Visiting the Viedma Glacier with children is easy: the Viedma Adventure has no minimum age, lasts 4 hours (from 10:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m.), includes an easy hike, and a snack on board. Children aged 0-14 are free, and children aged 3-12 pay the child rate. The most important thing to remember is to pack warm clothing.
We've been sailing since 1980, and generations of families have graced our decks. We've learned something from the kids: the glacier impresses them, but what they remember most are the details. Here are our tips to make your day perfect.
From what age can you go to the Viedma Glacier with children?
From babies. The Viedma Adventure has no minimum age. There are three pricing categories: adults (12 years and older), children (3-12 years) at a reduced rate, and children (0-2 years) free of charge. Check availability and current rates on the tour's page.
The duration is a plus: 4 hours is a reasonable amount of time for a boy's attention span and energy, with boat time, walking, and meals well distributed.
What's it like hiking with kids?
After a 40-minute sail, we disembarked at Cape Horn Bay and walked to a viewpoint overlooking Iceberg Bay. It's an easy walk, at the group's pace and with the guide, but there are a few things to keep in mind as a family:
- It is not 100% accessible: The terrain is natural, so a stroller isn't the most practical option. For babies and toddlers, a baby carrier works better.
- Closed shoes: Sneakers with good soles, no sandals or rain boots without grip.
- Hand to hand: At the viewpoint, the children were always accompanied by an adult and stayed on the path.
If you want to know more about that section, we tell you about it in the article about the Iceberg Bay and the Viedma walk.
What fascinates boys
- The icebergs: Ice blocks float in shapes that invite you to play "what do they look like?" One is a dragon, another a ship, another a castle.
- The sound of the glacier: Facing the Viedma Glacier, in silence, the ice creaks. For many children, it's the most impressive thing they've ever seen.
- The blue: Discovering that ice can be blue raises questions. If you need answers, we'll help you with this article about it. Why is glacial ice blue?.
- Ice fishing: Watch as ancient ice is extracted from the lake for the toast. The boys raise their drinks and listen to the ice crackling in their glasses.
- The brownie: The snack's finishing touch, made in El Chaltén. It never fails.
How to dress children warmly
At Lake Viedma, the wind can be strong, and near the glacier, the air is cold year-round. Children lose heat more quickly and don't always give warning. We recommend:
- Layered clothing: a thermal layer, a fleece, and a windproof and waterproof jacket.
- A hat that covers the ears, neck, and gloves, even in summer.
- A change of socks and an extra coat in the backpack.
- Sunscreen and sunglasses: the reflection on water and ice is strong.
On the outdoor deck, they should always hold hands or stay with an adult. When they get cold, the enclosed lounges with large windows are the perfect refuge to keep watching.
Food on board
The onboard snack is included: a choice of premium sandwich, mineral water, and a brownie. Options include chicken, baked ham and smoked cheese, a veggie option, and a vegan option. The ham and cheese sandwich is usually a favorite with kids. There's also a café onboard. If your children eat at set times or snack frequently, pack some fruit or cookies in their backpacks.
Port, transfer and full day with family
The boat trip departs from Puerto Bahía Túnel, 18 km from El Chaltén. With children, the optional El Chaltén – Bahía Túnel transfer, which departs from and returns to our offices in El Chaltén, simplifies the morning. If you're staying in El Calafate, there's the Viedma Full Day Adventure , with bus service from your hotel: it's the same boat trip, but the total day is 12 hours, from 7:30 am to 19:30 pm, with stops at Parador La Leona and in El Chaltén. For older children, it's an adventure; for younger children, it's best to consider their pace.
I went out with your family to the Viedma Glacier
Four hours, a massive glacier, a short hike, and a toast with ancient ice: it's the perfect plan for kids. Check availability and current rates on the Aventura Viedma website . And if you're also planning a trip to the glaciers of Lake Argentino, check out our article on Glaciers with Kids.
FAQ
Is there a minimum age for the Viedma Adventure?
No. La Aventura Viedma has no minimum age. Children aged 0-2 years go free, and those aged 3-12 years pay the child rate.
Is the hike difficult for the boys?
No, it's an easy hike and you can go at the group's pace. It's not 100% accessible, though: the terrain is natural, so closed shoes are recommended, and a baby carrier is advisable for babies.
What do the boys eat during the excursion?
The included onboard snack includes a choice of premium sandwich, mineral water, and a brownie made in El Chaltén. There is also a coffee shop onboard.
Is the Full Day trip suitable for young children?
It depends on the child. The Full Day tour is a 12-hour trip from El Calafate; for younger children, it might be more convenient to stay overnight in El Chaltén and do the 4-hour Viedma Adventure.
