El Calafate, Argentina Travel Guide

Discover El Calafate, the enchanting gateway to Argentine Patagonia, where the majestic Perito Moreno Glacier and diverse outdoor adventures await you.

El Calafate is a charming town nestled on the southern shore of Lake Argentino in Argentina. Known as the gateway to the stunning Los Glaciares National Park, it offers visitors a unique blend of natural beauty and adventure. The town is named after the calafate berry, a local fruit which, according to legend, ensures that anyone who eats it will return to Patagonia. The main draw of El Calafate is the spectacular Perito Moreno Glacier, one of the few advancing glaciers in the world. A visit to this awe-inspiring natural wonder is a must, offering opportunities to witness dramatic ice calving and to explore the glacier through trekking tours. The town itself is vibrant and welcoming, with a variety of restaurants, shops, and hotels catering to all tastes and budgets. Beyond the glacier, El Calafate serves as a hub for other outdoor activities such as horseback riding, bird watching, and boat tours on Lake Argentino. The nearby Lago Roca and the local flora and fauna provide additional attractions for nature enthusiasts. For those interested in history and culture, the Glaciarium Museum offers fascinating insights into the region's glaciology and the impact of climate change. El Calafate’s unique combination of breathtaking landscapes, adventurous activities, and warm hospitality makes it an unforgettable destination for any traveler.

From Eve

Know before you go

Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring El Calafate.

Pack layers and waterproof clothing, as weather can change rapidly.
Book glacier tours in advance, especially during peak season.
Try the local calafate berry jam, a delicious regional specialty.
Visit the Glaciarium Museum to learn more about glaciers and climate change.
Rent a car for greater flexibility in exploring nearby attractions.

Explore El Calafate: Things to Do, Places to Eat, Hotels & More

Handpicked recommendations for top attractions, local dining, accommodations, and more

Best attractions in El Calafate

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Best Attractions

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Parque Nacional Los Glaciares

Explore the stunning glaciers, mountains, and lakes of Los Glaciares National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage site in Argentinian Patagonia.

4.6

Calafate

Explore El Calafate, the heart of Argentinian Patagonia, and discover the breathtaking glaciers and stunning landscapes of Los Glaciares National Park.

5.0

Estancia Cristina (Commercial Offices)

Discover the pioneering history and breathtaking landscapes of Estancia Cristina, a remote Patagonian estancia in Los Glaciares National Park.

4.9

Glaciar Upsala

Experience the grandeur of Glaciar Upsala, one of Patagonia's largest glaciers, with stunning ice formations and breathtaking landscapes.

Best landmarks in El Calafate

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PatagoniaChic - Excursiones en El Calafate

Discover the breathtaking landscapes of Patagonia with expert-led tours and excursions from PatagoniaChic in El Calafate.

4.8

Glaciarium Patagonian Ice Museum

Explore the Glaciarium Patagonian Ice Museum, an educational marvel showcasing the beauty and importance of glaciers in a unique cultural setting.

4.4

Reserva Laguna Nimez

Discover the stunning Reserva Laguna Nimez, a nature preserve in El Calafate, Argentina, rich in wildlife and breathtaking landscapes.

4.2

Los Glaciares, Intendencia National Park

Explore the breathtaking beauty of Los Glaciares National Park, home to stunning glaciers and diverse wildlife in Argentina's majestic Patagonia.

4.6

Best restaurants in El Calafate

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Isabel Cocina al Disco

Experience authentic Argentine cuisine at Isabel Cocina al Disco in El Calafate, where traditional cooking meets warm hospitality.

4.6

La Lechuza Pizza y Pastas

Experience the best pizza and pasta in El Calafate at La Lechuza Pizza y Pastas - where flavors meet tradition.

4.2

La Zorra Taproom

Experience the best of craft beer at La Zorra Taproom in El Calafate – where local brews meet Patagonian charm.

4.5

La Tablita

Experience the authentic taste of Argentina at La Tablita in El Calafate – where mutton barbecue meets fine dining.

4.4

Best bars in El Calafate

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Isabel Cocina al Disco

Experience the essence of Patagonian cuisine at Isabel Cocina al Disco, where traditional cooking meets local flavors in a cozy setting.

4.6

La Zorra Taproom

La Zorra Taproom in El Calafate: A cozy brewpub offering local craft beers and delicious food in the heart of Patagonia.

4.5

Traditional WANACO Bar

Savor the authentic taste of Argentine grill at Traditional WANACO Bar in El Calafate, where delicious food meets vibrant culture.

4.0

Mako Premium Bar

Discover Mako Premium Bar in El Calafate – a lively spot for Argentinian cuisine, fast food delights, and refreshing drinks in a vibrant atmosphere.

4.3

Best nightclubs in El Calafate

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La Zorra Taproom

Discover the vibrant atmosphere and artisanal brews of La Zorra Taproom in El Calafate, the heart of Patagonia's craft beer scene.

