tours in calafate

Top Tours in El Calafate, Argentina

El calafate tours.

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1. Perito Moreno Glacier Full Day Tour with Optional Boat Safari

2. Perito Moreno Glacier Full Day Tour with Navigation

3. Perito Moreno Glacier Minitrekking Excursion

4. Perito Moreno Glacier with Navigation from El Calafate

5. Torres Del Paine Full Day Overland Truck 4x4 from El Calafate

6. El Chaltén with Trekking from El Calafate

7. El Chalten Complete Experience Full Day Tour from El Calafate

8. El Calafate Boat Tour to the Glaciers + Lunch(Glaciares Gourmet)

9. Kayak Full-Day Activity in La Leona River from El Calafate

10. Perito Moreno Glacier Day Trip with Optional Boat Ride

11. Nativo Experience - Lakes & Caverns

12. Torres del Paine Full Day Tour departing from El Calafate

13. Southroad Calafate Balcony Experience with Tour Mode Options

14. Perito Moreno Glacier Experience with Boat Navigation !!

15. Transfer from the airport to your hotel in El Calafate

16. Perito Moreno Minitrekking Ice Hiking from El Calafate

17. Perito Moreno Glacier Minitrekking Experience

18. Excursion to the Perito Moreno Glacier, with guide and transfer to / from the hotel

19. Estancia Cristina

20. Maria Turquesa Full Day Sightseeing Glaciers Cruise

21. Visit to the footbridges of the Perito Moreno Glacier

22. Transfer from your hotel to El Calafate airport

23. Full Day Guided Tour Perito Moreno National Park and Glacier

24. Horseback riding in Calafate

25. Horseback Riding Experience in the Estancia 25 de Mayo Nature Reserve

26. Full Day Tour to Perito Moreno Glacier including Navigation

27. Perito Moreno Ice Trek- Minitrekking with Walkways and Boat Ride

28. El Chalten Full Day & Free Trek from El Calafate

29. Glaciar Perito Moreno con Safari Náutico

30. Safari Experience - Wildlife & Steppe

What travellers are saying.

• Perito Moreno Glacier Full Day Tour with Optional Boat Safari
• Perito Moreno Glacier Full Day Tour with Navigation
• Perito Moreno Glacier Minitrekking Excursion
• Torres Del Paine Full Day Overland Truck 4x4 from El Calafate
• Perito Moreno Glacier with Navigation from El Calafate
• Glaciar Turismo
• Tolkeyen Patagonia Turismo
• Patagonia Dreams
• Tangol Tours El Calafate
• Aike Traslados
• Patagonia Chic
• Patagonia Profunda
• Criollos Turismo
• Iceberg Turismo
• Cerro Frias
• Mundo Austral
• Glaciar Sur
• Hielo & Aventura
• Estancia Cristina

El Calafate

Explore the best glaciers in patagonia with our tours from el calafate.

Hiking on the ice of Perito Moreno

Minitrekking Perito Moreno

Glaciares Gourmet boat tour

All Glaciers Boat Tour

Perito Moreno Glacier Tour Safari Azul

Perito Moreno Glacier Big Ice Trek

2 Days in El Calafate Glacier Trek Experience

Perito Moreno Kayak Tour

Full Day Tour to the Perito Moreno Glacier from El Calafate

El Calafate Balconies

El Chaltén Day Trip

Laguna de los Tres Hike

Day trip to Torres del Paine from El Calafate

Boat tour Mayo Spirit Trek

Private transfer from El Calafate to Puerto Natales

Private transfer between El Calafate and Torres del Paine

El calafate tours.

El Calafate is a place of glaciers. Located in Argentine Patagonia, this city is the central point for excursions in the area.

At Howlanders, we bring the glaciers to you so that you can enjoy them in the way that best suits you. That's why, with our El Calafate tours , you can see them from a walkway, walk on them and even navigate between the huge ice sheets on a kayak between glaciers. Do you feel the adrenaline?

El Calafate is undoubtedly one of the most incredible destinations in Patagonia Argentina, a gift of nature and a must-stop on the way of any adventurer.

Minitrekking Calafate

Of all the glaciers in Argentina, and of all the ones you can see with El Calafate tours, the Perito Moreno is the best known.

It is 5 km wide, 74 meters high, and has an ice layer 170 meters deep. It is located in the Glacier National Park and although Howlanders can find El Calafate tours that take you to see it from the walkways, we know you like an adventure. That's why our travelers' favorite tour is the Minitrekking Perito Moreno . 

Have you ever seen a glacier up close? And best of all .... Have you ever trekked on top of one of them? We offer you the chance to walk along the Perito Moreno, feel the ice cracking under your feet and with a little luck, witness the detachment that happens every so often.

Argentine Patagonia

Patagonia is, after Antarctica, the place with the largest ice area in the world. In addition, the glaciers are born at very low altitude, so it is easy to see them up close.

