Lake Argentino (Lago Argentino) is one of Patagonia’s most renowned lakes, fed by the Perito Moreno Glacier and many others within Los Glaciares National Park. With an area of 1,560 km², it is Argentina’s largest lake and the third-largest in South America. The lake sits at about 187 m a.s.l., extends roughly 125 km in length, and ranges between 14 and 20 km in width. Its striking turquoise color comes from fine glacial sediments known as glacial milk.
The lake comprises a main body and several arms, including the Upsala, North, Rico, and South arms. The Canal de los Témpanos links the main body with the front of the Perito Moreno Glacier. Depths vary from shallow shelves to basins exceeding 500 m. Lake Argentino gives birth to the Santa Cruz River, which flows east to the Atlantic Ocean.
Boat trips reveal towering icebergs and the grand faces of glaciers such as Upsala and Spegazzini. Most navigations depart from Punta Bandera, located about 45 km from El Calafate.
Brief history
In 1873, sailor Valentín Filberg reached the lake but mistook it for Lake Viedma. The error was clarified in 1877 by Francisco P. Moreno and Carlos Moyano. On February 15, 1877, Moreno named it “Lago Argentino.” Today, boats depart mainly from Puerto Bandera and Bajo de la Sombra to navigate the Canal de los Témpanos and the principal arms of the lake.
Location
Lake Argentino is in the southwestern Santa Cruz Province, Argentine Patagonia, within Los Glaciares National Park and near the town of El Calafate, the main hub for visiting the region.
Climate
The area has a cold semi-arid climate. Summers are cool to warm and dry. Winters are cool to cold with slightly higher humidity. Temperatures in El Calafate are moderated by the lake. The town’s shallow bay often freezes in winter, allowing ice skating. Recorded extremes include 30.7 °C and −17.4 °C (July 2014).
Why it is famous
Lake Argentino is the gateway to several iconic glaciers, especially the Perito Moreno Glacier. From Puerto Bandera on its shores, visitors can join navigations to different sectors of the park and appreciate glaciers up close.
Big Ice Trekking on Perito Moreno Glacier From El Calafate
Join our Big Ice Trekking Tour on Perito Moreno Glacier. Explore ice formations & rugged beauty. Book now for an unforgettable experience.
Activities on Lake Argentino
- Boat tours: Full or half day programs to see glaciers like Upsala and Spegazzini, plus iceberg fields.
- Hiking near the lake: Trails and viewpoints with panoramas of the Andes, steppe, and glacier-fed waters.
- Kayaking and canoeing: Guided outings along selected shores in suitable conditions.
- Sport fishing: Seasonal trout fishing in designated areas, following local regulations.
- Birdwatching and wildlife: Frequent sightings of flamingos, condors, waterfowl, and guanacos in the surroundings.
El Calafate Standard Pass
This pass will save you money and organize your trip. A basic package of services for visiting El Calafate and Perito Moreno in 2, 3, or 4 days!
Book a full day navigation to explore the lake’s most spectacular glacier fronts.
Los Glaciares National Park in Two Days: Perito Moreno Glacier + Glaciers Gourmet Cruise
Enjoy two days of full activities from El Calafate: A full day tour to Perito Moreno Glacier and a full day boat navigation in Los Glaciares Nat Park
