El Calafate is a captivating destination, located in the Santa Cruz Province of Argentina. This charming Patagonian town is renowned for its exceptional natural beauty and is a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts. The main highlight of El Calafate is its breathtaking glaciers, which offer mesmerizing tours and excursions. With its stunning lakes and picturesque scenery, the town is perfect for hiking and boating adventures. Additionally, El Calafate boasts an excellent location, with a vibrant downtown area and a lively nightlife scene. It is truly a romantic destination that will leave you in awe. Explore the wonders of El Calafate and let Destino Calafate enchant you.

El Calafate Hotels from ₹3,262
- Change your mindBook hotels with free cancellation
- Be pickySearch almost a million properties worldwide
Go beyond your typical stay in El Calafate
Check prices for these dates
Our top choices for El Calafate hotels




1. Mirador del Lago Hotel
Mirador del Lago Hotel- Free breakfast buffet spread with choices
- Onsite restaurant with excellent food
- Clean and spacious well-equipped rooms




2. Hotel Posada Los Alamos
Hotel Posada Los Alamos- Shops a short walk away
- Cooked-to-order omelets at breakfast




3. Bahía Redonda Hotel
Bahía Redonda Hotel- Newly remodelled, clean, and comfortable rooms
- Courteous and helpful front desk staff




4. Xelena Hotel & Suites
Xelena Hotel & Suites- Breathtaking view of lake Argentino
- Outstanding breakfast with a wide variety
- Spacious, clean, and well-appointed rooms




5. Hotel del Glaciar Libertador
Hotel del Glaciar Libertador- Minutes from Avenue del Libertador
- Good breakfast with a variety of options
- Very friendly and knowledgeable staff




6. Calafate Parque Hotel
Calafate Parque Hotel- Delicious daily breakfast presentation
- Spa with a sauna
- Super friendly and helpful staff




7. Michelangelo Hotel Calafate
Michelangelo Hotel Calafate- Easy parking right at the door
- Excellent breakfast options offered
- Kind and attentive service




8. Esplendor by Wyndham El Calafate
Esplendor by Wyndham El Calafate- Pool enjoyed by guests
- Very good on-site restaurant
- Excellent breakfast buffet selection




9. Destino Calafate
Destino Calafate- Good variety on the breakfast menu
- Modern minimalist hotel offering good value




10. Design Suites Calafate
Design Suites Calafate- Views of the lake from rooms
- Fulsome breakfast with simple dishes
- Beautiful new building throughout




11. Los Canelos
Los Canelos- Copious self-serve buffet breakfast
- Beautifully designed lobby area
- Beautiful view from the property




12. Boutique Hotel La Cantera
Boutique Hotel La Cantera- Tasty dinners with good quality food
- Excellent cooked breakfast each morning
- Excellent location with friendly staff




13. Tierra Tehuelche
Tierra Tehuelche- Incredible value with breakfast
- Stunning views from the property




14. Montano Boutique Suites
Montano Boutique Suites- Excellent breakfast with fresh bread and eggs
- Clean rooms with space to unwind
- Friendly and responsive staff members




15. MABRA SUITES
MABRA SUITES- Friendly and attentive staff
- Spacious, well-laid-out rooms
- Free breakfast with various options




16. Hotel Ayres de Calafate
Hotel Ayres de Calafate



17. Blanca Patagonia Boutique Inn and Cabins
Blanca Patagonia Boutique Inn and Cabins- Spectacular views of Lago Argentino
- Very helpful front desk staff
- Delicious buffet breakfast options




18. Kau Kaleshen
Kau Kaleshen- Beautiful grounds with lush gardens
- Quick, helpful service from staff
- Spacious and clean guest rooms




19. Lagos Del Calafate
Lagos Del Calafate- Short walk to local restaurants
- Included buffet breakfast each morning
- Relaxing pool and spa facilities




20. Las Dunas Hotel
Las Dunas Hotel- On-site restaurant with good food
- Hearty breakfast with a buffet spread
- Beautiful views from the property
Holiday Rentals in El Calafate




Linda Vista Apart Hotel
Linda Vista Apart Hotel"Clean room, excellent service, very friendly staff, including clean kitchen and utensils and dishes !"




