Sailing to Upsala Glacier and Patagonia Adventure to Estancia Cristina

See all (3)

Summary

After pickup at your hotel in El Calafate, drive to the Patagonian port of Punta Bandera. There is also the option to meet your tour at the starting point. Board the sightseeing boat for the trip to Estancia Cristina and enjoy hot drinks and croissants to welcome you aboard. Settle into the comfortable boat as it glides among icebergs of all sizes that have calved off the nearby glaciers. View the snow-covered peaks of the surrounding mountains as you sail along Lake Argentino, arriving at Estancia Cristina via the Cristina Channel. Disembark to visit the ranch's museum and the former sheep-shearing shack to learn about what life was like here when it was a functioning sheep and cattle ranch. Break for a snack before going the Caterina River to the estancia's other historical buildings, including its chapel. Following lunch (own expense), continue with the activity you have selected, an off-road excursion by 4x4 vehicle to Upsala Glacier or a guided visit to Los Perros Waterfall (see options below). Take in the otherworldly scenery on the boat ride back to Punta Bandera during the late afternoon, then board your bus back to El Calafate. Your day of Patagonian adventures ends with drop-off at your hotel. 4x4 Tour: Choose the off-road trip for an adventure along a scenic alpine trail. At a mountain refuge, climb out of your vehicle for a short walk over terrain that was recently covered by the glacier to get right up close to Upsala Glacier itself. Enjoy amazing views of the Andes, the Patagonian Ice Field, and nearby Lake William. Waterfall Tour: On the waterfall tour, follow your guide through native woodlands and along the Caterina River. Reach the thundering waters of pristine Los Perros waterfall and enjoy views of the estancia far below.

Tour info

Duration
11 hours
Group Size
Pricing (From)
Commentary
Meeting Point
Dropoff location

Why take this tour?

Experience the remote beauty of Patagonia’s Estancia Cristina and Upsala Glacier on a journey of discovery from El Calafate. Sail past icebergs across Lago Argentino and tour the historic Estancia Cristina ranch. In the afternoon, choose between a short and easy walk to a beautiful waterfall or an off-road tour to the beautiful Upsala Glacier.

Show more

What’s included?

  • Local guide

  • Use of all necessary equipment

  • Hotel pickup and drop-off

  • Snacks during boat ride

  • Entry/Admission - El Calafate

  • Entry/Admission - Lago Argentino

  • Gratuities

Things to know

Before you book

  • Duration: 11h

  • Mobile tickets accepted

  • Instant confirmation

Covid Policy

  • Regular temperature checks for staff
  • Regularly sanitized high-traffic areas
  • Guides required to regularly wash hands

Cancellation Policy

    For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours in advance of the start date of the experience.
Operator Website

Operated by:

Estancia Cristina

About operator:

Located on the Northwest shore of the Argentine Lake on the far of Cristiana’s arm, Estancia Cristina is located in a unique corner in Los Glaciares National Park. Founded in 1941 by Joseph P. Masters and his wife, this stunning place still maintains its essence, keeping the history of this family alive, that with great effort and perseverance, made this lonely and inhospitable place a small paradise a home. This full day program grants alternatives to those who prefer a quiet afternoon of walk and history as well as those who are into adventure with trekking and 4x4 wheel drive rides.

Show more
  • 2388 reviews

Other products from this operator: