• Classic

  • Guide

  • Transfers

  • Boat Transfer

  • Meals

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
Physical Demand
low
Suitable for all visitors. Mostly panoramic or vehicle-based tours with minimal walking.
Experience
For Everyone
No previous experience needed.

Schedule

7:00 - Pick up at accommodation

Passengers heading directly to Puerto Bories should arrive by 7:30 AM.

El histórico muelle y los edificios de ladrillo de Puerto Bories, cerca de la orilla del agua.
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.

El histórico muelle y los edificios de ladrillo de Puerto Bories, cerca de la orilla del agua.
La antigua maquinaria y los detalles arquitectónicos del Monumento Histórico Nacional Frigorífico Bories.
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.

La antigua maquinaria y los detalles arquitectónicos del Monumento Histórico Nacional Frigorífico Bories.
El intenso color azul del hielo en la base del glaciar Serrano.
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.

El intenso color azul del hielo en la base del glaciar Serrano.
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.

Impresionante vista de los glaciares Balmaceda y Serrano desembocando en el estrecho de Última Esperanza.
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.

Impresionante vista de los glaciares Balmaceda y Serrano desembocando en el estrecho de Última Esperanza.
Un barco navegando por las profundas aguas azules del estrecho de Última Esperanza, cerca de los glaciares.
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.

Un barco navegando por las profundas aguas azules del estrecho de Última Esperanza, cerca de los glaciares.
Primer plano de un vaso lleno de whisky y un trozo de hielo glacial cristalino.
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.

Primer plano de un vaso lleno de whisky y un trozo de hielo glacial cristalino.
Un tradicional asado patagónico preparado al aire libre en Estancia Perales.
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.

Un tradicional asado patagónico preparado al aire libre en Estancia Perales.
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

Kenneth sg Nov 21, 2025

"Views and lunch were highlights. Negative: inability to trek Serrano glacier due to pontoon damage from weather."

Jerry ca Mar 20, 2025

"The scenery was exceptional and the trip was well organized with a friendly crew."

Erika be 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.

Request with GreatChile

Balmaceda and Serrano Glaciers Excursion (full day)
4.2/5 (6 reviews)


      Per Person Price

    This site is protected by reCAPTCHA and the Google Privacy Policy and Terms of Service apply.


    Questions? Contact GreatChile


    Office Hours
    • Checking office status...


    Telephone


    Whatsapp



    Agenda
    • Experts Appointment

    Other services you might like

    Programs & Tours

    The classic view of the three granite towers and the glacial lagoon at Base Las Torres.
    Pack Full Day + Base Torres + Tickets

    Experience two of the most unforgettable activities in Torres del Paine National Park by combining a panoramic Full Day tour through the park with the famous Base Torres trekking experience.

    Guide Transfers Snacks
    The sun hitting the peaks of the towers, casting a warm glow over the entire Base Torres amphitheater.
    Classic W Circuit Trek

    5 days / 4 nights – Classic W Circuit self-guided tour from/to Puerto Natales

    Hike the Classic W Circuit, Torres del Paine’s most iconic trekking route and one of Patagonia’s most renowned experiences.

    Accommodation Self-Guided Transfers Boat Transfer Meals Physical Demand: medium high Experience: Experienced

    Accommodations

    Factoria Patagonia

    Located in the heart of Puerto Natales, just steps from the waterfront and the city's gastronomic hub. Its architecture is

    Transfers

    A Bus Sur shuttle arriving at the Laguna Amarga entrance of Torres del Paine.
    Bus Sur Route between Puerto Natales and Torres del Paine

    Rodoviario Puerto Natales - Laguna Amarga - Pudeto - Administración - Lago Grey

    Semi-Bed Seat
    View More
    Your favorite places
    View possible itineraries