Perito Moreno Glacier may be surrounded by the dramatic wilderness of Patagonia, but its principal viewing area is equipped with more visitor facilities than many travellers expect.

Near the parking area and the entrance to the walkway system, visitors can find restrooms, food services, sheltered indoor areas, accessible facilities, drinking water and souvenir shops. Nevertheless, services are concentrated in a few buildings rather than distributed throughout every walkway circuit.

It is therefore important to use the restrooms, fill your water bottle and organise your belongings before beginning a longer walk.

Some services also operate on limited schedules, and conditions can vary by season. Bringing water, a snack, appropriate clothing and offline copies of your tickets remains advisable even when you plan to use the restaurant or café.

This guide explains what is available, what is not available and which rules must be followed inside Los Glaciares National Park.

Perito Moreno Glacier Visitor Services at a Glance

The principal services and their locations are listed by Argentina’s National Parks Administration on its official Los Glaciares National Park services page.

Where Are the Main Visitor Services Located?

Facilities are concentrated in two main areas near Perito Moreno Glacier.

The parking and restaurant area

The parking sector contains Restó del Glaciar, the main restaurant serving the glacier-viewing area.

This building offers:

• À la carte meals
• Self-service or buffet options
• Hot food
• Cold meals
• Drinks
• Coffee and other hot beverages
• Restrooms
• Ramp access
• Souvenirs
• Wi-Fi service

There is also an indoor area for visitors who bring their own food. This sheltered space is particularly useful during rain, snowfall or strong Patagonian winds.

The walkway entrance area

A second service building is located where the main walkway and viewpoint system begins.

This area includes:

• Snack bar
• Restrooms
• Accessible ramp
• Souvenir shop
• Wheelchairs for visitors who need them
• Access to the principal walkway circuits
• Information and orientation signs

Do not expect restrooms or commercial services at every panoramic balcony. Once you enter the longer circuits, you may be several minutes—and numerous stairs—away from the service buildings.

Are There Restrooms at Perito Moreno Glacier?

Yes. Public restrooms are available in the principal visitor areas.

According to the National Parks Administration, toilets can be found:

• At the restaurant building near the parking area
• At the snack-bar building near the beginning of the walkways
• Inside the sheltered packed-lunch area

These are the most reliable facilities to use before exploring the boardwalk system.

Are there restrooms along every walkway circuit?

Visitors should not assume that toilets are available at every viewpoint or on every colour-coded route.

The Perito Moreno walkway network covers several kilometres and includes stairs, ramps and connecting paths. Restrooms are concentrated around the main buildings rather than spaced at short intervals across the entire system.

If you are travelling with children, older adults or someone with a medical condition, visit the restroom before beginning the Red or Blue circuits.

Are accessible restrooms available?

Yes. The official service information indicates that the buildings with restrooms also include ramp access for visitors with reduced mobility.

Individual accessibility needs differ, so travellers requiring assistance should confirm current conditions with their tour provider or park authorities before arrival.

Are there baby-changing facilities?

Baby-changing facilities are not consistently detailed in the official visitor information. Families should therefore carry a portable changing mat and essential supplies rather than depending on a dedicated changing station.

Is There a Restaurant at Perito Moreno Glacier?

Yes. Restó del Glaciar operates in the parking area and is the main restaurant serving visitors to Perito Moreno Glacier.

It offers both à la carte and self-service options, including:

• Hot meals
• Cold dishes
• Sandwiches or light food
• Drinks
• Coffee
• Snacks

The restaurant is useful for visitors spending several hours at the glacier or combining the walkways with a navigation.

Its indoor setting also provides protection from Patagonia’s quickly changing weather.

Restaurant operating hours

The National Parks Administration currently lists the restaurant’s adjoining packed-lunch space as open approximately 10:30 a.m. to 6:00 p.m.

Service hours can change because of:

• Season
• Park access schedules
• Weather
• Maintenance
• Special operating arrangements
• Public holidays

Do not plan a tight itinerary around a specific meal time without checking current operating conditions.

Is restaurant seating guaranteed?

No. During the busiest months—particularly from December through February—the restaurant and indoor spaces can become crowded when several excursions arrive simultaneously.

