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FROM USD 190
Full day tour to Estancia Cristina: Classic Option
Sail across Lago Argentino to Estancia Cristina for panoramic Upsala Glacier views, guided walks, and a family-style lunch.
Why Choose This Activity?
- Classic full-day expedition
- English-speaking guide
- Family-style lunch included
Boat trip, guided walks, and a visit to Estancia Cristina’s historic grounds.
OVERVIEW
The Classic expedition combines a boat trip across Lago Argentino with guided walks at Estancia Cristina. After sailing through the Upsala Channel, you’ll see a panoramic view of the Upsala Glacier from the water. The boat does not approach the glacier directly.
At the estancia, the experience includes a walk to Cascada de Los Perros and a historical visit along Río Caterina, including the waterwheel, chapel, and Heritage Museum. A family-style lunch at El Quincho is included.
This option differs from Discovery, which uses a 4×4 vehicle to reach the Upsala Glacier lookout, and from Trekking, a demanding hike through Cañadón de los Fósiles.
About Us
PeritoMorenoGlacier.com, a site by RipioTurismo, celebrates South America as the vibrant garden of our world, rich in colorful landscapes, cultural heritage, gastronomy, and warm hospitality. With +20 years of expertise, we craft custom trips across Argentina, Chile, Uruguay, Brazil, Peru, Ecuador, Bolivia, and Paraguay. Our carefully selected hotels and local partners ensure the best service possible. We cater to FITs, groups, adventure seekers, and the 50+ age group with luxury tours.
ITINERARY
Around 8:30 AM | Arrival at Puerto Punta Bandera
If you’re making your own way to the port, arrive by the time shown on your booking confirmation. Round-trip hotel transfers from El Calafate are optional and can be added when booking.
Around 9:00 AM | Boat departure to Estancia Cristina
Board the boat at Puerto Punta Bandera for the crossing of Lago Argentino. The journey to the estancia takes approximately 2 to 3 hours. As you sail through the lake’s northern arm and the Upsala Channel, look for floating icebergs and panoramic views of Upsala Glacier from a distance.
At the estancia | Guided walks and historic visit
Meet your guide for a walk toward Cascada de Los Perros. Then explore the estancia’s historic grounds along Río Caterina, stopping at the waterwheel and chapel before visiting the Costumbrista Museum.
Lunch | El Quincho
Sit down to a family-style lunch at El Quincho. Lunch is included. Please mention any dietary requirements when booking.
Return boat trip | Puerto Punta Bandera
Board the boat at Estancia Cristina for the return trip across Lago Argentino. The tour ends at Puerto Punta Bandera. If you booked the optional transfer, continue by road to your hotel in El Calafate.
Operating schedule
Daily from October 1 to April 30. The estancia is closed from May 1 to September 30.
End of our services.
| Duration: | Full Day |
|---|---|
| Cancellation Policy: | 72 hs before your tour |
| Availability: | Daily, October 1 to April 30 |
| Starting Time: | 8:30 AM at Puerto Punta Bandera |
| Finishing Time: | Around 7:00 PM at Puerto Punta Bandera |
| Pick Up: | Meeting Point |
| Drop Off: | Meeting Point |
| Language: | English and Spanish |
| Minimum Booking: | 1 |
GALLERY
WHAT'S INCLUDED
- Navigation of Lago Argentino to see glaciers
- Visit to the Estancia Cristina and hikes
- English-speaking guide
- Short trekking activity in the estancia
- Entrance fee to National Park
- Lunch
- Tips
- Transfers
OPTIONALS
CANCELLATION POLICY
Refundable only 72 hours prior departure. Changes allowed. The rescheduled will be subject to availability or can be left as a credit to apply for a future reservation.
FAQs
Is this tour available on December 24th, 25th, 31st or January 1st?
Please check with us.
Does this tour have any age restrictions?
The maximum age for this tour is 85 years old.
How does the booking process work?
After booking and finalizing payment, you will receive a confirmation of your purchase. Then, in less than 24 hours, you will receive the voucher that you can use to take the excursions.
If the reservation is for the next day, we will be attentive and send you the voucher before your excursion begins.
Is lunch included?
Lunch is included.
Are transfers from/to my hotel included?
Transfers are not included, but you can request them in the booking form below.
What should I bring on the tour?
Since weather conditions in Patagonia can change rapidly, it’s best to dress in layers to stay comfortable throughout the day.
What makes an estancia visit different from a standard sightseeing tour?
An estancia experience adds a cultural and rural dimension, connecting Patagonia’s landscapes with ranch history, local traditions, food and daily life.
Is the experience authentic or mainly staged for tourists?
Tourism is part of the operation, but many estancias have genuine agricultural and historical roots. Good visits explain the property’s real history and contemporary rural life.
Will I learn about gaucho culture?
Usually yes. Estancia visits often introduce regional riding traditions, livestock work, food and the historical role of rural workers in Patagonia.
Is the visit worthwhile for travelers who are not interested in horseback riding?
Yes. Estancia experiences can include scenery, walking, meals, demonstrations, history and relaxation, so riding is not the only reason to visit.
How much time is usually spent outdoors?
A significant part of the experience is outdoors, but the exact balance depends on the program and weather. Bring layers suitable for wind and changing temperatures.
Is this a good family activity?
Generally yes. The combination of animals, open landscapes, food and cultural interpretation can work well for different ages, subject to any activity-specific restrictions.
Can dietary requirements usually be accommodated?
Often they can if requested in advance. Because meals may be an important part of the program, advise vegetarian, vegan, allergy or other dietary needs when booking.
What should I expect from a traditional Patagonian meal?
Menus vary, but estancia meals often highlight regional ingredients and ranch-style cooking. Exact dishes should be confirmed in the product inclusions.
Is an estancia visit interesting in bad weather?
Yes. Weather changes the atmosphere of Patagonia, and many programs combine outdoor sections with sheltered or indoor elements. Severe conditions can still require operational adjustments.
Why combine an estancia with a glacier-focused itinerary?
The glacier shows Patagonia’s natural scale, while an estancia adds human history and regional culture. Together they create a more complete understanding of the destination.
Book Now!
BOOKING FAQS
How Do I Book?
Just complete the booking form. When you finish, you will be redirected to Paypal, where you can pay for the tour.
What Happens After Booking?
Once you’ve completed your booking and payment, you’ll receive a confirmation of your purchase. Within 24 hours, you’ll receive the voucher you’ll need to participate in the activity.
If you’ve booked an activity for the following day, don’t worry. We’ll make sure to send you the voucher before your activity begins.
I Have Other Questions...
Just head to our Contact Page and send us your enquiries.
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