Things To Do
in El Calafate
El Calafate sits on the southern shores of Lago Argentino in Patagonia, thriving as the gateway to Los Glaciares National Park. The town blends rugged Patagonian landscapes with a welcoming tourist infrastructure of hotels, cafes, and markets. It is best known for the nearby Perito Moreno Glacier, whose blue ice walls dominate the horizon.
Visitors come for day trips, wildlife watching, and experiential glacier excursions that define Patagonia.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Arrive at El Calafate Airport and take in the stunning Patagonian landscape that surrounds you. Check into your hotel, which offers breathtaking views of Lake Argentino. Spend the rest of the morning settling in and soaking up the atmosphere of this charming town.
Stroll along the picturesque avenue of Avenida del Libertador, lined with shops and cafes. Pop into local artisan stores to find unique souvenirs crafted by local artists. Grab a bite at a cozy restaurant, indulging in Argentine cuisine with an emphasis on fresh local ingredients.
As the sun sets, find a scenic spot by the lake to witness the magical colors play on the water. Dinner at a traditional BBQ restaurant will allow you to savor mouth-watering asado, a staple of Argentine culture. End your evening with a leisurely walk, taking in the quiet ambiance of El Calafate.
Take an early morning tour to Los Glaciares National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Arrive at the park and take the southern route toward the breathtaking Perito Moreno Glacier. Spend time marveling at the massive ice formations and listen for the thunderous calving of ice into the glacial lake.
After enjoying the sights from the walkways, embark on a boat ride to view the glacier from the water. Capture stunning photographs of the glacier while feeling the cool mist on your face. Enjoy a packed lunch at one of the designated viewpoints surrounded by nature's majestic beauty.
Return to El Calafate for a relaxing dinner at a local restaurant featuring Patagonian lamb. Share stories with fellow travelers and reminisce about your exciting day. Take a stroll along the waterfront promenade and perhaps enjoy a warm drink as you watch the stars light up the night sky.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $10-15 |
| ☕Coffee in a cafe | $3-5 |
| 🥤Soft drink or water | $2-3 |
| 🚗Taxi ride (within town) | $5-15 |
| 🏨Budget hotel per night | $40-70 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Proximity to iconic glaciers
- Varied outdoor activities
- Friendly Patagonian hospitality
- Good value compared to other glacier destinations
- Limited nightlife compared to major cities
- Weather can be fickle and windy
- Some tours fill up quickly in peak season
- Higher prices in peak season due to tourism
- "¿Habla inglés?" - Do you speak English?
- "Gracias" - Thank you
- "¿Cuánto cuesta?" - How much does it cost?
- "una mesa para dos, por favor" - a table for two, please
- "¿Dónde está el baño?" - Where is the bathroom?
Places to Visit in El Calafate
Visit one of these nice places.
Wetland reserve near town with birds and reed beds; especially photogenic at dawn and sunset.
Raised boardwalks along the glacier provide dramatic ice-front photos and vivid blue ice tones.
Shoreline views with mountain silhouettes and reflective water—great for golden hour photography.
Food in El Calafate
El Calafate Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Slow-roasted lamb grilled over an open fire, a regional specialty often featured at locally owned parrillas and estancias.
Must-Try!
Argentine beef cooked on a grill with simple seasoning; a staple at most restaurants and a good sampler of local flavors.
Fresh Patagonian trout, usually grilled or lightly fried, reflecting the nearby river ecology.
Desserts and preserves made with the calafate berry, known for its distinct sweetness and color; look for jams, tarts, or ice creams.
Savory empanadas and sweet dulce de leche treats available across markets and bakeries.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Local market with fresh produce, cheeses, breads, and ready-to-eat snack options; great for a casual, inexpensive bite.
Outdoor artisan market offering crafts, jams, and Patagonian snacks; ideal for souvenirs and quick bites.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
A handshake in business settings; socially, Argentines may greet with a kiss on the right cheek in casual settings.
Local travelers may be flexible; plan for a relaxed pace around tour times and meals.
Sharing mate is a cultural gesture; accept and participate if offered, but don’t feel obligated.
Safety
Tipping in El Calafate
Ensure a smooth experience
In restaurants, a 10% tip is common if service is not included. Guides, drivers, and tour staff may receive small tips based on service quality.
Credit/debit cards are widely accepted in town; cash (Argentine peso) is useful for markets and smaller shops. Some remote tours may prefer cash or card on-site.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Long days with cooler nights; ideal for outdoor treks and glacier visits, but expect more tourists.
Crisp air and fall colors; winds begin to pick up; good for fewer crowds and reflective skies.
Cold and windy with potential snow; some tours operate seasonally and days are shorter; pack heavy insulation.
Variable weather; landscapes green up quickly; plan for layering and flexible itineraries.
El Calafate at Night
Hiking in El Calafate
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Easy boardwalk loop near town with birdwatching and sunset views.
Hill trail offering panoramic views of the lake and surrounding mountains (nearby reserva).
Guided hikes from the estancia exploring glaciers and valleys.
Airports
How to reach El Calafate by plane.
Closest airport to El Calafate with domestic and some international connections; taxi or transfer to town is about 20–25 minutes.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Visitors from Europe, North America, and other parts of Argentina.
Patagonian families, hospitality workers, and seasonal staff employed in tourism.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Fly fishing and river angling around Lago Argentino and nearby rivers.
Guided treks in Los Glaciares National Park and nearby reserves.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting El Calafate.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
As a vegetarian in El Calafate, opt for roasted vegetables, empanadas de verduras, pasta, and salads; many places can modify dishes.