CALAFATE & GLACIARES NATIONAL PARK
El Calafate is the gateway to the colossal Patagonian Ice Field, offering a journey into a world of breathtaking glaciers, towering mountains, and pristine wilderness. It’s an essential destination for experiencing the raw, untamed beauty of Southern Patagonia.
This region is defined by the monumental Los Glaciares National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage site. It’s a land where massive ice sheets calve into turquoise lakes, creating an unforgettable spectacle of nature’s power and scale.
Most Popular Attractions
Glaciers & Ice Field Access:
Perito Moreno Glacier: The park’s main draw. A spectacular, accessible glacier renowned for its massive ice ruptures (calving).
Glacier Boat Tours (Navegación Todos los Glaciares): Full-day excursions exploring the northern arm of Lake Argentino, visiting glaciers like Upsala Glacier (the park’s largest) and Spegazzini Glacier (the tallest).
Minitrekking on Perito Moreno: A guided excursion that allows visitors to walk directly on the ice of the glacier with crampons.
Big Ice Trekking: A longer, more challenging guided trek across a significant portion of the Perito Moreno Glacier.
El Calafate Ice Bar: A unique bar experience where everything, including the glasses, is made of ice.
Ice Museum (Glaciarium): A modern interpretive center dedicated to glaciology, the Patagonian Ice Field, and climate change.
Views, Trails & Natural Sites:
Perito Moreno Boardwalks & Balconies: A vast network of well-maintained walkways and viewing platforms offering different perspectives of the Perito Moreno Glacier.
Cerro Frias: A mountain near El Calafate offering panoramic views of Lake Argentino, El Calafate, and the Andes. Accessible via 4×4 or horseback riding.
Walichu Caves: Archaeological site featuring ancient cave paintings and offering a view of Lake Argentino.
Nimez Lagoon Reserve (Reserva Laguna Nimez): A municipal ecological reserve on the shores of Lake Argentino, perfect for birdwatching, especially flamingos and black-necked swans.
Bajo de las Sombras Port: The port where boats depart for the “Minitrekking” and “Big Ice” experiences, offering close-up views of the glacier’s south wall.
Glaciar Grande Trail: A lesser-known hiking trail within the National Park offering remote views of Glaciar Grande.
Town of El Calafate:
Avenida del Libertador General San Martín: The main street of El Calafate, lined with shops, restaurants, and tour operators.
Regional Museum of El Calafate (Museo Regional El Calafate): Small museum detailing the history, geology, and paleontology of the region.
Centro de Interpretación Histórica: A center that provides a deeper dive into the history of El Calafate and the surrounding area.
Ice Cream Shops (Heladerías): Try the artisan ice cream flavors made with local ingredients like Calafate berry.
Calafate Gastronomy: Experience the local specialty: Patagonian lamb cooked al asador (on a cross over an open fire).
The Old Town: Explore the quieter, older streets of El Calafate away from the main avenue.
Casino Club El Calafate: A small local casino for evening entertainment.
Souvenir Shops: Numerous shops selling local crafts, wool, and Calafate berry products.
Beyond El Calafate (Day Trips):
El Chaltén (Trekking Capital): While a separate region, it’s often a necessary day or overnight trip to access world-class hiking to Mount Fitz Roy and Cerro Torre.
Estancias: Visit a traditional Patagonian ranch (like Estancia Cristina or Estancia Nibepo Aike) for a taste of rural life, history, and activities like horseback riding.
Activities & Experiences
Mini-Trekking on Perito Moreno Glacier: Experience the iconic glacier up close by taking a guided walk on the ice itself, using crampons. This is a shorter, beginner-friendly trek.
Big Ice Expedition: For the adventurous, this full-day tour involves a longer, more challenging trek on the Perito Moreno Glacier, exploring deep crevasses and blue ice formations.
Glacier Boat Tour (Navegación Safari Náutico): Take a boat ride across Lake Argentino to witness the sheer, towering face of the Perito Moreno Glacier from the water.
“Todo Glaciares” Boat Excursion: A full-day navigation that takes you past several major glaciers in the National Park, including the Upsala and Spegazzini Glaciers, which are massive but only accessible by boat.
