. For backpackers, it’s a trade: easy logistics and outrageous granite-and-ice scenery in exchange for higher prices and growing crowds. Trails like Laguna de los Tres and Laguna Torre are well-marked, free to access once you’ve paid the park fee, and you can wild-camp at designated sites near town for zero pesos, which quietly saves a fortune compared with Torres del Paine. Wildlife is there—condors, foxes, the odd huemul—but you’ll mostly notice other hikers. Compared with Argentina’s Nahuel Huapi or Tierra del Fuego, Los Glaciares is less forest-wander, more big, exposed views and wind that will absolutely rearrange your plans.

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✨ Why go?
Ranked #2 national park in ArgentinaWhat makes it a must-see national park

Los Glaciares National Park in Argentina draws backpackers for several compelling reasons. First, independent exploration is a major draw. The park’s extensive trail system allows you to roam freely, soaking in breathtaking views without the constraints of guided tours.

Budget-conscious travelers appreciate the camping and hostel options nearby. You can pitch a tent under the stars or find a cozy bed in a hostel, keeping costs low while still enjoying the park’s wonders. This flexibility lets you stretch your budget for experiences that matter, like a boat tour to see the Perito Moreno Glacier up close.

The variety of trails caters to all skill levels, from leisurely walks to challenging hikes. You can tailor your adventure based on your energy and time. Plus, the park is well-suited for … read more 👉
Los Glaciares National Park in Argentina draws backpackers for several compelling reasons. First, independent exploration is a major draw. The park’s extensive trail system allows you to roam freely, soaking in breathtaking views without the constraints of guided tours.

Budget-conscious travelers appreciate the camping and hostel options nearby. You can pitch a tent under the stars or find a cozy bed in a hostel, keeping costs low while still enjoying the park’s wonders. This flexibility lets you stretch your budget for experiences that matter, like a boat tour to see the Perito Moreno Glacier up close.

The variety of trails caters to all skill levels, from leisurely walks to challenging hikes. You can tailor your adventure based on your energy and time. Plus, the park is well-suited for self-guided travelers. Maps are readily available, and the well-marked paths make navigation straightforward.

However, be mindful of the weather; it can change rapidly, so pack accordingly. By planning wisely, you’ll preserve your energy and budget for the moments that truly count in this stunning landscape.
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💡 HighlightsPlaces and moments you shouldn't skip

  1. Perito Moreno Glacier — One of the few advancing glaciers on Earth, with huge blue ice walls that calve dramatically into Lago Argentino. Easy walkways and boat trips mean you can watch thunderous crashes of ice up close without signing up for a full expedition; guided mini-treks on the glacier are an option if you want to stomp around the ice.
  2. Cerro Fitz Roy & Laguna de los Tres — The jagged granite spire that photographers and hikers worship; the long but rewarding trail ends at a stunning glacial lake that reflects the peak on calm mornings. It’s tough enough to feel earned, and the viewpoints are some of Patagonia’s best for sunrise shots (personal favorite).
  3. Cerro Torre & Laguna Torre — A sharper, wind-battered counterpart to Fitz Roy, with a beautiful moraine beach and iceberg-dotted
… read more 👉
  1. Perito Moreno Glacier — One of the few advancing glaciers on Earth, with huge blue ice walls that calve dramatically into Lago Argentino. Easy walkways and boat trips mean you can watch thunderous crashes of ice up close without signing up for a full expedition; guided mini-treks on the glacier are an option if you want to stomp around the ice.
  2. Cerro Fitz Roy & Laguna de los Tres — The jagged granite spire that photographers and hikers worship; the long but rewarding trail ends at a stunning glacial lake that reflects the peak on calm mornings. It’s tough enough to feel earned, and the viewpoints are some of Patagonia’s best for sunrise shots (personal favorite).
  3. Cerro Torre & Laguna Torre — A sharper, wind-battered counterpart to Fitz Roy, with a beautiful moraine beach and iceberg-dotted lake below. The hike is scenic, the views are dramatic, and the mountain’s knife-edge profile is unforgettable in moody weather.
  4. Upsala Glacier (boat trip) — A gigantic glacier front with massive icebergs floating in a cold, quiet channel; you get the real “ice world” feeling on a boat cruise through the iceberg-strewn arms of Lago Argentino. Often paired with visits to Spegazzini Glacier, which boasts some of the tallest ice faces in the park.
  5. Viedma Glacier & ice-trekking from El Chaltén — Less touristed than Perito Moreno, Viedma offers multi-hour glacier hikes and options for snowshoeing or light ice-climbing. The approach across moraines and the sense of remoteness make it a great choice if you want to work for your views.
  6. Estancia Cristina & Upsala Valley — A working ranch turned visitor hub that combines history, short 4x4 tramps and guided hikes to spectacular viewpoints over the Upsala Glacier and surrounding valleys. It’s a good mix of culture, short easy hikes, and sweeping glacial scenery without the crowds at the main viewpoints.
  7. Lenga forests, steppe and wildlife spotting — The park isn’t just ice: lenga beech forests, windswept Patagonian steppe and rocky shrublands host guanacos, foxes, rheas and plenty of birdlife (including condors if you’re lucky). Hikes through the forest and along ridgelines are quieter and great for spotting animals or just soaking in the scale.
Spotted a mistake or missing something? Contact us.

