Popular airlines to El Calafate

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How much is the cheapest flight to El Calafate?

Prices were available within the past 7 days and start at $95 for one-way flights and $199 for round trip, for the period specified. Prices and availability are subject to change. Additional terms apply.

Jetsmart SPA
Aerolineas Argentinas
SKY AIRLINE
LATAM Airlines Group
GOL Linhas Aereas S.A.

What you need to know for your flight to El Calafate

Flights to El Calafate at a glance

Traveling to El Calafate is easy, with a variety of full-service airlines offering numerous flight options. Explore journey times and choose the best flights to El Calafate that align with your travel plans to discover the city's renowned attractions and neighborhoods.

  • Major airport in El Calafate: Comandante Armando Tola International Airport (FTE)
  • Flights per week: 55+ flights arriving at El Calafate airport
  • Number of airlines that fly to El Calafate: around 3 carriers

Popular airport in El Calafate

El Calafate is a charming city perfect for those seeking breathtaking scenery and outdoor adventures. Visitors are drawn to its opportunities for exploration, relaxation, and eco-friendly experiences. Conveniently, El Calafate International Airport serves the area, along with several alternative airports nearby, making travel planning straightforward for adventurers.

  • Comandante Armando Tola International Airport (FTE): Situated in the Lago Argentino Department of Santa Cruz Province, this airport caters to both domestic and international flights, linking travelers to approximately 5 domestic cities and 1 international destination. Passengers can opt for an upgraded experience to premium economy class for additional comfort, depending on the airline and specific routes. Notable airlines at this airport include Aerolineas Argentinas, JetSmart, and Sky Airlines.

Top routes to El Calafate

  • Buenos Aires (AEP/EZE) to El Calafate (FTE), with one-way flights starting at around $80
  • Ushuaia (USH) to El Calafate (FTE), with one-way fares starting at around $100
  • Bariloche (BRC) to El Calafate (FTE), with one-way fares starting at around $95
  • Santiago (SCL) to El Calafate (FTE), with one-way airfare from around $100
  • Iguazu (IGR) to El Calafate (FTE), with one-way flights starting at around $140

Cheapest routes to El Calafate

  • Buenos Aires (AEP/EZE) to El Calafate (FTE), with low one-way fares from around $80
  • Bariloche (BRC) to El Calafate (FTE), with budget one-way fares from around $95
  • Ushuaia (USH) to El Calafate (FTE), with budget one-way fares from around $100
  • Santiago (SCL) to El Calafate (FTE), with budget one-way fares from around $100
  • Iguazu (IGR) to El Calafate (FTE), with low-cost one-way tickets from around $140

*Flight times and fares vary by season and availability and are based on one-way routes

Top airlines with flights to El Calafate

  • Aerolineas Argentinas: This airline serves Comandante Armando Tola International Airport (FTE) and is responsible for nearly 91% of arrivals in El Calafate. Expect an average one-way ticket price of around $240, with premium cabin options including premium economy class on select routes.
  • JetSmart: Operating to Comandante Armando Tola International Airport (FTE), JetSmart accounts for approximately 7% of arrivals to El Calafate. The typical one-way fare is about $160, making it a budget-friendly choice for travelers.
  • Sky Airlines: Also flying to Comandante Armando Tola International Airport (FTE), Sky Airlines represents roughly 2% of arrivals in El Calafate. The average one-way fare hovers around $180, providing another viable option for passengers heading to this destination.

Best time to fly to El Calafate

The most popular months for travelers to fly to El Calafate are January, March, and December, when peak temperatures in El Calafate can reach up to 51.4°F in January. If you prefer quieter travel, consider June, the least busy and relatively cheaper time to visit with fewer crowds and temperatures around 32.7°F. For better deals, May usually offers the lowest average one-way fare around $143, roughly 34% cheaper than the yearly average.

calendar iconMonthtemperature iconTemperaturerain iconPrecipitationmostly cloudy iconCloudinesscrowd level iconDemandprice iconAverage one-way Fare
January51.4°F (10.8°C)No Rain (Dry)Mostly SunnyHigh$244
February51.4°F (10.8°C)No Rain (Dry)Mostly SunnyAverage$233
March47.8°F (8.8°C)No Rain (Dry)Mostly SunnyHigh$226
April42.6°F (5.9°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverage$215
May37.4°F (3.0°C)No Rain (Dry)Mostly SunnyAverage$143
June32.7°F (0.4°C)No Rain (Dry)Mostly SunnyLow$208
July31.1°F (-0.5°C)No Rain (Dry)Mostly SunnyLow$220
August32.2°F (0.1°C)No Rain (Dry)Mostly SunnyLow$222
September36.1°F (2.3°C)No Rain (Dry)Mostly SunnyAverage$195
October40.8°F (4.9°C)No Rain (Dry)Mostly SunnyAverage$205
November45.7°F (7.6°C)No Rain (Dry)Mostly SunnyAverage$254
December49.3°F (9.6°C)No Rain (Dry)Mostly SunnyHigh$268

*Average one-way fare is based on Expedia flight booking data from January 2025 to April 2026 for the specified route and travel class and may change depending on availability, dates, and demand.

