After the awe-inspiring journey to Antarctica, I continued my adventure by flying from Buenos Aires to El Calafate.
I had assumed that after witnessing the grandeur of Antarctica, any subsequent landscapes would be predictably magnificent. However, as I set foot on the Patagonian ice field, the sheer beauty and scale of what lay before me left me utterly speechless.
Nature’s wonders have a way of humbling us. Just when you think you’ve seen it all, there are still countless breathtaking scenes waiting to take your breath away and shatter any lingering arrogance.
Five years ago, I ran the Berlin Marathon with zero training. Now, I embarked on an 8-hour trek across the Moreno Glacier. This daring girl is all about living life on the edge 
.
The Moreno Glacier, originating from the Southern Patagonian Ice Field, is named after the intrepid explorer Francisco Moreno. Spanning 250 square kilometers, this colossal glacier stands 170 meters high and stretches for 30 kilometers.
There are two ways to experience its majesty: one is from a distance, by purchasing a ticket to enter the national park (the view after P11); the other is to venture deep into the glacier itself, by signing up for a mini trekking (4-5 hours) or a big ice trekking (8-9 hours) program.
It’s crucial to choose an option that matches your physical capabilities. If you’re not accustomed to regular exercise and have limited stamina, the mini trekking is highly recommended. The big ice trek is more challenging than you might imagine. It’s akin to mountain climbing, but with the added challenge of carrying a day’s worth of supplies and wearing heavy crampons.
Patagonia’s weather is as unpredictable as it is dramatic. Within an hour, you can experience the full spectrum of seasons—spring, summer, autumn, and winter—alongside clear skies, snow, clouds, and rain. Every step you take is on ancient ice, hundreds of meters deep, with turbulent whirlpools lurking beneath 
.
When it snows, the sky fills with a mix of rain and snow, creating a scene that feels like the end of the world. It’s no exaggeration to say that Guo Fan could come here to shoot “The Wandering Earth.” In our group, two people from 
decided to turn back halfway through, retracing their steps along the original path.
If you’re planning to embark on this incredible journey, remember to book your spot on the Hielo&Aventura official website at least a month in advance. The experience is incredibly popular, and without early booking, securing a place can be nearly impossible.
The cost varies, generally ranging from 200-300
.
Tips
Pack a versatile magic scarf and a snug wool hat 
. The weather can be quite fickle, and a strong wind can give you a nasty headache.
Don’t forget your gloves
! The ice shards are sharp as knives, and if you slip and instinctively reach out to catch yourself, you could end up with painful cuts.
Bring along some sunglasses
. While a helmet and a hat are essential, adding ski goggles might feel bulky. Sunglasses will offer the perfect balance of protection and comfort.
Opt for waterproof outdoor clothing. When it rains, you won’t have a free hand to hold an umbrella, and staying dry is key.
Plus, the temperature isn’t too cold, so you won’t overheat.
No need to carry lots of water; the glacier water is perfectly drinkable and refreshing.
And, don’t miss out on the local flavors! Argentina is not only budget-friendly but also boasts delicious cuisine. I’ll be sharing more about El Calafate’s culinary delights in a future post [Sticking out tongue H]
