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El Chaltén
El Chaltén - Photo by Holly Anna

Experience the Magic of El Calafate, Argentina - A Breat

About El Calafate, Argentina

El Calafate, Argentina is a picturesque town located in the southern part of Patagonia. It is known for its stunning glaciers and beautiful natural landscapes. Visitors can explore the famous Perito Moreno Glacier, hike through the Los Glaciares National Park, and enjoy many outdoor activities. El Calafate is a must-visit destination for nature lovers and adventure seekers.

El Calafate is a small town nestled in the heart of Patagonia, Argentina. It's known for its stunning natural beauty, including the nearby Los Glaciares National Park and its namesake glacier, Perito Moreno. The town is also a popular base for exploring the surrounding area, including the rugged mountains and turquoise lakes.

One of the main attractions of El Calafate is the Perito Moreno Glacier, a massive glacier that is over 3 miles long and 200 feet tall. Visitors can take a boat tour to get up close to the glacier, or hike along the nearby trails for stunning views. The glacier is also known for its dramatic ice calving, which occurs when large chunks of ice break off and crash into the water below.

In addition to the glacier, El Calafate is also home to a number of other natural wonders. The nearby Los Glaciares National Park is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and is home to a number of other glaciers, as well as stunning mountains and lakes. Visitors can take guided tours of the park, or explore on their own.

For those looking for adventure, El Calafate is a great destination for hiking, kayaking, and other outdoor activities. The nearby mountains offer challenging hikes and stunning views, while the lakes are perfect for kayaking and other water sports. There are also a number of local tour operators that offer guided excursions for those looking to explore the area in more depth.

Overall, El Calafate is a must-visit destination for anyone traveling to Patagonia. Its natural beauty, stunning scenery, and wealth of outdoor activities make it a great place to explore and enjoy. Whether you're looking for adventure, relaxation, or just a chance to soak up the natural beauty of Argentina, El Calafate is the perfect destination for your next trip.

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Popular Stays in El Calafate, Argentina

Explore some of the most affordable vacation packages and accommodation stays in El Calafate, Argentina

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Hotels with charm

La Cantera Boutique Hotel

This charming hotel is located near to the town centre (only 650 m away). Set on top of a hill, the hotel affords beautiful and impressive views of the Perito Moreno Glacier. The hotel offers a comfortable and peaceful atmosphere, and a highly competent bilingual staff who are able to meet the needs of the most demanding guests. The hotel comprises a total of 20 rooms, including special suites and luxurious cabins. Facilities include: lobby with 24-hour reception, a restaurant, a bar, WLAN/Internet access and a safe. Room and laundry service are offered, as well as a bike rental service. Parking is available for guests arriving by car. All rooms are comfortable and are tastefully and elegantly furnished. Rooms include: a king-size bed, an en suite bathroom with a hot tub bath and hairdryer, central and adjustable heating, direct dial telephone, wide screen cable TV, radio, DSL Internet, Berger or Pampa couches, a minibar and a safe. Breakfast is served as buffet. Dinner is offered à la carte,
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Business hotels

Mirador Del Lago Hotel

Mirador del Lago Hotel is the option recommended for guests seeking a high level of comfort and culinary excellence with the best views of El Calafate. Standing in front of the glacier overwhelms the senses and lifts the spirit. It is an incomparable experience that you can't afford to miss. We want you to witness this natural wonder while enjoying the comfort and warmth that we provide in an unparalleled environment made unique by its location and infrastructure. Located on Lake Argentino on 2 acres of greenery lined with poplars and only 500 meters from downtown El Calafate, Mirador del Lago Hotel is the perfect starting point for unforgettable excursions. In this unique environment are 68 elegantly appointed rooms with an insurmountable view of the lake and the Andes mountain range. There are two categories of rooms, Economy and Superior. Our Special Suite, an elegant 70 sq. m. suite with high-quality furnishings and a large balcony overlooking the lake, is also available for those discerning guests.
General view
Business hotelsHotels with charm

