Introducing El Calafate
Named for the berry that, once eaten, guarantees your return to Patagonia, El Calafate hooks you with another irresistable attraction: Glaciar Perito Moreno, 80km away in Parque Nacional Los Glaciares. The glacier is a magnificent must-see, but its massive popularity has encouraged tumorous growth and rapid upscaling in the once-quaint El Calafate. At the same time, it’s a fun place to be with a range of traveler services. The town’s strategic location between El Chaltén and Torres del Paine (Chile) makes it an inevitable stop for those in transit.
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Located 320km northwest of Río Gallegos, and 32km west of RP 11’s junction with northbound RN 40, El Calafate flanks the southern shore of Lago Argentino. The main strip, Av del Libertador General San Martín (typically abbreviated to Av Libertador), is dotted with cutesy knotted-pine souvenir shops, chocolate shops, restaurants and tour offices. Beyond the main street, pretensions melt away quickly: muddy roads lead to ad-hoc developments and open pastures.
January and February are the most popular (and costly) months to visit, but as shoulder-season visits grow steadily, both availability and prices stay a challenge.
Last updated: Jan 14, 2010
Thorn Tree forum discussion
Recent posts
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puerto madryn south bus
by avwi2409 15 September 2011
Been trying to use Platform 10 website to check out prices and times of buses out of Puerto Madryn going south. Ideally want to go to…
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RE: Argentina in November
by Williamsontherocks 14 September 2011
There are several daily and direct flights Buenos Aires - Ushuaia and El Calafate too.That´s by far the best option if you like mountains…
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RE: Bariloche to El Califate - Bus
by Williamsontherocks 14 September 2011
Moderator - Could you update the spelling of El Calafate from El Cal*i*fate to El Cal*a*fate? Don´t worry. Everybody will understand…
Hotels & Hostels in El Calafate
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Marcopolo Inn Calafate
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Pioneros Hostel
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