How to Plan Your Torres del Paine Full Day Tour in El Calafate

El Calafate is a beautiful city located in the southern region of Argentina that provides some of the most stunning views that you will ever witness in your life. One of the best ways to explore the natural beauty this area has to offer is by going on the Torres del Paine Full Day Tour. This excursion includes highlights like admiring panoramic and breathtaking views of Torres del Paine, experiencing the strength of nature at Río Paine Falls, taking in mesmerizing landscapes, and enjoying a variety of natural landmarks. In this blog post, we’ll guide you step by step on how to plan your Torres del Paine Full Day Tour in El Calafate.

Experience

The Torres del Paine Full Day Tour is an exceptional excursion that provides you with one of the most comprehensive ways to explore the natural wonders of Torres del Paine. The tour includes an approximately six-hour roundtrip transfer that takes you to the main entrance of the park. You will then have around five hours to explore the park and take in all the natural beauty that it has to offer.

Highlights

The tour provides some of the most amazing highlights that will make your experience an unforgettable one. The following are some of the tour’s top highlights:

Admire panoramic and breathtaking views of Torres del Paine

This area is known for its amazing landscapes, and one of the tour’s highlights is getting a chance to experience its panoramic and breathtaking views. The snow-covered peaks and crystal clear lakes provide a breathtaking view that you simply cannot miss.

Enjoy a short trek to explore this exceptional National Park

The tour provides you with the opportunity to enjoy a short trek to explore the national park. A qualified guide will provide insights about the park’s fascinating characteristics, including its vast glaciers, unique flora, fauna, and geologic formations.

Experience the strength of nature at Río Paine Falls

One of the most stunning views you can expect during the tour is Río Paine Falls. The falls offer a unique spectacle of nature’s strength, and you will take with you some amazing memories of one of Patagonia’s most mesmerizing natural landmarks.

Full description

The Torres del Paine Full Day Tour is an excursion you don’t want to miss when you are in El Calafate. The tour is conducted in a small group setting that allows you to get personalized attention from your qualified guide. The following are some of the tour’s specifics:

What is included

The tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off, bilingual guide Spanish/English, insurance, lunch box (For regular service only), and National Park entrance fee (Approximately 40 USD to be paid in cash).

What is not included

Personal expenses, tips, and box lunch for private service, consult about rules of entry into the country.

Not suitable for

The tour is not suitable for children under 3 years, pregnant women, people with back problems, people with mobility impairments, and people with heart problems.

Booking the Tour

To book the Torres del Paine Full Day Tour, you can visit GetYourGuide’s website, which offers some of the most affordable prices and the safest booking experience. You can book the tour by following this link: book the tour here.

Book Your Tour Now

Overall, the Torres del Paine Full Day Tour is an exceptional excursion and an excellent opportunity to explore some of the most beautiful landscapes that El Calafate has to offer. If you are planning to visit El Calafate, we recommend booking the tour, either individually or with a group, for an unforgettable experience. We hope this guide has been helpful in helping you plan your Torres del Paine Full Day Tour in El Calafate.

El Calafate FAQ

1. What is El Calafate?

El Calafate is a small town located in the Santa Cruz province of Argentina. It is known for its proximity to Los Glaciares National Park, which is home to the awe-inspiring Perito Moreno Glacier.

2. How do I get to El Calafate?

The easiest way to get to El Calafate is by plane. There are daily flights from major cities in Argentina, such as Buenos Aires, as well as from neighboring countries such as Chile. The El Calafate International Airport is located just 20 minutes from the town center.

3. What currency is used in El Calafate?

The official currency in Argentina is the Argentine Peso (ARS). It is recommended to have some cash on hand, especially when visiting remote areas, as some places may not accept credit cards. Most restaurants, hotels, and shops in El Calafate will accept major credit cards, but it’s always best to check beforehand.

4. What is the weather like in El Calafate?

The weather in El Calafate can be unpredictable, but it is generally cold and dry. Summers are mild with temperatures ranging from 50-70°F (10-21°C), while winters are cold with temperatures ranging from 23-39°F (-5 to 4°C). It is important to pack warm and waterproof clothing no matter what time of year you plan to visit.

5. What is Los Glaciares National Park?

Los Glaciares National Park is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the major attractions near El Calafate. It is home to over 300 glaciers, including the famous Perito Moreno Glacier. The park covers over 1,700 square miles (4,500 km²) of rugged wilderness and features stunning mountain peaks, turquoise lakes, and roaring rivers.

6. How do I visit the Perito Moreno Glacier?

There are several ways to visit the Perito Moreno Glacier. The most popular option is to take a guided tour, which typically includes transportation to and from the glacier, as well as a guided hike on the glacier itself. Visitors can also take a boat tour to get up close and personal with the glacier or simply admire it from the many viewing platforms in the park.

7. What other activities are available in El Calafate?

In addition to visiting Los Glaciares National Park and the Perito Moreno Glacier, there are plenty of other activities to enjoy in and around El Calafate. These include horseback riding, fishing, bird watching, and hiking in the nearby mountains. The town itself also offers excellent dining and shopping options, as well as a chance to experience local culture and history.

8. When is the best time to visit El Calafate?

The best time to visit El Calafate depends on your preferences and interests. Summer (December to February) is the most popular time of year to visit, as the weather is milder and there are longer daylight hours. However, this is also the busiest time of year, so expect crowds and higher prices. Winter (June to August) is much quieter and offers a chance to see the park covered in snow, but it can be very cold and many tours and activities may be closed.

9. Is El Calafate safe for travelers?

El Calafate is generally considered a safe destination for travelers. However, it is always important to take basic safety precautions, such as avoiding dark or deserted areas at night, keeping valuables secured, and being aware of your surroundings. Visitors should also be prepared for the rugged terrain and unpredictable weather conditions in the area.

10. What should I pack for a trip to El Calafate?

When packing for a trip to El Calafate, it’s important to remember to pack for cold and potentially wet weather. This should include warm layers, a waterproof jacket or poncho, gloves, a hat, and sturdy walking shoes or boots. It’s also a good idea to bring a backpack, sunscreen, insect repellent, and a water bottle. Lastly, don’t forget to bring a camera to capture all of the amazing scenery!

How to spend your time as a tourist in El Calafate

If you’re visiting Argentina and looking for a place to explore nature, El Calafate is a must-visit destination. This beautiful town located in the southern region of the Patagonian province of Santa Cruz offers a wide range of activities that cater to different tastes and preferences. Whether you’re a nature lover, adventure seeker, culture buff or just looking to relax and unwind, El Calafate has something for everyone. Here are some of the top things you can do to spend your time as a tourist in this charming town.

1. Visit the Perito Moreno Glacier

One of the main attractions in El Calafate is the Perito Moreno Glacier, a UNESCO World Heritage site located in Los Glaciares National Park. This magnificent glacier is one of the few in the world that is still growing, and it offers a breathtaking sight to visitors. There are different ways to experience the Perito Moreno Glacier. You can take a boat tour and sail along the glacier’s southern wall, walk along the various walkways to get different views, or even go hiking or ice trekking on the glacier itself.

2. Explore Los Glaciares National Park

El Calafate is also the gateway to Los Glaciares National Park, a vast area of protected wilderness that offers stunning natural landscapes and unique wildlife. The park is home to numerous glaciers, lakes, and mountains, including the famous Fitz Roy and Cerro Torre peaks. To fully experience Los Glaciares National Park, consider taking a guided tour or going on a multi-day hiking expedition. There are also plenty of camping and picnic areas where you can relax and enjoy the natural beauty of the area.

3. Experience traditional Patagonian culture

El Calafate is also a great place to learn about the traditional culture of the Patagonian people. You can visit museums such as the Glaciarium or the Museum of Patagonia, which showcases the history, geology, and culture of the region. You can also attend a traditional Patagonian feast called an “asado,” where locals prepare and share a selection of grilled meats and other traditional dishes. This is a perfect opportunity to mingle with the locals and learn more about their way of life.

4. Go birdwatching

If you’re a bird lover, El Calafate is an excellent destination for birdwatching. The region is home to a diverse range of bird species, including the Andean condor, the Magellanic woodpecker, and the Chilean flamingo. Some of the best places to go birdwatching in the area include the Laguna Nimez Reserve or the Bahía Redonda Reserve. These protected areas offer guided tours and observation platforms where you can observe the birds in their natural habitat.

5. Try traditional Argentine cuisine

Argentine cuisine is known for its meat-based dishes, and El Calafate is no exception. There are plenty of restaurants in town where you can try typical Argentine dishes such as steak, empanadas, and choripán. If you’re looking for a more upscale dining experience, consider trying one of the town’s gourmet restaurants, which offer creative cuisine based on local ingredients such as lamb, trout, and wild berries.

Book Your Tour Now

El Calafate is a captivating destination that offers a range of activities and experiences for all types of travelers. From exploring glaciers and hiking in national parks to immersing yourself in local culture and cuisine, there are many things to see and do in this charming town. By following this guide, you’re sure to make the most out of your time as a tourist in El Calafate. So pack your bags, get ready to be amazed by the beauty of Patagonia, and enjoy your trip!