Xelena Hotel & Suites

Quiet and majestic, Lago Argentino (Argentine Lake) grants Xelena Hotel & Spa that peculiar elegance and beauty conveyed by the Patagonian spirit. A high caliber proposal designed for guests to enjoy the best landscapes of Argentine Patagonia, at all times of the year. Comfort and warmth define the hotel's personality and make the perfect match with the personalized attention and services that it offers its guests. The hotel counts on a spa, boutique, gym, gourmet areas and function rooms for social and business events.
Conferences
Business hotels

Alto Calafate Hotel Patagónico

Welcome to Alto Calafate Hotel, where the beauty of the landscape is combined with the functionality of the ambiances, achieving the perfect combination of elegance, comfort, service and the most impressive views of Lago Argentino and Cerro Calafate. Alto Calafate Hotel is strategically located at the entrance to the city on the way to the airport and 3.5 kilometers from downtown. Placed on a hillside, you will be able to please yourself admiring the wonderful panoramic view of the lush landscapes of Patagonia. Among the distinguished services offered by Alto Calafate Hotel its restaurant highlights, with international and regional cuisine that includes traditional dishes from Patagonia Argentina. Once there you will be able to observe the beauty of Lake Argentino while sipping exotic delicacies. You will have at your disposal the services of Transfer to the city center, Multipurpose Room, Laundry, Room Service, Business Center and Wireless Internet Access in the whole building. Alto Calafate Patagonico Hotel is the perfect complement to make your experience in Patagonia, a sanctuary of peace, warmth and comfort with high quality standards and are the perfect contras...
Sports and Entertainment
Business hotels

Calafate Parque Hotel

Argentino and surrounded by forests and mountains , this 4-star hotel in Calafate provides cozy and well- equipped rooms and a restaurant serving local cuisine. Start your day at the Calafate Parque Hotel with a rich breakfast buffet is included in the room rate . Later, you can choose from a wide variety of regional dishes Argentine wines in the cozy restaurant. Surf the internet for free in the hotel lobby , either using Wi-Fi or wireless high-speed Internet access. You will also find a selection of local handicrafts for sale here . Visit the lovely town of Calafate , Patagonia , from the Calafate Parque Hotel. This is an ideal starting point for excursions to Lake Argentino and nearby glaciers . After a long day, relax in your room elegantly furnished and equipped with air conditioning, minibar , cable TV and DVD player .
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Business hotels

Edenia Punta Soberana

Edenia Hotel is located in Punta Soberana, 80 metres over the Argentino lake and Redonda Bay level; it offers unrivalled views. Rooms are 29 m² and have Satellite TV, minibar, digital safe box, king size mattress. The Soberana restaurant serves a wide variety of regional and international dishes. It also offers a lunch box for excursions. The hotel's facilities include reading room, sauna and Scottish shower. There is a shuttle service (hotel-city centre/city centre-hotel) included in the price (not allowed with luggage).
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Business hotels

Rh Rochester Calafate

This hotel is situated on Libertador, the main avenue in El Calafate, just 2.5 km from the city centre. Priding itself on the 10000 sqm grounds, just metres from Bahía Redonda bay and overlooking Lago Argentino, it is a true oasis of peace and tranquillity. This outdoor heaven offers the perfect conditions for relaxing after a busy day, and is also provided with spacious, modern rooms with large windows overlooking the surrounding hills. For the best start of the day, they can trust the full Creole breakfast, with the typical hot Argentine drink mate, homemade sweets and a varied selection of artisanal bakery. Or if travellers are less adventurous, they can try the international continental breakfast.
Restaurant
Business hotelsGolf hotelsHotels with spaFamily hotels

Posada Los Alamos

The Posada Los Alamos is located in El Calafate, close to Lake Argentino. It features a spa, indoor pool and free Wi-Fi in all areas. Its rooms overlook the garden and mountains green, all have heating, minibar and cable TV. The breakfast buffet, a part of their wealth, offers a selection of American food, or Patagonian Argentina. La Posta Restaurant serves a la carte menu that includes international and regional specialties such as Patagonian lamb. The hotel also has 2 bars. Los Alamos features modern spa facilities, an indoor pool with windows and a small golf course 9 hole par 3. They also organize horse riding and excursions to Perito Moreno Glacier. El Calafate Airport is 20 km.

