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Top reasons to visit El Calafate

• Stunning Natural Beauty: El Calafate is renowned for its breathtaking landscapes, including lakes and majestic glaciers.
• Outdoor Adventures: The region offers a range of activities like hiking, water sports, and guided tours to explore its unique charm.
• Cultural Experiences: Engage with local culture through visits to authentic estancias and the vibrant downtown area.
• Rich Historical Insights: Explore attractions such as the El Calafate Regional Museum for a glimpse into the region's history.
• Diverse Accommodation Options: From luxury hotels to budget hostels, El Calafate caters to all types of travellers.

Find great hotels in El Calafate

El Calafate offers a diverse array of accommodation options to suit every traveller's needs, from family-friendly hotels to adventure-themed hostels and backpacker lodgings. Whether you're seeking a luxurious stay at Esplendor El Calafate Hotel or a budget-friendly hostel experience, you'll discover a range of facilities designed for business, leisure, and outdoor enthusiasts alike. Explore the unique charm of this stunning destination with a perfect base to rest and recharge.

• Mirador del Lago Hotel: Nestled in the picturesque El Calafate, Mirador del Lago Hotel offers a blend of comfort and business efficiency. This 4-star hotel is perfect for business travellers seeking a productive environment while enjoying the stunning views of the surrounding landscapes. The hotel features well-equipped meeting rooms, enabling seamless business operations. Guests appreciate the modern design and the tranquil atmosphere, making it an ideal retreat after a busy day of meetings. With its emphasis on professionalism and relaxation, Mirador del Lago is a solid choice for your stay in this beautiful region.
• Esplendor by Wyndham El Calafate: This boutique-style hotel is designed for families and business travellers alike, offering a unique blend of comfort and elegance. Esplendor by Wyndham El Calafate features multiple meeting rooms and a fully equipped business centre, catering to corporate needs. Families will enjoy the child-friendly amenities and the artistic decor, which showcases local influences. Situated in a prime location, the hotel is a perfect base for exploring the wonders of El Calafate. Guests rave about the warm atmosphere and attentive service, making it a delightful choice for a memorable family holiday or business trip.
• Xelena Hotel & Suites: For those seeking luxury and relaxation, Xelena Hotel & Suites stands out as a 5-star haven. This hotel is designed for business and leisure travellers who appreciate a premium experience. With an onsite spa offering a range of treatments, including massages and body wraps, guests can unwind in style. The property also boasts accessible business facilities, including a well-appointed business centre and meeting rooms. The luxurious rooms provide stunning views and exceptional comfort, ensuring that your stay in El Calafate is both productive and rejuvenating.

Where to stay in El Calafate

El Calafate, a charming city in Santa Cruz Province, is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers. Discover the vibrant downtown area, where friendly locals greet you, or explore the picturesque Calafate town, renowned for its breathtaking scenery. Don't miss the opportunity to visit an authentic estancia for a taste of local culture. With its perfect blend of adventure and romance, El Calafate promises unforgettable experiences amidst stunning landscapes.

• El Calafate Centro: Situated in the heart of El Calafate, this bustling neighbourhood serves as the gateway to the stunning natural wonders of the region. The area is characterised by its charming streets lined with shops, cafes, and restaurants, making it the perfect spot for travellers to immerse themselves in local culture. Peak visitor numbers occur between December and February, when summer blooms in Patagonia, offering ideal weather for exploration. El Calafate Centro is also close to various tour operators that can help organise excursions to nearby attractions, such as the famous Perito Moreno Glacier.
• Macrozona Bahía Redonda y Primeros Faldeos: This scenic neighbourhood is ideal for those seeking outdoor adventures and breathtaking views. Located along the shores of Lago Argentino, it offers a wealth of recreational opportunities, including hiking, kayaking, and wildlife watching. The area is particularly popular for its picturesque landscapes and proximity to national parks. Peak tourist activity occurs from December to February, making it the best time to enjoy the natural beauty. With its shopping centre and various outdoor venues, Macrozona Bahía Redonda y Primeros Faldeos provides a vibrant atmosphere for visitors looking to relax and explore.
• Cerro Calafate: Nestled on the hillside, Cerro Calafate offers stunning panoramic views of El Calafate and Lago Argentino. This neighbourhood caters to adventure seekers with numerous outdoor activities, including hiking and birdwatching. The area is known for its natural beauty, especially during the peak tourist season from December to February, when the scenery is particularly captivating. In addition to its recreational areas, Cerro Calafate is home to local theatres and cultural venues, making it an excellent choice for those wanting to experience the region’s artistic side alongside its natural wonders.

Things to do in El Calafate

El Calafate is a stunning destination for outdoor and adventure enthusiasts, offering a range of activities such as exploring its beautiful lakes, visiting local attractions, and enjoying water sports. The town features a vibrant recreational area and shopping centre, making it ideal for relaxation and leisure. Be sure to seek out local tour providers for guided experiences that showcase the region's breathtaking scenery and unique charm.

Shopping

In El Calafate, discover local shops offering unique Patagonian crafts, wool products, and souvenirs. If you're up for a drive, visit the nearby El Bolsón market, about 112.7km away, known for its artisanal goods and organic products from local vendors.

