El Calafate

In the heart of Patagonia, next to the Andes, is one of Argentina’s most scenic areas, commonly referred to as Lago Argentino and the Perito Moreno Glacier, declared “Universal Heritage” by the UNESCO. The most renown of all the glaciers is the Perito Moreno Glacier. Situated 80 km (50 miles) from El Calafate, it is the most easily reached among them. This is an imposing ice river that descends from the Southern Patagonian Ice Cap down to the lake, at ‘Canal de los Témpanos’ (Icebergs’ Channel). It is the only glacier in the area which is considered to be in equilibrium, that is: not receding. It has always been the most important attraction of the region thanks to its spectacular beauty, but especially because of its unusual behavior. The glacier slowly advances down the mountain slope towards the lake, producing, as it spills down, thunderous noises and ruptures.