Estancia El Galpón del Glaciar
Rustic-chic estancia offering lake views, horseback riding, and authentic Patagonian charm away from El Calafate.
Highlights
Must-see attractions

Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Crisp air, fewer crowds
Estancia El Galpón del Glaciar
Best Time
Crisp air, fewer crowds
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Rustic-chic estancia offering lake views, horseback riding, and authentic Patagonian charm away from El Calafate.
"Cannot recommend Agustina and El Galpón del Glaciar enough for this sort of excursion."
Book Horseback Riding Early
Agustina at El Galpón del Glaciar can arrange rides suitable for families, even with young children. :horse_racing:
Consider Your Own Transport
Having a car makes exploring easier and saves on taxi fares to El Calafate town. :car:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Horseback Riding with Lake Views
Estancia grounds
Experience the Patagonian landscape on horseback, with guides offering a unique perspective of the lake and surrounding nature.
Rustic-Chic Lakeside Accommodation
Hotel rooms
Enjoy comfortable, cottage-style rooms with beautiful lake views, offering a peaceful retreat after a day of exploration.
Authentic Patagonian Estancia Experience
Estancia grounds
Immerse yourself in the local culture with activities like sheep herding demonstrations and enjoying traditional meals.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Patagonian Pace
Book Activities Ahead
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Book Horseback Riding Early
Agustina at El Galpón del Glaciar can arrange rides suitable for families, even with young children. :horse_racing:
Consider Your Own Transport
Having a car makes exploring easier and saves on taxi fares to El Calafate town. :car:
Embrace Lakeside Serenity
Enjoy the quiet, beautiful lake views and birdlife. It's a perfect spot to relax and disconnect. :lake:
Dine In for Convenience
The on-site restaurant offers authentic meals, though can be pricey. Great for convenience after a day of activities. :forkandknife:
Tips
from all over the internet
Book Horseback Riding Early
Agustina at El Galpón del Glaciar can arrange rides suitable for families, even with young children. :horse_racing:
Consider Your Own Transport
Having a car makes exploring easier and saves on taxi fares to El Calafate town. :car:
Embrace Lakeside Serenity
Enjoy the quiet, beautiful lake views and birdlife. It's a perfect spot to relax and disconnect. :lake:
Dine In for Convenience
The on-site restaurant offers authentic meals, though can be pricey. Great for convenience after a day of activities. :forkandknife:
Plan for Weather
Patagonia can be windy and chilly even in summer. Pack layers! :cloud:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Estancia El Galpón del Glaciar is lauded for its stunning natural setting, offering breathtaking lake views and a tranquil escape. Guests rave about the authentic Patagonian experience, particularly the horseback riding excursions and the warm hospitality. While the food is delicious, some find it a bit pricey, and the remote location necessitates planning for transportation.
"While staying nearby, we wanted to do horseback riding with our 6.5-year old, which not all the estancias seem to do (age restrictions). Via email and WhatsApp, I was able to connect with Agustina at El Galpón del Glaciar. She suggested a way to do this that would be safe and fun for all, and wow did they really deliver. Our guides for the ride itself were professional, warm, and a lot of fun. Our daughter had a blast. And we got to see the landscape in a way that really brought it all to life. Cannot recommend Agustina and El Galpón del Glaciar enough for this sort of excursion. If we make it back to Patagonia this will be on our list to do again, and we’d certainly spend a night or two there (we were in town for this trip so cannot comment on the rooms)."
Daniel Teasley
"Cottage style accommodation - far away from El Calafate but that is okay not much to miss there. Nice when you have your own car.
We love the nature, view and quietness. However it means you have to dine there which is okay but nothing special. And sometimes expensive like for a local sweet fish. Because of the cold climate also in summer it is windy and unfortunately no sun beds are necessary or available. We had a room ensuite - with two big comfy chairs viewing the lake."
