El Calafate, Argentina: travel guide
Gateway to Perito Moreno Glacier and Los Glaciares National Park
Gateway to Los Glaciares National Park and the thundering Perito Moreno Glacier — one of Patagonia's most iconic destinations.
About El Calafate
El Calafate is a small town on the shore of Lago Argentino and the main base for visiting Los Glaciares National Park. Its star attraction is the Perito Moreno Glacier, a wall of blue-white ice that stands above the water and calves with a loud crack into the lake.
Walkways opposite the glacier give close views from different heights, and boat trips and guided ice treks offer other ways to see it. The town has comfortable lodgings and Patagonian lamb on most menus, and it is also the usual stepping stone to El Chaltén further north.
El Calafate suits travellers who want big scenery without a demanding itinerary. The warmer months from October to April are the most practical for visiting.
- Country
- Argentina
- Currency
- ARS
- Time zone
- America/Argentina/Rio_Gallegos
- Nearest airport
- FTE
Last updated
Top places to visit in El Calafate
Perito Moreno Glacier
Nature · 4.9 rating · about 5 h · entry $7,500 (≈ ₹470)
One of the world's few advancing glaciers — 30 km long, 70 m ice walls calving into Lago Argentino with explosive thunderclaps. Boardwalk catwalks and ice trekking available. UNESCO.
Things to do
- Perito Moreno Big Ice Trek Adventure · 8 h · from ARS 55,000 per person
Day trips and tours
- Perito Moreno Glacier Trek & Navigation 10 h · from 95,000
Where to stay in El Calafate
- Town Centre about ARS 22,000 per night
Only real accommodation zone. 80 km from Perito Moreno — most hotels run shuttles to the glacier.
Hotels
- Eolo – Patagonia's Spirit 5-star · ARS 95,000 to ARS 350,000 per night
- El Calafate Hostel 1-star · ARS 3,500 to ARS 8,500 per night
Where to eat
- La Tablita argentinian, patagonian · about ARS 6,000 per person
Getting to El Calafate
Airport: El Calafate (FTE)
Getting around
- Bus
- Car Rental Self
- Taxi
- Walking