Patagonia Hope Aparts
Patagonia Hope Aparts"Our stay here was great! A very nice little place with everything you need. The people that manage (own?) the place are lovely, super welcoming, helpful and full of knowledge. Very conveniently located. We had a car but if we didn’t it would be a pretty short walk to Main Street. Note that you need to drive on a gravel road to get to the hotel but it’s short. "




Solares Del Sur Patagonia
Solares Del Sur Patagonia"Clean room, friendly staff, good breakfast, great location "




Paraiso Patagonico Bungalows and Apart
Paraiso Patagonico Bungalows and Apart"Well organized, clean and homely, very well equipped kitchen. Excellent place to stay, I really would have liked to stay longer."




Alameda
Alameda"Location is about 6 blocks from the center city, but easily walkable. The room, cleanliness and overall stay was all great. "




Adventure Aparts
Adventure Aparts"Love the place, clean, convenient. Excellent attention to customer. Going to recommend this place, love Calafate and coming back and will stay here again."




Apart Don Felipe
Apart Don Felipe"The cabins are really nice, just like the photos and the owner is very friendly and helpful"




Eh Boutique Experience
Eh Boutique Experience"Great room, excellent service that makes you feel at home."




Cabañas Teuepen
Cabañas Teuepen"Uma das melhores hospedagens. A cabana tem tudo para uma confortável hospedagem, sem contar o delicioso bolo e pão fresco. A Suzy é um atrativo a parte, encantadora, já estamos com saudades. Se um dia retornar para El Calafate, sem dúvidas algumas, retornaremos para a cabana."




Terminal Suites
Terminal Suites"Stayed here for one night. Was very close to the bus station which was a huge plus. "




Los Ponchos Apart Boutique
Los Ponchos Apart Boutique"Great boutique hotel great service decorated in good taste wonderful owner and staff Great breakfast with view of a very nice garden with birds that come to feed on the grass during the morning and afternoon Wonderful experience Loved el calafate and Los ponchos hotel"
Where to stay in El Calafate


Macrozona Lago Argentino
Macrozona Lago Argentino beckons with its pristine turquoise waters and dramatic mountain views. This lakeside haven serves as the gateway to Los Glaciares National Park and the magnificent Perito Moreno Glacier. Nature enthusiasts can explore scenic trails or spot native birds at the peaceful Laguna Nimez reserve. The area offers rustic Patagonian charm with wooden lodges and panoramic viewpoints along the shore. Travellers can savour traditional Argentine steakhouses or book exciting glacier trekking adventures after a day outdoors. Local shops feature authentic wool products and gaucho leather goods for those seeking distinctive souvenirs.



El Calafate Centro
El Calafate Centro serves as the gateway to Patagonia's breathtaking glaciers. The bustling high street, Avenida del Libertador, brims with outdoor gear shops, local crafts, and restaurants serving Patagonian lamb. Visitors can explore unique attractions like the whimsical Gnome Village or try their luck at Casino Club El Calafate. From this compact hub, travellers can easily access Los Glaciares National Park via the central bus terminal. Museums showcase regional history while cosy cafés offer refuge from the Patagonian winds. The town's colourful buildings stand against dramatic mountain backdrops, creating the perfect base for glacier adventures.


Macrozona Bahía Redonda y Primeros Faldeos
Escape to Macrozona Bahía Redonda y Primeros Faldeos, where Patagonian wilderness meets lakeside tranquility. This peaceful residential area borders the stunning turquoise waters of Lago Argentino. Bird watchers can spot flamingos in the bay while photographers capture dramatic mountain reflections. The area offers quiet streets with authentic Patagonian charm away from tourist crowds. Low-rise stone and wooden homes blend harmoniously with the natural landscape. Though dining options are scarce, city centre El Calafate is just a 15-minute walk away.

Cerro Calafate
Perched on a hillside above El Calafate, this residential area offers a glimpse into authentic Argentine life. Local homes with metal roofs dot the landscape against sweeping Patagonian views. The peaceful streets provide a quiet retreat from city centre tourist areas. This budget-friendly zone features family-run guesthouses and holiday rentals with personal host interactions. Though dining options are limited within the area itself, the stunning mountain vistas and stargazing opportunities make up for it.
Stay near popular El Calafate attractions

