8 hours · El Calafate · Argentina
Sail up Lake Argentino past the icebergs to Estancia Cristina, which is reached by boat and no other way.
A full day at Estancia Cristina, inside Los Glaciares National Park. Sail through the turquoise waters of Lago Argentino among icebergs, disembark at this historic Patagonian ranch, and choose your adventure: explore the estancia and its cultural heritage, ascend in 4×4 to a panoramic glacier viewpoint, or hike through the Fossil Canyon in an epic trekking expedition. A perfect blend of nature, history, and adventure.
- Length
- 8 hours
- Difficulty
- Easy
- Guide
- Spanish / English
- Departs
- every day
Itinerary
How the day runs
-
Step 1
Pick-up from hotels in El Calafate early in the morning.
- Transfer to Puerto de la Cruz (Punta Bandera)
- Navigation through the North Arm of Lago Argentino to the Upsala Channel (viewpoint from the limit of navigation)
- Disembark at Estancia Cristina
- Groups are split according to the selected experience: Option 1 – Classic Experience Guided visit to the Costumbrista Museum (former sheep shearing shed). Introduction to the story of the pioneering Masters family. Guided walk to Río Caterina, waterwheel, the chapel, and the historical ranch. Free time and optional lunch. Option 2 – Discovery Experience (4×4 + Short Hike) Off-road ascent in 4×4 vehicles along Cordón Feruglio (9.5 km). 20-minute hike over glacial terrain to the Upsala Glacier Viewpoint. Time to admire the panoramic view of Upsala Glacier, Lago Guillermo, and the Southern Patagonian Ice Field. Return to the ranch for free time and optional lunch. Option 3 – Trekking Experience (4×4 + Long Hike) Off-road ascent to Upsala Glacier Viewpoint. Begin 14 km descent through the Fossil Canyon, observing unique marine fossils exposed by glacial erosion. Continue descending to the valley and the lake shore for pick-up. Option 4 – Horse Riding Introductory talk at the stables. Horseback ride through the valley of the estancia. Relaxing time at the Pearson Refuge. Lunch at the refuge. Restrictions: minimum age 6 years old. Weight limit: 95 kg / 15 stone / 210 lbs.
- Return navigation to Puerto de la Cruz. Transfer back to El Calafate hotels (arrival around 7:30 PM).
What's included
- ✓ Shared tour with other passengers
- ✓ Hotel pick-up and drop-off in El Calafate
- ✓ Professional bilingual guide
- ✓ Round-trip navigation on Lago Argentino
- ✓ Guided activities according to selected experience (Classic, Discovery or Trekking)
- ✓ Use of 4x4 vehicles (for Discovery and Trekking options)
Not included
- — Lunch or box lunch (can be added as an optional service)
- — Entrance fee to Los Glaciares National Park (required)
- — Personal travel insurance
- — Gratuities
What to bring
- National Park entrance ticket or cash to pay it
- Passport or ID
- Trekking shoes (especially for Discovery and Trekking options)
- Layered clothing for variable weather
- Sunscreen and reusable water bottle
- Windproof jacket and sturdy walking shoes
- In the summer months, we recommend a hat or cap, sunscreen, and sunglasses.
Know before you go
- The tour is subject to weather conditions; navigation to Upsala may be partially limited if icebergs block the path.
- Trekking option requires high physical demand and is recommended only for experienced hikers.
- Children participating in the horseback ride pay the full rate.
Meeting point
El Calafate
Frequently asked
How much does it cost?
US$225 per person. The price on the card is the whole price.
How long does it take?
8 hours.
What's included?
Shared tour with other passengers, Hotel pick-up and drop-off in El Calafate, Professional bilingual guide, Round-trip navigation on Lago Argentino, Guided activities according to selected experience (Classic, Discovery or Trekking), Use of 4x4 vehicles (for Discovery and Trekking options).
What's not included?
Lunch or box lunch (can be added as an optional service), Entrance fee to Los Glaciares National Park (required), Personal travel insurance, Gratuities.
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