Nestled in the heart of Argentine Patagonia, El Calafate is a charming town that serves as the gateway to the majestic Perito Moreno Glacier, one of Argentina’s most iconic natural wonders. This small yet bustling town, located on the southern shore of the stunning turquoise-colored Lago Argentino, has transformed from a once-quaint village into a flourishing tourist hub, thanks to its exceptional proximity to the Los Glaciares National Park, where the Perito Moreno Glacier proudly resides.
El Calafate itself is named after a native bush with yellow flowers and dark berries, which, according to legend, if eaten, ensures one’s return to Patagonia. The town exudes a rustic charm with its wooden houses, cozy lodges, and a vibrant main street lined with boutique shops, local eateries, and artisanal markets. Despite its growth, El Calafate has managed to maintain a welcoming, small-town atmosphere that warmly embraces visitors from around the globe.
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Travelers arrive in El Calafate via the Comandante Armando Tola International Airport, which connects this remote Patagonian gem to major Argentine cities such as Buenos Aires. From here, it is a mere 80 kilometers to the star attraction, the Perito Moreno Glacier. One can easily arrange tours, rent a car, or take a bus to the glacier, but however one chooses to travel, the journey is a scenic treat through the vast, windswept Patagonian steppe.
The highlight and main draw of El Calafate is undeniably the Perito Moreno Glacier. Named after the Argentine explorer and academic Francisco Moreno, the glacier covers an area of approximately 250 square kilometers, stretching 30 kilometers in length and standing 70 meters above the surface of Lago Argentino. It is one of the few glaciers in the world that is still advancing, moving about two meters a day.
Upon arrival at the Perito Moreno Glacier, visitors are greeted with panoramic walkways and viewing platforms that offer awe-inspiring vistas of this icy giant. The vivid blue hues of the glacier, caused by the compacted ice absorbing all colors of the spectrum except blue, are truly mesmerizing. The sight is nothing short of spectacular, as massive blocks of ice periodically calve from the glacier’s face with thunderous splashes into the lake below, creating a natural spectacle that emphasizes the raw power of nature.
As one explores the network of paths that lead to various vantage points, the sheer scale and beauty of the glacier become even more apparent. The air is crisp and often carries the sound of cracking ice, a reminder of the glacier’s continuous movement. For those seeking a closer encounter, guided mini-trekking and ‘Big Ice’ tours can be arranged. These treks allow adventurous visitors to don crampons and walk on the glacier itself, traversing deep blue crevasses, glistening ice caves, and vast expanses of untouched ice.
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The Perito Moreno Glacier is part of the Southern Patagonian Ice Field, the world’s second-largest contiguous extrapolar ice field, shared by Argentina and Chile. The Los Glaciares National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage site since 1981, encompasses this ice field and several other glaciers, making it a prime destination for nature enthusiasts and adventure seekers alike.
The park is also home to a diverse array of flora and fauna. The temperate forests are dotted with lenga and ñire trees, while the fauna includes species such as the Andean condor, guanacos, foxes, and if one is very fortunate, the elusive puma. Bird watchers will find El Calafate particularly rewarding, with various bird species inhabiting the area, including the flamingos that grace the shallow waters of Lago Argentino.
In addition to glacier viewing and trekking, El Calafate offers various other outdoor activities such as horseback riding, mountain biking, and kayaking. Excursions to nearby sites, like the historic Estancia Cristina, provide insight into the region’s ranching heritage while offering further exploration opportunities of the surrounding wilderness.
Though relatively small, El Calafate features a rich array of dining options. Local cuisine predominantly highlights the region’s excellent lamb, with ‘cordero patagónico’ being a must-try delicacy. The town’s eateries, ranging from casual cafes to fine dining restaurants, also serve up other Patagonian specialties such as trout, Patagonian toothfish, and locally-foraged wild mushrooms, often paired with Argentine wines that are world-renowned for their quality.
Moreover, visitors can learn more about the region’s glaciology, geology, and ecology at the Glaciarium, a modern interpretive center located just outside of town. This museum offers interactive exhibits, a 3D documentary film, and a spectacular panoramic view of the surrounding landscape. The highlight of the Glaciarium, especially after a day of exploration, is the Glaciobar BrancaItal, an ice bar kept at a constant temperature of -10 degrees Celsius, where guests don provided warm clothing and enjoy drinks from glasses made of ice.
As night falls, El Calafate transforms into a serene haven. The Patagonian sky, clear and unpolluted, reveals a blanket of stars that seem to touch the earth. Northern lights, known as the aurora australis, are occasionally visible, adding another layer of magic to this already enchanting place.
El Calafate and the Perito Moreno Glacier provide a journey that is not just of physical distances but of profound experiences, evoking a deep appreciation for nature’s grandeur and resilience. It is a place where the wonders of the world manifest in every direction, where every gust of wind carries echoes of stories untold. From the moment you enter this serene town until you witness the last hues of the glacier in the setting sun, El Calafate promises a travel experience that transcends the ordinary, leaving an indelible mark on the heart and memory.
FAQ For The Beauty of El Calafate in Argentine Patagonia.
What is El Calafate known for?
El Calafate is a town located in Argentine Patagonia, known for being the gateway to the Los Glaciares National Park, home to the famous Perito Moreno Glacier.
When is the best time to visit El Calafate?
The best time to visit El Calafate is during the summer months in the Southern Hemisphere, from November to March, when the weather is milder and the days are longer.
What activities can I enjoy in El Calafate?
Visitors can enjoy trekking, ice hiking, sightseeing boat tours to the Perito Moreno Glacier, horseback riding, and exploring the beautiful landscapes of the region.
How can I get to El Calafate?
The town has its own airport, the Comandante Armando Tola International Airport, with flights from major cities in Argentina and neighboring countries. Additionally, there are bus services connecting El Calafate with other towns in Patagonia.
What are the accommodation options in El Calafate?
There are various accommodation options in El Calafate, including hotels, hostels, and lodges, catering to different budgets and preferences.
Are there any local delicacies to try in El Calafate?
Yes, visitors should definitely try the local lamb dishes, such as “cordero patagónico”, and the traditional sweet “calafate” berry desserts.
