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El Calafate

Ice fields, iconic glaciers and windswept Patagonian steppe

Welcome to El Calafate

Of the many havens in Argentina for lovers of the great outdoors, El Calafate and the surrounding Los Glaciares National Park are among the best of them. This region of Argentina’s Southern Andes is home to giant glaciers, icy lakes, remote estancias and no shortage of breathtaking views accompanying outdoor excursions such as trekking, kayaking and horse riding. What’s more, after a fun-filled day on the lookout for Giant Andean Condors, hiking to a mountain base camp or touring Lake Argentino, there’s a raft of cozy bars and atmospheric eateries to come home to, the obligatory log fire and glass of velvety red wine an absolute must!

Explore El Calafate

Some of the greatest natural wonders of Argentina can be found while using El Calafate as your base. None more so than the Perito Moreno Glacier, a real highlight of Patagonia standing guard over Lake Argentino at 3 miles wide, over 200ft tall and covering an overall expanse of impenetrable ice that’s larger in surface area than Buenos Aires! A tour of Perito Moreno is not to be missed, either walking the elevated observation platforms to witness this marvel of Mother Earth from above, or perhaps by boat, voyaging right up to the ice cliff itself; an experience which is almost too impressive to take in. Glacier trekking is a popular pastime here and elsewhere around Los Glaciares National Park, as are horse riding, kayaking, photo and boat safaris through the landscape, catching glimpse of occasional wildlife along the way. The traditional estancia lifestyle of Southern Patagonia is another attraction, learning how those brave pioneers found success in such a formidable place.

Tip 1

Estancia Cristina: this incredible, authentic estancia in the heart of Patagonia provides one of the ultimate experiences, full of history and close to the Upsala Glacier too

Tip 2

The Glaciarium offers a fantastic insight into the geology of this once-frozen region, a must for anyone looking to really get to know Patagonia

Tip 3

Laguna Nimez makes for a nice alternative afternoon to take a moment of calm, and observe a variety of bird species while there

Best time to visit?

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Argentina luxury travel experts