How to save money on a flight to El Calafate

Getting some of the best deals on flights to El Calafate is all about timing and flexibility. Here are some key tips to help you save:

  1. Compare flight options—use Expedia's search tool to compare airlines, routes, direct vs. non-direct flights, and flight times. You can also sort by price to find the most affordable options.
  2. Set up price alerts—as an Expedia member you can use Price Tracking to receive notifications when flight prices change.
  3. Bundle and save—book a flight and unlock a hotel deal on Expedia*, or explore our El Calafate hotel and flight deals.
  4. Think about luggage-nowadays, it's important to check the airline's baggage policies to find the best value. That may be paying for an additional carry-on bag or booking a ticket with checked luggage included. Either way, double-check your baggage allowance before confirming your booking to avoid excess baggage fees at the airport.
  5. Earn miles—you can earn airline miles when you book your El Calafate flight with Expedia. Just select your frequent flyer program and enter your program number when confirming your booking.

*For members. Select hotels.

Arriving in El Calafate

El Calafate welcomes travelers through its range of transport options based on price, convenience, and proximity. Here's how to reach El Calafate efficiently:

  • Hotel transfer: Transfers offer a convenient way to reach your hotel in El Calafate, with private rides that can be arranged in advance.
  • Car rental: Renting a car in El Calafate is a good option if you plan to explore and sightsee beyond the city. Browse cheap car rentals in El Calafate on Expedia.
  • Taxi/ride-hailing: Taxis and ride-hailing services may be available from designated pickup areas outside the terminal, check locally on arrival.

Where to stay in and around El Calafate

  • Macrozona Bahía Redonda y Primeros Faldeos: Located around the area of El Calafate, Macrozona Bahía Redonda y Primeros Faldeos is a vibrant neighborhood known for its breathtaking outdoor scenery and thrilling adventure experiences. Visitors will find a variety of engaging activities, such as recreational areas, spa options, and guided tours. Key attractions nearby include the Avenue del Libertador, a famous street perfect for strolling, the Glaciarium, an eco-friendly environmental center, and the Bahía Redonda Viewpoint, which offers stunning lookout spots ideal for romance and outdoor adventures.
  • Cerro Frias: Situated 16 miles drive away from El Calafate, Cerro Frias is a natural park that showcases the area's stunning landscapes and offers excellent opportunities for nature enthusiasts. The region is home to various natural parks and is perfect for exploring the local flora and fauna. Travelers can also enjoy nearby highlights like the Glaciarium, an environmental center, Lake Argentino, which is perfect for romantic outings and scenic views, and Bahia Tranquila, a tranquil bay ideal for beachgoers and outdoor activities.
  • El Calafate Centro: El Calafate Centro is located around the area of El Calafate and serves as a hub for outdoor adventures and cultural experiences. This vibrant neighborhood features recreational areas, theaters, and outdoor spaces that invite exploration. Notable landmarks include the enchanting Gnome Village, a cultural village that delights visitors, the Avenue del Libertador, well-known for its local charm, and the Anfiteatro Del Bosque, a cultural venue that hosts various events and performances, making it a great spot for soaking up the local atmosphere.

Tips for short-haul flights to El Calafate

For quick getaways, efficiency is key. Here is how to make your short-haul journey smoother:

  • Pack light and skip checked bags—when flying with budget airlines, it’s often more cost-effective to travel with just a carry-on. Maximize your space by opting for mini toiletries, wearing your bulkiest clothing, and planning your outfits thoughtfully. This approach also allows you to bypass the wait at baggage claim upon arrival.
  • Bring your own entertainment—many short-haul flights may not provide in-flight entertainment options. To keep yourself entertained, download TV shows, movies, music, or podcasts ahead of time, and consider bringing along a book. Remember to charge your devices fully before you board.
  • Arrive at the airport in plenty of time—even for short or domestic flights, it’s advisable to arrive at least 1.5 to 2 hours before your departure, taking into account traffic and security lines.
  • Bring your own snacks and water—pack some snacks and a refillable water bottle to stay hydrated and save money while at the airport.