Annette Atiya
"Very nice location for nature lovers. Beautiful lake view, birds all around and very quiet. The hotel itself is simple; the room was small but we had a nice lake view. The bathroom was a bit smelly and one morning there was no water. It came back in the course of the morning though. Breakfast is ok. Eggs were there on the first day; the other days we had to ask for them. Staff is friendly and helpful. What is simply not good is the price level, as food is totally overpriced and so is the accommodation. Compared to 4-star hotels in El Calafate El Galpón is way too expensive for what it offers. Plus, you have to calculate the transfer by taxi (if your don’t have a car) which costs you 30$ extra one way if you want to have dinner in town."
Renate Lugmair
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Estancia El Galpón del Glaciar is located outside of El Calafate town. If you don't have your own car, you'll need to arrange a taxi or private transfer. This can be a significant cost, around $30 USD each way, so factor this into your budget. Some visitors have found it convenient to combine this with activities or to stay at the estancia if they have their own vehicle.
Yes, it is possible, but it requires planning. Taxis are available from El Calafate, but they are expensive for round trips. Some tour operators might offer pick-ups for specific activities originating from the estancia. It's best to confirm transportation arrangements directly with the estancia.
The driving distance is approximately 20-30 kilometers (12-18 miles) from El Calafate town. The journey takes about 20-30 minutes by car, depending on road conditions and the specific route.
Public transport options directly to Estancia El Galpón del Glaciar are very limited or non-existent. The estancia's remote location means that private transportation or a rental car is the most practical way to reach it.
Yes, El Calafate has an airport (Comandante Armando Tola International Airport - FTE) that receives domestic flights, primarily from Buenos Aires. From the airport, you would then need to arrange transport to the estancia.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Estancia El Galpón del Glaciar is a private property and accommodation. Entry is typically for guests staying at the hotel or participating in their organized activities. There isn't a general admission ticket like a national park.
Yes, activities such as horseback riding are offered by the estancia and come with a fee. It's advisable to inquire about pricing and availability directly with the estancia, especially for specific excursions like family-friendly rides.
Operating hours can vary, especially for activities. It's best to contact the estancia directly for the most up-to-date information on restaurant service times and the schedule for activities like horseback riding or demonstrations.
It is highly recommended to book activities, especially horseback riding, in advance, particularly during peak season. This ensures availability and allows the estancia to make necessary arrangements, like pairing you with suitable guides.
Estancia El Galpón del Glaciar is separate from the Perito Moreno National Park. If you plan to visit the park, you will need to pay the park's entrance fee separately. The park entrance fee for adults is around 2500 ARS for residents.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
The estancia offers cottage-style accommodation with rustic-chic rooms. Many rooms provide beautiful lake views, and some are described as spacious and comfortable, with amenities like comfy chairs facing the lake.
The estancia offers a range of nature-based activities, including horseback riding, sheep herding demonstrations, and hiking around the property. They are known for providing an authentic Patagonian estancia experience.
Yes, the estancia is family-friendly. They can arrange horseback riding excursions that are safe and fun for children, even young ones. The natural surroundings also offer a great environment for kids to explore.
The atmosphere is described as serene, quiet, and deeply connected to nature. It's a place for relaxation, with beautiful lake views and abundant birdlife, offering a peaceful retreat away from the bustle of town.
Some guests have noted that the food can be a bit overpriced, and the accommodation might be considered expensive compared to hotels in El Calafate for what is offered. Occasional issues like a smelly bathroom or water outages have been mentioned, though these seem to be isolated incidents.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
The estancia has an on-site restaurant that is highly praised for its delicious and authentic meal options, as well as a great beverage selection. It's a convenient option, especially if you're not planning to travel into El Calafate town for meals.
While the food is generally well-regarded, some reviews suggest that it can be a bit overpriced, particularly for local specialties like fish. It's worth considering the cost when planning your meals.
Breakfast is typically included and is described as 'ok' or 'fine'. While eggs were available on some days, guests sometimes had to ask for them. The quality is generally satisfactory but might not be a standout feature for some.
