EXPERIENCES

One hour will take us approximately to arrive at the GLACIER VIEWPOINT, from there and towards the north we will be able to observe the unexplored South Cagliero Glacier (950 m.a.s.l.), which for years remained alive thanks to its orientation and the accumulation of snow from Neumayer, Cagliero and Loma del Diablo hills. To the south we find the vertical walls of Cerro Treinta Aniversario and its needles, highlighting the Devil's Tooth. From the viewpoint, a short walk takes us to the front of the Glacier where the guides will distribute and regulate the crampons with the boots of the hikers, to begin the third part of our program that is the walk and trekking by the glacier proper; and if the climate is mild, you will have lunch on the Glacier. The average stay over it will be approximately 2 hours, depending on the climatic conditions and the physical level of the group. The return will be made by the same way one way with arrival back to the Information Center approximately 3 hours later. The meeting time with the El Chaltén transfer will be at 5:30 PM.

We depart from Salta toward San Antonio de los Cobres, Salinas Grandes, and Purmamarca, following a route parallel to the “Train to the Clouds” railway line, through the Quebrada del Toro. We begin the ascent until reaching 4,080 m (13,386 ft) above sea level and arrive at San Antonio de los Cobres. Here we take a break with time for lunch; then we cross Route 40 until we reach the Salinas Grandes, right at the border between Salta and Jujuy. Next, we start the descent via the Cuesta de Lipán—where condors are often spotted—until reaching the town of Purmamarca and its famous Hill of Seven Colors.

This excursion allows us to get to know the northern part of Lake Argentino fed by different Glaciers and with incomparable landscapes. We will take Provincial Route 11 and after traveling 45 km we will arrive at Puerto Bandera, where we will embark on a modern Catamaran. The navigation begins by entering the North Arm of the Lake, crossing the Devil's Mouth, a narrow natural access. Continuing the navigation through the Spegazzini Arm we will begin to observe the Heim Sur, Peineta, Seco glaciers and finally arrive at the Spegazzini Glacier. We will disembark at the base and begin the visit to the area, walking through the forest path to the Refuge. This 300-meter trail is easily accessible; as we go through it, we stop at stations and viewpoints with views of the entire Glacier Bay. In the Refuge, we can have lunch (Optional) while enjoying the landscape. For those who like to walk they can take the "mountain path" (1,200 meters), a route of medium difficulty through a wooded path and with natural viewpoints full of incredible views. Then we embark again to return to the port from which we initially set sail, and from there we take the transfer back to El Calafate. The Catamaran has a VIP sector (Captain's Club) – at an additional cost. It has a preferential location next to the Captain's cabin and includes a 3-course menu and free drinks (hot and cold), which is served in a special room in the Base Restaurant.