Embark on one of Patagonia’s most scenic navigations traveling through Última Esperanza Fjord until reaching the impressive Balmaceda and Serrano Glaciers inside Bernardo O’Higgins National Park.
The Balmaceda and Serrano Glacier Navigation is a Full Day excursion ideal for travelers who want to discover glaciers, fjords, waterfalls and Patagonian wildlife through a comfortable and low physical demand experience from Puerto Natales.
The experience begins early in the morning departing from Puerto Natales toward Puerto Bories, where you will board the vessel to start the navigation through Última Esperanza Sound. During the journey, you will observe mountains, native forests, waterfalls, cormorant colonies and sea lions in their natural habitat.
The first approach is to Balmaceda Glacier, an impressive hanging glacier located on the mountain of the same name. Afterwards, you will disembark in the Serrano Glacier sector for a short panoramic walk through native forest trails until reaching the glacier viewpoint.
The excursion includes navigation, guided walk and a traditional Patagonian lunch at Estancia Perales before returning to Puerto Natales.
Duration
Full Day
Approx. 10 to 12 hours including navigation, walking and transfers.
Route
- Puerto Natales
- Puerto Bories
- Última Esperanza Fjord
- Balmaceda Glacier
- Serrano Glacier
- Serrano Viewpoint Trail
- Estancia Perales
- Bernardo O’Higgins National Park
Ideal For
- First navigation experience in Patagonia
- Travelers looking for low physical demand
- Nature photography
- Travelers wanting to discover glaciers without long trekking
- Families and active senior travelers
Important Information
The excursion has low physical demand, although it includes short walks on natural trails.
Operation depends on:
- weather conditions
- wind
- navigation safety
Recommended items:
- Layered clothing
- Waterproof or windproof jacket
- Comfortable outdoor shoes
- Sunglasses
- Sunscreen
- Water and snacks
Schedule
7:00 - Pick up at accommodation
Passengers heading directly to Puerto Bories should arrive by 7:30 AM.

08.00 hrs. - Navigation from Puerto Bories to the Balmaceda and Serrano Glaciers
Departing from Puerto Bories, just 5 km away, you will embark towards Bernardo O'Higgins National Park via the Señoret Channel. Enjoy a delicious snack on board while relaxing and admiring the view of the majestic Mount Balmaceda and its incredible glaciers, which we will explore later.

8:30 - National Historical Monument Frigorífico Bories
The journey includes a stop at the National Historical Monument Frigorífico Bories, built in 1913 by the Tierra del Fuego Exploitation Company. For over six decades, it was the region's main processing center, notable for its post-Victorian English architecture and solid masonry construction.

09.00 hrs. - From Puerto Bories to the Balmaceda and Serrano Glaciers
Navigate through the impressive Última Esperanza Fjord. Admire majestic mountains, spectacular waterfalls, and rich Patagonian wildlife. Along the way, visit the Condor Cliff and Waterfall, and continue to Mount Balmaceda to see its 2,035-meter-high glacier.
10.00 hrs. - Viewing Beautiful Mountains, Waterfalls, Ranches, and Patagonian Birdlife
Along the route, you will witness breathtaking landscapes of towering mountains, majestic waterfalls, and abundant wildlife, including imperial cormorants and sea lions.

12.00 hrs. - View of the Balmaceda Glacier
The Balmaceda Glacier, located on the western slope of Mount Balmaceda, is a gem of Bernardo O'Higgins National Park. This hanging glacier, standing 2,035 meters high, captivates visitors with its impressive white icebergs sliding majestically down the eastern side of the mountain.

12.30 hrs. - Visit to the Serrano Glacier
Hike through a lush forest of coihues and ñirres to the foot of the glacier. This 1.8 km round-trip route near Natales, Magallanes, is generally considered easy and takes about 30 minutes to complete. This path is excellent for hiking and strolling, and it's unlikely you'll encounter many other people.

13.00 hrs. - Return from Serrano Glacier to Estancia Perales, with a Whiskey and Millenary Ice
From the Serrano Glacier to Estancia Perales, enjoy a whiskey with millenary ice, accompanied by a spectacular panoramic view of the Serrano Glacier.

14.00 hrs. - Lunch at Estancia Turística Perales
Enjoy lunch at Estancia Turística Perales, located 51 kilometers from Puerto Natales. This place stands out for its impressive landscape, situated on the shores of the Última Esperanza Fjord, at the foot of Cerro Prat, and at the entrance to the Chacabuco mountain range. The estancia offers a must-see tour for nature lovers, culminating in a delicious Patagonian lunch. The menu includes grilled lamb with accompaniments, with vegetarian options available upon request.
17.30 hrs. - Arrival in Puerto Natales. End of navigation services.
Arrival in Puerto Natales. End of navigation services. We thank you for your company and hope you enjoyed this unique experience in Patagonia.
Frequently Asked Questions
The excursion includes navigation, guide service, walk to Serrano Glacier viewpoint and traditional Patagonian lunch at Estancia Perales.
The experience begins in Puerto Natales with departure toward Puerto Bories, the embarkation point for the navigation.
The complete navigation lasts approximately 6 hours distributed throughout the day.
The physical demand is low and includes short and simple walks.
Yes. The vessel navigates in front of the glacier allowing privileged panoramic views.
Yes. The excursion includes a short scenic walk to the Serrano Glacier viewpoint.
Cormorants, sea lions and different Patagonian bird species are frequently observed.
Yes, although the navigation may be modified or cancelled depending on weather and maritime safety conditions.
Layered outdoor clothing, waterproof jacket, comfortable shoes and sun protection are recommended.
Reviews
Mar 20, 2025
"The scenery was exceptional and the trip was well organized with a friendly crew."
Nov 27, 2024
"El Glaciar fue lo mejor. Todo bien organizado."
Included
-
Transfers from/to Accommodation in Puerto Natales
Available for the urban area of Puerto Natales. - Boat Trip
- Lunch
- Snacks
-
Bilingual Guide spanish/english
During excursions and departures mentioned in the itinerary -
Expert advice and coordination
Personalized guidance and coordination of your experience via phone, email, webchat, WhatsApp, and scheduled video calls. -
Booking Fee – Reservation Management
Administrative costs associated with managing and confirming your reservation, including payment processing and coordinating services with local operators.
Not Included
- Medical, accident or travel insurance
General Conditions
| Minimum: | 2 |
| Departure: | 07:15 |
| Duration: | 10 |
| Return: | 18:00 |
- Daily departures from September to March (subject to availability).
- From April to August Confirmed departures only on Sundays.
- Other departures subject to minimum number of passengers.
Commercial Conditions
Cancellation Policies
- Cancellations with 10 days or more before arrival: 90% refund.
- Cancellations with 9 days or less before arrival are not eligible for a refund.
Other Conditions
- Weather Conditions and Force Majeure Cancellations: The operator (service provider) reserves the right to cancel, modify, or reschedule services due to safety reasons, weather conditions, or other circumstances beyond its control. In the event of cancellation, the amount paid will be refunded less a 5% administrative reservation fee (booking fee), which is non-refundable.
- Children Price (2 to 12 years old): CLP $137,500
- Infants Price (0 to 1 year old): Free of charge / No charge
Our apply on everything not mentioned before.
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Balmaceda and Serrano Glaciers Excursion (full day)
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"Views and lunch were highlights. Negative: inability to trek Serrano glacier due to pontoon damage from weather."