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Argentino Lake: Patagonia's Majestic Giant

Explore Argentina's largest lake, surrounded by glaciers and breathtaking Patagonian landscapes. A must-see destination for nature lovers!

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Lago Argentino, the largest lake in Argentina, is a Patagonian jewel famed for its stunning turquoise waters and the colossal glaciers that feed it. A visit here offers breathtaking views of icebergs and the surrounding Andes, making it a must-see for nature enthusiasts.

A brief summary to Argentino Lake

  • Santa Cruz Province, AR

Local tips

  • Pack layers of warm clothing, even in summer, as the weather can change rapidly.
  • Bring sturdy hiking shoes for exploring the trails around the lake and glaciers.
  • Book boat tours in advance, especially during peak season, to ensure availability.
  • Don't forget sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat to protect yourself from the strong Patagonian sun.
  • Consider bringing binoculars for better views of the glaciers and wildlife.
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Getting There

  • Public Transport

    From El Calafate, buses run to various points around Lago Argentino. Check the local bus schedules for routes to destinations like Perito Moreno Glacier or Punta Bandera. A round-trip bus fare to Perito Moreno Glacier is approximately ARS 8,000 - ARS 10,000. From El Calafate airport, you can book a shuttle to El Calafate center for about ARS 2,500 - ARS 3,500.

  • Taxi/Ride-share

    Taxis and ride-sharing services are available in El Calafate. A taxi ride from El Calafate to the shores of Lago Argentino (e.g., to a closer access point) will cost approximately ARS 1,500 - ARS 2,500, depending on the distance and specific location. Confirm the fare before starting your journey.

  • Driving

    If driving from El Calafate, take Ruta 11 west. The drive to the Perito Moreno Glacier viewpoint, a popular spot on the lake, is about 40 minutes. Parking at the Perito Moreno Glacier costs around ARS 500 per hour, with limited availability during peak season. Be aware that road conditions can vary, especially during winter.

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Discover more about Argentino Lake

Lago Argentino, located in the Santa Cruz province of Argentine Patagonia, is the country's largest lake, covering an area of 1,466 square kilometers. Situated within Los Glaciares National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage site, the lake is surrounded by stunning mountain landscapes and is fed by several glaciers, including the renowned Perito Moreno and Upsala glaciers. The lake's unique turquoise color comes from the glacial meltwater, often referred to as 'glacial milk', which carries fine sediment. This sediment reflects sunlight in a way that gives the water its distinctive hue. Depths vary dramatically, ranging from 35 to 1,000 meters, making it one of the deepest lakes in the Americas. Boat tours are a popular way to explore Lago Argentino, offering visitors the chance to get up close to the towering glaciers and navigate among the impressive icebergs. These excursions often depart from Punta Bandera, about 45 kilometers from El Calafate, the main tourist hub for the region. Besides glacier viewing, activities such as kayaking, fishing, and horseback riding are also available. Birdwatching is another popular activity, with opportunities to spot condors and flamingos. The lake's history includes a fascinating case of mistaken identity. In 1873, sailor Valentín Filberg reached the lake but believed it was Lake Viedma. It wasn't until 1877 that Francisco Moreno and Carlos Moyano corrected this error and named the lake 'Argentino'. Today, the lake is a major draw for tourists seeking to experience the raw beauty of Patagonia.

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