Gnome Village

Calafate Fishing
El Calafate Historical Interpretation Center
Avenue del Libertador
Santa Teresita del Nino Jesus Church
Irma Port Ruins
Laguna Nimez
Plaza de los Pioneros
El Calafate and related destinations
Towering blue glaciers await at Los Glaciares National Park, where boat tours get you close to the massive Perito Moreno. Reserve time to explore the charming lakeside town's glaciology museum and sample Patagonian lamb at local restaurants.
See all hotels in El Calafate
Top El Calafate Hotel Reviews
Hotel del Glaciar Libertador
"Si me gustó"
Bahía Redonda Hotel
"New part of hotel is amazing ! Will be one of best in area when done"
Xelena Hotel & Suites
"Amazing place and service. Clean and ideal after a long day of excursions"
Hotel Posada Los Alamos
"The Hotel is beautiful! The best in downtown and super close to all the shops and restaurants around. It's clean the amenities are great and the breakfast is delicious. All the staff is very helpful and friendly. I would totally stay here again!!"
Tierra Tehuelche
"all was ok, just as we were expecting"
Lagos Del Calafate
"O hotel é maravilhoso. Muito próximo do Centro (3 min de táxi). Muito conforto, ótimo bar, drinks, comida excelente, piscina aquecida. Atendimento nota 1000. Existem outros hotéis ótimos, mas mais distantes. Recomendo esse."
Calafate Parque Hotel
"Excellent location. The rooms are quite clean and comfortable. The staff were very polite, courteous and quite accommodating particularly Nicholas during the day shift. Certainly recommend it highly."
Michelangelo Hotel Calafate
"It’s a very nice hotel, very well located and super friendly staff."
Hotel Ayres de Calafate
"Superb"
More cheap stays in El Calafate

