Balmaceda & Serrano Glaciers (From Puerto Natales)

Overview

Balmaceda and Serrano are two glaciers in the Bernardo O’Higgins National Park, accessible by sailing through the Última Esperanza fjord from Puerto Natales. The journey combines steppe, forest, waterfalls, sea lions, and birds, culminating with imposing views of the ice fronts. It is a very complete and photogenic full-day excursion. The navigation to the Balmaceda and Serrano glaciers is a popular tour departing from Puerto Natales, in Chilean Patagonia. It takes place through the Última Esperanza fjord and offers the opportunity to see two glaciers that are part of Bernardo O’Higgins National Park.

Tour Information

Departure Point: The excursion starts in Puerto Natales, where tour operators pick up travelers or they arrive at the dock.

Route: The navigation lasts approximately 6 hours through the Última Esperanza fjord, a route that allows sightings of local flora and fauna, such as sea lions and seabirds, as well as waterfalls and historical buildings like the old Bories cold-storage plant.

Balmaceda Glacier: The boat stops in front of the Balmaceda Glacier, which descends from the mountain of the same name.

Serrano Glacier: Upon arrival at this glacier, you disembark for a short walk of about 20 minutes to the viewpoint close to the glacier.

Coordinates

Puerto Natales tourist dock (reference): -51.728, -72.506

How to get there, distances and times

Check-in at Puerto Natales dock. The navigation lasts approximately 10–11 hours (full day).

Entry / prices (reference 2025)

Access fee to the area generally included in the tour; confirm with the operator when booking.

Route and travel time

• Navigation through Última Esperanza fjord with stops/sightings.
• Short marked walk in Serrano glacier area (weather permitting).

Recommendations

• Waterproof layer; occasional seasickness on windy segments.
• Best weather seasons: spring–summer.