Hike the walkways and balconies of Perito Moreno: Spend hours exploring the extensive network of boardwalks and viewing platforms for multiple, breathtaking perspectives of the Perito Moreno Glacier.
Visit the Glaciarium Ice Museum: A modern interpretation center dedicated to glaciology and the Patagonian Ice Field, which also features the Glacio Bar (an ice bar).
Go Horseback Riding (Cabalgata): Explore the vast Patagonian steppe and surrounding estancias (ranches) on horseback, offering a unique perspective of the landscape.
Explore the “Calafate Mountain Park”: A center offering various activities depending on the season, such as snowshoeing and tubing in winter, or trekking and 4×4 excursions in summer, with great views of the lake.
Trek to Laguna Esmeralda (near El Chaltén): Take a day trip (or spend a few days) to the nearby trekking capital, El Chaltén, and hike to this stunning emerald-colored lagoon at the base of the mountains.
Experience an authentic Patagonian Estancia: Spend a day at a working ranch to learn about sheep shearing, enjoy a traditional cordero al palo (spit-roasted lamb), and experience rural Patagonian life.
Birdwatching at Laguna Nimez: Visit this nature reserve just outside El Calafate to spot various species of birds, including flamingos, particularly around sunset.
Local Tips & Transport
Getting to the Glaciers: The only way to access the Perito Moreno Glacier walkways is via organized shuttle bus, rental car, or guided tour. Public bus service is available, but tours often combine transport with the boat/trekking activities. The drive takes approximately 1.5 to 2 hours from El Calafate.
Rental Car: Highly recommended for maximum flexibility. It allows you to visit the National Park at your own pace, stop at scenic viewpoints, and easily take a side trip to El Chaltén (about a 3-hour drive north).
Taxis/Remises: Taxis are available in town, but they can be expensive for long distances like the glacier. Remises are pre-booked private cars and often offer fixed rates to major tourist attractions.
Getting to El Chaltén: The nearby trekking hub is about 215 km (134 miles) away. Regular buses connect El Calafate and El Chaltén, making it easy for a day trip or multi-day stay.
Layers are Essential: Patagonia’s weather is famously unpredictable. You can experience all four seasons in a single day. Pack layers, including waterproof and windproof outerwear, even in the summer.
Patagonian Wind: Be prepared for strong, persistent winds. They can make the temperature feel significantly colder, especially on the glacier viewpoints and boat tours.
National Park Entrance: Note that the entrance fee to Los Glaciares National Park must be paid separately (usually in cash or by card at the entrance booth) and is not included in the cost of tours or transport.
Cordero al Palo: This is the quintessential Patagonian meal. The whole lamb is slow-roasted over a cross-like spit (al palo) near a wood fire. It’s a must-try culinary experience, especially at an estancia or a dedicated grill restaurant.
Currency and Payment: While most major establishments accept credit cards, it’s always wise to carry some Argentine Pesos (cash) for smaller purchases, local guides, or tips.
Reservations: The Big Ice and Mini-Trekking tours have limited spots, especially in the high season (December to February). Book these key activities well in advance.
Hidden Gems
- The Old Glaciers Museum Road: For stunning, less-visited views of the main body of Lake Argentino and the surrounding steppe, take a detour onto the old dirt road (Ruta 15/Provincial 15) that runs along the north shore of the lake.
- La Leona Petrified Forest: Located between El Calafate and El Chaltén, this is a unique stop to see petrified trees and fossils from an ancient forest, offering a contrast to the icy landscape.
- El Calafate’s Waterfront Walk: The simple paved path along the shore of Lake Argentino in town offers beautiful sunset views and a chance to see some of the local birdlife.
Top Restaurants
Pura Vida Resto Bar [$20-$35] – A cozy, unpretentious spot a few blocks from the main street in El Calafate, famous for its hearty homemade cuisine, especially the signature Patagonian lamb stew served inside a calabaza (pumpkin).
La Tablita [$30-$55] – A classic and widely-respected parrilla (grill) house in El Calafate, renowned for its perfectly cooked Patagonian lamb cooked al asador (spit-roasted) and a vibrant, traditional atmosphere.