If your tour has a fixed departure time for a boat trip or return transfer, allow sufficient time to:

1. Walk back from the viewpoints.
2. Use the restrooms.
3. Order or collect food.
4. Eat without risking your scheduled activity.

Are vegetarian, vegan or gluten-free meals available?

Some suitable dishes may be offered, but menu availability can vary.

Travellers with dietary restrictions should not depend exclusively on the restaurant. Bring an appropriate snack or request a box lunch through your tour operator.

Anyone with a serious allergy should explain the requirement clearly in Spanish and verify preparation conditions directly with the food-service staff.

Useful expressions include:

• Soy vegetariano/a — I am vegetarian.
• Soy vegano/a — I am vegan.
• No puedo comer gluten — I cannot eat gluten.
• Tengo alergia a… — I am allergic to…
• ¿Contiene frutos secos? — Does it contain nuts?

Is There a Café or Snack Bar?

Yes. A snack bar operates in the service area at the beginning of the walkways.

The official schedule currently indicates approximately 10:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m., although seasonal changes are possible.

The snack bar is convenient for:

• Coffee and hot drinks
• Quick snacks
• Light refreshments
• A short indoor break
• Visitors who do not have time for a full restaurant meal

It is also close to restrooms, accessible ramps and the principal entrance to the boardwalks.

Can You Bring Your Own Food?

Yes. Visitors may bring a packed lunch, snacks and non-alcoholic drinks for their visit.

An indoor space near the restaurant is specifically designated for people carrying their own food. This is valuable because eating outside can be uncomfortable during strong wind, rain or cold weather.

Practical food tips

Bring food that is:

• Easy to carry
• Securely wrapped
• Quick to eat
• Resistant to temperature changes
• Unlikely to create excessive waste
• Appropriate for your dietary needs

Sandwiches, cereal bars, fruit and other compact snacks are usually more practical than a large picnic setup.

Do not leave food or rubbish behind

All packaging and food waste must leave the park with you. Even biodegradable items such as fruit peel should not be discarded.

Food scraps can attract wildlife and alter the animals’ natural behaviour.

Is Drinking Water Available?

Yes. Los Glaciares National Park officially reports that potable water is available in the visitor area.

However, the park also recommends carrying your own water rather than depending entirely on on-site access.

Bring a reusable bottle from El Calafate, especially if you intend to:

• Walk several circuits
• Visit during warm or sunny weather
• Travel with children
• Combine the walkways with a boat trip
• Spend several hours inside the park

Can you drink water from lakes or streams?

The National Parks Administration recommends not drinking directly from natural watercourses.

Even water that looks clear can contain microorganisms or contamination that is invisible to the eye.

Is There Wi-Fi at Perito Moreno Glacier?

Wi-Fi is officially available at the glacier restaurant.

It should be considered a limited convenience rather than guaranteed high-speed connectivity. Performance may be affected by:

• The number of visitors
• Weather
• Local infrastructure
• Temporary outages
• Distance from the restaurant

Do not rely on park Wi-Fi for essential travel arrangements.

Before leaving El Calafate, download:

• National park entrance ticket
• Excursion voucher
• Boat ticket
• Walkway map
• Hotel address
• Emergency contacts
• Return transportation details

Save these files so they can be opened without an internet connection.

Is There Mobile Phone Coverage?

Mobile coverage inside the national park can be weak, intermittent or completely unavailable.

Signal strength may vary according to the carrier, weather and exact location. Even if you obtain a signal near the restaurant or parking area, it may disappear on the road or along parts of the walkway system.

Tell your transport provider where and when you will meet rather than relying on a last-minute WhatsApp message.

Is There a Public Telephone?

No. The National Parks Administration states that the park does not have a public telephone service.

If assistance is needed, contact:

• Park staff
• A ranger
• Your guide
• Restaurant or service-building personnel
• Your driver or tour representative, if mobile service is available

Is There an ATM at Perito Moreno Glacier?

No. There are no ATMs at the glacier visitor area.

ATMs and banking services are available in El Calafate. Withdraw money before departing if you want to carry Argentine pesos.