Things to do around Los Glaciares National Park

Perito Moreno Glacier Full Day Tour with Optional Boat Safari

Perito Moreno Glacier Full Day Tour with Optional Boat Safari

4.7(550)
From €70
per personViator
Perito Moreno Glacier with Navigation from El Calafate

Perito Moreno Glacier with Navigation from El Calafate

4.8(298) 8h
From €118
per personViator
Glaciares Gourmet Navigation: Spegazzini, Upsala & Perito Moreno

Glaciares Gourmet Navigation: Spegazzini, Upsala & Perito Moreno

4.7(326) 11h
From €206
per personViator
Perito Moreno Glacier Minitrekking Tour

Perito Moreno Glacier Minitrekking Tour

4.8(243) 10h
From €422
per personViator
Perito Moreno Glacier Full Day Tour with optional Navigation

Perito Moreno Glacier Full Day Tour with optional Navigation

4.7(250) 8h
From €75
per personViator
Perito Moreno Glacier Day Trip with Optional Boat Ride

Perito Moreno Glacier Day Trip with Optional Boat Ride

4.6(240) 8h
From €82
per personViator
Minitrekking Perito Moreno: Ice hiking tour (optional transfers)

Minitrekking Perito Moreno: Ice hiking tour (optional transfers)

4.7(128)
From €314
per personViator
Perito Moreno Glacier Minitrekking Experience

Perito Moreno Glacier Minitrekking Experience

4.6(71) 10h
From €382
per personViator
Perito Moreno Full Day Minitrekking with Transfer and Walkways

Perito Moreno Full Day Minitrekking with Transfer and Walkways

4.7(54) 10h
From €386
per personViator
Essential Patagonia : Private Tour Perito Moreno Glacier + Chaltén

Essential Patagonia : Private Tour Perito Moreno Glacier + Chaltén

5.0(31) 48h
From €658
per personViator

Ratings based on Tripadvisor reviews. When you book through this link, you support our work at no extra cost to you.

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🌤️ When to go?Best time to explore Los Glaciares


  • Weather: The park’s weather swings sharply. Summer (December to February) offers milder conditions, with daytime temps around 15-20°C (59-68°F). Winters plunge below freezing, often dropping to -5°C (23°F) or colder, making trails icy and less accessible.

  • Temperature: Daytime warmth in summer is comfortable for hiking, but nights can still be chilly, dipping to 5°C (41°F). Shoulder seasons (spring and fall) bring unpredictable weather—sunny one moment, rain or snow the next.

  • Daylight Hours: Summer grants long days, up to 17 hours of light, maximizing hiking time. Winter days shrink to about 7 hours, limiting exploration and increasing risk on trails.

  • Crowds: Peak season means more tourists, especially around popular spots like Fitz Roy. If you prefer solitude, aim for late spring or early
… read more 👉

  • Weather: The park’s weather swings sharply. Summer (December to February) offers milder conditions, with daytime temps around 15-20°C (59-68°F). Winters plunge below freezing, often dropping to -5°C (23°F) or colder, making trails icy and less accessible.

  • Temperature: Daytime warmth in summer is comfortable for hiking, but nights can still be chilly, dipping to 5°C (41°F). Shoulder seasons (spring and fall) bring unpredictable weather—sunny one moment, rain or snow the next.

  • Daylight Hours: Summer grants long days, up to 17 hours of light, maximizing hiking time. Winter days shrink to about 7 hours, limiting exploration and increasing risk on trails.

  • Crowds: Peak season means more tourists, especially around popular spots like Fitz Roy. If you prefer solitude, aim for late spring or early fall, but be ready for variable weather.

  • Seasonal Activities: Summer is prime for trekking, glacier tours, and camping. Winter offers ice climbing and skiing but demands serious gear and experience.

  • Price Fluctuations: Expect higher prices for accommodation and tours in summer. Off-season rates drop, but some services close or reduce availability.