Mi Rancho Restaurant Patagónico [$25-$45] – A popular family-run restaurant in El Calafate known for its welcoming atmosphere and traditional Patagonian dishes, offering guanaco in various styles like grilled or smoked.
Casimiro Biguá [$30-$50] – An elegant restaurant on the main avenue of El Calafate that specializes in regional dishes like spit-roasted lamb and has an extensive wine list featuring excellent Argentine labels.
Isabel Cocina al Disco [$25-$40] – A charming and cozy restaurant in El Calafate offering a unique experience with its al disco cooking method—various meats and stews cooked in a traditional plow disc.
Don Pichón Parrilla [$30-$50] – A standalone grill house on a small hill in El Calafate, offering excellent traditional Patagonian lamb and beef with great panoramic views of Lake Argentino.
Rustico Asador y Parrilla [$25-$40] – A highly-rated steakhouse in El Calafate offering a wide variety of perfectly grilled meats, including tender Patagonian lamb, in a rustic, inviting setting.
Mi Viejo [$20-$35] – Nestled in the heart of El Calafate, this charming grill is a must-visit for authentic Argentine asado (barbecue) and classic, flavorful cuts of beef.
Don Mecha [$15-$25] – A local favorite in El Calafate, known for its superb sánguche de milanesa (breaded meat sandwich) and other simple, hearty Argentine comfort foods.
Restaurante La Cocina [$20-$35] – A charming dining spot in El Calafate that offers a delightful mix of traditional Argentine steaks, Italian-style pasta, and fresh seafood dishes.
La Zaina Cocina Patagónica [$35-$60] – A bistro with a hip, warm interior displaying historical photos in El Calafate, focusing on modern, well-presented Patagonian cuisine with hearty meats and good cocktails.
Restaurante El Ovejero [$20-$35] – Savor authentic Patagonian flavors at this welcoming spot in El Calafate, specializing in traditional lamb and regional dishes.
La Posta [$25-$40] – A steakhouse in El Calafate that serves up delicious Argentinean dishes, including high-quality beef cuts, as well as international fare in a stylish, comfortable setting.
Casimiro Biguá Parrilla [$30-$50] – The sister location to the main Casimiro restaurant in El Calafate, this spot focuses purely on the parrilla experience, with the spectacle of spit-roasted lamb visible from the street.
La Lechuza Restaurante [$20-$35] – Part of a local family business in El Calafate, this branch focuses on Patagonian dishes and delightful homemade pastries, served in a friendly and calm environment.
La Zorra Taproom [$15-$30] – A casual and cozy taproom in El Calafate that serves local craft beer alongside inexpensive, hearty, local-style meals, perfect for a warming lunch or dinner.
Cerveceria Artesanal Chopen [$15-$30] – A popular brewpub in El Calafate that offers a variety of home-brewed beers along with a menu featuring tempting light meals and traditional bar food.
Mako Fuegos y Vinos [$45-$75] – An elegant yet unpretentious space in the heart of El Calafate, known for its multi-course tasting menus (3, 5, or 7 courses) that combine local flavors with various cooking techniques, often featuring farm-to-table ingredients.
Restaurant Mora [$40-$65] – Located in El Calafate, this restaurant offers a more elegant dining experience with a focus on visually stunning and delicious seafood and fish dishes, along with refined Patagonian plates.
La Zaina (as Fine Dining/Creative) [$35-$60] – This centrally located restaurant in El Calafate offers a modern take on Patagonian cuisine, with seductive cocktails, colorful plating, and a fusion of flavors that could rival trendy Buenos Aires establishments.
Restó del Glaciar [$25-$45] – Located at the Perito Moreno Glacier walkways in Los Glaciares National Park, this spot is ideal for a quiet lunch, offering regional flavors and homemade dishes with one of the best views of the area.
El Living Resto Bar [$20-$35] – A modern and relaxed spot in El Calafate that offers contemporary interpretations of classic Patagonian ingredients and a great atmosphere for a casual, high-quality meal.
Librobar Borges y Álvarez [$15-$30] – A hip, bohemian library bar in El Calafate where you can enjoy local craft beer, wine, coffee, or a light meal with fast Wi-Fi, offering a creative twist on a traditional cafe.