4.5

Yeti Ice Bar

Unwind at Yeti Ice Bar, where frosty cocktails and stunning ice sculptures create a unique nightlife experience in El Calafate, Argentina.

4.3

La Oveja Negra

Experience the vibrant nightlife of El Calafate at La Oveja Negra, where excellent drinks and a welcoming atmosphere await!

4.1

la trinchera wine and beer

Discover La Trinchera in El Calafate, a charming gastropub offering exquisite wines, craft beers, and a cozy atmosphere perfect for relaxation.

4.9

Best shops in El Calafate

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Arte Indio

Discover the essence of Patagonia at Arte Indio, your go-to souvenir store in El Calafate, offering authentic local crafts and unique keepsakes.

3.6

La Aldea de Los Gnomos

Discover the whimsical charm of La Aldea de Los Gnomos in El Calafate, where shopping meets local culture and family fun.

4.3

Vellon Negro

Explore Vellon Negro in El Calafate for unique, handcrafted clothing that captures the essence of local fashion and culture.

4.7

Finisterre Calafate

Explore unique fashion at Finisterre Calafate, a premier clothing store in El Calafate, where style meets the essence of Patagonia.

3.6

Explore El Calafate on the Map

A handpicked selection of must-see spots in El Calafate, mapped for you.

El Calafate Essentials

El Calafate is located in the Santa Cruz Province of Argentina. The nearest airport is Comandante Armando Tola International Airport (FTE), which is about 23 kilometers from the town center. There are direct flights from Buenos Aires, Ushuaia, and other major cities in Argentina. From the airport, you can take a taxi, shuttle bus, or rent a car to reach the town.
El Calafate is a small town and most attractions are within walking distance. Taxis are readily available for longer trips or if you prefer not to walk. There are also local buses that can take you to nearby attractions, such as the Perito Moreno Glacier. Car rentals are available and can be a convenient option for exploring the surrounding areas at your own pace.
The official currency in Argentina is the Argentine Peso (ARS). Credit cards are widely accepted in hotels, restaurants, and shops in El Calafate. However, it is advisable to carry some cash, especially for smaller establishments and markets. ATMs are available in the town center, but it's wise to withdraw sufficient cash in Buenos Aires or another major city before arrival.
El Calafate is generally a safe destination for tourists. However, it is always best to take standard precautions. Avoid walking alone at night in unfamiliar areas and keep an eye on your belongings in crowded places. There are no specific high-crime areas targeting tourists, but staying vigilant and aware of your surroundings is always recommended.
In case of emergency, dial 101 for police, 100 for fire, and 107 for medical emergencies. The local hospital and medical facilities are available in El Calafate. It is recommended to have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies. For minor health issues, there are pharmacies in the town where you can purchase over-the-counter medications.
Fashion: Do dress in layers as the weather can be unpredictable. Avoid wearing overly casual or revealing clothing in more formal settings. Religion: Do respect local customs and traditions. While El Calafate is not particularly religious, it's always good to be respectful at any religious sites. Public Transport: Do be respectful and give up your seat to elderly passengers. Don't eat or drink on public transport. Greetings: Do greet people with a handshake and a smile. Eating & Drinking: Do try local delicacies such as Patagonian lamb and trout. Don't refuse hospitality, as it is considered impolite.
To experience El Calafate like a local, visit the local markets where you can buy fresh produce and traditional Argentine goods. Engage with locals, as they are often friendly and willing to share stories about the town's history and culture. Don't miss visiting the Glaciarium, a museum dedicated to glaciers, and take a boat tour to see the Perito Moreno Glacier up close. For a unique experience, try some locally made Calafate berry liqueur.

When is the best time to visit El Calafate?

With Eve

Useful Local Phrases for El Calafate

You don't need to speak the language perfectly. Even learning a few simple words can make conversations warmer—and locals usually appreciate the effort.

— Eve

6 phrase groups English + pronunciation

Here are the phrases I use most often in El Calafate. Try a few—you'll be surprised how far they go! 😊
❤️

