Laguna San Rafael and Glacier
The San Rafael Glacier is located in the Aysén region of Chile, in the Patagonian Ice Fields. It is a large glacier that flows from the Northern Patagonian Ice Field and empties into Laguna San Rafael. With its vast ice fields, it is one of the most impressive glaciers in South America and has been declared a national park by the Chilean government.
The San Rafael Glacier is one of Chile’s most visited tourist attractions due to its spectacular views and unique landscape. Visitors can take boat tours to explore the glacier or hike around its edges for an up-close experience with nature. Its stunning beauty has made it a popular destination for photographers, scientists, and adventurers alike.
Keith and I visited this place during our cruise of South America on Oceana Cruises’ Marina ship. We were among the first from our ship to board a catamaran that traversed Laguna San Rafael and cautiously took us up-close to the glacier. While there we did not have the pleasure of witnessing any calving. Most of the images in this blog entry were taken while maneuvering the lagoon. Also included is an image of our cabin’s view of the ship’s bridge where many of the ship’s navigational equipment is located. Following that image are ones taken during our passage through the Chilean fjords leaving Laguna San Rafael.
