El Calafate

The main gateway to Los Glaciares National Park and home base for exploring Patagonia's most iconic glaciers. This bustling town offers excellent restaurants, lodging, and tour operators for experiencing the region's natural wonders.

Things to do

• Perito Moreno Glacier Tour — Take a guided excursion to witness the massive advancing glacier calving into Lake Argentino, one of South America's most spectacular natural phenomena.
• Upsala Glacier Boat Cruise — Navigate by boat through icebergs and along the face of Upsala Glacier, the park's largest glacier, for an immersive ice-field experience.
• Laguna de los Tres Picos Hike — Trek through native southern beech forest to panoramic viewpoints overlooking turquoise glacial lakes and mountain peaks.
• Onelli Glacier and Blue Ice Cave — Combine boat and hiking access to reach the cave formed within an active glacier, offering an otherworldly walk across blue ice.
• Estancia Helsingfors Visit — Experience traditional Patagonian ranch life with horseback riding, hiking, and authentic gaucho culture on a working estancia.
• Calafate Town Walking Tour — Stroll through the town's main avenue (Avenida del Libertador) to explore local shops, galleries, and learn about the region's settlement history.

Food to try

• Cordero Patagónico — Slow-roasted Patagonian lamb, a regional specialty tender and flavorful, traditionally served in local parillas and restaurants.
• Centolla (King Crab) — The prized spider crab from Southern waters, prepared fresh and served simply to highlight its sweet, delicate meat.
• Truchas a la Parrilla — Grilled local trout from Patagonian rivers, typically seasoned with regional herbs and served with chimichurri sauce.
• Calafate Berry Desserts — Sweet treats made from the native calafate berry, including jams, chocolates, and desserts that are a local favorite and popular souvenir.
• Asado Patagónico — Traditional Argentine barbecue featuring grilled meats, chorizo, and offal cooked over open flames, embodying gaucho culinary heritage.

Local customs & good to know

• Book Tours in Advance — During peak season (November to March), popular glacier tours fill quickly, so reserve activities at least a day ahead through your lodging or local operators.
• Spanish is Primary — English is spoken in tourism businesses, but learning basic Spanish phrases will enhance interactions with locals and smaller restaurants away from the main avenue.
• Weather Changes Rapidly — Patagonian weather is notoriously unpredictable with sudden wind and rain; always carry layered clothing and waterproof gear regardless of forecast predictions.
• Respect Park Guidelines — Los Glaciares National Park requires visitors to stay on marked trails and follow ranger instructions; glaciers are dynamic and dangerous if approached carelessly.