Day 193: Perito Moreno Glacier

Days: 193  -   Date: 5MAR14  -   Itinerary: El Calafate to Perito Moreno Glacier and back  -   Miles: 101

Checking out the the Perito Moreno Glacier! One of the few glaciers in the world that’s still advancing. The Southern Patagonian Ice Field also happens to contain the world’s third largest reserve of fresh water. Pretty cool!

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From El Calafate it’s an hour ride East to the Glacier National Park where the spectacular Perito Moreno glacier is. AR_05Mar14_003

View from the first mirador (view point).. still about 10km away.AR_05Mar14_004

For a foreigner, the park entrance fee isn’t cheap.. About $12 at the black market exchange rate!

Lots of photos of the glacier and from around the park. People from all over the world visiting this site.
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Every 15 minutes or so, you’d hear a big BOOM sound followed by the sound of a mighty splash. Pieces of ice would randomly crack off and fall into the water below. When a big piece of ice cracked off, it sounded like a gun shot or mortar round going off! Very loud and impressive!

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A cute little owl who wouldn’t cooperate for my photo..
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The blueist ice I have ever seen before

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The high Patagonian winds (easily 30-50mph) create some cool looking clouds.AR_05Mar14_013

Once back in El Calafate, I decided to stay for an extra night to work on the moto and do a few errands. The last few days on Ruta 40 have literally shaken my bike apart, so I had to search around for some replacement bolts. My new brazilian friends were going to continue riding South.. hopefully I can meet up with them again when I’m in Brazil!

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