Outrageous Escapism: Perito Moreno Glacier, Argentina

From far-flung corners to little pockets of paradise, we're bringing you the world's most exotic and unusual locations. Wander from home at your leisure.

Where?

Perito Moreno Glacier, Los Glaciares National Park, Argentina

Why?

Renowned for its dramatic ruptures, Perito Moreno Glacier is ranked among the best attractions in Argentinian Patagonia. Covering 250sq km and rising as much as 78 metres above Lago Argentino, its cool-blue formation is the world's third-largest reserve of fresh water and moves around two metres per day. Once every five years (or thereabouts) its tip cuts off the mouth of Lago Argentino forming a dam that leads to a major rupture. You might not want to be there for that, but much smaller ruptures occur every half hour or so - from a viewing platform you can witness shards of ice plummeting into the crystal waters of Lago Argentino. It's pretty surreal.

Most remarkably, the glacier seems to be defying the odds of global warming - it's one of only three glaciers in the world that are growing. If you're craving an escapade, challenge yourself with a trekking tour or, depending on the season, an adventure into an ice cave. If sightseeing is more your forte, view the phenomenon from a different perspective on a boat tour.

Where to stay

For the best landscape views of Patagonia, stay at Adventure Domes Glamping, where you'll have a short walk to the shore of the Lago Argentino.

What to pack

To remain at a toasty temperature, you'll want to pack the Erin Snow Freja fleece ski jacket. We're sure a pair of Purdey leather falconry gloves won't go amiss either.

Travel tip-off

To observe an icy display, visit in the afternoon when the mini ruptures are more frequent.

How to get there

Keep in mind that the town of Perito Moreno and the glacier are completely different locations. Situated in the Santa Cruz Province, the nearest village is El Calafate. Here you can pick up a variety of tour buses that take the hour-long journey to the glacier.

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