Discovering Glacier Viedma: an Ice Giant near El Chaltén
Located within Los Glaciares National Park in Argentina’s Santa Cruz province, Glacier Viedma is the largest glacier in the park after Glacier Upsala (and bigger than the colossal Perito Moreno), yet it remains a hidden gem that draws fewer crowds. Stretching over 900 square kilometers, this majestic glacier offers a more secluded and intimate encounter with the Patagonian wilderness.
The Magnificence of Glacier Viedma
At approximately 78 kilometers in length, Glacier Viedma is one of the longest glaciers in the Southern Patagonian Ice Field. Its imposing ice face, which towers up to 40 meters above Lake Viedma, provides a dramatic contrast to the deep blue waters below. The glacier’s sheer size is breathtaking, with crevasses, ice caves, and seracs that create a labyrinth of icy formations, making it a wonderland for explorers and nature lovers alike.
One of the most captivating aspects of Glacier Viedma is its connection to the past. The glacier has been slowly advancing and retreating for thousands of years, carving the landscape and leaving behind fascinating geological features. The moraines around the glacier, composed of rock debris deposited by the ice, tell the story of its ancient movements, offering a glimpse into the earth’s dynamic history.
Visiting Glacier Viedma
Unlike some of the more famous glaciers in Patagonia, Glacier Viedma is still relatively off the beaten path. This makes it an ideal destination for adventurers seeking a more tranquil experience. Ice-trek was commonly practiced until recently , when the authorities decided to restrict the activity due to injury risks (only with special permits). However, there are ways to have beautiful panoramic views of it.
For instance, when driving from El Calafate to El Chaltén, if weather permits, one can get incredible views of this glacier. But the best views are probably those from the Huemul Hill, during the Huemul Circuit.
The Huemul Circuit (click to see) is a 3 nights trek that starts and ends in El Chalten, and it allows the visitors to have an incredible view of the Glaciar Viedma from above.
Hiking tours in Patagonia
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