For the boat trip to Viedma Glacier, wear closed-toe shoes with good traction for walking, layered clothing including a windproof jacket, hat, gloves, sunglasses, sunscreen, and a fully charged camera battery. Make sure you have your National Park entrance fee in order. Lunch is not necessary: the onboard snack is included.
Since 1980, we've seen passengers board our boats with all kinds of luggage. The Viedma Adventure has a unique feature: it combines sailing with a hike, so pack your backpack with both activities in mind. Here's our list.
What to pack for a boat trip to the Viedma Glacier: the quick list
| Category | What to carry |
|---|---|
| Footwear | Trekking shoes or closed shoes with a firm sole |
| Clothing | Thermal layer, fleece, windproof and waterproof jacket |
| Accessories | Hat, neck warmer, gloves, sunglasses, sunscreen |
| Team | Camera or cell phone, extra battery, binoculars |
| Papers | Reservation, document and entry to the National Park |
| Backpack | Girl with reusable bottle and trash bag |
Footwear for the hike to Iceberg Bay
After a 40-minute sail, we disembarked at Cape Horn Bay and walked to a viewpoint overlooking Iceberg Bay. It's an easy hike, but the terrain is natural: dirt, stones, and some uneven sections. Therefore:
- Wear hiking shoes or closed shoes with good soles. High-altitude boots are not necessary.
- Avoid sandals, shoes with smooth soles, or new shoes that you haven't worn yet.
- If it rained, the grippy sole makes all the difference.
If you're unsure whether the hike is for you, we describe it step by step in the article about Iceberg Bay.
Layers: the wind of Lake Viedma rules
Lake Viedma is large and the wind can blow strongly, especially in spring and summer. In front of the glacier, cold air also descends from the ice. The combination that works best:
- First layer: thermal or quick-drying t-shirt, never cotton.
- Second layer: fleece or lightweight down coat.
- Third layer: Windproof and waterproof jacket with hood.
Layering allows you to remove layers during your hike, as your body warms up, and put them back on on deck. Add a hat, neck warmer, and gloves: on the bow, facing the Viedma Glacier, these are the first things you'll miss. In the colder months, the article about the Viedma Glacier in winter includes additional recommendations.
Camera, battery, and binoculars
- Charged battery and a spare: The cold drains batteries faster. Keep the spare battery close to your body.
- Strap or cord: On deck, in windy conditions, it's advisable to keep your cell phone or camera secured.
- Lens cloth: Lake spray and some drizzle are common.
- Binoculars: to admire the Huemul Massif, look for condors on the slopes, and see the glacial crevasses up close.
Papers and reserves
- Entrance to Los Glaciares National Park: It is mandatory and not included. You can purchase it in advance at pnlosglaciares.ar.
- Navigation reservation and identity document.
- Transfer: If you don't have a way to get to Puerto Bahía Túnel, 18 km from El Chaltén, there is an optional transfer service that departs from and returns to our offices in El Chaltén. We explain how to get there on your own in [link to relevant section]. Puerto Bahía Túnel: how to get there from El Chaltén.
What you don't need to bring
- Lunch: The onboard snack is included: a choice of premium sandwich, mineral water, and a brownie made in El Chaltén. There is a cafeteria on board.
- Drink for the toast: Ice fishing is done on board and the ice is provided by the glacier.
- Trekking sticks: The walk is short and easy. If you wear them regularly, you can bring them.
- Large luggage: A small backpack is enough.
If you do the Full Day version from El Calafate
The Viedma Full Day Adventure lasts 12 hours, from 7:30 a.m. to 19:30 p.m., and includes a stop at Parador La Leona, a visit to El Chaltén, and a short hike to Chorrillo del Salto waterfall. Add the following to the list above:
- An extra coat for the early morning and the return trip along the route at the end of the day.
- Something light to snack on the bus, in addition to the on-board snack included in the navigation.
- A portable charger: between road, boat and town, the cell phone works all day.
Ready, ready: heading to Viedma
With your backpack packed, all that's left is to enjoy 4 hours of sailing, hiking, and glacier exploration. Check availability and current rates on the Viedma Adventure website.
FAQ
What footwear is suitable for the Viedma Adventure?
Hiking boots or closed shoes with a firm sole. The hike is easy, but the terrain is natural and may be wet.
Do we need to bring food on the Viedma Glacier boat trip?
No. The excursion includes the on-board snack, with a premium sandwich, mineral water and brownie, and there is a cafeteria on board.
Is park admission included?
No. The entrance fee to Los Glaciares National Park is purchased separately, and can be bought online in advance at pnlosglaciares.ar.
Is it cold in summer at the Viedma Glacier?
Yes. Near the ice and with wind, the wind chill makes it feel low even in summer, so it's a good idea to wear layers of clothing, a hat, and a windproof jacket.
