Discover El Calafate: Your Epic Glacier Gateway to Adventure
Welcome to El Calafate, your gateway to the wonders of Argentine Patagonia! This popular destination rests along the southern shore of Lago Argentino’s shimmering blue waters, against a beautiful mountain backdrop. Renowned for the iconic Perito Moreno Glacier, it offers access to both Los Glaciares National Park and El Chaltén (the true gem in my opinion!). Despite a surge in tourism, savvy trekkers can sidestep the tourist traps with the right trip planning, making this a great base for your hiking and outdoor adventures. According to local legend, tasting the calafate berry ensures your return – a promise of unforgettable memories awaiting every traveler.
Don’t forget to check out our destination guides to El Chaltén and Ushuaia – perfect to combine with your trip to El Calafate! Wondering how to get to Buenos Aires or Patagonia? Check out our flight reviews of American Airlines business class and premium economy between New York and Buenos Aires!
When to Go
Summer’s high season (Dec-Feb) brings the best odds of favorable weather and warmer temperatures, but expect bustling streets and excursions. Be ready for variable conditions including rain, wind, and cooler temperatures which can impact your adventures.
Shoulder season (Sep-Nov and Mar-May) offers fewer crowds, budget-friendly options, and picturesque foliage with milder winds. However, sporadic rain and lingering snow from winter may affect your activities.
Winter’s low season (Jun-Aug) welcomes chilly temperatures and limited services. Yet for those seeking solitude, it presents a tranquil charm amidst snow-kissed landscapes.
How Long to Stay
You could spend a week here, but I’d shoot for three nights. If you’re short on time, I recommend allocating more time in El Chaltén over Calafate. Be sure to check out our destination guide to El Chaltén, Argentina’s hiking capital!
Things to Do
El Calafate offers an abundance of unforgettable experiences, but you should start with a glacier excursion. Many companies offer ice treks or boat trips to get up close to this natural wonder, and the towering walls (or witnessing ice calving!) will leave you breathless. Although Perito Moreno is the most popular, you have plenty of glacial options: Spegazzini, Onelli, Upsala, and Viedma to name a few.
Nature lovers will enjoy visiting Laguna Nimez Sanctuary, where you can spot native birds against the stunning backdrop of Lago Argentino. Take some time for local sightseeing too! Learn about the region’s glaciology at the Glaciarium Museum, or stroll along Avenida Libertador and Paseo de Artesano to soak up the local vibe.
For adventure seekers, there are plenty of excursions available. You can go on off-road 4×4 adventures, horseback riding through the Patagonian wilderness, kayaking along Perito Moreno and down nearby rivers, or mountain biking along scenic trails. Highly recommend the trekking excursion to Estancia Cristina. Still have time? Discover La Leona Petrified Forest, grab a drink at a local ice bar, or visit El Calafate’s Historical Interpretation Center. And although I truly recommend visiting El Chaltén for several days, there are a number of guided day trips offered for those short on time. With so much to explore and discover, El Calafate offers a memorable journey for every traveler.
How to Get There
Fly into El Calafate’s airport, with flights connecting you to Buenos Aires, Bariloche, and Ushuaia (as well as Trelew, Córdoba, and Rosario, with less frequency). For those coming from the northeast United States, check out our review of American Airlines business class from JFK to Buenos Aires – managed to snag a $400 upgrade over economy for this leg! Buses also connect you to Bariloche, El Chaltén, Río Gallegos, and Puerto Natales (Chile). Explore the town on foot, hail a taxi, or rent a car for ultimate flexibility. Renting a car gives you freedom to explore, but there are plenty of (and perhaps too many) organized tours available. Don’t forget to arrive with some cash, as ATMs can occasionally run dry!
Safety
The area is overall very safe. While exploring, exercise usual caution on glacier treks or excursions, follow park and guide regulations, and stay updated on weather conditions to ensure a safe and enjoyable adventure.
Places to Stay
While prices are perhaps not as steep as in El Chaltén, finding a place to stay in El Calafate was more expensive than I expected. You’ve got more options to choose from though (especially on Airbnb), ranging from an authentic estancia experience or luxe glamping site to more budget-friendly choices. For those seeking the best value for their money, check out short-term rentals on Expedia, Booking.com, and Airbnb.
Luxury
Higher End
Also check out Hotel Mirador del Lago, Patagonia Queen Boutique Hotel, Los Ponchos Hotel, and Calafate Parque Hotel.
Estancias
Also check out Nibepo Aike and El Galpón del Glaciar.
Glamping
Also check out Adventure Domes.
Midrange
Also check out Linda Vista Apart Hotel, Posada Los Alamos, Hotel Kosten Aike, Destino Calafate, and Posada Larsen.
Budget
Also check out Hostería Rukahué, Posada Karut Josh, Hostal Schilling, and Los Canelos.
Rentals
You’ve got plenty to choose from with great value on Expedia and Booking.com, and more options on Airbnb than in El Chaltén.
Places to Eat
With an abundance of delicious options, you won’t go hungry in El Calafate. Caffeinate at one of the charming coffee shops to start your day, and savor the mouthwatering flavors of Patagonian lamb at a local parilla. For those looking to unwind after a long day, grab a drink at the local cervecería. And don’t forget to try the chocolate or iconic calafate berry. According to local legend, trying one guarantees your return to the area. Cooking is also a great budget-friendly option! Grab supplies at La Anónima grocery store and whip up a delicious meal at your rental or hostel.
- Nicer: Restaurante Mora, La Posta, Mako Fuegos y Vinos, La Candelaria, La Bahía
- Local eats: Casimiro Biguá, Pura Vida, El Cucharón, Isabel Cocina al Disco, La Zaina, Morrison, Mi Rancho
- Parilla: Rústico Asador y Parilla, Don Pichón, La Marca, La Tablita
- Grab a drink: La Zorra Taproom, Libro-Bar Borges y Alvarez, Cervecería Artesanal Chopen
- Cafés: Calafate Coffee Roasters, Viva la Pepa, Olivia Coffee Shop, Kau Kaleshen, Elba’r
- Pizza/Italian: Viva la Pizza, La Lechuza, Buenos Cruces
- Something sweet: Ovejitas de la Patagonia Fábrica de Chocolates, Helados Tito, Dulce Lugar, Don Luis, Chocolates Patagonia, Acuarela
What to Bring
Layering is key, so make sure to pack a rain jacket, down jacket, and sturdy hiking boots. Don’t forget to bring along a day pack, gloves, and sunscreen/lip balm. Be prepared for the beautifully unpredictable weather that awaits you in El Calafate.
Conclusion
El Calafate invites you to embark on an unforgettable journey through the heart of Argentine Patagonia. Whether you’re marveling at glaciers, savoring local cuisine, or passing through on your way to El Chaltén, this vibrant destination offers something for everyone. Plan your escape to El Calafate today and experience the magic of Patagonia firsthand!
Psst! Just so you know, some of the links in this post are affiliate links. If you book through them, we may earn a small commission at no cost to you. But don't worry, it doesn't sway our recommendations! This helps us keep the adventure going and produce more awesome content for you.
Don’t forget to check out our destination guides to El Chaltén and Ushuaia – perfect to combine with your trip to El Calafate! Wondering how to get to Buenos Aires or Patagonia? Check out our flight reviews of American Airlines business class and premium economy between New York and Buenos Aires!