A majestic glacier located in El Calafate, Santa Cruz.

Discover the vast expanse and beauty of Glaciar Upsala.

Photos
Crucero María Turquesa

Viator

In short

What Glaciar Upsala is

Glaciar Upsala is one of the largest glaciers in the Los Glaciares National Park, located in the region of Santa Cruz, near the city of El Calafate. The glacier is renowned for its impressive size and striking ice formations. Visitors can witness the grandeur of the glacier through various boat tours that navigate the surrounding waters, offering a unique perspective of the towering ice walls and the occasional calving events, where chunks of ice break off into the water.

The surrounding landscape is characterized by rugged mountains and pristine waters, providing a stunning backdrop to the glacier. The area is part of the Southern Patagonian Ice Field, the world's second-largest contiguous extrapolar ice field. The location is remote, accessible primarily by boat tours that depart from El Calafate, offering a chance to explore the beauty of this natural wonder up close.

Visitors to Glaciar Upsala can also enjoy the rich biodiversity of the region, with opportunities to spot various bird species and other wildlife that inhabit the area. The glacier and its surroundings provide a unique opportunity for photography and nature observation, making it a popular destination for tourists seeking to experience the raw beauty of Patagonia.

The tickets

Tickets for Glaciar Upsala

How you visit

The visit

Visiting Glaciar Upsala typically involves a boat tour that departs from El Calafate. These tours offer a comprehensive experience, allowing visitors to get close to the glacier and observe its impressive ice formations and calving events. The tours vary in duration and can include additional stops at other nearby glaciers, such as the famous Perito Moreno.

It is advisable to book tours in advance, especially during peak tourist seasons, as they can fill up quickly. The tours generally include a guide who provides insights into the glacier's formation, history, and the surrounding ecosystem. Some tour options also include gourmet meals on board, enhancing the overall experience.

Visitors should be prepared for varying weather conditions and dress accordingly. While the tours provide an opportunity to get close to the glacier, they do not typically allow for walking on the glacier itself. The boat tours provide ample opportunities for photography and enjoying the breathtaking views of the Patagonian landscape.

The location

Where it is

Glaciar Upsala, Z9405 El Calafate, Santa Cruz

Around here

What's nearby

Eat nearby

See nearby

Photos by Rotisería Cocina de Rubén, Mexico Street Food, Josefina Espíndola, Supermercado Del Cerro, Andrés Vásquez Barrantes, Estancia 25 de Mayo, Gergely Nagy, Javi Tardella, Patagonia Dreams - Operador Receptivo, via Google.

Questions

Questions about visiting

How can I visit Glaciar Upsala?

Visiting Glaciar Upsala is primarily done through boat tours departing from El Calafate.

Are there guided tours available?

Yes, most boat tours include a guide who provides insights into the glacier and its surroundings.

Can I walk on Glaciar Upsala?

No, the tours do not typically allow for walking on the glacier itself.

Nearby

Other places in El Calafate