Things to do in El Calafate, Argentina

Choose from a range of unique experiences and fun activities in El Calafate, Argentina

5-Days Discovery Ushuaia and El Calafate
Digital Voucher5 days

5-Days Discovery Ushuaia and El Calafate

Travel to the end of the world! Join us in this adventure and get to know the most southern capital city in the world, Ushuaia. Be astonished by its landscape littered with dense forests, snow-capped mountains, lakes and millenary glaciers. * IMPORTANT NOTES*: -You must take morning flights (Buenos Aires-Ushuaia & Ushuaia-Calafate) to be able to attend the excursions on Days 1 and 2. Please contact us after booking to recommend you the proper flights. -If you are solo traveler, you will have Single base occupancy; If you are two or more, you will have Double base occupancy. If single base is required, we can certainly quote.
Full Day Tour to Perito Moreno Glacier including Navigation
Digital Voucher480 minutes

Full Day Tour to Perito Moreno Glacier including Navigation

This is a unique experience that will allow you to spend a magnificent day visiting the most spectacular Glacier! One of the seven most wonderful places in the world according to The Condé Nast Traveler magazine: Perito Moreno Glacier! We leave early in the morning from El Calafate and after 80 km we arrive in the walkaway area in front of the Perito Moreno Glacier. During this morning you will have time to walk around the walkways which connect different viewpoints through paths and stairs and where you can enjoy different views of this spectacular Glacier! You will also be sailing for approximately 1 hour through the Rich Branch of Argentino Lake at a distance of 150 meters from the South face of Perito Moreno Glacier! You should purchase the National Park park tickets on the webpage, the ticket you need to buy is for Rio Mitre y Glaciar Perito Moreno, the 1-day option, you can also purchase the entrance the day of the tour, in cash or credit card in pesos at the park entrance.
Perito Moreno Glacier Full Day Tour with Navigation
Digital Voucher480 minutes

Perito Moreno Glacier Full Day Tour with Navigation

This is a unique experience that will allow you to spend a magnificent day visiting the most spectacular Glacier! One of the seven most wonderful places in the world according to The Condé Nast Traveler magazine: Perito Moreno Glacier! We leave early in the morning from El Calafate and after 80 km we arrive in the walkaway area in front of the Perito Moreno Glacier. During this morning you will have time to walk around the walkways which connect different viewpoints through paths and stairs and where you can enjoy different views of this spectacular Glacier! You will also be sailing for approximately 1 hour through the Rich Branch of Argentino Lake at a distance of 150 meters from the South face of Perito Moreno Glacier! You should purchase the National Park park tickets on the webpage, the ticket you need to buy is for Rio Mitre y Glaciar Perito Moreno, the 1-day option, you can also purchase the entrance the day of the tour, in cash or credit card in pesos at the park entrance.
Perito Moreno Glacier Tour from Puerto Natales Imperdible
Digital Voucher900 minutes

Perito Moreno Glacier Tour from Puerto Natales Imperdible

We will meet at the meeting point to begin a 5 and a half hour trip that will take you to the Perito Moreno glacier, in Argentina. After the border procedures at the Don Guillermo Pass, a guide will pick up in El Calafate and you will follow the path to Los Glaciares National Park. The visit to the park will last 1 hour and a half, during which you will be able to walk the walkways in front of the Perito Moreno glacier. You will visit several viewpoints and, if you are lucky, you will be able to see some of the ice falls of more than 70 m. There is also the option of dividing your time and walking the walkways for 30 minutes and taking the navigation in front of the glacier for 1 hour (not included). FROM JUNE 1 UNTIL AUGUST 31 DEPARTURE: MONDAY, WEDNESDAY, FRIDAY. RETURN: TUESDAY, THURSDAY, SATURDAY.
Glacier Rupture
Digital Voucher480 minutes

Perito Moreno Glacier Experience on the catwalks

We will go to the Catwalks where we will have a service sector for visitors and a system of balconies and catwalks that allow you to take walks along different routes and access different truly incredible views of the Glacier and the proximity to it. We can observe the Argentino Lake with its Round Bay. In it you can see an important variety of birds. In the first 40 km the Patagonian steppe is traveled, later going to the entrance of the National Park to observe the arboreal vegetation belonging mostly to the family Arrival at "the curve of sighs" called in this way because it is the first point from where we have a panoramic view of the Perito Moreno Glacier. Brief stop to take pictures and proceed to Puerto Bajo las Sombras. Arrival at "the curve of sighs" called in this way because it is the first point from where we have a panoramic view of the Perito Moreno Glacier.
Patagonian Andean Forest
Digital Voucher600 minutes