Do you believe us if we tell you that in Argentina there are more than 15,000 glaciers? With the El Calafate tours, you will be able to see several of them up close.

Popular tours in Argentina

Main destinations in argentina, popular tours.

Tour: Gourmet Glaciers Experience

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• Ice Trekking
• Boat Rides and Adventure
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• Perito Moreno Glacier
• Upsala Glacier
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• El Calafate
• Gourmet Glaciers Experience
• Tours in El Calafate

Gourmet Glaciers offers the most exclusive boat tour in Los Glaciares National Park , furrowing the waters of Lake Argentino on board the Maria Turquesa Cruise and visiting the Upsala (one of the largest), Spegazzini (the tallest) and Perito Moreno glaciers . The tour is aimed at travelers looking for personalized attention and excellent service in El Calafate. It includes a landing with a walk in the forest inside the Spegazzini Channel and the possibility of getting off at the balconies of the Perito Moreno Glacier.

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Other Tours that offer Boat Rides

The Spirit of the Glaciers

ARS$ 2400000

(3 days and 2 nights) The Santa Cruz Cruise offers a level of exclusivity and luxury in terms of tours without precedent in Los Glaciares National Park, allowing you to sail in front of the Upsala, Spegazzini, Mayo and Perito Moreno glaciers while enjoying an excellent gourmet service onboard and overnight in front of this ancient ice. It is a worldwide unique experience available only for a few travelers who enjoy luxury, comfort and different alternatives to traditional tours.

Todo Glaciares: Upsala and Spegazzini

ARS$ 170000

Todo Glaciares is one of the most important boat tours in El Calafate as it visits the Upsala and Spegazzini glaciers and descends into the forest from where you can enjoy a view like never before of the Spegazzini Glacier and Glaciers Bay. The Spegazzini Refuge offers lunch with unique views of this glacier while enjoying an excellent service. Those passengers who want a more personalized service can add the Captain's Club option.

Moreno Spirit: Short Boat Tour

One hour boat tour in front of the north face of the Perito Moreno Glacier , which is considered the most beautiful face. If you visit the glacier on your own by car, you can complement the walk along the balconies with an approach to the north face of the glacier from the water, with the possibility of seeing floating icebergs and occasional landslides . You can also include the transfer with guide service from your hotel in El Calafate to the glacier round trip in case you do not have a car.

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Safari Azul

Safari Azul  is designed for those who, in addition to sailing in front of the  Perito Moreno Glacier , dream of getting closer to the glacial ice! The tour begins in El Calafate when the bus goes to  Los Glaciares National Park . Once in  Puerto Bajo de las Sombras , just 7 km from the  footbridges , we will take a boat to cross  Rico Lake  and after sailing 20 minutes, we will disembark on the opposite coast.

We will walk for 30 minutes with a  view of the southern wall of the Glacier  in case we are surprised by some thunderous landslide. Once next to the ice it will be time for an unforgettable experience… We will be able to fully enjoy its intense and varied blues, whites and its whimsical shapes.

We will have time to take many photos and then we will return to the embarkation point always accompanied by an experienced guide. The total walk is approximately 1.30 hours through a natural terrain of sand and stones with some slopes and stairs. The route, one and a half kilometers long,  will be along the shore of the lake and through a lush forest with a view of the Glacier. Finally we will take the boat to appreciate the water and, a few meters away, the entire southern face of the glacier and be able to see every detail of the marbled ice wall.

Once in the port, we will take the bus to the  footbridges, where we will have 2 hours  to enjoy the incredible panoramic view. In addition, they will be able to take advantage of this time to consume the food that they must bring from El Calafate. We will arrive in El Calafate after touring the Patagonian steppe, with our soul charged with the natural energy of this unique glacier.

Blue Safari without transfer: Passengers must arrive at Puerto Bajo Las Sombras at the indicated time. We recommend going early to the walkway area and then heading to the port to begin navigation. The transfer can only be added more than 7 days in advance of the chosen date.

Blue Safari with transfer: The passenger will be picked up at the hotel where they are staying and at the end of the tour they will return to the same place. If you are not staying in a hotel or hostel, a meeting point will be assigned to begin the tour.

To Consider

• Duration: 8 hours (pick up times for hotels may vary by 1 hour).
• Difficulty level: EASY.
• Tour not suitable for pregnant women, people with knee or back problems, obesity [BMI greater than 30], people with heart problems, stents, bypasses, pacemakers, anticoagulants, or people with recent operations or disabilities.
• Age: 6 to 70 years.
• Recommendations: Wear comfortable and warm clothing. Waterproof jacket and pants, sports shoes or waterproof trekking boots. The weather is changeable and you have to be prepared to avoid getting wetor cold. Sunglasses, sunscreen, gloves, hat.
• Includes: Guide in the transfer to the port and navigation.
• Not included: Meals, drinks. Entrance to the National Park. It can be obtained in advance in the following link

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SAFARI AZUL'S TOUR ROUTE

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Navigation + Perito Moreno footbridges + trekking.