Recreation

At Los Glaciares Spa, indulge in rejuvenating treatments inspired by Patagonian nature, including massages and mud wraps. Enjoy a peaceful soak in thermal pools surrounded by breathtaking landscapes. For outdoor fun, explore the stunning Perito Moreno Glacier via hiking or kayaking, immersing yourself in nature's beauty.

Adventure

In El Calafate, Calafate Fishing offers thrilling water sports experiences. Cast your line in the pristine waters, surrounded by stunning landscapes. Enjoy the outdoor vibes as you reel in native fish and immerse yourself in the breathtaking Patagonian scenery.

Nightlife

Experience the vibrant nightlife at La Zorra Tapas Bar on Avenida Libertador, where you can savour exquisite local wines. For a lively atmosphere, visit Club de Pesca, located by the lake, and enjoy a mix of cocktails and stunning views while mingling with fellow travellers.

Booking tips and Expedia advantages for El Calafate

El Calafate provides several budget-friendly options for tourists. Enjoy free attractions like the Gnome Village and take advantage of public transport options, such as buses and car rentals. To save on accommodation, visit during the cheaper months of May and August to September, and aim to book your hotel about a month in advance. Wednesdays are the least expensive days for stays, while Thursdays are the priciest. Use Expedia to find deals by filtering for your budget and preferences, and consider package options that combine flights and activities for additional savings.

• The most and least expensive months on average to stay in a hotel: The cheapest months to stay in El Calafate are May and August to September, where the prices are slightly lower. This is in comparison to November to January, where prices are slightly higher.
• The best time to book a hotel: Book your hotel in El Calafate about 1 month out to secure some of the cheapest prices. If you're the spontaneous type, Expedia's last minute deals and discounts are indicated via the green label below the price.
• The most and least expensive days on average to stay in a hotel: The least expensive day to stay in El Calafate is Wednesday. The most expensive day to stay in El Calafate is Thursday.
• Find cheap hotels on Expedia: Expedia’s search tool enables you to specify your budget, preferred location, and additional preferences. You can arrange your results to display prices from lowest to highest, ensuring you find the most affordable accommodation first. Additionally, you have the option to refine your search by hotel type. For instance, selecting the Eco-certified filter will showcase sustainable and environmentally friendly hotels that are available for booking.
• Consider bundling your trip: You can save some dollars by combining your El Calafate hotel booking with your flights and activities through an Expedia package.

Find the best attractions in El Calafate

El Calafate is a fantastic destination for those seeking stunning scenery and outdoor adventures. Visitors can explore attractions like the El Calafate Regional Museum, downtown Calafate, and the picturesque Lagos del Calafate. The area is rich in cultural experiences, with options such as the cultural village and Calafate Hill, ensuring a memorable experience for all travellers. Whether you're after history or adventure, El Calafate has something special to offer.

• El Calafate Historical Interpretation Center: This museum offers a fascinating insight into the region's history and culture, showcasing exhibits that highlight the indigenous communities and the natural environment. It's a perfect starting point for understanding El Calafate's heritage.
• Gnome Village: A whimsical cultural village adorned with charming gnome figurines and vibrant gardens. It's a delightful spot for families and those seeking a touch of magic, blending art with nature in a captivating setting.
• Santa Teresita del Nino Jesus Church: This beautiful church features stunning architecture and serene surroundings, making it a peaceful place for reflection. It's an important spiritual centre for locals and visitors alike, embodying the community's faith.

Best time to go to El Calafate

The best time to visit El Calafate can depend on the weather and when visitor numbers rise and fall. The hottest average temperature in El Calafate falls in January and February. February has high visitor numbers and mostly sunny weather. The coolest average temperature in El Calafate falls in July, visitor numbers are low and weather is mostly sunny with no rain.

Calendar Month	Temperature	Precipitation	Cloudiness	Occupancy	Pricing
January	51.4°F (10.8°C)	No Rain	Mostly Sunny	High	Slightly High
February	51.4°F (10.8°C)	No Rain	Mostly Sunny	High	Average
March	47.8°F (8.8°C)	No Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average
April	42.6°F (5.9°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average
May	37.4°F (3.0°C)	No Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Slightly Low
June	32.7°F (0.4°C)	No Rain	Mostly Sunny	Low	Average
July	31.1°F (-0.5°C)	No Rain	Mostly Sunny	Low	Average
August	32.2°F (0.1°C)	No Rain	Mostly Sunny	Low	Slightly Low
September	36.1°F (2.3°C)	No Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Slightly Low
October	40.8°F (4.9°C)	No Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average
November	45.7°F (7.6°C)	No Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Slightly High
December	49.3°F (9.6°C)	No Rain	Mostly Sunny	High	Slightly High

The nearest major airports for your trip to El Calafate

Flying into El Calafate is convenient with the Comandante Armando Tola International Airport (FTE), located approximately 16.1km from the town centre. Nearby, you’ll find excellent accommodation options, including the Alto Calafate Hotel Patagonico, a highly-rated 4.5-star hotel situated about 14.5km from the airport. This hotel offers a comfortable stay and easy access to the stunning landscapes of Patagonia. Transportation services from the airport to the hotel are readily available, making your journey smooth and hassle-free. Enjoy the breathtaking scenery and warm hospitality of El Calafate during your visit.