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The 3 Best Guided Tours in El Calafate

Experience Adventure Like Never Before: Book Your Tour Today!

El Calafate is a charming town located in the heart of Argentine Patagonia, nestled between the Andes Mountains and the glimmering waters of Lake Argentino. Known as the gateway to the awe-inspiring Los Glaciares National Park, El Calafate is a hub for adventurers and nature lovers alike. Whether you’re planning a hiking trip, a boat tour, or simply seeking the best views of glaciers and mountains, this town has something for everyone. In this post, we will take a comprehensive look at the best attractions and things to do in El Calafate, so you can make the most of your time in this extraordinary destination.

The 3 Best Guided Tours in El Calafate

  1. El Calafate Perito Moreno Glacier Mini Hiking Experience
  2. El Calafate 1 Day Perito Moreno Glacier Ice Trek
  3. El Calafate Perito Moreno Glacier Optional Boat Trip

The 3 Best Guided Tours in El Calafate

1. El Calafate Perito Moreno Glacier Mini Hiking Experience

Discover the stunning natural scenery of Los Glaciares National Park on this El Calafate Perito Moreno Glacier Mini Hiking Experience. Strap on your crampons for a one-hour hike on the glacier and admire the spectacular views of the glacier from different angles as you stroll along boardwalks. Sail on Argentino Lake for a close-up view of the glacier and explore a Patagonian forest with an experienced bilingual guide who will help you learn about the flora and fauna along the way. Enjoy a personalized experience with one guide for every ten guests. This tour is not suitable for children under 10 years, pregnant women, people with mobility impairments, heart or respiratory issues, or wheelchair users. Pick-up and drop-off from selected hotels in El Calafate are included, as well as the entrance fee to the national park.

2. El Calafate 1 Day Perito Moreno Glacier Ice Trek

Explore the stunning natural scenery of Patagonia on the El Calafate 1 Day Perito Moreno Glacier Ice Trek. This full-day tour starts with a pickup from El Calafate and a 1 hour and 30 minutes ride to Bajo de la Sombras Port. From here, board a boat and cross the Rico Channel to reach Perito Moreno Glacier.

The adventure begins with a 1 hour and 30-minute hike with mountain guides along a path next to the glacier. Admire the vast frozen landscape from a magnificent viewpoint and attach the iron crampons to the ground to begin the 4-hour ice trek.

Explore the fascinating ice formations and learn from expert guides about the flora and fauna that thrive in this unique environment. Admire the glacier from different angles as you stroll along boardwalks and enjoy a sightseeing cruise in front of the glacier.

Don’t miss the chance to experience one of the best attractions and things to do in El Calafate on this unforgettable tour.

3. El Calafate Perito Moreno Glacier Optional Boat Trip

Depart from your hotel in El Calafate at around 10:30 AM and set off for the magnificent Perito Moreno Glacier, located inside the Los Glaciares National Park. Be ready to be dazzled by the landslides of ice and admire this impressive natural attraction from different perspectives. Take time to explore the park and admire its other wonders. To get even closer to the glacier, you may opt for an optional boat safari. The tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off, an English- and Spanish-speaking guide, boat ride (if option chosen), food and drinks, and national park entry (ARS $5.500 per person or ARS $1.500 for Argentine residents). Get ready to have an unforgettable experience in the beautiful El Calafate.

Discovering El Calafate: Answers to the Most Frequently Asked Questions by Tourists

If you’re planning to visit Argentina, the charming town of El Calafate may be on your bucket list. This picturesque destination located in the southern region of Patagonia offers unmatched natural beauty and exciting outdoor adventures. Before packing your bags and setting off on your El Calafate adventure, read on to discover the answers to some of the most frequently asked questions.

What is El Calafate?

El Calafate is a quaint resort town located in the Santa Cruz Province of Argentina. The town is named after the Calafate Berry, which is considered a symbol of Patagonia. The town is situated in the Andes foothills, near the southern shore of Lake Argentino, and is renowned for its stunning glaciers and natural wonders.

When is the best time to visit El Calafate?

The best time to visit El Calafate is from November to March, which is the summer season in Argentina. During this time, temperatures range between 2°C to 18°C, making it the perfect weather for exploring the beautiful outdoors. The winter season, from June to September, is much colder, and much of the outdoor activities may be limited. However, it is worth noting that winter is also the ideal time to witness the spectacular ice formations at Perito Moreno Glacier.

How do I get to El Calafate?

El Calafate is a popular tourist destination and is easily accessible by air and road. The town has its international airport, El Calafate International Airport, which receives daily flights from Buenos Aires and other cities in Argentina. The airport is situated just 20 minutes away from the town center, and shuttle services and taxis are available for transportation.The town is also connected to other cities in Argentina via the famous Route 40, which is a scenic route that takes you through some of the most beautiful Patagonian landscapes.

What are the top tourist attractions in El Calafate?

El Calafate has an impressive list of tourist attractions that are worth exploring. Some of the top attractions include:

Perito Moreno Glacier

Perito Moreno Glacier is perhaps the most famous attraction in El Calafate. This massive glacier is part of the Los Glaciares National Park and is known for its unique beauty, especially the stunning ice formations that shimmer under the sun. It’s worth taking a boat ride around the glacier to get an unbeatable view of this natural wonder.

Tierra del Fuego National Park

Tierra del Fuego National Park is another breathtaking attraction in El Calafate. The park covers over 240 hectares of land and is home to exotic flora and fauna. Visitors can explore the park via boat trips, trekking, or sea kayaking.

Lake Argentino

Lake Argentino is the largest lake in Argentina and is located in the heart of El Calafate. Visitors can take boat rides around the lake to see the stunning glaciers and landscapes that surround the area.

