Estancia Cristina & Upsala Glacier Cruise

See the Upsala Glacier up close on this boat ride around the Los Glaciares National Park. Activities include hiking through Patagonian forests and a jeep ride.

Estancia Cristina & Upsala Glacier Cruise

After hotel pickup, we drive for one hour to the quay at Punta Bandera. We then board a boat for a 2.5-hour trip to Estancia Cristina, cruising down the Upsala channel to the glacier. Upon arrival, a medium-difficulty hike begins.

Accompanied by a guide, participants will cross a Patagonian forest, observing Antarctic beech trees and endemic birds, and ascend to a viewpoint for a panoramic view of Lake Argentino. The hike continues uphill to the Perros waterfall, offering impressive views of the Caterina River valley. A visit to the estancia's museum and chapel will provide insights into rural life in the region.

We will then take a boat back to Punta Bandera, where a minibus is available for the return trip to El Calafate, concluding the tour after approximately 12.5 hours.

Lunch Option

Participants can bring their own food or choose a lunch option that includes two empanadas, a main dish (lamb stew or pesto pasta), dessert (flan), a drink (wine or soft drink), and coffee or tea.

Book without Transfers

You can also book the tour without transfers. If so, meet your guide at the pier at Estancia, located at Punta Bandera, at 8:15 am. The return boat will drop you off at 7 pm.