The restaurant offers a variety of authentic meal options. While specific dietary menus aren't detailed in reviews, it's always a good idea to inform the staff in advance about any dietary restrictions or preferences you may have.
Yes, El Calafate town offers a range of restaurants and dining establishments. However, keep in mind the taxi fare to and from the town if you plan to dine out, as it can add to the overall cost of your evening.
📸 📸 Photography
The estancia offers stunning photo opportunities, especially the picturesque lake views from the rooms and grounds. Capturing moments during horseback riding or of the rustic-chic architecture against the Patagonian backdrop are highly recommended.
The area around the estancia is known for its natural beauty and birdlife, making it a good location for nature and wildlife photography. Early mornings and late afternoons often provide the best light.
Yes, you can take photos during the horseback riding tours. The guides are often accommodating, and the scenery provides a fantastic backdrop. Ensure your camera is secured, as you'll be on horseback.
The 'golden hours' around sunrise and sunset offer the most dramatic and beautiful light for photography. However, the clear Patagonian daylight also provides excellent visibility for capturing the vast landscapes.
The lake views from the rooms and common areas are consistently highlighted as prime photo spots. Exploring the estancia grounds during activities like horseback riding will also reveal numerous scenic vantage points.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
The serene environment with beautiful lake views and open spaces provides a great setting for kids to explore and connect with nature. While the estancia is remote, the unique activities and the peaceful atmosphere can make it a memorable and engaging trip for the whole family. Just be sure to plan your transportation in advance due to the location.
🚗 Independent Travelers with a Car
With your own transport, you can seamlessly combine stays at the estancia with visits to nearby attractions like the Perito Moreno Glacier. The estancia's location, while remote, becomes an advantage, offering a peaceful base from which to embark on your Patagonian adventures. You can also easily venture into El Calafate town for dining or supplies when desired.
💍 Couples Seeking a Unique Getaway
The tranquil atmosphere and the opportunity to experience an authentic estancia lifestyle create an intimate and memorable getaway. It's an ideal destination for couples looking to disconnect from the everyday and reconnect with each other amidst the raw beauty of Patagonia. The estancia has even hosted weddings, highlighting its capacity for creating special, unforgettable moments.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Experiencing Patagonian Nature
Activities like horseback riding are a highlight, allowing guests to traverse the stunning landscape in a traditional Patagonian way. Guides are professional and engaging, often tailoring the experience to suit different skill levels and ages, ensuring everyone can enjoy the ride. Beyond horseback riding, the estancia provides opportunities for hiking around its property, offering further chances to immerse yourself in the natural beauty.
For those interested in local culture, the estancia may offer demonstrations of traditional practices, such as sheep herding. This adds an authentic layer to the experience, providing insight into the rural life of Patagonia. The overall ambiance encourages a slower pace, allowing visitors to truly appreciate the vastness and raw beauty of the region.
Accommodation and Amenities
While the rooms offer a pleasant stay, some reviews mention minor issues such as a slightly smelly bathroom or occasional water supply interruptions. However, these seem to be infrequent and often resolved promptly. The overall impression is one of comfortable, characterful lodging that prioritizes the connection with nature over modern luxury.
The estancia also features an on-site restaurant and bar, which is a convenient amenity given its location away from town. The restaurant is generally well-received for its delicious and authentic Patagonian cuisine, though some guests find the prices to be on the higher side. Breakfast is included and is considered adequate, though not always a highlight.
Planning Your Visit and Budget
Booking activities in advance, particularly popular ones like horseback riding, is highly recommended. This ensures availability and allows the estancia to make the necessary arrangements for guides and horses. Direct communication with the estancia, especially with contacts like Agustina, can help tailor experiences and confirm details, particularly for families with specific needs.
While the estancia offers a unique experience, some reviews suggest that the pricing for accommodation and food can be higher compared to options within El Calafate town. It's important to weigh the cost against the unique benefits of a secluded, nature-focused stay. For those seeking an authentic Patagonian estancia experience, the value lies in the tranquility, the activities, and the immersive natural environment.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit