Exploring the Land of Glaciers: A Journey to Patagonia
This guide provides insights and tips for planning an unforgettable trip to El Calafate, the Land of Glaciers in Santa Cruz province, Argentinean Patagonia.
When to Visit
Patagonia can be visited year-round, but winter (May-August) is not recommended due to limited activity options such as navigations and glacier treks. The normal season to enjoy the outdoor activities and many hours of sunlight starts in late-September ending in early-April, being these border months known as shoulder season, then it’s less crowded but windier.
Accommodation
El Calafate offers a range of hotels from 3-star to 5-star options. Recommended choices include:
- 3-star: Rochester Calafate/Blanca Patagonia
- 4-star: Alto Calafate/Esplendor/Mirador del Lago
- 5-star: Xelena/ Design Suites/Pristine Luxury Camp
- Ranches: Estancia Cristina/Nibepo Aike
Staying near downtown provides easy access to restaurants and shops, but lakeside hotels offer stunning views of Argentino Lake and the opportunity for lakeshore walks.
Gastronomy
El Calafate’s downtown is small but boasts various restaurants, food shops, and chocolate shops. Don’t miss trying the local “calafate” liquor, named after the native fruit.
- Recommended Dish: Patagonian lamb, served grilled “a la estaca” or in dishes like stuffed pasta (e.g., ravioles).
- Suggested Restaurants: La Tablita and Casimiro Biguá.
Main Attractions
Perito Moreno Glacier: The main attraction in El Calafate. Options include:
- Traditional tour with catwalk access.
- Nautical Safari: A short, optional navigation (approx. 1 hour).
- For adventurers: Minitrekking or Big Ice (glacier treks), and kayaking.
Upsala and Spegazzini Glaciers: Other notable glaciers in Los Glaciares National Park.
- Ríos de Hielo (Ice Rivers): A 5-hour navigation.
- Todo Glaciares (All Glaciers): Includes Seco, Heim Sur, and Peineta glaciers.
- Gourmet Glaciers Experience: Aboard the exclusive María Turquesa Cruise, offering a choice of box lunch or gourmet lunch.
Additional Activities
Estancia Nibepo Aike: Experience farm life, including trekking and horseback riding (additional cost), with views of the Andes. The visit ends with a traditional Patagonian lamb meal.
Full Day in El Chaltén: El Chaltén, a small town located inside the National Park, three hours north from El Calafate, is known as the “Argentinian capital of trekking.” Notable trails include:
- Travel tip: Capri Lagoon Trail, a 4-6 hour self-guided trek offering stunning views of the Fitz Roy massif.
- Length of Stay: you can overnight in this town allowing you to take longer trails like Fitz Roy and De Los Tres Lagoon (demanding 10-hour trek).
- Guidance: Trails are well-marked, though guide services are available. More information is on El Chaltén’s official website (available in Spanish and English).
CONTACT US!
This journey to the Land of Glaciers in Patagonia offers breathtaking landscapes and unique experiences. For more information or assistance in planning your trip, feel free to contact us. We look forward to welcoming you to South America!