Glacier navigation Mayo Spirit Trek 3 landings and walk through the Forest

Our navigation will take you to know one of the most beautiful places in Los Glaciares National Park, which only a few people have the privilege of accessing: the May Sine of Lake Argentino. The Seno Mayo (or Brazo Mayo), is one of the wettest sectors of the National Park, that is why the vegetation that can be seen during the two walks (which we will do in the Patagonian Andean forest) is totally different from the one that observes in other places Park. The "Mayo Spirit Trek" is the perfect combination of hiking in the forest, overlooking waterfalls, rivers, hanging glaciers and visiting the Perito Moreno glacier (navigation + walkways). Suitable for all audiences, with low difficulty walks, it makes our passengers happy with our excursion.
Glaciers Navigation: The highest glacier in the world Spegazzini
Digital Voucher3 days

3 days and 2 Nights Best of Calafate from Buenos Aires

Immerse yourself in a 3-day adventure around the Southern Glaciers Your journey begins with a warm welcome from our guide and driver at Calafate airport, who will whisk you away to the 5 stars hotel, ensuring a seamless and comfortable start to your trip. Private transfer services will also be provided for your return journey. Upon arrival, embark on a thrilling 4x4 excursion, around Calafate. This 3-hour tour will introduce you to the region's stunning natural beauty. On your second day, brace yourself for the highlight of your Calafate adventure: a minitrekking ON Perito Moreno Glacier and its awe-inspiring catwalks. This full-day adventure promises an exhilarating 10-hour experience exploring the glacier's icy wonders up close. To culminate your Calafate experience, embark on a remarkable glacier navigation. Keep your eyes peeled for mesmerizing sights like glacier calving and drifting icebergs, making this journey a truly unforgettable finale to your Southern Glaciers escapade.
You will be allow to take photos in some places, the guile will let you know
Digital Voucher600 minutes

Perito Moreno Full Day Minitrekking with Transfer and Walkways

The tour starts when passengers are picked up in El Calafate. You will board our comfortable buses, where our tour guides will give you information on the place, the glacier and the tour on our way to Parque Nacional Los Glaciares. Once you arrive at Bajo de las Sombras port you’ll board a ship to cross Lago Rico and descend on the opposite coast, the south face of Glaciar Perito Moreno. When you disembark, you will be welcomed by our expert mountain guides. Here starts the trekking! We will start by walking along the coast of the lake, keeping our eyes on the glacier The guides will give a talk about glaciology. When we reach the glacier side, with its amazing shades of blue ice framing the landscape, you will be divided into subgroups of up to 20 people each and you will have the crampons and helmets fitted. At the end of the ice trekking, you will return along a path crossing the Bosque Andino Patagónico, completing the THREE-HOUR WALK ON THE LAKE COAST, MORAINE, ICE AND WOODS

Why People Love El Calafate, Argentina

See what people have to say about activities and accommodations in El Calafate, Argentina

2
236piedads
1
Jul 2023
2-Days and 1 Night Experience El Calafate with Airfare from Buenos Aires
2-Days and 1 Night Experience El Calafate with Airfare from Buenos Aires
2-Days and 1 Night Experience El Calafate with Airfare from Buenos Aires
2-Days and 1 Night Experience El Calafate with Airfare from Buenos Aires
Buenas noches nose como dice que me comi todo el pescado, si lo hubiera hecho terminaria el dia en el hospital. Claro q deberia habet chat para quejarse de clientes, creo que fuí bastante educada y usted por su parte, me contesta con mala o nula educación. Pero volviendo al plato de pescado, solo...
CC
Charles C
4
Sep 2016
5-Days Discovery Ushuaia and El Calafate
5-Days Discovery Ushuaia and El Calafate
5-Days Discovery Ushuaia and El Calafate
5-Days Discovery Ushuaia and El Calafate

My wife and I purchased this 5-day trip in Ushuaia and El Calafate but worked with Viator and the local tour operator that Viator subcontracts Signature to increase it to 9 days. One nice thing about booking through Viator is that you can be assured that the local operator is reputable and, i...

