EL CALAFATE | ARGENTINA

El Calafate is situated on the shore of Lake Argentino in the southern part of Argentine Patagonia. The city is named after a berry that grows in the area which is said that once eaten will guarantee your return to Patagonia. El Calafate is the gateway to one of Argentina’s greatest attractions, the Perito Moreno glacier. You can take a boat trip to watch huge chunks of ice breaking off the glacier and plummeting into the lake or even trek on top of the glacier itself. El Calafate is also the best place to base yourself when on a luxury tour to Argentina for further explorations of the vast Patagonian steppe and traditional estancias.

El Calafate is best visited any time between October and April. The most popular time to go is between December and February which is summer and the high season. Although temperatures are their highest in these months, it is extremely windy and the weather is always unpredictable, no matter what time of year you go! March and April, whilst turning colder, can be a lovely time to go to see the Autumn colours. Most hotels close between June and August over winter.

With the incredible Los Glaciares National Park and the vast Patagonian landscapes, El Calafate is one of Argentina’s most spectacular destinations. Below are our top highlights in the area.

★ Go to Los Glaciares National Park for the Perito Moreno Glacier

★ Witness the Spegazzini and Upsala glaciers on a boat trip

★ Visit the historic Estancia Cristina

★ Enjoy a typical Patagonian lunch at a traditional estancia

★ Explore the Patagonian landscape on horse back

Check out our selection of breathtaking destinations in Argentina from the magnificent waterfalls of Iguazu to the vast Patagonian steppe. Browse these guides for inspiration, then get in touch to speak to an expert about planning your Argentina tour.