El Calafate

Travel Guide

A glacier with a large ice face and a turquoise lake below.
A large glacier with a river flowing through it, surrounded by mountains.
A glacier calving into a river surrounded by mountains.
A glacier with a prominent peak and surrounding rocky cliffs.
A glacier with a turquoise lake at its base, surrounded by snow-capped mountains.

Travel to El Calafate for local art, historical insights, picturesque viewpoints, and engaging water sports in stunning landscapes.

El Calafate is an ideal destination for scenery and outdoor travelers. You can visit the Gnome Village, a cultural site that showcases local art and community spirit. The Avenue del Libertador is a famous street lined with shops and eateries, making it a pleasant walk. For those interested in history, the El Calafate Historical Interpretation Center provides insights into the region's past. Additionally, you can engage in water sports at Calafate Fishing, a popular venue for such activities. Nearby, Cerro Frias offers a stunning lake to explore.

While you're in El Calafate, visit some of its most interesting neighborhoods. El Calafate Centro is known for outdoor experiences, featuring the Intendencia Parque Nacional Los Glaciares, which serves as a visitor center, and the Argentinian Museum of Toys, which highlights local culture. Another area, Macrozona Bahía Redonda y Primeros Faldeos, offers the Bahía Redonda Viewpoint, a lookout providing scenic vistas. Likewise, Cerro Calafate has the Museo de El Calafate, where you can learn more about the region's heritage.

The best time to visit El Calafate is from December to March, when the weather is cool, mostly dry, and often sunny, with temperatures ranging from 48 to 51°F. During these months, you will find the area lively with visitors, making it a great time for outdoor activities. While the weather is pleasant year-round, expect the busiest times during these summer months, which may affect availability for accommodations and tours.

Where to stay in El Calafate

Find the best El Calafate areas and neighborhoods for the activities you enjoy most. Learn more about El Calafate
Learn more about El Calafate

Macrozona Lago Argentino

Unique features of Macrozona Lago Argentino include the lake views and restaurants. Make a stop by Lake Argentino or Laguna Nimez while you're exploring the area.

El Calafate Centro

If you're spending some time in El Calafate Centro, Gnome Village and Casino Club El Calafate are top sights worth seeing.

Macrozona Bahía Redonda y Primeros Faldeos

Macrozona Bahía Redonda y Primeros Faldeos is known for its lake views, and you can plan a trip to Calafate Fishing and Gnome Village while you're in town.

Cerro Calafate

Well-liked for its lake views and restaurants, you might stop by Gnome Village and Calafate Fishing while you're exploring Cerro Calafate and the surrounding neighborhoods.

Hotel Posada Los Alamos

Hotel Posada Los Alamos

4 out of 5
Ing. Hector Mario Guatti 1135 El Calafate Santa Cruz
$154 nightly
The price is $154 total per night from Nov 17 to Nov 18
$154 total
Nov 17 - Nov 18
Book a stay at this golf hotel in El Calafate. Enjoy free breakfast, free WiFi, and free parking. Popular attractions Gnome Village and Avenue del Libertador ...
Hotel Posada Los Alamos
Hotel del Glaciar Libertador

Hotel del Glaciar Libertador

3 out of 5
Avenida Libertador 587 El Calafate Santa Cruz
$82 nightly
The price is $82 total per night from Nov 17 to Nov 18
$82 total
Nov 17 - Nov 18
Stay at this hotel in El Calafate. Enjoy free breakfast, free WiFi, and daily housekeeping. Our guests praise the helpful staff in our reviews. Popular attractions ...
8.4/10 Very Good! (449 reviews)
"Desk staff was extremely friendly and very helpful! Loved our cute little room. Quiet at night was appreciated. Breakfast was included and wonderful. The only improvement we would have appreciated was an electric teapot in our room."

Reviewed on Nov 12, 2026

Hotel del Glaciar Libertador
Mirador del Lago Hotel

Mirador del Lago Hotel

4 out of 5
Avenida Del Libertador 2047 El Calafate Santa Cruz
$212 nightly
The price is $212 total per night from Nov 27 to Nov 28
$212 total
Nov 27 - Nov 28
Book a stay at this business-friendly hotel in El Calafate. Enjoy free breakfast, free WiFi, and free parking. Our guests praise the helpful staff in our reviews. ...
9.2/10 Wonderful! (672 reviews)
"Hotel is located walking distance to all shops and restaurants. Breakfast was very nice also. Only amenity I wish the hotel offered was lotion. Great stay!"

Reviewed on Nov 6, 2026

Mirador del Lago Hotel
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.
Linda Vista Apart Hotel

Linda Vista Apart Hotel

3 out of 5
Avenida Padre Agostini 71 El Calafate Santa Cruz
Stay at this aparthotel in El Calafate. Enjoy free breakfast, free WiFi, and free parking. Popular attractions Anfiteatro Del Bosque and Calafate Fishing are ...
9.2/10 Wonderful! (164 reviews)
"Definitely recommend! Our stay was so much better because of all the assistance we received here. The breakfast was excellent representative of the areas food and even available for early morning activities. The rooms are spacious and comfortable with all things easily available. The walk to the ..."

Reviewed on Nov 2, 2026

Linda Vista Apart Hotel
Solares Del Sur Patagonia

Solares Del Sur Patagonia

3 out of 5
De Los Fresnos 3362 El Calafate Santa Cruz
Book a stay at this business-friendly aparthotel in El Calafate. Enjoy free breakfast, free WiFi, and room service. Popular attractions Bahía Redonda Viewpoint ...
8.8/10 Excellent! (118 reviews)
"Everything was excellent about the property except the location. If you don’t have a car, you have to get a taxi wherever you go. if you don’t have Argentina pesos, it is even more challenging because the taxi mark up at least 20 percent more if you pay by credit card."

