Things To Do
in Gastre
Gastre is a small Patagonian town in the heart of Chubut Province, surrounded by wide open plains and rugged steppe. The area is known for cattle ranches, wind-swept landscapes, and a quiet pace that attracts travelers seeking nature and authentic gaucho culture. From here you can explore nearby lakes, canyons, and fossil sites while experiencing Patagonian hospitality.
The town serves as a gateway to outdoor adventures, with seasonal events and local cuisine reflecting rugged frontier life.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Arrive in Gastre and settle into your charming accommodations. Take a leisurely stroll around the local area to acclimatize and appreciate the untouched beauty. Enjoy a local breakfast at a quaint café, where you can savor traditional Argentine pastries.
Explore the nearby picturesque landscapes of the Patagonian steppe. Consider a guided tour to learn about the indigenous fauna and flora, or enjoy a peaceful moment taking photographs of the breathtaking scenery. A delicious Argentine lunch at a local parrilla will fill you with energy for the afternoon adventures.
Join a community event or gathering to experience the local culture and connect with residents. Enjoy a delightful dinner featuring freshly grilled lamb, a regional specialty. Spend the evening relaxing under a starry sky, perhaps with a glass of Malbec from Mendoza.
Start the day early with a hearty breakfast and prepare for an exciting caving expedition. Head to the nearby Cueva de las Manos, renowned for its ancient cave paintings and striking rock formations. Guided by an expert, you'll delve into the history and geology of the area.
After exploring the caves, enjoy a packed lunch amidst the stunning natural environment. Spend the afternoon hiking the scenic trails around the area, with opportunities to observe native wildlife in its natural habitat. Capture the beauty of the landscape with your camera as you make your way back.
Return to Gastre and indulge in a rustic dinner of stews and local delicacies at a family-run restaurant. Share stories of your day with fellow travelers and learn more about the history of Gastre. Conclude your evening with a stroll through the quiet streets, appreciating the peaceful ambiance of the town.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $10-15 |
| 🥗Meal for two (mid-range restaurant) | $25-40 |
| 🛏️Hotel room per night | $30-60 |
| 🚎Local transport (short ride) | $3-8 |
| ☕Coffee or snack | $2-5 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Quiet Patagonian town with authentic gaucho culture
- Access to nature, outdoor activities, and stargazing
- Limited nightlife and dining options
- Long distances to larger cities and limited public transport
- "Hola" - Hello
- "Gracias" - Thank you
- "¿Cuánto cuesta?" - How much does it cost?
- "¿Dónde está el baño?" - Where is the bathroom?
- "La cuenta, por favor." - The check, please.
- "Estoy perdido/a." - I am lost.
Places to Visit in Gastre
Visit one of these nice places.
Panoramic views over the plains with sunrise or sunset colours.
Historic plaza with colonial-style buildings and a charming church interior.
Rugged canyon and steppe landscapes ideal for wide-angle shots.
Food in Gastre
Gastre Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Slow-roasted Patagonian lamb, typically cooked over an open flame, served with rustic bread and local chimichurri.
Must-Try!
Meat-filled pastries baked or fried; look for beef, onion, and olive varieties.
Sweet, caramel-like dulce de leche paired with Argentine alfajores for a classic treat.
A warming lamb stew common in cooler months, often enjoyed with crusty bread.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A small market offering fresh dairy, meats, baked goods, and seasonal produce; try empanadas from street stalls.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Greet with a handshake; close friends may exchange cheek kisses. Use polite forms and address elders with respect.
Dress casually but neatly; Patagonian weather can be windy and chilly, so layer up.
Be on time for social visits but flexible in rural settings.
Safety
Tipping in Gastre
Ensure a smooth experience
In restaurants, a tip of 5-10% if service isn’t included. Small tips for taxi drivers and hotel staff are appreciated.
Cash is widely accepted, but credit/debit cards are common in towns; ATMs are available in Gastre and larger towns; some rural vendors may prefer cash.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Long days with plenty of sunshine; winds can be strong; stay hydrated and protect yourself from sun.
Mild days, cooler nights; ideal for outdoor walking and photography; harvest season in nearby farms.
Cool to cold temperatures; occasional snow in higher plains; many services operate on reduced schedules.
Warming temperatures, blooming shrubs; wildlife activity increases; wind still common.
Gastre at Night
Hiking in Gastre
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A moderate hike along a rocky escarpment with expansive steppe views.
Ridge hike offering distant vistas of the plains and mountains.
Easy stroll around a working estancia with interpretive signs.
Airports
How to reach Gastre by plane.
Small regional airport with seasonal flights to Buenos Aires and other Argentinian cities; about a few hours’ drive from Gastre.
Larger regional airport with broader connections including international flights; serves the lower Patagonian region.
Domestic flights connecting to Buenos Aires and other major hubs; convenient for access to coastal Patagonia.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Longstanding rural families who work in agriculture and cattle ranching.
Residents who maintain traditional Patagonian lifestyles.
Visible in history, place names, and local folklore.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
The most popular sport, with local teams and community leagues.
Traditional ranching events and horsemanship demonstrations.
Seasonal fishing in nearby rivers and wetlands.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Gastre.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Navigate by choosing vegetable dishes, dairy, and legumes; ask for salads, veggie empanadas, and side dishes like grilled vegetables. In town, kiosks often have vegetarian options; consider visiting markets for fresh produce.