Estancia El Galpón del Glaciar - Image 1
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Estancia El Galpón del Glaciar

4.5
·263 reviews·El Calafate, Argentina

Rustic-chic estancia offering lake views, horseback riding, and authentic Patagonian charm away from El Calafate.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Spring & Autumn Mornings

Crisp air, fewer crowds

CrowdLow
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Estancia El Galpón del Glaciar - Image 1

Estancia El Galpón del Glaciar

Best Time

Spring & Autumn Mornings

Crisp air, fewer crowds

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Rustic-chic estancia offering lake views, horseback riding, and authentic Patagonian charm away from El Calafate.

4.5
(263 reviews)

"Cannot recommend Agustina and El Galpón del Glaciar enough for this sort of excursion."

Vertical photo
TIP

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:

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Horseback Riding with Lake Views

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

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

Authentic Patagonian Estancia Experience

Estancia grounds

Immerse yourself in the local culture with activities like sheep herding demonstrations and enjoying traditional meals.

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Planning Your Visit

Embrace the Patagonian Pace

El Galpón del Glaciar offers a serene escape, but its remote location means planning is key. Consider transport options in advance, especially if you don't have a car, as taxis to El Calafate town can be costly. Embrace the quiet and natural beauty; it's a place to unwind and connect with the stunning Patagonian landscape.

Book Activities Ahead

While the estancia itself is a destination, many visitors come for specific activities like horseback riding or exploring nearby glaciers. Popular excursions, especially those with age restrictions or unique offerings, can book up. Contacting Agustina at El Galpón del Glaciar directly via email or WhatsApp is recommended for tailored experiences, particularly for families.

Best Times

When
Spring & Autumn Mornings
Why
Crisp air, fewer crowds
Crowd
Low
When
Summer Afternoons
Why
Longer daylight hours
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Así es caminar sobre el glaciar perito moreno 😍❄️ ¿Que te pareció? Lo harías? #patagoniargentina #patagonia #elcalafate #peritomoreno #surargentino #viajes #elcalafateargentina #minittekking #minitrekkingperitomoreno #hieloyaventura
@martideviaje
91.9K likes • 1.3M views

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:

Guardá este video! #elcalafate #elcalafateargentina #viajestiktok #parati #elchalten #trekkingelchalten #glaciarperitomoreno #glaciares @modoturista
@modoturista
42.3K likes • 637.9K views
Tomar una foto en nuestra estancia tiene eso de capturar momentos mágicos ✨ Taking a photo in our lodge has that of capturing magical moments ✨ El Galpón del Glaciar Hostería & Agroturismo @elcalafatetierradeglaciares #elcalafate #patagoniaargentina #cabalgata #caballos #cabalgatascalafate #horsebackriding @southernexperienceviajes #hosteria #hotelcalafate @kallpa_tour #turismo #agroturismo #l...
elgalpondelglaciar
96 likes • 1.8K views

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:

#SummerRally2023 Etapa 1: Aeroparque - Calafate - Estancia El Galpón del Glaciar Los participantes aterrizaron en #TierraDeGlaciares para iniciar una nueva aventura junto a los autos. La largada pisando las primeras mangueritas, el viento en la cara y costear el lago argentino en los clásicos fue el inicio perfecto para este Summer Rally 2023. Las acreditaciones estuvieron acompañadas de @pulent...
autiqcars
228 likes • 4.3K views

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

4.5
(263 reviews)

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

Breathtaking lake views
Authentic estancia experience
Horseback riding excursions

What People Dislike

Food can be overpriced
Remote location requires planning
Occasional minor room issues

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. Reddit

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. Reddit

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. Reddit

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. Reddit

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. TikTok

🎫 🎫 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. Instagram

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. Reddit

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. Reddit

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. Reddit

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. TikTok+1

🎫 🏞️ 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. Reddit+1

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. InstagramReddit

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. Reddit

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. Reddit+1

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. Reddit

🍽️ 🍽️ 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. Reddit

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. Reddit

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. Reddit+1

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. Reddit

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. Reddit

📸 📸 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. Instagram

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. Reddit

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. Instagram

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. Instagram

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. InstagramReddit

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Estancia El Galpón del Glaciar is a fantastic option for families looking for an authentic Patagonian experience away from the crowds. Horseback riding is a major draw, and the estancia is known for arranging rides that are safe and enjoyable for children, even younger ones. Agustina at the estancia is particularly helpful in customizing these excursions to suit family needs. Reddit

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. Reddit

🚗 Independent Travelers with a Car

For travelers with their own vehicle, Estancia El Galpón del Glaciar offers the ultimate freedom and convenience. Having a car allows you to easily reach the estancia without worrying about expensive taxi fares, and it also gives you the flexibility to explore the surrounding areas at your own pace. Reddit

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. Reddit

💍 Couples Seeking a Unique Getaway

Estancia El Galpón del Glaciar provides a wonderfully romantic and unique setting for couples. Imagine waking up to breathtaking lake views, enjoying peaceful walks or horseback rides together through stunning landscapes, and savoring delicious Patagonian cuisine at the on-site restaurant. InstagramReddit

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. Reddit

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

Experiencing Patagonian Nature

Estancia El Galpón del Glaciar is a haven for nature lovers, offering a genuine connection with the Patagonian wilderness. The breathtaking lake views are a constant companion, providing a serene backdrop for relaxation and exploration. Visitors often praise the quiet atmosphere and the abundance of birdlife, making it an ideal spot for those seeking tranquility and a break from urban life. The remote location, while requiring some planning for access, is precisely what contributes to its peaceful charm. Reddit+1

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. InstagramReddit

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. Reddit

Accommodation and Amenities

The accommodation at Estancia El Galpón del Glaciar is designed to complement its natural surroundings, offering a rustic-chic aesthetic. Rooms are typically described as cottage-style, providing a cozy and comfortable retreat. Many guests highlight the beautiful lake views from their rooms, which significantly enhance the stay. The rooms are generally spacious and well-appointed, with some featuring comfortable seating areas perfect for enjoying the scenery. Reddit+1

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. Reddit

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. Reddit+1

Planning Your Visit and Budget

Visiting Estancia El Galpón del Glaciar requires careful consideration of logistics and budget. Its remote location means that transportation is a key factor. If you are not traveling with your own vehicle, taxi fares to and from El Calafate town can be substantial, adding a significant cost to your stay. It is advisable to confirm these costs in advance and factor them into your overall budget. Reddit

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. Reddit

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. Reddit+1

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