Pro-tip: Visit in late November or early March to dodge crowds and enjoy decent weather—just pack layers and be ready for sudden changes.


source: climatestotravel.comJANJanuary: excellent for travelingFEBFebruary: excellent for travelingMARMarch: highly recommended for travelingAPRApril: good for travelingMAYMay: fair for travelingJUNJune: below average for travelingJULJuly: below average for travelingAUGAugust: below average for travelingSEPSeptember: fair for travelingOCTOctober: good for travelingNOVNovember: highly recommended for travelingDECDecember: excellent for traveling
Argentina - Los Glaciares National Park

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🛏️ Where to stay?Where staying makes the most sense

Los Glaciares National Park is a backpacker’s dream, but choosing where to stay can make or break your experience. Inside the park, options are limited. The best bet is the Refugio Los Glaciares, located near El Chaltén. It’s a basic but cozy mountain hut, perfect for those tackling the famous trails like Laguna de los Tres. Book ahead, especially in peak season, as it fills up fast.

If you prefer a bit more comfort, head to El Chaltén, a charming town just outside the park. It’s the gateway to the trails and has a range of hostels and budget accommodations. Hostel Rancho Grande is popular among … read more 👉
Los Glaciares National Park is a backpacker’s dream, but choosing where to stay can make or break your experience. Inside the park, options are limited. The best bet is the Refugio Los Glaciares, located near El Chaltén. It’s a basic but cozy mountain hut, perfect for those tackling the famous trails like Laguna de los Tres. Book ahead, especially in peak season, as it fills up fast.

If you prefer a bit more comfort, head to El Chaltén, a charming town just outside the park. It’s the gateway to the trails and has a range of hostels and budget accommodations. Hostel Rancho Grande is popular among backpackers for its friendly vibe and communal kitchen, which helps save on food costs.

Another option is El Calafate, about an hour and a half from the park. While it’s further away, it offers more amenities and a lively atmosphere. Consider Hostel del Glaciar for a budget-friendly stay. Just keep in mind that traveling back and forth can eat into your hiking time.

Plan wisely, and you’ll preserve your energy and budget for the breathtaking moments that await on the trails.
Best hostels in Argentina


Best quality hotels in Argentina

👛 Costs (as of 30 July 2026)What things cost and how to budget

Visiting Los Glaciares National Park in Argentina requires some planning to avoid unexpected costs. The entrance fee is around $10 to $15 USD per person. This fee grants access to the park’s stunning landscapes and trails.

If you’re considering guided tours, prices can vary significantly. Expect to pay between $50 and $150 USD for day tours, depending on the activities included, such as glacier trekking or boat rides. These tours often provide valuable insights and save you time navigating the park.

Accommodation options range widely. Budget hostels start at about $20 USD per night, while mid-range hotels can go from $70 to $150 USD. If you’re looking for something more upscale, expect to pay upwards of $200 USD per night.

Food costs can also add up. A meal at a local restaurant typically … read more 👉
Visiting Los Glaciares National Park in Argentina requires some planning to avoid unexpected costs. The entrance fee is around $10 to $15 USD per person. This fee grants access to the park’s stunning landscapes and trails.

If you’re considering guided tours, prices can vary significantly. Expect to pay between $50 and $150 USD for day tours, depending on the activities included, such as glacier trekking or boat rides. These tours often provide valuable insights and save you time navigating the park.

Accommodation options range widely. Budget hostels start at about $20 USD per night, while mid-range hotels can go from $70 to $150 USD. If you’re looking for something more upscale, expect to pay upwards of $200 USD per night.

Food costs can also add up. A meal at a local restaurant typically ranges from $10 to $25 USD. If you’re on a tighter budget, consider buying groceries and cooking your own meals, which can keep costs down.

Transportation is another factor. If you’re driving, fuel prices are around $1.20 USD per liter. Public transport options are available, but they may not be as frequent, so plan accordingly.

Be aware of additional costs like park activities or equipment rentals. Glacier hiking gear can run you about $30 to $50 USD for a day.

Planning ahead and budgeting for these expenses will help you focus on the breathtaking views and experiences that Los Glaciares National Park offers.


source: argentina.gob.ar
⚠️ Prices can change and everyone travels differently, so take this as a rough guide. Hope it helps you plan your adventure!

🥾 TrailsHiking Los Glaciares national park: highlights and difficulty

Los Glaciares National Park is a hiker’s paradise, packed with jaw-dropping views, glaciers, and diverse wildlife. Picture yourself surrounded by towering peaks and massive ice formations, with the turquoise waters of glacial lakes reflecting the sky. The terrain varies from easy walks to more challenging treks, so there’s something for everyone.