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Glaciar Perito Moreno Tour

Glaciar Sur Pioneros

Minitrekking

Below you will find the main differences between the excursions. Safari Azul y Big Ice.

Below you will find the main differences between the excursions. Safari Azul y Glaciar Perito Moreno Tour.

Below you will find the main differences between the excursions. Safari Azul y Glaciar Sur Pioneros.

Below you will find the main differences between the excursions. Safari Azul y Minitrekking.

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El Calafate in 4 days, recommended itinerary

Although the Perito Moreno glacier is its most famous attraction, there are plenty of places to visit in El Calafate in 4 days . Glaciers, ranches, hiking and more.

We have prepared this itinerary based on our experience traveling through Patagonia Argentina , visiting El Calafate and all its attractions.

Although the city located on the shores of Lake Argentino in itself does not have great attractions, its proximity to the Southern Patagonian Ice Field makes it possible to visit several glaciers some of them by boat, and get to know the mythical Perito Moreno Glacier and even walk over it.

The magic of the Patagonian nature is present in this place, mixing the great ice masses with the lakes, Patagonian forests and mountains .

🔎 We tell you the information you need to plan your trip in our guide to travel to El Calafate : how to get there, best time to visit and the essentials.

Table of Contents

It is necessary to rent a car to visit Calafate.

The reality is that it is not essential to rent a car in El Calafate , since most excursions have the option of hiring a car to pick you up at your hotel. In addition, many of them are done exclusively by boat or through places that you cannot reach by car due to the difficulty of the road.

The advantage of renting a car in El Calafate is the convenience of transferring you from the airport to the hotel both on arrival and departure, going to the ports where the boat excursions depart or visiting the walkways of the Perito Moreno Glacier without the need for an excursion.

You can also visit El Chaltén on your own by car, without the need of an excursion or taking a bus.

We decided not to rent a car in El Calafate , and we stayed longer in El Chaltén to do many of the treks.

How many days are needed to visit El Calafate

Our suggestion is to visit El Calafate in at least 3 days to see the must-see places. But if you have time, the ideal is to do it in at least 4 days , since the visit to a Patagonian estancia or El Chaltén is really worthwhile.

For those who make a few days itinerary in Patagonia Argentina , we recommend that you dedicate at least one day to the Perito Moreno glacier and another day to do the all glacier boat excursion.

Itinerary through El Calafate in 4 days, day-by-day details

– Day 1 : Hike along the Perito Moreno glacier plus footbridges.

– Day 2 : Full glacier excursion (navigation through Los Glaciares National Park).

– Day 3 : Patagonian ranch and short trekking route.

– Day 4 : Visit El Chaltén.

Day 1: Perito Moreno glacier hike and walkways

El Calafate is synonymous with the Perito Moreno glacier and there are many experiences around this emblematic site to visit in Patagonia Argentina.

A must to do in El Calafate in 4 days is the adventure of walking on the roof of the glacier . Keep in mind that the trekking on top of the Perito Moreno glacier can only be done from September to May .

Although it requires some physical effort, people up to 65 years of age can do it as long as they do not have a history of cardiovascular problems or severe asthma. Not suitable for pregnant women.

The excursion has everything: it begins with a brief navigation on the lake with a view of the high walls of the south face of the Perito Moreno Glacier. Then we arrive at a shelter on the shores of the lake, where a short walk takes us to the edge of the glacier, at which point we put on the crampons provided by the company and the most important part of the adventure begins.

Walking on top of the ice mass is indescribable. The  adrenaline  is terrible. There are several stops and along the way you will observe crevasses , sinkholes  and the roar of the ice . It is really to be enjoyed even if it is an expensive excursion!

Finally, crossing a Patagonian forest on foot, you reach the port to embark again towards the port of origin.

At the end of the excursion, we recommend you to go to the wooden walkways of the Perito Moreno Glacier (the yellow one is essential), to see the imposing ice front from the side. This way, you save yourself from returning to the Perito Moreno Glacier for another day, doing the glacier walk, the footbridges and the navigation on single excursion .

If you visit El Calafate outside the glacier hiking season , we recommend that you take the boat ride that approaches the glacier wall and the wooden walkways on this day. In fact, you will have more time to walk on the five walkways , each identified by a different color.

The first day you will end up exhausted, so we recommend you to relax at the hotel and if it has a restaurant, eat there . If you are staying in the center, a good option is Isabel , meat dishes, fish, chicken cooked on a plow disk, a real delicacy.

