Estancia Cristina Hike & Boat Tour
Description
Interested in embarking on a scenic boat journey around the Upsala Glacier followed by a hike through the intriguing Cañadón de los Fósiles? Experience an enriching day at Estancia Cristina.
Expedition at Estancia Cristina: Hike & Boat Tour
Your adventure begins with a timely pickup from your accommodation, leading us to Estancia Cristina, a destination brimming with stunning natural wonders.
After approximately an hour's drive, we will reach Punta Bandera, where you'll board a boat that will carry us to Estancia Cristina. While sailing along the Upsala Channel, relish the view of the magnificent ice wall from the Upsala Glacier during this 2.5-hour maritime journey. Capture memories with as many photos as you like!
Upon arrival at Estancia Cristina, you'll board an offroading vehicle led by your guide, taking you to a stunning viewpoint featuring panoramic vistas of the glacier and the vast Southern Patagonian Ice Field.
Next, prepare for a 14-kilometer hike through the fascinating Cañadón de los Fósiles. This region is rich in ancient fossils, and your guide will highlight the most significant findings throughout the trek.
Midway through our hike, we will pause for a brief interlude to enjoy a hearty lunch, which includes two sandwiches, a biscuit, fruit, and water to replenish our energy. Following our meal, we will resume our hike, with a planned arrival at Estancia Cristina around 5:30 PM.
Afterwards, we will return via boat to Punta Bandera, where a vehicle will be ready to transport us back to El Calafate. Expect to arrive at your hotels approximately 12.5 hours after the tour commences.
Self-Guided Tour Option
Would you prefer to reach Estancia Cristina independently? You can opt to book without transfers. In this case, please meet your guide at the pier in Estancia, located at Punta Bandera, by 8:15 AM. The return boat will drop you off at the quay at 7 PM.
What's included
- Hotel pickup and drop–off (depending on selection)
- Transport by minibus (depending on selection)
- English–speaking guide
- Lunch
What's not included
- Admission ticket to Los Glaciares National Park: 15000ARS for Argentinian adults, 45000ARS for foreign adults and 5000ARS for Argentinian children aged 6–10; free for children under 6 of any nationality, retired Argentinians, individuals with a disability and the person accompanying them, of any nationality
Cancellation policy
Cancellazione gratuita fino a 168 ore prima (local time)
Accessibility
Not wheelchair accessible.
Important information
Book with Transfer
At the indicated time, we'll pick you up at the hotel in the centre of El Calafate that you indicated in your reservation. Please be ready a few minutes beforehand.
If you're staying in a more remote area, we'll pick you up at the following point in El Calafate: Ryan's Travel office, located at number 31, on the street 7 de Diciembre (next to the Banco de la Nación Argentina branch). Please be punctual.
Book without Transfers
If you've booked without hotel pickup, meet your guide at the Estancia Cristina pier, located at Punta Bandera, at 8:15 am. The car journey from El Calafate is approximately 40 minutes.
On the return journey, the boat will drop you back off at the pier at 7:30 pm.
Important Info
- On the day of the activity, we recommend wearing comfortable, warm clothing and walking boots. Don't forget your sunglasses and sunscreen. You should also bring food and drink if you haven't bought the option with lunch included.
- Due to the location of the estancia, there is no mobile phone signal or wifi service.
If you have any questions or problems, you can contact the local team at the following number: +54 9 2966 72 8123.
Admission Tickets Not Included
You can buy your ticket to Los Glaciares National Park via this link, or by them on the same day at the ticket desk. In this case. you must bring Argentine pesos with you in cash.
If you visit the National Park on the second day, you can buy your pass with 50% off for the second day.
Please Note
The local supplier reserves the right to request a physical passport on the day of the tour.
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