Although electronic payment may be accepted for some services, card terminals and communications depend on connectivity. Carrying a modest amount of local currency provides a useful backup.

Are There Lockers or Luggage Storage?

There is no publicly advertised locker or visitor luggage-storage service at the Perito Moreno Glacier walkways.

Visitors should not arrive expecting to store:

• Suitcases
• Large backpacks
• Cabin luggage
• Photography cases
• Trekking equipment
• Valuable personal items

If you arrive with luggage, arrange storage at:

• Your El Calafate hotel
• Your accommodation
• A confirmed transport service
• A designated facility in town

Check the following article to know more about Lockers at Perito Moreno Glacier 

Never assume a tour bus will accept or supervise large luggage unless this has been agreed in advance.

Keep passports, money, cameras, medication and electronic devices with you.

Accessibility at Perito Moreno Glacier

Perito Moreno Glacier is among Patagonia’s more accessible major natural attractions.

The visitor area includes:

• Ramps
• An accessible walkway
• Accessible restrooms
• Wheelchairs at the walkway-entrance building
• Rest areas and benches
• Views of the glacier without a mountain hike

Wheelchair availability

Wheelchairs are available for visitors who need them, but the National Parks Administration indicates that assistance from a companion is required.

Availability may be limited, so travellers who depend on a wheelchair should not assume that one will always be waiting.

Which walkway is accessible?

The White Circuit or Accessible Trail provides a step-free route toward an important panoramic viewpoint.

Other circuits contain numerous stairs and changes in elevation. The accessible circuit offers an excellent glacier view without requiring visitors to complete the more demanding routes.

Audio and sign-language guides

The park offers downloadable audio guides in:

• Spanish
• English
• Portuguese

A sign-language guide in Argentine Sign Language—Lengua de Señas Argentina or LSA—is also available.

The guides can be accessed through QR codes on park signage. Because connectivity may be unreliable, download any available content when a connection is available.

Are There Souvenir Shops?

Yes. Souvenirs are available at the restaurant and the service building near the walkway entrance.

Products may include:

• Postcards
• Books
• Maps
• Clothing
• Small gifts
• Patagonia-themed items
• Glacier-related souvenirs

Selection and stock vary during the year. Visitors seeking a wider range of local crafts and products will find more options in El Calafate.

Are There Benches and Rest Areas?

Yes. Seating is available at selected panoramic balconies and in the main visitor areas.

Benches are useful for:

• Visitors with limited endurance
• Older adults
• Families with children
• Waiting quietly for glacier activity
• Taking a break between circuits

They should not be used as places to leave bags unattended.

During busy periods, avoid occupying a bench or prime viewing position longer than necessary if other visitors are waiting.

Is There a Picnic Area?

The official day-use area is located at Río Mitre, approximately three kilometres from the access gate toward the Perito Moreno Glacier sector.

This is separate from the central walkway balconies.

Visitors carrying food can also use the sheltered space near the main restaurant. Follow local signage regarding where food may be consumed and where cooking is permitted.

Is There Accommodation at Perito Moreno Glacier?

There is no hotel at the walkway complex. Most visitors stay in El Calafate, approximately 75–80 kilometres away.

The glacier is normally visited through:

• A full-day guided excursion
• Private transportation
• Rental car
• Scheduled visitor transportation
• An activity combining the walkways and navigation
• Glacier trekking programme

El Calafate offers hotels, hostels, restaurants, pharmacies, banks, supermarkets and other services unavailable at the glacier.

Is There a Medical Centre or Pharmacy?

Visitors should not expect a public hospital or fully equipped medical centre at the walkway complex.

Bring essential medication from El Calafate, including:

• Prescription medication
• Inhalers
• Allergy medication
• Motion-sickness treatment for boat trips
• Basic pain relief
• Any emergency medication prescribed by your doctor

Inform your guide about relevant medical conditions before an excursion.

For an immediate problem, notify park staff or your tour guide. Serious cases may require evacuation or transportation back toward El Calafate.

Rules and Restrictions at Perito Moreno Glacier

Perito Moreno Glacier is located within a protected national park and UNESCO World Heritage Site. Visitor facilities do not turn it into an ordinary recreational complex.