Kairos [$25-$45] – A restaurant in El Calafate that blends authentic Argentine cuisine with a modern presentation, offering quality food in a sophisticated setting.
Panadería y Confitería Don Luis [$10-$20] – While technically a bakery and pastry shop in El Calafate, its offerings are essential for a taste of creative Patagonian sweets, including regional desserts and delicious pastries.
Rancho Aparte (Closed-Door Dining) [$60-$90] – An intimate, reservation-only, closed-door restaurant in El Calafate that offers a personal and unforgettable multi-course dining experience, often feeling like being invited to a friend’s home for a gourmet Patagonian dinner.
Lucinda Casa de Campo (Home Asado) [$60-$80] – A highly recommended unique experience in El Calafate where the owner cooks a wonderful traditional Patagonian asado (barbecue) in his backyard, featuring lamb empanadas, steak, dessert, and unlimited local wine at communal tables. (Cash payment often preferred)
Nativo Experience – Caves & Dinner [$120-$180] – A half-day excursion from El Calafate that includes a 4×4 trip along Lake Argentino to an archaeological site with cave paintings, concluding with a traditional lunch or dinner in the main cave, taking you back to ancient times.
El Quincho at Estancia 25 de Mayo [$75-$100] – Located just minutes from El Calafate city center, this restaurant is part of the Estancia 25 de Mayo, offering a generous, shared-style lunch or dinner featuring Patagonian lamb and Argentine dishes, often with live folk music.
Estancia Nibepo Aike Lunch [$50-$80] – Located within Los Glaciares National Park, this experience includes an authentic Patagonian asado lunch of grilled lamb served as part of a full-day Estancia adventure that may also include sheep shearing or horseback riding.
Glaciers Gourmet Cruise Lunch [$100-$150] – A luxurious full-day cruise on Lake Argentino (past Upsala and Spegazzini Glaciers) that includes a gourmet lunch served onboard, providing an exquisite meal paired with stunning glacier views.
Yeti Ice Bar [$20-$35] – A novel spot in El Calafate where you can have cocktails (or juice) from glasses made of ice in a sub-zero temperature ice bar, offering a fun, themed environment with a set price for a short window of free drinks.
Glaciobar [$20-$35] – Located inside the Glaciarium museum (outside El Calafate, with a free shuttle), this unique bar is made from 100% glacial ice, offering drinks in an icy setting as part of the museum experience.
Cabaña Los Álamos (Hotel Dining) [$45-$70] – The main restaurant of the historic Cabaña Los Álamos hotel in El Calafate, known for its elegant dining room and consistently high-quality Patagonian and international cuisine.
La Chacrita de Nimez [$25-$40] – Located outside the central area of El Calafate near the Laguna Nimez reserve, this spot offers a peaceful setting with stunning lake views and a focus on authentic Argentine cuisine and local flavors.
La Trinchera Wine and Beer [$15-$30] – A gastropub in El Calafate that focuses on offering an exquisite selection of local wines and craft beers alongside creative, high-quality bar food and tapas.
La Oveja Negra [$15-$30] – A popular bar in El Calafate known for its laid-back atmosphere and excellent selection of local craft beer, offering light meals and snacks in a cozy setting across from La Zorra.
Chocolates Ovejitas de la Patagonia [$5-$15] – While not a full restaurant, this chocolate factory in El Calafate is famous for its homemade chocolates, ice cream, and other Patagonian sweets—a must-try for dessert or a treat.
Olivia Coffee Shop [$10-$20] – Located in El Calafate, this coffee shop offers decent coffee, scrumptious muffins, and a selection of light meals, including their popular lamb stew served inside a pumpkin, catering to those seeking vegetarian and vegan options too.
Top Cocktail Bars and Clubs
Yeti Ice Bar: A unique bar experience on the main avenue (Av. del Libertador) in El Calafate, where the bar, walls, and even the glasses are made of ice. Guests are provided with thermal capes and gloves for the sub-zero temperatures.
Glaciobar Branca-Up (Glaciarium Museum): Argentina’s first ice bar, located within the Glaciarium Patagonian Ice Museum (a short shuttle ride outside of town). It offers an open bar for a set time, with ice sourced from the Perito Moreno Glacier.