- HelloHola
  [oh-la]
- GoodbyeChau
  [chow]
- YesSí
  [see]
- NoNo
  [no]
- Please/You're welcomePor favor/De nada
  [por fah-vor/deh nah-dah]
- Thank youGracias
  [grah-see-ahs]
- Excuse me/SorryPerdón
  [pair-dohn]
- How are you?¿Cómo estás?
  [koh-moh ehs-tahs]
- Fine. And you?Bien. ¿Y tú?
  [bee-ehn. ee too]
- Do you speak English?¿Hablas inglés?
  [ah-blahs een-glehs]
- I don't understandNo entiendo
  [noh ehn-tee-ehn-doh]
- I'd like to see the menu, pleaseMe gustaría ver el menú, por favor
  [meh goos-tah-ree-ah vehr ehl meh-noo, poor fah-vor]
- I don't eat meatNo como carne
  [no koh-moh kahr-neh]
- Cheers!¡Salud!
  [sah-lood]
- I would like to pay, pleaseQuisiera pagar, por favor
  [kee-see-eh-rah pah-gahr, poor fah-vor]
- Help!¡Ayuda!
  [ah-yoo-dah]
- Go away!¡Vete!
  [veh-teh]
- Call the Police!¡Llama a la policía!
  [yah-mah ah lah poh-lee-see-ah]
- Call a doctor!¡Llama a un médico!
  [yah-mah ah oon meh-dee-koh]
- I'm lostEstoy perdido
  [ehs-toy pair-dee-doh]
- I'm illEstoy enfermo
  [ehs-toy ehn-fehr-moh]
- I'd like to buy...Me gustaría comprar...
  [meh goos-tah-ree-ah kohm-prahr...]
- I'm just lookingSólo estoy mirando
  [soh-loh ehs-toy mee-rahn-doh]
- How much is it?¿Cuánto cuesta?
  [kwan-toh kwehs-tah]
- That's too expensiveEso es muy caro
  [eh-soh ehs moo-ee kah-roh]
- Can you lower the price?¿Puedes bajar el precio?
  [pweh-dehs bah-har ehl pree-see-oh]
- What time is it?¿Qué hora es?
  [keh oh-rah ehs]
- It's one o'clockEs la una
  [ehs lah oo-nah]
- Half past (10)Son las diez y media
  [sohn lahs dyehs ee meh-dee-ah]
- MorningMañana
  [mah-nyah-nah]
- AfternoonTarde
  [tahr-deh]
- EveningNoche
  [noh-cheh]
- YesterdayAyer
  [ah-yehr]
- TodayHoy
  [oy]
- TomorrowMañana
  [mah-nyah-nah]
- 1Uno
  [oo-noh]
- 2Dos
  [dohs]
- 3Tres
  [trehs]
- 4Cuatro
  [kwah-troh]
- 5Cinco
  [seen-koh]
- 6Seis
  [says]
- 7Siete
  [syeh-teh]
- 8Ocho
  [oh-cho]
- 9Nueve
  [nweh-veh]
- 10Diez
  [dyehs]
- Where's a/the...?¿Dónde está...?
  [dohn-deh ehs-tah]
- What's the address?¿Cuál es la dirección?
  [kwal ehs lah dee-rehk-syohn]
- Can you show me (on the map)?¿Puedes mostrarme (en el mapa)?
  [pweh-dehs mohs-trar-meh (ehn ehl mah-pah)]
- When's the next (bus)?¿Cuándo es el próximo (colectivo)?
  [kwan-doh ehs ehl proh-ksee-moh (koh-lehk-tee-voh)]
- A ticket (to ....)Un boleto (a ...)
  [oon boh-leh-toh (ah ...)]

History of El Calafate

El Calafate, located in the southern region of Patagonia, Argentina, traces its origins back to the early 20th century. The town was named after the calafate bush, a native plant whose berries were used by the indigenous Tehuelche people. European settlers arrived in the early 1900s, attracted by the opportunities for sheep farming in the expansive Patagonian plains.
The official establishment of El Calafate as a town occurred in 1927. Initially, it served as a remote outpost providing supplies and services to the sparse population of the region. Its strategic location on the shores of Lago Argentino made it an ideal spot for a settlement, acting as a gateway to the vast wilderness of Patagonia.
The discovery of the Perito Moreno Glacier in the early 20th century marked a turning point for El Calafate. The glacier, one of the few in the world that is still advancing, became a significant attraction. In the 1970s, the Argentine government recognized the potential of the region for tourism and established Los Glaciares National Park to protect the natural wonders, including the Perito Moreno Glacier, Fitz Roy Mountain, and numerous other glaciers and peaks.
During the late 20th century, substantial investment was made to develop El Calafate’s infrastructure to accommodate the growing number of tourists. The opening of El Calafate International Airport in 2000 was a pivotal moment, significantly improving accessibility. Hotels, restaurants, and other tourism-related businesses flourished, transforming the once-sleepy town into a bustling tourist hub.
El Calafate is not just a gateway to natural beauty but also a repository of cultural heritage. The El Calafate Regional Museum, known as the Centro de Interpretación Histórica, offers insights into the region’s indigenous history, European colonization, and the development of the Patagonian frontier. The Tehuelche people’s legacy and the influence of early settlers are evident in the town’s cultural fabric.
Today, El Calafate is a vibrant town that seamlessly blends its historical roots with modern amenities. It serves as the principal base for exploring Los Glaciares National Park and other natural attractions in Patagonia. Festivals, cultural events, and local crafts reflect the town’s rich heritage and its ongoing relationship with the stunning Patagonian landscape.