The rules protect wildlife, vegetation, other visitors and the fragile natural environment.

Pets Are Not Allowed

Pets cannot enter Los Glaciares National Park.

This general prohibition applies even when:

• The animal is kept on a leash
• It remains inside a vehicle
• It is small enough to be carried
• The owner intends to visit only the parking area
• The visit will be brief

Pets can disturb wildlife, introduce disease and affect the protected environment.

Travellers accompanied by a legally recognised assistance animal should contact the National Parks Administration before travelling to confirm applicable procedures and documentation.

Drones Are Prohibited

Recreational drone use is prohibited inside the park.

Do not launch a drone from:

• The parking area
• The boardwalks
• A viewpoint
• A boat
• A forest trail
• A roadside stop inside the park

Drone restrictions protect wildlife, visitors and aircraft operations while preserving the natural soundscape.

Professional filming or scientific projects may require specific prior authorisation. Owning professional equipment does not itself provide permission to fly.

Do Not Feed Wildlife

Visitors must not feed birds, foxes or any other wild animals.

Human food can:

• Damage their health
• Change their natural diet
• Encourage them to approach vehicles
• Create aggressive behaviour
• Increase the risk of road accidents
• Make animals dependent on visitors

Keep food inside closed bags and never leave scraps at a viewpoint.

Take All Rubbish Out of the Park

The official rule is straightforward: return with everything you brought.

This includes:

• Food packaging
• Plastic bottles
• Tissues
• Fruit peel
• Cigarette butts
• Disposable cups
• Broken equipment
• Personal hygiene products

Use available bins where instructed, but be prepared to carry your waste back to El Calafate.

Keep Noise to a Minimum

Loud music from speakers or phones is considered noise pollution.

Excessive noise:

• Disturbs wildlife
• Affects other visitors
• Covers the natural sounds of the glacier
• Reduces the quality of the experience

Use headphones when listening to audio and keep conversations at a reasonable volume.

The cracking, creaking and calving of the glacier are an important part of the visit. Allow other people to hear them.

Remain on Authorised Paths and Walkways

Use marked trails, ramps and boardwalks. Do not climb over railings or enter closed sections for photographs.

The barriers protect visitors from:

• Steep drops
• Unstable ground
• Falling branches
• Ice-generated waves
• Restricted conservation areas

A spectacular photograph is never worth leaving the authorised area.

Do Not Climb on Railings

Sitting or standing on a walkway railing creates an obvious fall risk and can block other visitors.

Keep cameras, selfie sticks and loose belongings inside the protected side of the barrier.

Strong wind can cause hats, phones and lightweight equipment to fall unexpectedly.

Walk Carefully on the Metal Boardwalks

The walkways are constructed with metal-grid surfaces. Wear footwear with:

• Reliable grip
• Stable soles
• Secure fastening
• Ankle support when possible

High heels, smooth leather soles and loose sandals are unsuitable.

The surfaces can become slippery because of rain, snow, frost or ice. Move slowly and use handrails where available.

Fires Are Strictly Controlled

Fires are not permitted around the walkways, parking facilities or arbitrary picnic locations.

The official Río Mitre day-use area has designated fireplaces, subject to current restrictions. The park currently indicates that these may be used until 5:00 p.m. and that users must bring their own firewood.

Fire authorisations can be suspended because of weather or wildfire risk. Always follow current signage and ranger instructions.

Never collect wood, branches or vegetation from the park.

Smoking Requires Caution

Smoking should never take place where it can affect other visitors, create a fire risk or leave waste.

Never throw cigarette butts onto the ground, through walkway grilles or into the forest. Follow all posted restrictions and use only explicitly authorised areas, if available.

Fishing Is Regulated

Fishing inside Los Glaciares National Park is subject to regulations and requires the appropriate permit.

The panoramic glacier walkways are not casual fishing areas. Check the authorised locations, season and equipment rules before planning any fishing activity.

Drive Slowly Inside the Park

The official maximum speed is 40 km/h unless a lower limit is displayed.

Slow driving protects:

• Wildlife crossing the road
• Cyclists
• Other vehicles
• Pedestrians
• Visitors stopping at viewpoints

Do not stop in unauthorised locations for photographs.

