El Calafate

After a couple of days in Puerto Natales to recover from the W Trek, we traveled further north by bus to El Calafate. This is the access point for one of the most amazing natural wonders we have ever seen. Perito Moreno Glacier is a 250 square kilometre ice formation that is continually growing. It measures 5 kms wide, with an average height of 74 metres above the surface of the water. It has a total ice depth of 170 metres. 

We took a boat tour that allowed us to get quite close to the face of the glacier. However, the boats can't get too close because huge chunks of ice often fall and crash into the water, sending waves and razor sharp ice flying in all directions. We saw this happen on several occasions and it was absolutely amazing.

After the boat tour we took the walks that allow you to see the glacier from a number of different vantage points. It really has to be seen to be believed - photos just don't do it justice!