The Glaciarium is South America's first museum dedicated to glaciology and an essential visit to complement the Perito Moreno experience. Located just 6 km from central El Calafate, in a modern building that seems to emerge from the Patagonian steppe, the museum offers an interactive educational experience about glacier formation, climate change and the history of Los Glaciares National Park.
The exhibits
The tour includes rooms with interactive panels, scale models of Patagonia's main glaciers, touchscreens with information on glacier formation and movement, and a striking 3D projection that immerses you in the blue world inside the ice. You learn about the Ice Age, the formation of the Andes, the history of scientific exploration of the Patagonian ice field and the impact of climate change on southern hemisphere glaciers.
The museum visit takes approximately 1-2 hours and is entirely self-guided with panels in Spanish and English. Entry costs approximately USD 12.
The Glaciobar: drinks at -10 degrees
The most fun part of the Glaciarium is the Glaciobar, a bar built entirely of ice where the temperature is maintained at -10 degrees Celsius. The walls, furniture, glasses and sculptures are all made of ice. On entry, the museum provides thermal clothing (jacket, gloves and boots) to withstand the cold. The experience lasts approximately 20 minutes and includes one drink (alcoholic and non-alcoholic options) served in an ice glass.
The Glaciobar costs an additional USD 20 (includes drink and thermal clothing). A fun and unique experience, especially for families with children.
Practical information
The Glaciarium offers free transport from central El Calafate (a shuttle departing hourly from Avenida Libertador). Hours: 9:00 to 20:00 in high season and 11:00 to 18:00 in low season. The visit can be combined with a stroll along the Lago Argentino waterfront, just minutes away.