Tips for long-haul flights to El Calafate

Flying long-haul sometimes requires extra planning to ensure a comfortable journey:

  • Select your seat in advance—for longer flights, choosing your seat is crucial for comfort. Full-service airlines typically allow free seat selection once online check-in begins, which is usually 24–48 hours before your flight. Some airlines permit seat selection even earlier.
  • Arrive at the airport in plenty of time—plan to be at the airport at least 3 hours prior to departure for international flights to accommodate check-in, security, and immigration processes.
  • Relax at the airport—if you find yourself with extra time, take the opportunity to explore the shops, grab a coffee, or unwind at the gate or in a departure lounge if you have access. Airport Wi-Fi is generally free and readily available.
  • Adjust to the new time zone mid-flight—begin synchronizing your body clock by changing your watch and adjusting your sleep schedule to align with your destination's time zone. Aim to sleep or remain awake during the flight according to the local time of your arrival to help minimize jet lag.

Frequently asked questions

What month is the cheapest to fly to El Calafate?
October is the cheapest month to fly to El Calafate. There's less demand then, so you're likely to snag a great deal. Organizing your trip outside of school breaks and public holidays could also help you save.
Which US cities fly direct to El Calafate?
To fly to El Calafate without a stopover, simply check the "Direct flights only" box when you look for journeys on Expedia and we'll show you all the available options to compare.
How to find a cheap flight to El Calafate?
Book well in advance or look for cheap flights to El Calafate during off-season months like June and July. Flying off on a Thursday could also save you 16% on average compared to a Sunday flight.* The Expedia app makes it even easier to know the right time to book. Just turn on the toggle for "Watch prices" and you'll receive a notification as soon as there's a better deal.*Best day of the week to book, depart and ideal booking window recommendations based on average round-trip ticket prices for January through August 2023, sourced from Airline Reporting Corporation's (ARC) global airline sales database. Percentages noted are averages.
How to get a cheap last-minute flight to El Calafate?
While booking in advance is generally the best way to save cash, don't panic if your El Calafate getaway is last minute. You can still get cheap flights to El Calafate, especially if your plans have a little wiggle room. Try changing your dates, exploring different ticket options or flying out of another airport.
How far in advance should I book a flight to El Calafate?
Get the travel dates you want and a fare your budget will love by booking your domestic flight to El Calafate up to 28 days in advance. Search for tickets two to four months ahead if you're headed to El Calafate from an international destination.**Best day of the week to book, depart and ideal booking window recommendations based on average round-trip ticket prices for January through August 2023, sourced from Airline Reporting Corporation's (ARC) global airline sales database. Percentages noted are averages.
Which day of the week is the cheapest day to buy a plane ticket to El Calafate?
Sundays are typically the best day to book a cheap flight to El Calafate, with savings of about 8% on average compared to a Friday. If you choose to purchase on a Friday, be ready to pay a higher price as this is often the most expensive day.**Best day of the week to book, depart and ideal booking window recommendations based on average round-trip ticket prices for January through August 2023, sourced from Airline Reporting Corporation's (ARC) global airline sales database. Percentages noted are averages.
Which airlines fly to El Calafate?
There are 2 airlines connecting El Calafate with 3 airports across the globe. The principal entry point to El Calafate is Comandante Armando Tola Intl. Airport (FTE). Aerolineas Argentinas and Flybondi are two leading airlines to El Calafate.
Where do you fly into El Calafate?
You'll disembark at Comandante Armando Tola Intl. Airport (FTE). This is the main airport for travelers flying to El Calafate.
How far is the airport from central El Calafate?
Flying into Comandante Armando Tola Intl. Airport (FTE) puts you around 10 mi east of central El Calafate.
Can I save money by booking an El Calafate trip package?
Book an El Calafate flight and hotel package deal on Expedia, and you could benefit from significant savings. It's easy to bundle your accommodations and flights, and you can add car rentals and tours to create your own customized El Calafate trip. Plus, there's nothing like the convenience of booking everything in the same place.
Can I change or cancel my flight to El Calafate?
It's usually possible to cancel or change your flight to El Calafate. Many airlines let you cancel flights for free within 24 hours of making your booking. However, some flights are non-refundable, and airlines may offer you a credit toward a future flight in place of a direct refund. To secure affordable flights to El Calafate with flexible change policies, check the "Changes included" or "No cancel fee" filters during your search. Want more details? Go to our Customer Service Portal.

*Flight schedules are subject to change.

*Available to One Key members.

 

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Travel information

Destination airport
Comandante Armando Tola Intl.
Destination airport IATA code
FTE
Destination city name
El Calafate
Roundtrip price
$198

Trending flights to El Calafate

Prices were available within the past 7 days and start at $95 for one-way flights and $199 for round trip, for the period specified. Prices and availability are subject to change. Additional terms apply.

Aerolineas Argentinas

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