DO
DIANA O
5
Jun 2017
5-Days Discovery Ushuaia and El Calafate
5-Days Discovery Ushuaia and El Calafate
5-Days Discovery Ushuaia and El Calafate
5-Days Discovery Ushuaia and El Calafate

It was amazing!! Highly highly highly recommend it

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Frequently Asked Questions about El Calafate

What are some must-see attractions in El Calafate?

One of the must-see attractions in El Calafate is the Perito Moreno Glacier, which is one of the most famous attractions in Argentina. Another popular attraction is the Upsala Glacier, which is the largest glacier in the national park. Visitors can also take boat tours to explore Lake Argentino and see the glaciers up close. Additionally, the Glaciarium Museum is a great place to learn about the history and science of the glaciers in the area.

What are some outdoor activities to do in El Calafate?

El Calafate is known for its stunning natural beauty, and there are many outdoor activities to do in the area. Visitors can go hiking in the Los Glaciares National Park, where they can see the glaciers and stunning mountain views. There are also opportunities for horseback riding, mountain biking, and rock climbing. Additionally, visitors can take a boat tour of Lake Argentino or go kayaking on the lake.

What is the best time of year to visit El Calafate?

The best time of year to visit El Calafate is during the summer months of November through February, when the weather is warm and the days are long. This is also the peak tourist season, so visitors should expect crowds and higher prices. Another good time to visit is during the shoulder seasons of March through May and September through October, when there are fewer tourists and the weather is still mild.

What are some of the best restaurants in El Calafate?

There are many great restaurants in El Calafate that serve a variety of cuisines. Some of the most popular restaurants include La Tablita, which serves Argentinean barbecue, Casimiro Bigua, which specializes in seafood, and Pura Vida, which serves vegetarian and vegan dishes. For a sweet treat, visitors should try the ice cream at Helados Borgatello, which is known for its delicious flavors.

What are some of the best accommodations in El Calafate?

There are many great accommodations in El Calafate, ranging from budget-friendly hostels to luxurious hotels. Some of the most popular options include the Xelena Hotel & Suites, which has stunning views of Lake Argentino, the Design Suites Calafate, which has modern, stylish rooms, and the Esplendor by Wyndham El Calafate, which has a spa and wellness center.

What are some lesser-known attractions in El Calafate?

While the glaciers are the main attraction in El Calafate, there are also some lesser-known attractions that are worth visiting. The Glaciar Huemul is a beautiful glacier that is located in a remote area of the national park, and visitors can take a boat tour to see it up close. The Estancia Cristina is a historic ranch that can only be reached by boat, and offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains. Finally, the birdwatching in the area is excellent, with many different species to see.

Can you recommend any guided tours of El Calafate?

There are many guided tours available in El Calafate, ranging from half-day tours to multi-day expeditions. Some of the most popular tours include the full-day Perito Moreno Glacier tour, the El Chalten hiking tour, and the Torres del Paine multi-day trek. Visitors can also take boat tours of Lake Argentino or go kayaking on the lake.

What are some family-friendly activities to do in El Calafate?

El Calafate is a great destination for families, with many outdoor activities that kids will love. The Perito Moreno Glacier is a must-see attraction, and kids will enjoy seeing the massive ice formations up close. The Patagonia Museum is a great place to learn about the history and culture of the region, and there are many hiking trails that are suitable for families. Additionally, the Glaciarium Museum has interactive exhibits that kids will enjoy.

What is the best way to get to El Calafate?

The easiest way to get to El Calafate is by flying into the El Calafate International Airport, which has connections to Buenos Aires and other major cities in Argentina. From the airport, visitors can take a taxi or shuttle bus to their hotel. It is also possible to drive to El Calafate from other parts of Argentina or Chile, but this can be a long and challenging journey.

What should I pack for a trip to El Calafate?

Visitors to El Calafate should pack warm clothing, as the weather can be cold and windy even in the summer months. Waterproof hiking boots are also essential for exploring the national park, as are warm socks and gloves. Sunscreen and sunglasses are important to protect against the strong Patagonian sun, and a backpack is useful for carrying snacks and water on hikes. Finally, a camera is a must to capture the stunning natural beauty of the area.