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Arroyo Calafate: A Patagonian Canyon Escape

Discover Patagonian beauty just a short trip from El Calafate, with canyons, wildlife, and hiking for all levels.

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Arroyo Calafate is a scenic canyon just outside El Calafate, offering an accessible taste of Patagonia's rugged beauty. With hiking trails revealing diverse wildlife, geological formations, and even ancient petroglyphs, it's a rewarding escape from the town center.

A brief summary to Arroyo Calafate

  • Av. del Libertador 587, Z9405, El Calafate, Santa Cruz Province, Z9405, AR
  • Monday 12 am-12 am
  • Tuesday 12 am-12 am
  • Wednesday 12 am-12 am
  • Thursday 12 am-12 am
  • Friday 12 am-12 am
  • Saturday 12 am-12 am
  • Sunday 12 am-12 am

Local tips

  • Visit early in the morning or late afternoon for the best light, fewer crowds, and enhanced wildlife viewing opportunities.
  • Wear comfortable hiking shoes, as the trails can be uneven in places.
  • Bring water and snacks, as facilities within the park are limited.
  • Keep an eye out for local wildlife, including various bird species, guanacos, and foxes.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    From the center of El Calafate, head southwest on Avenida del Libertador. Turn left onto Calle 9 de Julio and continue walking until you reach the edge of town. The path will lead you through some beautiful landscapes as you approach the outskirts. You will eventually find a marked trail leading to Cañadon Del Arroyo Calafate. Follow the signs and the well-defined path for about 3 km until you reach your destination. There are no entrance fees.

  • Taxi

    Taxis are readily available in El Calafate. A taxi ride from the town center to the Arroyo Calafate trailhead will take approximately 10-15 minutes. Expect to pay around $3.5 USD for a 5km ride. Confirm the fare with the driver before starting your journey. There are no entrance fees.

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Discover more about Arroyo Calafate

Arroyo Calafate, also known as Cañadon del Arroyo Calafate, is a natural park near El Calafate, Argentina, celebrated for its dramatic canyons and rich ecosystems. The park provides an accessible glimpse into the Patagonian landscape, with trails catering to various skill levels. Visitors can explore winding paths that showcase rugged cliffs, verdant flora, and the tranquil Arroyo Calafate stream. The area is home to diverse bird species, making it a haven for birdwatchers, and keen observers may spot guanacos, foxes, eagles, and even condors. Keep an eye out for sea fossils embedded in the geological formations and petroglyphs, vestiges of ancient civilizations that once inhabited the area. The park is particularly enchanting during sunrise and sunset, when the landscape is bathed in warm, golden light. Whether you're seeking adventure or a peaceful nature retreat, Arroyo Calafate offers an unforgettable experience of El Calafate's wild beauty.

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