· AR

Perito Moreno

Perito Moreno, Santa Cruz, Argentina

Perito Moreno, located in Santa Cruz, Argentina, is a mesmerizing destination that offers a unique blend of natural beauty and adventure for travelers seeking an unforgettable experience. The town is named after Francisc…

#Glacier#National Park#Santa Cruz#Argentina#Tourist Attraction

Top hotels & flights

Hand-picked stays and the best fares into Perito Moreno.

Top Hotels in Perito Moreno

Top Flights to Perito Moreno

Popular activities

Tours, tickets and experiences travelers book most in Perito Moreno.

Tours

Visit to Perito Moreno Glacier

Experience the majestic beauty of the Perito Moreno Glacier, one of the most famous and accessible ice fields in the world.

Shopping

Calafate Regional Market

Explore local crafts and products at the Calafate Regional Market.

Outdoor

Ice Trekking Adventure

Embark on an adventurous ice trekking tour on the Perito Moreno Glacier, suitable for thrill-seekers.

Location videos

Real reels from travelers, plus longer watches to get the full picture.

Watch & explore

Practical info

The essentials for planning your time in Perito Moreno.

Currency
$ | ARS | Argentine Peso
Population
Not Available
Languages
Spanish, Spanish
Average weather
Perito Moreno
Jan
sun
20°7°
Feb
sun
19°6°
Mar
cloud
17°4°
Apr
cloud
13°2°
May
cold
9°-1°
Jun
cold
6°-3°
Jul
snow
5°-4°
Aug
cold
7°-3°
Sep
cloud
10°0°
Oct
cloud
13°2°
Nov
sun
16°4°
Dec
sun
19°6°

Local guide

What travelers love, what to watch for, and a deeper read on Perito Moreno.

What people love

Perito Moreno Glacier in Santa Cruz, Argentina is a popular destination due to its stunning natural beauty and unique features. Here are some pros of traveling to Perito Moreno:

  1. Spectacular Scenery: Perito Moreno Glacier is one of the most impressive glaciers in the world, known for its massive size and striking blue ice formations. Visitors can witness the glacier calving, where chunks of ice break off and crash into the water below, creating a spectacular natural show.

  2. Adventure Activities: Travelers to Perito Moreno can enjoy a range of adventure activities such as trekking on the glacier, ice climbing, and boat tours that offer up-close views of the ice walls. These activities provide an exciting and unique way to experience the beauty of the glacier.

  3. Wildlife Viewing: The area around Perito Moreno Glacier is home to a variety of wildlife including birds, marine mammals, and land animals. Visitors may have the opportunity to spot animals such as condors, eagles, and possibly even pumas in the surrounding forests.

  4. Accessibility: Perito Moreno Glacier is easily accessible from the town of El Calafate, which has an airport and a range of accommodations, restaurants, and tour operators. This makes it convenient for travelers to visit the glacier and explore the surrounding area.

  5. Environmental Conservation: The Perito Moreno Glacier is part of Los Glaciares National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage site. By visiting the glacier, travelers can support conservation efforts and learn more about the importance of protecting these natural wonders for future generations.

Overall, traveling to Perito Moreno Glacier offers a unique opportunity to witness the beauty of nature up close, engage in adventure activities, and support conservation efforts in a stunning natural setting.

What to know

One potential con of traveling to Perito Moreno in Santa Cruz, Argentina is the remote location. Perito Moreno is situated in a relatively isolated area, which can make transportation to and from the destination more challenging. Travelers may need to take multiple modes of transportation, such as flights, buses, and shuttles, to reach the area.

Another potential con is the unpredictable weather in Patagonia, where Perito Moreno is located. The region is known for its strong winds, sudden changes in temperature, and occasional storms. Travelers should be prepared for varying weather conditions and pack accordingly to ensure a comfortable and safe trip.

Additionally, due to its popularity as a tourist destination, Perito Moreno can become crowded during peak seasons, such as the summer months. This can result in long lines, crowded viewing platforms, and difficulty finding accommodations. Travelers looking for a more peaceful and secluded experience may want to consider visiting during the off-peak season.

Overall, while Perito Moreno offers stunning natural beauty and unique experiences, travelers should be aware of the potential challenges associated with its remote location, unpredictable weather, and crowds during peak seasons.

Perito Moreno is a town located in the Santa Cruz Province of Argentina. It is situated in the Patagonia region, known for its stunning natural landscapes and significant historical background. Here is a detailed history of Perito Moreno:

  1. Early Settlement and Indigenous Peoples:

    • The region around Perito Moreno was originally inhabited by indigenous peoples, including the Tehuelche communities, who lived as nomadic hunters and gatherers. They had a profound understanding of the land and its resources.
  2. Exploration and European Influence:

    • European exploration of Patagonia began in the 16th century, but it was not until the late 19th and early 20th centuries that significant European settlements were established.
    • The town of Perito Moreno itself is named after Francisco Moreno, an influential Argentine explorer and scientist known for his extensive exploration and study of Patagonia. His work contributed significantly to the understanding of the region’s geography and indigenous cultures.
  3. Foundation and Development:

    • The town was officially founded on May 23, 1927. Its development was closely linked to agriculture and ranching, which were the main economic activities in the region due to the suitability of the land for sheep farming.
  4. Economic and Cultural Growth:

    • Over the years, Perito Moreno grew as a regional hub for trade and services, supporting the surrounding rural areas.
    • The town developed a cultural identity, blending indigenous heritage with European influences brought by settlers.
  5. Significant Landmarks:

    • Cueva de las Manos: Located about 163 kilometers from Perito Moreno, this UNESCO World Heritage site features ancient rock art created by the indigenous peoples thousands of years ago. The cave paintings are one of the most significant archaeological sites in Argentina.
    • Laguna Buenos Aires (also known as Lago General Carrera): This large lake is shared with Chile and is known for its striking blue waters and the famous marble caves on the Chilean side. It is a major attraction for tourists visiting the area.
    • Perito Moreno National Park: Although not directly adjacent to the town, it is part of the broader region's attractions, featuring diverse wildlife and natural beauty.
  6. Modern Developments:

    • In recent decades, Perito Moreno has seen growth in tourism, driven by its proximity to natural attractions and historical sites. This has led to improvements in infrastructure and services catering to visitors.
    • Efforts have been made to preserve the cultural heritage and natural environment of the area while promoting sustainable tourism.

Perito Moreno remains a small but significant town in Patagonia, offering insights into the history and culture of the region, as well as access to some of Argentina's most breathtaking natural landscapes.