Winter Driving Equipment May Be Mandatory

During winter, snow, frost and ice can affect roads inside the national park.

The National Parks Administration states that approved studded tyres and/or homologated chains may be compulsory under winter conditions.

Before driving from El Calafate:

• Check the road status
• Confirm the weather forecast
• Carry appropriate winter equipment
• Know how to install snow chains
• Follow park and road-authority instructions

A regular rental car without the required equipment may not be permitted to continue.

Park Staff Instructions Must Be Followed

Park rangers are the authority inside the protected area.

A walkway, road, viewpoint or service can be temporarily restricted because of:

• Strong wind
• Ice or snow
• Maintenance
• Wildlife activity
• Fire risk
• Falling branches
• Operational emergencies

Do not enter a closed area simply because other visitors are doing so.

Photography Is Allowed, but Respect Others

Personal photography is welcome from authorised public areas.

Practise considerate photography:

• Do not block narrow walkways.
• Allow others access to the best balconies.
• Avoid extending tripods across busy paths.
• Do not climb railings.
• Do not photograph strangers intrusively.
• Secure equipment in strong wind.
• Obtain the necessary permission for commercial productions.

Do Not Remove Natural Objects

Ice, stones, plants, branches, feathers and other natural materials belong in the park.

Do not collect them as souvenirs. Purchase an authorised souvenir instead.

Essential Preparation Before Leaving El Calafate

Before departing, complete this practical checklist:

• Download your national park ticket.
• Save your excursion voucher offline.
• Confirm hotel pickup time.
• Use an ATM if you want Argentine pesos.
• Bring a reusable water bottle.
• Pack a snack or box lunch.
• Carry prescription medication.
• Wear layered, windproof clothing.
• Bring rain protection.
• Use footwear with good grip.
• Charge your phone and camera.
• Confirm where you will meet your driver or guide.
• Leave pets safely accommodated in El Calafate.
• Do not pack a drone.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are there restrooms at the Perito Moreno Glacier walkways?

Yes. Restrooms are available in the main restaurant area and near the beginning of the walkways. Do not expect toilets at every individual viewpoint.

Is there an accessible restroom?

Yes. The principal service buildings have ramps and accessible facilities.

Can I buy lunch at Perito Moreno Glacier?

Yes. Restó del Glaciar offers à la carte and self-service food, while a snack bar operates near the walkway entrance.

Can I bring my own lunch?

Yes. There is a sheltered area for visitors carrying their own food. Take all packaging and waste away with you.

Is there free drinking water?

The park reports that potable water is available, but visitors are still advised to bring their own water bottle.

Is there Wi-Fi?

Wi-Fi is available in the glacier restaurant area. It should not be considered guaranteed throughout the walkway system.

Is there mobile reception?

Coverage can be weak or nonexistent. Download tickets, maps and confirmations before leaving El Calafate.

Is there an ATM?

No. Withdraw cash in El Calafate.

Are there lockers?

There is no publicly advertised locker service at the walkway complex. Leave large luggage at your accommodation or arrange storage in advance.

Can I bring my dog?

No. Pets are not permitted inside Los Glaciares National Park.

Can I fly a drone over Perito Moreno Glacier?

No. Recreational drone use is prohibited.

Can I bring a stroller?

Strollers can use accessible sections, but many other circuits include stairs. Strong wind and metal-grid surfaces should also be considered.

Can I use a wheelchair?

Yes. An accessible route and ramps are available. The park also provides wheelchairs, but they require assistance from a companion and availability should be confirmed.

Final Recommendations

The Perito Moreno Glacier visitor area has enough infrastructure for a comfortable day, but it should not be approached like an urban attraction.

You will find restrooms, food, accessible facilities and shelter near the main buildings. Once you enter the longer walkway circuits, however, services become less immediate and mobile connectivity may disappear.

Use the facilities before beginning your walk, carry water and essential medication, keep tickets available offline and follow every park restriction.

The rules are simple: remain on authorised routes, leave wildlife alone, keep noise low and take everything you brought back out of the park. These small actions help preserve one of Patagonia’s most extraordinary landscapes.