Upsala Glacier, located in Los Glaciares National Park of Argentine Patagonia, is one of the largest and most impressive glaciers in South America. Stretching over 50 kilometers in length and covering nearly 900 square kilometers, it flows from the Southern Patagonian Ice Field into Lake Argentino, where massive icebergs calve dramatically into the turquoise waters. Upsala Glacier has been retreating significantly in recent decades due to climate change. Despite this, it remains a breathtaking natural wonder, best admired by boat or from the panoramic viewpoint at Estancia Cristina.

To reach Estancia Cristina:

1. Start from El Calafate, the main gateway to Los Glaciares National Park (about 50 km from Puerto Bandera).

2. Take a boat from Puerto Bandera (about 45 minutes from El Calafate by road). Several tour companies (e.g. Glaciares Gourmet, Todo Glaciares, Solo Patagonia) operate full-day boat trips across Lago Argentino, navigating among floating icebergs in the Upsala Channel.

3. The boat brings you to Estancia Cristina, a historic ranch located on the lake’s northern shore.

4. From Estancia Cristina, you can take a guided 4x4 excursion (about 9 km uphill) followed by a short hike (20–30 minutes) to the Upsala Glacier viewpoint, which overlooks the vast glacier and the surrounding mountains.

The full trip is usually offered as a day tour from El Calafate, combining navigation, a visit to the estancia, and access to the viewpoint. It’s the only practical way to see the glacier up close, as there’s no direct road access to the viewing area.