What are the best outdoor activities to do in El Calafate?

El Calafate is a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts and adventure seekers. Some of the top outdoor activities to try include:

Trekking the glaciers

Trekking the glaciers is a must-do activity while in El Calafate. Visitors can explore the Perito Moreno Glacier, Upsala Glacier, and other glaciers on foot or by boat. Tours range from a few hours to several days depending on your preference.

Sailing and kayaking

Sailing and kayaking are excellent ways to explore the lakes and rivers of El Calafate. The area has many water bodies that offer great paddling experiences.

Horse Riding

Horse riding is a common activity in El Calafate, and horseback rides offer you an excellent opportunity to see the stunningly beautiful landscapes from a unique perspective.

What are the best accommodations in El Calafate?

El Calafate has an assortment of accommodations that cater to all types of travelers. Budget travelers can enjoy budget-friendly hostels, while luxury travelers can indulge in high-end hotels and resorts. Some of the top accommodations in the area include:

Hotel Posada Los Alamos

Hotel Posada Los Alamos is a luxurious hotel located just a few minutes away from the town center. The hotel offers amenities such as spas, massage services, and an impressive restaurant that serves delicious Argentinean cuisine.

Calafate Parque Hotel

Calafate Parque Hotel is another luxurious hotel located in the town center. The hotel boasts a spa, fitness center, and swimming pool, among other amenities.

Hostel Cardon Patagonico

Hostel Cardon Patagonico is a budget-friendly hostel located near the town center. The hostel has comfortable rooms, a communal kitchen, and a friendly staff that will ensure you have an enjoyable stay.

What is the food like in El Calafate?

El Calafate has a vibrant culinary scene that features delicious Argentinean cuisine, infused with a Patagonian twist. Lamb is a staple in Patagonian cuisine and is featured in most menus in the area. Other delicacies to try include the famous Argentinean beef and empanadas.

Is El Calafate Safe for Tourists?

El Calafate is a relatively safe destination for tourists, and locals are friendly and welcoming. However, as in any location, it’s advised that you take necessary safety precautions, such as being aware of your surroundings, not walking alone at night, and keeping your belongings safe.

The Final Verdict

El Calafate is a stunning destination that offers tourists a unique opportunity to explore the beauty of Patagonia. Whether you’re an adventure seeker or want to soak up the local culture and cuisine, El Calafate has something for everyone. Before embarking on your trip, go through these frequently asked questions to ensure you have a memorable El Calafate experience.

How to Spend Your Time as a Tourist in El Calafate

El Calafate is a charming town in the southern part of Argentina. It is located in the Santa Cruz Province, bordering Chile and the Andes Mountains. The town has a population of around 22,000 people and is known as the gateway to the Los Glaciares National Park. The town has many exciting things to offer tourists, and a few days in El Calafate will not be enough to see and enjoy everything the town has to offer.

1. Visit the Los Glaciares National Park

The main attraction of El Calafate is the Los Glaciares National Park. The park has several glaciers, including the famous Perito Moreno Glacier. The glacier is located 80 km (50 miles) from El Calafate, and you can either hire a taxi or go on an organized tour to get there. The Perito Moreno Glacier is one of the few glaciers in the world that is still growing. You can appreciate the glacier from a distance or take a boat tour to get closer to the glacier to appreciate its beauty.

2. See the Upsala Glacier

The Upsala Glacier is another glacier located in the Los Glaciares National Park, and it is the third-largest glacier in the park. To see the glacier, you can take a boat tour or a helicopter ride. The glacier is 60 km (37 miles) long and covers an area of 870 km² (336 square miles). The vibrant blue color of the glacier contrasts with the surrounding Andes Mountains.

3. Visit the Glaciarium Museum

The Glaciarium Museum is a modern museum located in El Calafate that showcases the history of glaciers and the Los Glaciares National Park. It is a great place to visit to learn more about the science of glaciers and their impact on the environment. The museum has a massive ice bar where you can enjoy a drink while surrounded by ice sculptures.

4. Take a Hike to Laguna Nimez

Laguna Nimez is a beautiful lagoon located on the outskirts of El Calafate. It has a walking trail that is around 3 kilometers (2 miles) long, and it takes around 2 hours to complete. The trail is easy and does not require any strenuous activity. There are numerous species of birds that inhabit the area, and you will get many opportunities to see them. The lagoon is also an excellent place to watch the sunset.

5. Go Horseback Riding

Horseback riding is a popular activity in El Calafate. You can book a tour and ride a horse through the Andes Mountains, and look for guanacos, a South American camelid similar to llamas. You will also see breathtaking views of the mountains, lakes and the sprawling landscape.

6. Try Argentine Beef

Argentina is renowned for its delicious beef, and El Calafate is an excellent place to try it. The town has many restaurants that offer traditional Argentine food. Make sure to try the asado, a South American barbecue that usually includes beef, lamb, and sausages. You can also try the empanadas, a baked pastry, filled with either meat, cheese or vegetables.

7. Admire the Night Sky

El Calafate has one of the clearest skies in the world, which makes it an ideal place for stargazing. You can book a tour and go outside the town to observe the Milky Way and other constellations in the night sky. Alternatively, you can visit the Glaciarium Museum, which has an on-site planetarium to watch a show.

Book Your Tour Now

El Calafate is a beautiful town that is worth visiting, and there are a lot of things to do here. From the captivating glaciers to exploring striking landscapes, El Calafate should be on any tourist’s list while visiting Argentina. Whether you are looking for adventure or just want to relax, El Calafate is the ultimate destination.
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The 3 Best Guided Tours in El Calafate

Experience Adventure Like Never Before: Book Your Tour Today!