“BALMACEDA & SERRANO GLACIERS’ NAVIGATION” Tour

“BALMACEDA & SERRANO GLACIERS’ NAVIGATION” Tour

BALMACEDA GLACIER – CHILE. Is one of the most impressive natural wonders of southern Chile, located within Bernardo O’Higgins National Park, the largest protected area in the country. This majestic glacier forms part of the Southern Patagonian Ice Field, the third-largest freshwater reserve in the world, and offers visitors an unforgettable experience deep in the heart of Chilean Patagonia. The journey to Balmaceda Glacier is an adventure in itself, typically accessed by navigation through pristine fjords and channels surrounded by dramatic mountains, waterfalls, and dense native forests. Along the way, travelers can admire the raw beauty of Patagonia’s landscapes, where the Andes descend directly into the sea and wildlife such as cormorants, sea lions, and Andean birds can often be spotted. Upon arrival, Balmaceda Glacier rises powerfully from the mountainside, its immense ice wall descending into a lagoon fed by glacial meltwater. The shades of blue and white ice, combined with the surrounding lenga and coigüe forests, create a striking contrast that highlights the scale and serenity of this natural monument. The glacier is an active one, and visitors may witness small ice calvings that echo across the fjord, adding to the sense of awe and grandeur. A visit to Balmaceda Glacier is usually complemented by nearby natural attractions, such as Serrano Glacier, allowing travelers to explore multiple glacial environments in a single excursion. These experiences provide insight into the importance of glaciers as vital freshwater sources and key indicators of climate change.

SERRANO GLACIER – CHILE. Is a breathtaking natural attraction located within Bernardo O’Higgins National Park, in the heart of Chilean Patagonia. Fed by the immense Southern Patagonian Ice Field, this glacier is renowned for its accessibility, scenic surroundings, and striking beauty, making it one of the most visited glaciers in southern Chile. The journey to Serrano Glacier takes travelers through spectacular fjords and channels framed by towering mountains, cascading waterfalls, and lush native forests. Along the route, it is common to observe Patagonian wildlife such as sea lions, cormorants, and diverse seabirds, enhancing the sense of exploration in this pristine and remote environment. Unlike many glaciers, Serrano Glacier offers the unique opportunity to disembark and walk closer to the ice, allowing visitors to appreciate its immense scale and intricate formations from a privileged perspective. Its ice mass flows gently down from the mountains into a tranquil lagoon, where floating icebergs reflect varying shades of blue and white, creating an unforgettable visual spectacle. A visit to Serrano Glacier is often combined with the nearby Balmaceda Glacier, providing a complete glacial experience that highlights the power and beauty of Patagonia’s frozen landscapes. These excursions also offer valuable insight into the ecological importance of glaciers as freshwater reserves and their role in the global climate system.

Ideal for nature lovers, photographers, and adventure seekers, Balmaceda Glacier and Serrano Glacier offers a rare opportunity to connect with one of Patagonia’s most pristine and powerful landscapes. It is a must-see destination for anyone wishing to experience the untamed beauty and grandeur of southern Chile.

Itinerary

• At 8:00 a.m., we will set sail on an unforgettable navigation experience departing from Puerto Bories. As we cruise through the Patagonian fjords, we will be surrounded by spectacular scenery featuring towering mountains, cascading waterfalls, traditional estancias, and abundant native birdlife.
• Around 11:00 a.m., we will arrive at the renowned Balmaceda and Serrano Glaciers. Here, we will disembark and enjoy a guided walk through a dense forest of coihue and ñirre trees, leading us to the impressive face of one of these majestic glaciers, where the raw power of Patagonian ice can be fully appreciated.
• After our visit, we will begin the return navigation from Serrano Glacier, celebrating the moment with a glass of whiskey served with ancient glacial ice—an authentic Patagonian tradition. In the early afternoon, approximately at 2:00 p.m., we will enjoy a delicious regional lunch at Estancia Perales, featuring the iconic Magellanic lamb, with vegetarian alternatives available upon request.
• Our extraordinary journey will conclude around 4:30 p.m. with our return to Puerto Natales. We will continue sailing through the channel back to the port and then transfer to our hotel, bringing an unforgettable day of Patagonian nature and flavors to a perfect close.

Includes

• Guide service in Spanish and English with WFR certification.
• Entrance fees to Bernardo O´Higgins National Park.
• Aperitif (whiskey, juice, etc.),
• Tea or coffee,
• Hike,
• Lunch at Estancia Perales,
• Insurance for navigation and excursions.

Does not include

• Tips and gratuities.
• Professional guide in French, German, Italian, and Portuguese. If you would like a guide in these languages, please request one in advance and pay an extra fee, subject to availability.
• Other services not described in the program.

Notes:

• Level of difficulty: Low difficulty.
• Minimum age required for the tour: 2 years old.
• Navigation subject to weather conditions.
• Excursion days and schedules may vary depending on the season, weather conditions, and the groups forming.