Twenty Nine Speakeasy: Found in a local gallery off the main street (9 de Julio St.), this venue offers a cozy, vintage atmosphere with a focus on creative and classic cocktails, a nod to Prohibition-era bars.
Hidden BAR: Tucked away in the downtown area, this is a local favorite known for its signature cocktails and eclectic atmosphere, perfect for a late-night drink after dinner.
Patagonia Bitters: A cocktail bar in the downtown area that focuses on handcrafted cocktails and an inviting atmosphere, utilizing local Patagonian ingredients and flavors.
Shelby Mercado de Gin y Cervezas: Located on the main street (Av. del Libertador), this market-style bar specializes in a wide selection of gins and craft beers, popular with locals and travelers.
Humus Cocktail Bar (Hotel Posada Los Alamos): Situated within the historic Hotel Posada Los Alamos, this bar offers a more elegant and refined setting for enjoying international drinks and classic cocktails.
La Zorra Taproom: A popular spot on the main street (Av. del Libertador) known for its excellent selection of Patagonian craft beers on tap and a vibrant, brewpub-style atmosphere, also serving pub fare.
La Fábrica Cervecería: Located slightly off the main thoroughfare in the town center, this craft brewery offers a lively spot for a wide selection of house-brewed beers, often featuring a friendly, communal vibe.
Cerveceria Patagonia – Refugio Calafate: Part of the famous Patagonia beer brand, this “Refugio” on the main avenue is a comfortable spot to enjoy their regional brews and bar snacks.
UCO Wine Shop: A wine shop and bar located near the city center, offering tastings and a curated selection of Argentine wines, including regional Patagonian varietals like Malbec and Pinot Noir.
The Wine Shop: Also on the main street (Av. del Libertador), this spot is dedicated to showcasing Argentina’s finest wines, providing a relaxed setting for a glass of Patagonian red or white.
Bar Borges & Alvarez: A cozy, book-lined spot on the second floor of a building on the main street, which is often called a “Libro Bar” (Book Bar). It offers local craft beers and a relaxed, cultured atmosphere, occasionally featuring live acoustic music.
Don Diego De La Noche: A pub located in the downtown area, known for featuring live music, particularly during the high season, making it a lively choice for late-night entertainment.
La Oveja Negra: Situated near the main street, this bar offers a vibrant ambiance with a focus on local drinks and creative cocktails, popular for mixing with locals and tourists.
La Toldería: Located on the main street (Av. del Libertador), this is one of the premier spots for a proper nightlife “party” experience in El Calafate, especially during the high season, operating as a popular gastropub and later as a vibrant late-night venue.
Mako Premium Bar: Situated in the heart of El Calafate, this venue offers a lively atmosphere that serves Argentinian cuisine earlier in the evening and transitions into a bustling spot for drinks, music, and socialising late into the night.
Coyote Pub Calafate: A classic pub located slightly further from the central hub, this spot offers a lively atmosphere, great music, and is a strong option for those seeking a traditional pub/dance environment in El Calafate.
Ritual: Located a short distance from the main center, Ritual is a known spot in the local nightlife scene, offering a dedicated club or high-energy late-night bar experience.
Libélula Bar: Found in the main commercial district, this venue is known to host live music, creating a vibrant, high-energy atmosphere that transitions from a bar into a place for dancing and late-night fun.
La Cantina: While primarily a casual eatery on Leandro N. Alem St., it is often cited as a place with a fun, late-night atmosphere where groups gather for drinks and conversation.
Elba’r: A popular and cozy spot in the downtown area that transitions into a lively bar in the evening, known for its friendly service and diverse drinks menu, attracting a vibrant, mixed crowd.
Pamperito: Located slightly off the central main street, this bar offers a warm atmosphere that is excellent for a later drink, with an inviting Patagonian ambiance.
Mora Restaurant (Xelena Hotel & Suites): While a hotel restaurant, its bar/lounge area provides a chic and elegant option for cocktails and wine, overlooking the stunning Lago Argentino for a sophisticated late-night experience.
Shackleton Solo: A bar on the main avenue that often caters to the adventure-seeking crowd, offering a relaxed but social atmosphere perfect for sharing stories over a drink after a long day in Los Glaciares National Park.