Upsala Glacier
Santa Cruz
Upsala Glacier is a large valley glacier located on the eastern side of the Southern Patagonian Ice Field, spanning disputed territory between Chile and Argentina. It flows from north to south and is fed by three tributary glaciers: Bertacchi, Cono, and Murallón. Named after Uppsala University in Sweden, which sponsored the first glaciological studies of the region, it is the third largest glacier in the icefield. The glacier terminates at the Upsala Channel of Lago Argentino and is famous for its rapid retreat, ongoing since its first documentation in 1810. This retreat has accelerated notably since 2008, influenced by climate change effects such as rising temperatures and altered precipitation patterns. Despite being less accessible than the nearby Perito Moreno Glacier, Upsala remains a popular destination for adventurous tourists who explore it via 4x4 vehicles, hiking, or kayaking. Its vast ice fields, towering walls averaging 40 meters high, and the dynamic glacial environment make it a unique natural spectacle in the Patagonian region.
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Astuce: The best time to visit Upsala Glacier is during the Southern Hemisphere summer months when weather conditions are more favorable. Visitors are advised to book boat tours or kayaking excursions in advance due to their popularity. While Perito Moreno Glacier attracts more tourists, Upsala offers a more remote and less crowded experience. Bring appropriate clothing for cold and variable weather, and consider guided tours for safety and enhanced insight. Discounts may be available for certain groups; check with tour operators ahead of time.
Faits intéressants
- •Upsala Glacier is the third largest glacier in the Southern Patagonian Ice Field.
- •It has been retreating continuously since 1810, with a marked acceleration since 2008.
- •The glacier was named after Uppsala University, which sponsored the first glaciological studies in the area.
- •The glacier's upper flat area was used by the Argentine Antarctic Command for training.
- •Kayaking trips among the glacier's icebergs provide a unique way to explore the region.
Histoire
Upsala Glacier was first documented in 1810 and named in 1908 by Swedish geologist Klaus August Jacobson after Uppsala University, which conducted pioneering glaciological studies in the area.
Historically, the glacier has been in a state of continuous retreat, with significant acceleration noted since the late 20th century.
The glacier's retreat has affected its tributary glaciers, notably Bertacchi Glacier, which has increased in flow rate due to near separation from Upsala.
The glacier’s retreat is a key indicator of climate change impacts in Patagonia.
Guide du lieu
Upsala Glacier Terminus
The terminus of the glacier ends in the Upsala Channel of Lago Argentino, where visitors can observe large icebergs calving from the glacier face into the lake.
Bertacchi Glacier
A tributary glacier to Upsala, now nearly separated due to Upsala’s retreat, showing increased flow rates and thinning caused by the changing glacial dynamics.
Kayaking in Brazo Upsala
Visitors can kayak among the blue icebergs in the Upsala Channel, offering an immersive experience of the glacier’s environment.