4 days, 3 nights
As a terrific craaaack! breaks the stillness, and a huge portion of glacier slides down into the waters of Lago Argentina and you stand in awe before one of nature's most powerful forces. Down in the south, away from large cities, you will find the spirit of Argentine adventure waiting for you!
The Los Glaciares National Park is located in the southwest of the Province of Santa Cruz. A blanket of ice covers this protected area of 600,000 hectares.
Perito Moreno Glacier is one of the "must sees" of Argentina. There are few places where nature is so impressive and so accessible as this glacier. Contrary to most glaciers in the world, Perito Moreno Glacier is advancing and not moving backward.
In the past the glacier used to advance until it completely blocked the water-pass beneath it, until the waters carved a tunnel through. This phenomenon caused a 2 day event of huge glacier parts crashing into the waters. This phenomenon, however, hasn't occurred in 16 years, until the year 2004 when the glacier advanced once again, and blocked the water-pass.
The glacier is called by travelers the Crushing Glacier because of the explosion sounds that can be heard each time the glacier cracks. From time to time a huge ice block breaks off the glacier, falling into the water in an enormous powerful sound - an unforgettable sight. The biggest crushes usually occur in the afternoon of sunny days.
The width of this amazing glacier is 4,500 meters and its height is 60 meters above the water level, and another 130 meters below the water level. Its length is about 37km. In order to get a perspective on the size of the glacier, it's enough to say that it can contain the entire of Buenos Aires area. The glacier can be seen from several viewing points, promenades and balconies that were built for the traveler's comfort. It is also possible to walk on the glacier (for an extra cost) or to get near it by boat.
The distance from El Calafate to the glacier is about 80 km. In 1981 UNESCO declared the Los Glaciares National Park a World Heritage Site.
Itinerary (Pre Cruise)
Day 1 : Buenos Aires
Arriving at Ezeiza International Airport you will be met by the Silversea representative and transferred to the handsome Sofitel Buenos Aires (a member of Leading Hotels of the World). The balance of the day is yours to spend at your leisure. Lunch and dinner will be on your own.
Day 2 : Buenos Aires / El Calafate
Following breakfast this morning transfer to the airport for your flight to El Calafate. This charming town in the shadow of the southern Andes, has the feel of a modern frontier town. You will check-in at the rustically charming Hotel Posada Los Alamos (or similar). This afternoon head out to one of the local estancia for a glimpse of what it’s like to live in this rough-and-tumble region. Return to the hotel where dinner will be served.
Day 3 : El Calafate
After an early breakfast this morning, depart for a full-day experience at Los Glaciares National Park. The initial drive (approx. 2 hours) will bring you face to face with the Perito Moreno Glacier. The movement of the glacier contributes to its ever-changing profile, but hearing the moaning, creaking and grumbling of this "monster" is an essential part of the experience as well. Continue down to the lakeside and board the Moreno Fiesta for a trip across the lake along the Iceberg Channel. When the ship lands at Rico Arm you will meet your mountain guide for a hike through the forest.
Then, with the help of locally supplied crampons, you will actually trek across the glacier! At the end of your trek, toast your accomplishment with a refreshing beverage served over glacier ice. Return to the "mainland", where your transportation will be waiting to return you to the hotel in El Calafate. Dinner this evening is on your own.
Day 4 : El Calafate / Ushuaia
Following breakfast at the hotel this morning you will transfer back to the airport for your onward flight to Ushuaia. Once there, you will transfer directly to the pier.
Please Note: You may also do this land package post-cruise.
Order of trips may vary.
| Nov 2010 - Dec 2011 |
|
|---|---|
| Twin | TBA |
| Supp* | TBA |
* Single supplement.
All above prices are in £s per person based on two people travelling together and sharing a twin room.
YOUR EXTENSION PACKAGE INCLUDES :
- Return economy class flights between Buenos Aires / El Calafate / Ushuaia including taxes
- One night at the Sofitel Buenos Aires in Buenos Aires.
- Two nights at the Hotel Posada Los Alamos (or similar), El Calafate.
- Included Meals: 3 breakfasts, 1 box lunch, 1 dinner
- Visit to Perito Moreno Glacier
- Excursion aboard Moreno Fiesta
- Mini-trekking over the glacier
- Transfers between airport, hotel and pier in air-conditioned vehicles.
NOT INCLUDED :
- Travel insurance
- Optional excursions
- Luggage handling
LUGGAGE INFORMATION :
Please pack one small bag to take with you to El Calafate. Weight restrictions are very strict on domestic Argentinean flights (maximum 33lbs/15kg). The remainder of your luggage will be stored at the hotel and taken to the ship on embarkation day.
Please bring an assortment of warm clothes (layering is highly recommended), along with a wind-proof jacket. Boots or very sturdy sneakers will work best when attaching the crampons for your ice-trekking. Sunglasses and sunscreen will also be quite handy.
