Buenos Aires City
Travel Guide
The Ultimate Buenos Aires Travel Guide: Your Complete Journey to Argentina's Capital
El Calafate is a charming town in Argentine Patagonia, serving as the gateway to Los Glaciares National Park and the magnificent Perito Moreno Glacier. Located on the shores of Lago Argentino, this destination offers some of the world's most spectacular glacial landscapes and outdoor adventures.
When to visit
Best Time: November to March (spring and summer)
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Warmest weather and longest daylight hours
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All tourist services and excursions operate
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Peak season means higher prices and crowds
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Shoulder Season: October and April
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Fewer crowds and lower prices
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Some services may have limited schedules
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Weather can be unpredictable
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Winter: May to September
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Cold temperatures and short days
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Many tour operators close
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Budget accommodation options
Getting there
By Air: El Calafate Airport (FTE) receives flights from Buenos Aires, Córdoba, and other Argentine cities. Airlines include Aerolíneas Argentinas, Flybondi, and JetSmart.
By Bus: Long-distance buses connect El Calafate with major Argentine cities, though journeys can take 24+ hours from Buenos Aires.
By Car: Route 40 connects El Calafate to other Patagonian destinations. Car rental is available but roads can be challenging.
Top Attractions
Perito Moreno Glacier
The crown jewel of El Calafate, this massive glacier is one of the few advancing glaciers in the world. Visit the viewing platforms at Los Glaciares National Park for spectacular views and the chance to witness ice calvings.
Activities:
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Walking the boardwalks and viewpoints
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Ice trekking on the glacier
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Boat excursions to get close to the glacier face
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Full-day "Big Ice" trekking adventures
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Glaciarium Museum
An excellent introduction to glaciology and Patagonian ice fields. The museum features interactive exhibits, an ice bar, and detailed information about regional glaciers.
Lago Argentino Boat Excursions
Full-day boat trips explore the northern arm of the lake, visiting Upsala and Spegazzini glaciers. These excursions offer different perspectives on the ice formations and often include stops at estancias.
Estancia Experiences
Traditional Patagonian ranches offer day trips featuring horseback riding, sheep shearing demonstrations, traditional asado barbecues, and insights into gaucho culture.
Outdoor Activities
Hiking: Trails around Laguna Nimez offer easy walks with bird watching opportunities. More challenging hikes are available in Los Glaciares National Park.
Kayaking: Paddle on Lago Argentino with views of distant glaciers and the Andes mountains.
Fishing: The region offers excellent trout and salmon fishing in pristine lakes and rivers.
Photography: El Calafate provides endless opportunities for landscape and wildlife photography, especially during golden hour with the Andes as a backdrop.
Food and dinning experience
Local Specialties:
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Patagonian lamb (cordero patagónico)
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King crab from the southern channels
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Calafate berries (the town's namesake)
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Argentine beef and regional wines
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Recommended Restaurants:
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La Tablita: Famous for grilled meats
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Mi Rancho: Traditional Patagonian cuisine
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Pura Vida: International and vegetarian options
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Isabel Cocina al Disco: Unique cooking style with mountain views
Practical information
Currency: Argentine Peso (ARS). Bring cash as ATMs can be unreliable and credit cards aren't always accepted.
Language: Spanish is the primary language. English is spoken at tourist-oriented businesses.
Clothing: Dress in layers as weather can change rapidly. Waterproof jacket, warm clothes, and comfortable walking shoes are essential.
Altitude: El Calafate sits at about 200 meters above sea level, so altitude is not a concern.
Connectivity: Internet and cell phone coverage is generally good in town but limited in remote areas.
Day Trip itinerary suggestion
Day 1: Arrive, explore town center, visit Glaciarium Museum
Day 2: Full day at Perito Moreno Glacier with ice trekking
Day 3: Boat excursion to Upsala and Spegazzini glaciers Day 4: Estancia visit with traditional activities and barbecue
Day 5: Leisure day, shopping for souvenirs, optional short hikes
Transportation in El Calafate
The town center is easily walkable. For glacier visits and other attractions, organized tours provide transportation, or you can rent a car for more flexibility. Taxis and remises (private cars) are available for local transport.
Nearby Extensions
Consider combining your El Calafate visit with:
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El Chaltén (3 hours by bus) - hiking and Mount Fitz Roy
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Ushuaia (5 hours by bus) - End of the World and Tierra del Fuego
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Torres del Paine, Chile (5 hours by bus) - World-class hiking
El Calafate offers an unforgettable encounter with some of Earth's most pristine glacial landscapes, making it a must-visit destination for nature lovers and adventure seekers exploring Patagonia.
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