Punta Soberana Viewpoint
El Calafate, Argentina: Gateway to the majestic glaciers of Patagonia, offering unparalleled natural beauty and adventure.

Highlights
Must-see attractions

Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Best chance for clear skies
Punta Soberana Viewpoint
Best Time
Best chance for clear skies

Highlights
Must-see attractions
El Calafate, Argentina: Gateway to the majestic glaciers of Patagonia, offering unparalleled natural beauty and adventure.
"An amazing, beautiful, and powerful natural phenomenon.
"Save on Park Entry
Keep your Perito Moreno National Park ticket for a second day to get half-price admission.
Layer Up!
Patagonia weather changes fast. Pack layers: base, mid, and waterproof outer.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Perito Moreno Glacier
Parque Nacional Los Glaciares
Witness the awe-inspiring Perito Moreno Glacier, a massive ice river that calves icebergs with thunderous roars.

Todo Glaciares Boat Tour
Lago Argentino
Sail across Lago Argentino to marvel at multiple glaciers, including Spegazzini and Upsala, up close.

Pasarelas (Boardwalks)
Perito Moreno Glacier
Walk along extensive boardwalks offering panoramic views of the Perito Moreno Glacier from various angles.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Book Tours in Advance
Pack for All Weather
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Save on Park Entry
Keep your Perito Moreno National Park ticket for a second day to get half-price admission.
Layer Up!
Patagonia weather changes fast. Pack layers: base, mid, and waterproof outer.
Book Tours Ahead
Popular glacier tours like 'Todo Glaciares' can book up. Reserve in advance!
Consider a Patagonia Pass
Some agencies offer multi-day passes for various activities, potentially saving money.
Tips
from all over the internet
Save on Park Entry
Keep your Perito Moreno National Park ticket for a second day to get half-price admission.
Layer Up!
Patagonia weather changes fast. Pack layers: base, mid, and waterproof outer.
Book Tours Ahead
Popular glacier tours like 'Todo Glaciares' can book up. Reserve in advance!
Consider a Patagonia Pass
Some agencies offer multi-day passes for various activities, potentially saving money.
Sturdy Footwear is a Must
You'll be doing a lot of walking on uneven terrain and boardwalks.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise El Calafate for its stunning natural beauty, particularly the awe-inspiring Perito Moreno Glacier and the breathtaking glacier boat tours. The unique Patagonian landscapes and the powerful experience of witnessing calving ice are frequently highlighted as unforgettable. Some find the destination to be on the pricier side, and weather can be unpredictable.
"An amazing, beautiful, and powerful natural phenomenon.
An amazing, beautiful, and powerful natural phenomenon."
אביב כהן
"Hermoso y tranquilo lugar para una caminata bajo el sol bordeando la orilla del Lago Argentino."
Marcela GUTIERREZ Diseño Gráfico Creatividad Arte
"Vale muito experiência"
Patrícia Becker
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The most common way to reach El Calafate is by flying into Comandante Armando Tola International Airport (FTE). Several airlines operate flights from Buenos Aires.
Some tours, like those from @noztour, may include airport transfers.Once in El Calafate, many attractions are accessible via organized tours or rental cars. The town itself is walkable, but for glacier excursions, booking with an agency is recommended.
Yes, you can travel to El Calafate from other Patagonian destinations like El Chaltén or Ushuaia, often by bus or flight.
It's a key hub for exploring the region.The Perito Moreno Glacier is about 80 km from El Calafate. You can take a bus, join an organized tour, or hire a taxi. Many tours include transportation and entrance fees.
Direct international flights to El Calafate are uncommon. Most international travelers fly into Buenos Aires and then take a domestic flight to El Calafate.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Entrance fees for Parque Nacional Los Glaciares apply. It's advisable to check the official park website for current pricing.
Remember to save your ticket for a potential second-day discount!Yes, it's highly recommended to book popular glacier tours, such as the 'Todo Glaciares' boat trip or minitrekking on the ice, well in advance, especially during peak season.
You can book tours online through agency websites like @noztour, @Solo Patagonia, or @Iceberg Turismo Aventura, or through platforms like Civitatis.
Booking in advance is key.Yes, if you visit the Perito Moreno Glacier two days in a row, keeping your ticket from the first day will grant you half-price admission on the second day.
The park is generally open year-round, but specific access to attractions and tour availability may vary by season. It's best to check with your tour operator or the park's official sources.
📸 📸 Photography
