Hidden deep in Chilean Patagonia, Laguna San Rafael National Park is one of the most breathtaking natural destinations in South America. Part of the Northern Patagonian Ice Field, the park is home to immense glaciers, turquoise lagoons, and untouched forests that reveal the raw beauty of southern Chile.
This guide explores the main sectors and glacier experiences you can enjoy inside the park — from easy-access excursions to remote adventures.
1. San Rafael Sector: The Heart of the Park
At the core of the park lies the iconic San Rafael Glacier, one of the few in the world that descends directly into the sea. Massive chunks of ice break away from its 70-meter-high wall, floating across the vibrant blue waters of the lagoon — a truly unforgettable sight.
How to get there:
Most visitors arrive by boat from Puerto Chacabuco, in a five-to-six-hour journey through fjords, channels, and the Témpanos River. The route offers incredible wildlife encounters with dolphins, sea lions, cormorants, and albatrosses.
Alternatively, charter flights from Coyhaique offer a bird’s-eye view of the glacier, the Monte San Valentín (the highest peak in southern Andes at 4,058 m), and the surrounding ice field.
Visiting hours: The park is open daily from 08:30 to 17:00 hrs, with last entry at 13:00 hrs. Tickets start at CLP $2,600, available through pasesparques.cl.
2. Exploradores Sector: Adventure Among Glaciers
Located 80 km west of Puerto Río Tranquilo, the Exploradores Sector is the most accessible area for trekking and glacier exploration. The highlight is the Glaciar Exploradores hike, a guided ice trek operated exclusively by authorized local guides and CONAF permit holders.
There is also a self-guided trail, open Tuesday to Sunday from 08:30 to 10:00 hrs, returning by 17:00 hrs.
Visitors must purchase their entry ticket in advance at pasesparques.cl.
How to get there:
Follow the Route X-728 (Valle Exploradores), an 80 km scenic gravel road opened in 2010. Along the way, travelers can visit the Leones Glacier, Bayo Glacier, and Lago Bayo, each offering guided excursions, viewpoints, and opportunities for photography.
3. Témpanos Sector: Sailing Through Patagonia’s Fjords
The Témpanos Sector covers the network of fjords and channels linking the lagoon to the Pacific Ocean. It’s the ideal experience for those who want to navigate among glaciers and wildlife in one of the most pristine marine environments on Earth.
How to visit:
Boats and catamarans depart from Puerto Chacabuco or Puerto Aysén, sailing for approximately 5 to 6 hours. Passengers are treated to views of evergreen forests, snowcapped mountains, and the occasional iceberg drifting by.
4. Fiordo Steffen Sector: The Wild South
In the southernmost part of the park lies Fiordo Steffen, a remote area where the Patagonian wilderness remains virtually untouched. Accessible only by boat from Caleta Tortel, this sector requires expert guides and authorized tour companies due to its isolation.
There are no public services or infrastructure, making it a destination for true adventurers. The highlights include the Steffen Glacier, which is currently retreating, and the impressive El Saltón waterfall, surrounded by lush temperate rainforest.
When to Visit Laguna San Rafael
The best time to visit is from November to April, during Patagonia’s summer season. Weather conditions are milder, and all access routes are fully operational.
During this period, visitors can combine navigation tours, trekking, and scenic flights for the ultimate glacier experience.
Travel Tips
- Book tours and flights in advance — visitor capacity is limited.
- Bring waterproof clothing, hiking shoes, sunglasses, and sunscreen.
- Expect sudden weather changes — even in summer, temperatures can drop quickly.
- Most local operators speak Spanish and English.
A Journey Into the Frozen Heart of Chile
Whether you sail through the fjords, hike across blue ice, or fly over the vast white expanse, exploring the glaciers of Laguna San Rafael National Park is a once-in-a-lifetime experience.
It’s Patagonia at its purest — wild, remote, and magnificently alive.
