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Perito Moreno Glacier opening hours | Timings, weather & best time to visit

Today

Open 08:00–20:00

Last Admission

18:00

Timing notes & visitor warnings

  • Access roads may close temporarily during heavy snowfall (June–August).
  • Last entry to walkways and boat piers is one to two hours before park closing (based on the season).
  • The lower walkways may be closed occasionally for maintenance.
  • Expect windy afternoons, so secure hats and camera gear.
  • Perito Moreno Glacier hours can shift slightly depending on daylight; always confirm before your visit.
  • Tip: Arrive early to enjoy quieter walkways and catch the glacier’s first shimmering blue tones in morning light.

Popular routes & durations (El Calafate to Perito Moreno Glacier)

RouteFirst departureLast departureAvg. journey time

El Calafate → Perito Moreno Glacier (Bus)

7:30am

3pm

1 hour 30 minutes

Perito Moreno Glacier → El Calafate (Return)

1pm

6pm

1 hour 30 minutes

Boat cruise (Brazo Rico Arm)

10am

5pm

1 hour round trip

Night services & last departures

​Perito Moreno Glacier is not open for night visits, as the park closes before sunset for safety reasons. The last return bus from the glacier leaves around 6pm in summer and 5pm in winter. Visibility drops quickly after sunset, so plan to leave before closing time.

If you’re looking for a true night-time glacier experience, the Spirit of the Glaciers cruise is the best alternative, offering overnight stays inside the national park, evening glacier views, and a rare chance to experience Patagonia’s ice fields after dark in a guided, controlled setting.

​Discover the overnight cruise here ➜

Best time to visit Perito Moreno Glacier

Panoramic view of Perito Moreno Glacier with icebergs and mountains in Los Glaciares National Park, Argentina.

Wondering when to plan your trip? The best time to visit Perito Moreno Glacier depends on what kind of experience you’re after.

Summer (Dec–Feb): Long daylight hours, warm weather, and bright blue ice walls. Ideal for glacier walks and cruises, but expect crowds.

Autumn (Mar–May): Cooler temperatures, golden foliage, and fewer visitors. Comfortable Perito Moreno Glacier weather makes it a favorite for photographers.

Winter (Jun–Aug): Peaceful and quiet, with snow-dusted views. Some tours may pause, but it’s perfect for solitude seekers.

Spring (Sep–Nov): Fresh blooms, moderate temperatures, and calmer trails. A balanced time to enjoy long glacier hours without peak-season bustle.

💡 Travel tip: For a mix of good weather, lighter crowds, and stable access, visit in March–May or September–November.

Make the most of your Perito Moreno visit
Visitors posing at the Perito Moreno Glacier viewing deck in Argentina.

The Perito Moreno Glacier hours stretch across daylight, and each time of day offers something special:

Morning (8am–11am): Peaceful walkways and soft morning light. Great if you want photos before the crowds arrive.

Afternoon (1pm–4pm): Brighter conditions highlight the glacier’s deep blues. You’re more likely to hear the famous ice calving sounds.

Evening (before closing): Fewer people and beautiful golden-hour glow—perfect if you’re staying near the park.

📸Pro tip: Arrive when the park opens to catch still reflections and vibrant colors before the midday winds pick up.

Visitors on a viewing platform overlooking Perito Moreno Glacier in Argentina.

Timing your visit by day of the week can help you make the most of the Perito Moreno opening hours without the crowds.

Weekdays (Mon–Fri): Typically quieter, especially in the mornings. You’ll find easier parking, shorter lines, and more space on the viewing walkways.

Weekends (Sat–Sun): Expect more local and domestic visitors, particularly midday. Book your Perito Moreno Glacier tours or boat tickets in advance.

Public holidays: Busy like weekends, especially during Argentine school breaks. Check for updated Perito Moreno Glacier hours or slight schedule adjustments.

🗓️ Visitor tip: If your trip is flexible, visit early on a weekday morning for the most relaxed and rewarding glacier experience.

Perito Moreno Glacier weather

January

  • Average high/low temperature: 18°C / 7°C
  • Crowd level: High, peak summer, long daylight hours attract most visitors.
  • Conditions: Warmest month of the year with clear skies and stable weather. Perfect for long walks, boat rides, and photography under bright light.

February

  • Average high/low temperature: 17°C / 6°C
  • Crowd level: High, similar to January, still peak season.
  • Conditions: Warm, breezy, and mostly sunny. Excellent for trekking and outdoor tours, but book early as park and tour slots fill fast.

March

  • Average high/low temperature: 14°C / 5°C
  • Crowd level: Moderate, fewer tourists as summer fades.
  • Conditions: Cooler, calmer, and great for photography with softer light. The Perito Moreno Glacier weather is still pleasant for full-day tours.

April

  • Average high/low temperature: 11°C / 3°C
  • Crowd level: Low, shoulder season begins.
  • Conditions: Crisp air, occasional drizzle, and stunning autumn colors. A peaceful time to explore without crowds, though evenings can be chilly.

May

  • Average high/low temperature: 8°C / 1°C
  • Crowd level: Low, fewer tourists due to colder temperatures.
  • Conditions: Quiet and scenic. The weather turns colder, but visibility remains excellent on clear days.

June

  • Average high/low temperature: 5°C / -1°C
  • Crowd level: Low as winter begins, few visitors.
  • Conditions: Cold with possible snowfall. Some facilities may operate on reduced hours, but the glacier looks magical in its white winter setting.

July

  • Average high/low temperature: 4°C / -2°C
  • Crowd level: Low, few tourists due to extreme cold.
  • Conditions: The coldest month with snow and icy winds. The Perito Moreno Glacier hours shorten slightly, but you’ll enjoy peaceful views if you dress warmly.

August

  • Average high/low temperature: 6°C / -1°C
  • Crowd level: Low, as it is still winter, but clearer skies return.
  • Conditions: Gradually warming with calm, crisp mornings. A good month for solitude and fewer tour groups.

September

  • Average high/low temperature: 9°C / 1°C
  • Crowd level: Moderate, start of spring.
  • Conditions: Wildflowers begin to bloom, and Perito Moreno Glacier weather turns milder. A pleasant time with longer days and improving visibility.

October

  • Average high/low temperature: 11°C / 3°C
  • Crowd level: Moderate, shoulder season with great conditions.
  • Conditions: Mild temperatures, clear skies, and vibrant colors make this one of the most photogenic months to visit.

November

  • Average high/low temperature: 14°C / 5°C
  • Crowd level: Moderate to high as the pre-summer rush begins.
  • Conditions: Warm, windy, and lively with more visitors arriving. The glacier’s deep blue contrasts beautifully with clear skies.

December

  • Average high/low temperature: 17°C / 6°C
  • Crowd level: High, start of summer holidays.
  • Conditions: Long days, strong sunlight, and active glacier movement. Perfect for all activities, from walkway tours to full-day cruises.

​Getting to the Perito Moreno Glacier location made easy ➜

How long to spend at Perito Moreno Glacier

If traveling from El Calafate, plan for a full-day trip (8–10 hours total) including transport.

Frequently asked questions about Perito Moreno Glacier opening hours

The Perito Moreno Glacier opening hours vary by season, generally 8am to 8pm in summer (Oct–Apr) and 9am to 6pm in winter (May–Sept).

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