Patagonia
El Calafate
The home of Perito Moreno Glacier and the base for South Patagonia's most iconic ice experiences.
An editorial overview
Why El Calafate
El Calafate is the main hub for glacier tourism in Argentine Patagonia, located on the shores of Lake Argentino within Los Glaciares National Park. The town serves as the base for visiting Perito Moreno Glacier — one of the few advancing glaciers in the world — and for boat excursions to Upsala and Spegazzini glaciers. It also connects easily with El Chaltén for trekking and with Torres del Paine in Chile.
What to do
Signature experiences
Perito Moreno Glacier excursions, boat navigation among icebergs, trekking on the glacier, birdwatching, estancia visits, scenic drives.
How to get there
Logistics & connections
El Calafate has a domestic airport with daily flights from Buenos Aires and connections from Bariloche and Ushuaia.
Combinable destinations
Designs beautifully with
Torres del Paine, Puerto Natales, El Chaltén, Ushuaia, Bariloche.
Seasons
Best time to visit
October to April. The glacier is accessible year-round.
Wildlife & fauna
What you may encounter
Condors, flamingos, guanacos, black-necked swans, Andean foxes.
Featured programs
Tailor-made journeys
Our programs pair El Calafate with the rest of Argentina in modular, agency-friendly itineraries.
Browse programsFAQs
Good to know
What is the main attraction in El Calafate?
Perito Moreno Glacier, one of the world's few advancing glaciers, is the highlight of any El Calafate visit.
How many days should travelers spend in El Calafate?
Two to three days is standard, allowing time for glacier excursions and nearby estancia visits.
Can El Calafate be combined with Torres del Paine?
Yes. El Calafate connects with Puerto Natales via road, making cross-border itineraries straightforward.
Is El Calafate accessible year-round?
Yes, though the main season is October to April when temperatures are milder.