Destinations › Argentina › El Calafate

El Calafate

Where should I stay?

Where should I eat?

  • La Tablita · Centro · Parrilla: Long-running steakhouse across the bridge from downtown, known for Patagonian lamb roasted on the cross.
  • Casimiro Biguá · Centro · Parrilla / Patagonian: Established grill on the main avenue serving lamb, beef and local game in a rustic dining room.
  • Pura Vida · Centro · Argentine home cooking: Cozy spot with lake views serving hearty stews, casseroles and vegetarian dishes.
  • Mi Rancho · Centro · Argentine: Small restaurant in an old house with a short, carefully cooked menu; reserve for dinner.
  • Viva la Pepa · Centro · Café / crêpes: Casual café for sweet and savory crêpes, sandwiches and coffee, good for a light lunch.

What should I do?

  • Glaciar Perito Moreno · Parque Nacional Los Glaciares: Advancing glacier about 80 km from town, viewed from walkways facing its 60-meter ice wall as chunks break off.
  • Glaciarium · Afueras de El Calafate: Modern museum explaining how glaciers form and move, with an ice bar downstairs.
  • Reserva Natural Laguna Nimez · Centro: Wetland reserve a short walk from downtown with an easy trail for spotting flamingos and waterbirds.
  • Centro de Interpretación Histórica · Centro: Small museum covering Patagonia's geology, indigenous peoples and pioneer settlers.
  • Minitrekking on Glaciar Perito Moreno · Parque Nacional Los Glaciares: Guided walk with crampons on the glacier's surface after a short boat crossing; spots are limited.
  • Boat trip on Lago Argentino to Upsala and Spegazzini glaciers · Lago Argentino: Full-day navigation past icebergs to glaciers that can only be reached by water.