Perito Moreno National Park wilderness guide
National Park · Santa Cruz, Argentina

Perito Moreno National Park

Perito Moreno National Park is a striking Patagonian wilderness known for its dramatic landscapes featuring glaciers, turquoise lakes, and rugged Andean mountains, offering superb hiking and wildlife viewing opportunities.

National Park104,0004+ Trails

Designation

National Park

Total Wilderness Area

104,000

Elevation / Terrain

Diverse Wilderness

Field Editorial Guide

About Perito Moreno National Park

Perito Moreno National Park is a striking Patagonian wilderness known for its dramatic landscapes featuring glaciers, turquoise lakes, and rugged Andean mountains, offering superb hiking and wildlife viewing opportunities.

Wilderness Landscape & Natural Heritage

Located in the southern region of Argentine Patagonia, Perito Moreno National Park covers a vast expanse of mountainous terrain dominated by the Andes mountain range. Established in 1937, the park preserves pristine glacial lakes, dense lenga forests, and lenga and ñire woodlands that support diverse wildlife such as guanacos, Andean condors, pumas, and the elusive huemul deer. One of the park’s highlights is its proximity to the iconic Perito Moreno Glacier located just outside its borders in Los Glaciares National Park, inspiring visitors to explore the region’s extensive network of hiking trails. The park offers various recreational activities including trekking on rugged trails, birdwatching, fishing in crystal-clear rivers, and camping under spectacular night skies. Notably, the park’s geography features the captivating Brazo Rico and Lake Argentino, known for their sapphire-blue waters and intricate fjord-like inlets. Perito Moreno National Park is less crowded than other Patagonian destinations, providing a more remote wilderness experience. The park’s facilities include ranger stations and basic shelters, and its trails range from moderate day hikes to multi-day excursions, traversing diverse habitats that highlight Patagonia’s unique biodiversity and dramatic vistas. Its accessibility from the town of El Calafate makes it a favored spot for travelers seeking a combination of adventure, solitude, and scenic beauty in one of the world’s last great wild frontiers.

Field Guide · National Park
Adventure Destinations

Notable Destinations Near Perito Moreno National Park

Scenic viewpoints, outdoor landmarks, and notable points of interest within 60 miles.

Key Wilderness Highlights

✦ Views of the Andes mountain range with rugged peaks and deep fjords✦ Diverse Patagonian forests including lenga and ñire trees✦ Abundant wildlife including guanacos, Andean condors, and the endangered huemul deer✦ Tranquil lakes such as Brazo Rico and Lake Argentino with crystal-clear waters
Wilderness Recreation

Outdoor Adventures in Perito Moreno National Park

Explore curated guides for top outdoor sports, trail networks, and wilderness activities.

Park Recreation

Hiking

Available in Perito Moreno National Park
Park Recreation

Camping

Available in Perito Moreno National Park
Park Recreation

Wildlife Viewing

Available in Perito Moreno National Park
Park Recreation

Photography

Available in Perito Moreno National Park
Park Recreation

Fishing

Available in Perito Moreno National Park
Park Recreation

Birdwatching

Available in Perito Moreno National Park
Park Recreation

Scenic Drives

Available in Perito Moreno National Park
Park Recreation

Boating

Available in Perito Moreno National Park
Park Recreation

Backcountry Trekking

Available in Perito Moreno National Park
Park Recreation

Horseback Riding

Available in Perito Moreno National Park
The Ranger Station

Visitor Logistics & Essential Planning

Everything you need to know about entrance passes, seasons, visitor centers, road transit, and wildlife safety in Perito Moreno National Park.

Passes & Fees

Entrance Requirements & Interagency Passes

Entry fee applies; no special permits typically required for day visits; permits needed for backcountry camping

Wilderness Checklist

Carry paper topographic map & compass in remote zones.
Store all food and scented items in approved bear canisters.
Check wildfire / smoke advisories before backcountry departure.
Pack out everything you pack in (Leave No Trace).
Wilderness Stays

Camping & Overnight Stays in Perito Moreno National Park

Frontcountry developed campgrounds, backcountry wilderness permit guidelines, and starry-night camping advice.

Camping Río Eléctrico

Located near the Río Eléctrico river with basic facilities, offering access to nearby trails and great river views.

Camping Bahía Toro

A remote campsite along Lake Argentino’s Brazo Rico, favored by anglers and paddlers seeking solitude.