The viewpoints at the Perito Moreno Glacier, especially from the boardwalks, offer incredible photo opportunities.
Boat tours provide unique angles of the glaciers. Lago Argentino shores also offer scenic shots.A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the vast landscapes and glaciers. A telephoto lens can be useful for distant ice calving. Don't forget a sturdy tripod for low-light conditions and a waterproof bag for protection.
Drone usage is typically restricted within national parks to protect wildlife and the environment. Always check local regulations before flying a drone.
Early morning and late afternoon light often provide the most dramatic and beautiful lighting for glacier photography. Golden hour can create stunning reflections on the water.
Include a person or a boat in your frame to give a sense of scale against the massive glaciers. Shooting from different vantage points on the boardwalks can also help convey their immense size.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
El Calafate is known for its Patagonian lamb (cordero patagónico) and trout. You can also find delicious calafate berry-infused dishes and desserts.
Yes, some restaurants offer unique experiences, like dining in a cave setting, which provides a memorable atmosphere.
Many places offer stunning views of Lago Argentino.El Calafate can be considered one of the more expensive destinations in Argentina, but when compared to similar international glacier destinations, it's quite affordable.
Look for restaurants serving local specialties like lamb and trout. Many hotels and tour agencies can provide recommendations.
Don't miss trying anything made with the local calafate berry, from jams to ice cream. Patagonian lamb is also a highly recommended dish.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider booking tours that include transportation to minimize travel stress. Many tour operators are experienced with families and can accommodate specific needs. Pack plenty of snacks and warm clothing, as Patagonian weather can be challenging for little ones. Look for accommodations that offer family rooms or amenities.
💰 Budget Travelers
Utilize the second-day discount for the Perito Moreno National Park entrance fee if you plan to visit multiple times. While some tours are expensive, prioritize the ones that offer the most unique experiences, like the Perito Moreno boardwalks or a shorter glacier boat tour. Traveling during the shoulder seasons (spring or autumn) can sometimes offer lower prices on accommodation and tours.
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
The Todo Glaciares boat tour is essential for capturing the grandeur of multiple glaciers like Spegazzini and Upsala. The reflections on the water and the sheer scale of these ice giants are breathtaking. Remember to bring a wide-angle lens for sweeping vistas and a telephoto lens for capturing details or distant ice calving. Protect your gear from the elements, as wind and moisture are common.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Exploring the Glaciers
Beyond Perito Moreno, the Todo Glaciares boat tour is a must-do for seeing other magnificent glaciers like Spegazzini and Upsala. These tours navigate the icy waters of Lago Argentino, bringing you remarkably close to these icy giants. The sheer scale and beauty of these glaciers are awe-inspiring, making it a highlight for many visitors.
For the more adventurous, minitrekking on the Perito Moreno Glacier offers an up-close encounter with the ice. Guided by experienced professionals, you'll strap on crampons and walk across the glacier's surface, exploring its crevasses and ice formations. This is an unparalleled way to connect with the raw power of nature.
Planning Your El Calafate Itinerary
Consider adding activities like Nativos 4x4 or an Estancia visit for a taste of Patagonian culture and landscapes beyond the ice. Some travelers also enjoy shorter excursions like the Darwin Experience or exploring the 25 de Mayo Estancia. If you have more time, day trips to nearby El Chaltén for hiking are also popular.
Remember that weather can impact plans, so building in some flexibility is wise. Booking tours and accommodations in advance, especially during peak season (December to February), is crucial to avoid disappointment.
Understanding El Calafate's Cost
However, when compared to similar glacier destinations worldwide, El Calafate offers significant value. The cost of experiencing world-class natural wonders like the Perito Moreno Glacier is often considered a worthwhile investment by travelers. Many visitors find that booking tours and accommodations in advance, or opting for package deals, can help manage expenses.
While dining can also be pricier than in other Argentine cities, exploring local eateries and trying regional specialties like Patagonian lamb can be a more budget-friendly option. Some accommodations, like hostels, offer more affordable stays.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit