Have you ever dreamed of exploring Patagonia’s breathtaking landscapes? If yes, El Calafate in Argentina is a must-see. It’s the gateway to the famous Perito Moreno Glacier and Los Glaciares National Park. El Calafate offers many adventures that will amaze you with its natural beauty.
Trek on the Perito Moreno Glacier or kayak on Lake Argentino’s turquoise waters. El Calafate is a place that will capture your senses. You can also visit other glaciers like Upsala and Spegazzini. Plus, experience the local culture by staying at an estancia and exploring downtown’s shops and breweries.
El Calafate has something for every traveler. It offers stunning landscapes, outdoor fun, and a peek into the Patagonian lifestyle. Are you ready for an unforgettable trip to this beautiful part of Argentina?
Key Takeaways
- Explore the iconic Perito Moreno Glacier, one of the largest glaciers in Patagonia
- Discover other glaciers in the region, including Upsala and Spegazzini, via boat tours
- Experience the Patagonian lifestyle by staying at a traditional estancia and going horseback riding
- Enjoy outdoor activities like kayaking, biking, and hiking around El Calafate
- Immerse yourself in the lively culture of El Calafate, with its breweries, shops, and local cuisine
Explore Perito Moreno Glacier
No trip to El Calafate is complete without seeing the stunning Perito Moreno Glacier. It’s in the Los Glaciares National Park and is a must-see. You can get to the glacier from El Calafate and enjoy many activities to see its icy beauty.
Visit Perito Moreno Glacier
Getting to the Perito Moreno Glacier from El Calafate is easy. There’s a visitors’ center and walkways that offer amazing views. Tickets are about $14 per person, and it’s open all year. Summer is the best time to go.
From the walkways, you can see the ice cliffs and watch the glacier calve. It’s a sight you won’t forget.
Go Glacier Trekking
For a thrilling adventure, try glacier trekking on Perito Moreno Glacier. First, take a boat to the glacier, then put on crampons and hike with a guide. You’ll see blue ice crevasses and even enjoy whiskey from the glacier.
The Big Ice Trek is a four-hour tour, or you can do the Mini-trek for one hour. Both are great options.
Explore Perito Moreno Glacier by Kayak
Kayaking is another way to see the glacier up close. You’ll take a boat to the glacier, then kayak for 90 minutes. This lets you see the glacier’s ice walls from a new perspective.
“The entrance cost for the Perito Moreno Glacier park is currently 12,000 Argentinean Pesos per person, equivalent to around $14.”
| Activity | Cost | Duration |
|---|---|---|
| Perito Moreno Glacier Park Entrance | $14 USD | N/A |
| Bus Service to Los Glaciares National Park | $20 USD | Morning and Afternoon Transfers |
| Big Ice Trek on Perito Moreno Glacier | Relatively Expensive | 4 Hours |
| Mini-Trek on Perito Moreno Glacier | More Budget-Friendly | 1 Hour |
| Perito Moreno Glacier Kayaking Tour | N/A | 90 Minutes |
Discover Other Glaciers in Los Glaciares National Park
The Perito Moreno Glacier is a big draw in El Calafate, but there’s more to see in Los Glaciares National Park. A full-day Patagonian glacier cruise on Lake Argentina is a great way to see these glaciers up close.
Go on a Full Day Glacier Cruise on Lake Argentina
This cruise lets you see the Upsala, Seco, Heim, and Spegazzini Glaciers up close. You can get off the boat for guided walks to learn about the glaciers. Enjoy a tasty lunch while taking in the beautiful Patagonian views.
Visit Estancia Cristina and Upsala Glacier
The Estancia Cristina day tour is a chance to dive into Patagonia’s ranching life. You’ll take a boat across Lake Argentina to the historic Estancia Cristina ranch. There, you can explore, learn about Patagonian ranching, and see the Upsala Glacier. It’s a mix of nature and culture.
| Glacier | Size (sq km) | Location |
|---|---|---|
| Perito Moreno | 250 | Los Glaciares National Park |
| Pio IX | 1265 | Andes Mountains |
| Upsala | 595 | Los Glaciares National Park |
| Spegazzini | 390 | Los Glaciares National Park |
“Patagonia, once primarily an agricultural area, is now dominated by tourism as its main economic activity, leading to a rise in prices for transportation, accommodation, and food.”
Experience Traditional Estancia Life
Visiting an authentic Patagonian estancia in El Calafate is a must. You can dive into the ranching culture by going on a horseback riding in Patagonia trip at Estancia Nibepo Aike. This ranch is in the beautiful Los Glaciares National Park.
Go Horseback Riding at an Estancia
The “dia de campo” at Estancia Nibepo Aike is a half-day adventure. It includes a 3-hour horseback ride through stunning Patagonian landscapes. Afterward, enjoy a traditional Patagonian lamb lunch. It’s a great way to see the area’s beauty and learn about local traditions.
Stay at an Estancia
For a deeper estancia experience, stay overnight at an estancia accommodation near El Calafate. Estancia Nibepo Aike and Estancia Cristina offer guesthouse stays. This lets you fully experience the Patagonian ranch life and explore nature at your own pace.
“Staying at an estancia in Patagonia is a truly authentic and unforgettable experience. It allows you to connect with the land, the wildlife, and the rich culture of this remarkable region.”
El Calafate, Argentina: Best Things to Do - Top Picks
El Calafate is a beautiful town in Patagonia. It’s full of activities and experiences for visitors. You can see the famous Perito Moreno Glacier or explore the many glaciers in Los Glaciares National Park. There’s plenty of outdoor adventure to enjoy.
You can dive into the local estancia culture. Check out the town’s lively breweries and shops. Or, take a day trip to El Chaltén, a top spot for hiking. El Calafate offers stunning views, a rich culture, and lots to do, making it a key place to visit in Argentina.
- Explore the Perito Moreno Glacier, a huge, always-moving ice mass. It’s part of the Southern Patagonian Ice Field, the world’s third-largest ice field.
- Go glacier trekking on the Perito Moreno Glacier. A 1.5-hour guided tour costs $390 USD per person.
- Take a glacier cruise on Lake Argentina. You’ll see the Perito Moreno Glacier and other glaciers too.
- Visit Estancia Cristina and Upsala Glacier, another beautiful glacier in the area.
- Experience traditional estancia life. You can ride horses or stay overnight at an estancia.
- Check out El Calafate’s lively downtown. See Avenida del Libertador and visit local breweries.
- Enjoy outdoor fun around El Calafate. Try biking or birdwatching at Laguna Nimez.
- Go on a day trip to El Chaltén. It’s about 3 hours from El Calafate and is great for hiking.
El Calafate is a top spot for anyone traveling through Patagonia or Argentina. It’s full of activities and experiences you won’t forget.
Explore Downtown El Calafate
El Calafate is more than just stunning natural sights. Its downtown, around Avenida del Libertador, is full of life. You’ll find shops, El Calafate restaurants, and El Calafate breweries here. It’s a great spot to soak in the town’s vibe and find unique souvenirs.
Walking down Avenida del Libertador, you’ll see charming shops. They show off the local culture. You can find everything from traditional crafts to trendy clothes. And don’t forget to try the food, from cozy cafes to places serving Patagonian craft beer.
Visit Local Breweries
El Calafate is known for its craft beer. There are several El Calafate breweries you should check out. La Zorra Taproom is a top choice, with great Patagonian craft beer, tasty food, and a friendly vibe. Other spots like Nativa Restaurante & Cervecería Artesanal, Cerveza Patagonia, and La Fábrica Cervecería are also worth visiting. They let you try unique, mountain-inspired beers.
“The craft beer scene in El Calafate is a true highlight of the town’s vibrant downtown area. Visiting the local breweries is a must-do for any beer enthusiast.”
Outdoor Adventures Around El Calafate
El Calafate is in the heart of Patagonia, offering many outdoor adventures. You can explore by El Calafate biking or see Patagonian birds at Laguna Nimez. There’s something for everyone.
Explore the Area by Bike
You can rent bikes in town to see El Calafate’s beautiful landscapes. For more excitement, try a mountain biking in Patagonia tour. This tour goes through Estancia 25 de Mayo nature reserve. You’ll cross the Guanacos Valley and see amazing mountains.
Birdwatching at Laguna Nimez
The Laguna Nimez reserve is perfect for El Calafate birdwatching. Follow the trail to see many Patagonian birds. You might even see flamingos at the lagoon.
Experience the beauty of Patagonia with unforgettable outdoor adventures in El Calafate.
Day Trip to El Chaltén
While in El Calafate, you can take a day trip to El Chaltén. This town is in the beautiful Los Glaciares National Park. It’s perfect for hiking, with famous trails to see the amazing Cerro Fitz Roy. The drive from El Calafate takes about 2.5 hours each way.
El Chaltén is called the “hiking capital of Argentina.” It’s a place where thousands of adventurers come every year. They love the stunning nature and outdoor activities. If you’re visiting, don’t miss out on a day trip to El Chaltén.
Here are some top things to do on your day trip:
- Do the famous Laguna de los Tres hike for amazing views of Cerro Fitz Roy and the mountains.
- See the beautiful Chorrillo del Salto waterfall, close to the town.
- Check out the Mirador del Condor, a spot with wide views of the Patagonian landscape.
- Try the local breweries and cafes in the town, getting to know El Chaltén‘s culture.
A day trip to El Chaltén is great whether you want adventure or a relaxing day. It’s a memorable part of your visit to El Calafate.
Getting to and Around El Calafate
Getting to El Calafate in Argentina’s Patagonia is easy. The town has its own airport, El Calafate Airport (FTE), close to the city center. Flights from Buenos Aires take about 3.5 hours, making it easy to get there from anywhere.
Once you’re in El Calafate, you have many ways to get around. Taxis are perfect for short trips around town. But for seeing more, renting a car is best. This lets you visit glaciers and natural sights at your pace, without using public transport or group tours.
Flying to El Calafate
El Calafate Airport (FTE) is the main airport, close to town. It has flights from major airlines like Aerolineas Argentinas, LATAM, and Jetsmart. Most flights start from the Aeroparque Internacional Jorge Newbery in Buenos Aires, making the trip easy.
Getting Around El Calafate
- Taxis: Readily available for shorter trips within the town of El Calafate.
- Car Rental: Highly recommended for exploring the wider region at your own pace, allowing you to visit the stunning glaciers and other natural attractions.
Whether you use taxis or rent a car, you can enjoy El Calafate’s stunning views. You’ll be able to see the best of this Patagonian gem.
Conclusion
El Calafate, Argentina, is a top spot for travelers in Patagonia travel. It boasts the stunning Perito Moreno Glacier and more. You’ll find everything from glaciers to estancia stays and lively town scenes. It’s perfect for those who love nature and culture.
This place is great for active trips or relaxing tours. El Calafate will give you memories that last a lifetime in this beautiful part of El Calafate travel guide.
El Calafate is easy to get to and is a great place to start your adventure. You can hike, trek glaciers, take boat tours, or visit estancias. It’s full of adventure and discovery.
Experience the local culture, try the food, and enjoy the amazing views. This part of Argentina is truly special.
Make sure to spend enough time in El Calafate when you visit Patagonia. It’s full of activities and sights. This town is a must-see for anyone wanting an amazing trip.