One of the best trails is the Laguna de los Tres. Here are some details:
  • Length: 20 km (12.4 miles)
  • Estimated Duration: 8-10 hours
  • Difficulty Level: Moderate
  • Key Features: Stunning views of Mount Fitz Roy, beautiful lakes, and wildflowers in season
  • Terrain:
… read more 👉
Los Glaciares National Park is a hiker’s paradise, packed with jaw-dropping views, glaciers, and diverse wildlife. Picture yourself surrounded by towering peaks and massive ice formations, with the turquoise waters of glacial lakes reflecting the sky. The terrain varies from easy walks to more challenging treks, so there’s something for everyone.

One of the best trails is the Laguna de los Tres. Here are some details:
  • Length: 20 km (12.4 miles)
  • Estimated Duration: 8-10 hours
  • Difficulty Level: Moderate
  • Key Features: Stunning views of Mount Fitz Roy, beautiful lakes, and wildflowers in season
  • Terrain: Mix of well-marked paths and rocky sections, with a steep final ascent

Another great option is the Perito Moreno Glacier Trail:
  • Length: 3 km (1.9 miles)
  • Estimated Duration: 1-2 hours
  • Difficulty Level: Easy
  • Key Features: Close-up views of the famous Perito Moreno Glacier, boardwalks for easy walking
  • Terrain: Flat and accessible, perfect for all skill levels

Wildlife here is pretty incredible too; keep an eye out for guanacos, Andean condors, and maybe even a shy fox or two.

Getting to the park is fairly straightforward. You can catch a bus from El Chaltén or El Calafate, which are the main gateways. Just be prepared for crowds, especially during peak season (December to February). The entrance fee is reasonable, but it’s worth checking the latest prices online before you go. Bring your sense of adventure and some snacks, and you’ll have a blast!
⚠️ Hiking info can sometimes be outdated or inaccurate. Before you hit the trail, check the latest conditions with locals. If you do spot anything that's off, I'd love to hear from you, so I can update it for fellow travelers.

🛡️ SafetyScams, Hazards, and Annoyances

Los Glaciares National Park offers a stunning backdrop for backpackers, but it’s wise to stay grounded about its realities. Weather can shift rapidly, so prepare for sun, rain, and wind all in one day. Layering is key; a good waterproof jacket can save your hike.

The terrain varies. Some trails are steep and rocky, demanding solid footing and careful navigation. Pay attention to trail markers, especially in foggy conditions. River crossings can be tricky, so scout the best spots before committing.

Wildlife encounters are part of the experience. While you might spot guanacos or condors, keep your distance and don’t feed them. Respecting their space is crucial for both your safety and theirs.

First-timers often underestimate the park’s scale. Start early to avoid the afternoon crowds and … read more 👉
Los Glaciares National Park offers a stunning backdrop for backpackers, but it’s wise to stay grounded about its realities. Weather can shift rapidly, so prepare for sun, rain, and wind all in one day. Layering is key; a good waterproof jacket can save your hike.

The terrain varies. Some trails are steep and rocky, demanding solid footing and careful navigation. Pay attention to trail markers, especially in foggy conditions. River crossings can be tricky, so scout the best spots before committing.

Wildlife encounters are part of the experience. While you might spot guanacos or condors, keep your distance and don’t feed them. Respecting their space is crucial for both your safety and theirs.

First-timers often underestimate the park’s scale. Start early to avoid the afternoon crowds and give yourself ample time to enjoy the scenery. A solid pair of hiking boots and trekking poles can make a world of difference. Stay aware, stay prepared, and you’ll savor every moment in this breathtaking landscape.
Check Country Safety

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We 💚 feedbackKey takeaways before you go

Los Glaciares National Park is a breathtaking showcase of nature’s raw power, with glaciers that crack and roar like thunder. It’s a place where you can truly feel the earth’s pulse. But be prepared: the weather can turn on a dime. One moment you’re basking in sun, the next you’re battling wind and rain. Pack layers and stay flexible. It’s all part of the adventure, and it keeps the experience authentic.

✈️ When did I visit Argentina?
I have visited Argentina, together with Chile, in September 2012.

✍️ Help improve this page!
The information on this page is based on my own backpacking experience in Argentina, supplemented with up-to-date research and feedback from other travelers. Travel details can change, so if you notice anything outdated or incomplete, feel free to let me know.



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👋 Meet the founderWho’s Behind Take Your Backpack?

Johan, backpacker and founder of TakeYourBackpackHi, I’m Johan (Netherlands 🇳🇱), the creator of TakeYourBackpack. Over the past decade, I’ve backpacked through 80+ countries across six continents, gaining extensive experience with independent travel, long-term trips, and overland routes.

This site is built on a combination of firsthand travel experience and carefully curated insights from other backpackers. Many guides are based on places I’ve personally visited, while others bring together tips, observations, and practical advice shared by trusted travelers I’ve met along the way.

The goal is to provide realistic, experience-driven guidance — not generic itineraries — so you can explore destinations with better context, clearer expectations, and more confidence.

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