Calafate Hostel

Hosteria Patagonia

America del Sur Hostel El Calafate

Folk Hostel

Schilling Patagonia Travellers - Hostel

Tierra Tehuelche
Find out more about El Calafate
Stunning glaciers and breathtaking landscapes await in El Calafate
Top reasons to visit El Calafate
- Breathtaking Glaciers: El Calafate is renowned for its exceptional glaciers, offering mesmerizing tours and excursions.
- Picturesque Scenery: With stunning lakes and picturesque landscapes, El Calafate is perfect for hiking and boating adventures.
- Vibrant Downtown Area: Immerse yourself in the lively atmosphere of the town's center, with its bustling streets, charming shops, and delightful restaurants.
- Authentic Patagonian Culture: Experience the unique Patagonian culture and hospitality as you explore the town's local traditions, crafts, and delicious cuisine.
- Serene Argentino Lake: Marvel at the beauty of Argentino Lake, the largest freshwater lake in Argentina, known for its serene atmosphere and stunning sunsets.
Find your hotel in El Calafate
When it comes to accommodation in El Calafate, you'll be spoilt for choice. There are many hotels available to suit all budgets and preferences.
- Hotel del Glaciar Libertador - This 2.0-star hotel offers airport transportation, urban biking tours, glacier excursions, and family-friendly facilities.
- Hotel Picos del Sur - With a 3.0-star rating, this hotel features a bar, free breakfast, laundry facilities, and easy access to natural parks.
- Xelena Hotel & Suites - This 5.0-star hotel offers luxurious amenities such as an indoor pool, childcare services, stunning views, and transportation facilities.
Staying in El Calafate guarantees a memorable experience. Whether you're looking for affordable options or a high-end retreat, the hotels here cater to all needs and provide a comfortable and enjoyable stay.
Explore the best places to visit and stay in El Calafate
El Calafate is a charming town located in the Santa Cruz Province of Argentina, offering a range of exciting areas to explore.
- Downtown Calafate: Immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of the town's center, with its bustling streets, charming shops, and delightful restaurants.
- Exciting Destinations: Discover the awe-inspiring glaciers of the region, such as the famous Perito Moreno Glacier, where you can witness the majestic ice formations up close.
- Patagonian Town of El Calafate: Experience the authentic Patagonian culture and hospitality as you explore the town's local traditions, crafts, and delicious cuisine.
- Destino Calafate: Enjoy the breathtaking views of Lake Argentino and its surrounding landscapes, offering opportunities for boating, hiking, and scenic walks.
- Argentino Lake in El Calafate: Marvel at the beauty of Argentino Lake, the largest freshwater lake in Argentina, known for its serene atmosphere and stunning sunsets.
Each area in El Calafate offers a unique blend of nature, adventure, and cultural experiences, ensuring an unforgettable holiday filled with exploration and wonder.
Experience the top activities and must-see sights in El Calafate
El Calafate is a charming town in Santa Cruz Province, Argentina, known for its breathtaking glaciers, stunning lake, and picturesque natural scenery. It offers a range of exciting tours and excursions, including hiking, boating, and sightseeing, allowing you to immerse yourself in the beauty of nature. The Gnome Village is a unique cultural attraction where you can explore the charming village and learn about local traditions. Glaciarium is an environmental center that offers a fascinating insight into the glaciers and their impact on the environment. The El Calafate Historical Interpretation Center is a must-visit for history enthusiasts, providing a glimpse into the town's rich past. With its romantic ambiance and stunning landscapes, El Calafate promises an unforgettable holiday experience.
- Gnome Village: Immerse yourself in the local culture as you explore this charming village, surrounded by glaciers and offering tours, hiking, boating, and scenic beauty.
- Glaciarium: Discover the wonders of glaciers at this environmental center, featuring tours, hiking, boating, and breathtaking scenery.
- El Calafate Historical Interpretation Center: Delve into the town's history at this museum, where you can learn about its fascinating past while enjoying the surrounding glaciers, tours, lake, nature, and excursions.
How to find great deals and cheap hotels in El Calafate
- Most hotels on Expedia offer free cancellation, providing flexibility for your travel plans. Make sure to check the cancellation policy of each hotel before booking.
- El Calafate is known for its stunning glaciers, tours, lakes, and natural beauty. Take advantage of the various excursions, sightseeing opportunities, hiking trails, boating trips, and romantic settings the city has to offer.
- To save on travel expenses, consider booking your trip during off-peak seasons when prices for flights, hotels, and attractions may be lower.
Discover the flavours of El Calafate
El Calafate, known as the gateway to the stunning Perito Moreno Glacier, offers a delightful dining experience that showcases the flavours of local cuisine. From traditional Patagonian dishes to unique creations, there is something to satisfy every palate.
One popular restaurant in El Calafate is Casimiro Bigua Parrilla & Asador, a Latin American eatery that specializes in mouthwatering grilled meats. For pizza lovers, La Tablita is a must-visit pizzeria that also serves Latin American dishes. Another option is Pura Vida, a Latin American restaurant that offers a diverse menu featuring regional flavours.
Best time to go to El Calafate
El Calafate boasts a year-around average temperature of 6.4°C, peaking at 11.1°C in January, its warmest month, and dipping to an average low of 1.7°C in June, July, the coolest. Rainfall averages at 33.1mm annually, with May seeing the heaviest showers and October being the driest month.
Month![]() | Temperature (Celcius)![]() | Rainfall (mm)![]() |
| January | 11.1 | 35.3 |
| February | 10.5 | 28.2 |
| March | 8.6 | 39.4 |
| April | 6.5 | 40.9 |
| May | 4.0 | 42.4 |
| June | 1.7 | 32.5 |
| July | 1.7 | 33.8 |
| August | 2.9 | 33.0 |
| September | 4.6 | 27.4 |
| October | 6.8 | 23.6 |
| November | 8.9 | 28.7 |
| December | 10.0 | 31.5 |
The nearest major airports for your trip to El Calafate
Getting to El Calafate is straightforward if you are flying into El Calafate Airport (FTE-Comandante Armando Tola International), located approximately 16km from the town. The airport primarily serves domestic flights, making it convenient for travellers. A notable hotel nearby is the Alto Calafate Hotel Patagonico, rated at 4.5 stars and situated about 14km from the airport. This hotel offers comfortable accommodations and easy access to local attractions. Transportation options from the airport to the hotel include taxis and shuttle services, ensuring a smooth journey for visitors arriving in this stunning region of Argentina.
The El Calafate info point: What you need to know
Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Location | Santa Cruz Province, Argentina |
| Attractions | Perito Moreno Glacier, Upsala Glacier, El Chalten, Torres del Paine National Park |
| Most popular month? | December to February (summer) |
| Length of Stay | 3-4 days |
| Weather | Cool to cold year-round, with frequent wind |
| Don't miss | Perito Moreno Glacier trekking, boat tour to Upsala Glacier, El Calafate town |
| Cuisine | Patagonian lamb, empanadas, mate tea |
| Where to go | El Calafate town, Glaciarium Museum, Laguna Nimez Reserve |