Reviewed on Oct 21, 2026

Solares Del Sur Patagonia
Paraiso Patagonico Bungalows and Apart

Paraiso Patagonico Bungalows and Apart

3 out of 5
Calle 10015 N82 El Calafate Santa Cruz
Stay at this apartment in El Calafate. Enjoy free WiFi, free parking, and an airport shuttle (surcharge). Popular attractions Museo de El Calafate and Plaza ...
8.8/10 Excellent! (20 reviews)
"Though a bit of a walk to town, it was comfortable and safe. We did have issue with the plumbing in the kitchen sink and it would have been nice to have instructions for how to use the gas appliances because we struggled with the stove and ended up accidentally turning off the hot water tank without ..."

Reviewed on Mar 8, 2025

Paraiso Patagonico Bungalows and Apart
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.

Stay near popular El Calafate attractions

Things to do

Frequently asked questions

Is El Calafate worth visiting?
El Calafate is worth visiting for its unique attractions like the El Calafate Historical Interpretation Center and Glaciarium. Travelers can also explore distinct areas such as Macrozona Bahía Redonda y Primeros Faldeos and El Calafate Centro, and enjoy diverse Latin American and Italian dining options.
When is the best time to visit El Calafate?
The best time to visit El Calafate is from January through February, during its summer months. For travelers seeking fewer crowds and better value, the quieter winter months of June through September are a good option, offering a more serene experience.
Where are the best neighborhoods to explore in El Calafate?
The best neighborhoods to explore in El Calafate depend on what you want to see:

  • Macrozona Bahía Redonda y Primeros Faldeos is great for outdoor activities like Calafate Fishing and offers views from Bahía Redonda Viewpoint, with easy access to Avenue del Libertador.
  • El Calafate Centro is the city's heart, featuring cultural spots like Anfiteatro Del Bosque and the Argentinian Museum of Toys, plus the whimsical Gnome Village.

What is El Calafate known for?
El Calafate is known for its El Calafate Historical Interpretation Center, which offers insights into the region's past. Travelers can also visit the Glaciarium and the unique Gnome Village. The city, with areas like Macrozona Bahía Redonda y Primeros Faldeos, also features a Latin American food culture.
What is a good itinerary length for El Calafate?
A good itinerary length for El Calafate is two to three days to explore local highlights like the El Calafate Historical Interpretation Center, Glaciarium, and Macrozona Bahía Redonda y Primeros Faldeos. For a deeper dive into the region, including glaciers and Patagonian treasures, travelers might consider an extended stay of five to seven days, using El Calafate as a base for longer tours. See El Calafate Activities.
How do you get around El Calafate?
In El Calafate, travelers can get around using the local bus system, with the main hub being the El Calafate Bus Terminal. Rental cars are also available for those who prefer to drive, with options found in El Calafate Centro. Rideshare services offer another convenient way to navigate the area.
How do I plan a trip to El Calafate?
To plan your trip to El Calafate, search for hotels in areas like El Calafate Centro. Book flights, rental cars, and activities such as the 2 Days Express in El Calafate Glaciers well in advance. Public buses are available for getting around. Always have indoor backups for outdoor plans due to weather.
What cuisines can you find in El Calafate?
In El Calafate, you can find South American cuisine, with popular dishes like grilled meats (asado), empanadas, and dulce de leche desserts. Travelers also enjoy Italian, European, and Asian options, plus steakhouses. There are also coffee shops and various bars, including cocktail and wine bars.
Can I book a refundable hotel in El Calafate?
Yes, Expedia offers many flexible booking options, and you can look for refundable hotels in El Calafate by entering your dates and using the refundable or fully refundable filter. Always check the hotel's cancellation policy before you book, since terms can vary by hotel, and visit Expedia help center for further details.
Why book a trip to El Calafate with Expedia?
Expedia makes it easier to plan your El Calafate trip with travel tools, flexible search options, and bookable trip components all in one place. You can organize your plans in one account and use Expedia to help build a trip that fits your budget and travel style. Find out more about how by visiting Expedia's Trip Planner page.
Should I stay in a hotel or vacation rental in El Calafate?
The best choice depends on your travel style. Hotels in El Calafate can be a good fit for convenience, on-site amenities, and shorter stays, while vacation rentals may offer more space, privacy, and home-style amenities for longer trips, families, or groups. With Expedia, you can compare both options side by side, read traveler reviews, and filter by amenities to find the right fit for your trip.
How can I manage my El Calafate trip on Expedia?
Once you've booked your El Calafate trip, you can manage it through your Expedia account or the Expedia app. You can view your itinerary, access booking details, make eligible changes, and check for updates in My Trips. The Expedia app can also help you stay organized while you travel.
What if I need help during my El Calafate trip?
Expedia offers customer support before, during, and after your El Calafate trip. If your plans change or something unexpected happens, you can review your booking in My Trips and use Expedia help center channels for help with eligible changes, cancellations, or travel issues.
How can Expedia help me plan my first trip to El Calafate?
If it's your first trip to El Calafate, Expedia can help you plan by bringing together stays, flights, activities, traveler reviews, and trip-planning tools in one place. With Expedia's Trip Planner you can compare options, read reviews from other travelers, and build an itinerary that matches your interests and budget.
How can I save on my El Calafate hotel booking with Expedia?
Join One Key™ for free to unlock instant discounts with Member Prices on select hotels. You can also earn and use OneKeyCash™* on eligible bookings on Expedia. Booking in advance is usually another great way to save on your El Calafate hotel.

*Excludes taxes and fees. OneKeyCash is not redeemable for cash and can only be used on Expedia and other participating brands.

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