Day 2 navigation in the glaciers national park

The next day is another must-do excursion in El Calafate. The all-glacier excursion is so called because the boat trip passes near the Upsala, Spegazzini, Heim, Peineta and Seco glaciers. Yes, you will see five glaciers in one excursion .

Sailing along the arms of Lake Argentino between high mountains, you will see imposing glaciers such as the Spegazzini, the Spegazzini, the highest in the area with its ice walls of more than 120 meters high, and the Upsala, which is ice floes over the lake that you will observe during the navigation.

According to the weather conditions of the day, the ship approaches the glaciers at a shorter distance . Besides sailing and contemplating this wonder of nature, in the same excursion there is a short hiking route to do in the vicinity of the Spegazzini glacier, up to the refuge of the same name.

There are several types of excursions to see the glaciers of the national park:

• Basic : includes only navigation on the glaciers.
• Basic plus food : in addition to the navigation it includes gourmet food on board the ship.
• VIP with food : a real experience, because in addition to the sailing it includes a gourmet lunch in the exclusive Captain’s Club Heim lounge with views, and alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages on the ship.

Please note that the total duration of the excursion is 10 hours , so you will have to reserve the whole day to do this tour.

In the evening, you can try the authentic Patagonian lamb on the spit at La Tablita . We asked about the best place to try it at the hotel and they recommended this restaurant. A great success.

Day 3: Patagonian ranch and the steppe

The Patagonian estancias are large estates that cover a large area of land around them and were or are dedicated mainly to raising livestock , mostly sheep. Some of them are only open today for tourist purposes.

Their main characteristic is that they are located in the following locations  inhospitable and sparsely populated places in Patagonia . Its owners or people working on the ranch have to endure the low temperatures and windy weather for most of the year.

Two of the most renowned estancias are the Huyliche estancia and the 25 de Mayo estancia. These estancias allow you to go on a 4WD tour to see the characteristic fauna of the place such as guanacos, the great Patagonian steppe and in the distance the high mountains of the Andes. You can even eat something typical in the estancia’s restaurants.

There are several excursions that we recommend to visit the Patagonian estancias . In all cases, typical food is included in the estancia:

• 4×4 safari in the 25 de Mayo ranch
• 4×4 tour through the so-called balconies of El Calafate plus a visit to the Huyliche ranch .
• Sample of sheep herding and esquilo  at the 25 de Mayo ranch .

Before or after visiting the Patagonian estancia, we recommend a low-difficulty walk from downtown El Calafate to the shore of Lake Argentino, more precisely to the Laguna Nimez reserve.

The walk to the entrance of the reserve is about 20 minutes from downtown. Then you have approximately two hours to walk the trail, observe flamingos and swans, and finish the tour on a beach on the shores of the lake.

If you don’t take the dinner excursion at the 25 de Mayo ranch, we recommend you to visit the Ice bar , an experience to have a drink in a room at 10 degrees below zero. Even the bar where drinks are served is made of ice!

Day 4: excursion to el chaltén from el calafate

The last day consider visiting El Chaltén , a small and charming town located at the foot of the Andes Mountains and named as the national capital of trekking, due to the presence of many trails through hills and lakes.

Its main attraction is the Mount Fitz Roy although to see it up close you will need at least two days in El Chaltén two days in El Chaltén and a trekking of medium physical effort. This hill is characterized by its pointed peak that stands out among the rest of the mountains and is located at the foot of the Los Tres lagoon.

There are also other essential trekking routes to do in El Chaltén such as the Desierto Lagoon or the Torre Hill. Glaciers, turquoise water mirrors and mountains are the predominant landscape that summarizes this place.

On a day trip to El Chaltén you will see Fitz Roy both from the road before arriving and from a lookout point. You can also do some simple trekking routes such as the Chorrillo del Salto waterfall .

The visit to El Chaltén from El Calafate can be done by car or by a day trip.

Finally, we recommend an ideal place to taste handmade chocolates in El Calafate . On the main avenue you will find Dulce Lugar , a small shop with excellent chocolates, alfajores, jams and liquors. Great for testing or as a gift.

Where to stay in El Calafate

The best area to stay in El Calafate is downtown . It is not a big city, but there are plenty of hotels and cabins in the surroundings and on the shore of Lake Argentino.

El Calafate is an expensive city to stay and make excursions, but the presence of hostels and hostels allow you to stay for an average budget.

If you want to see lodging options in El Calafate, we suggest 10 hotels where to stay in El Calafate.

What to bring to El Calafate

Whether you travel in winter or summer, you should always bring a coat . The best time to travel to El Calafate is from November to March when temperatures are pleasant during the day but drop considerably at night. In addition, the wind is considerable at any time of the year.

This factor makes it possible to wear light clothing during the day , but then it is necessary to dress warmly. It is essential to bring a raincoat for boat excursions, trekking boots for hiking, a winter hat and thermal clothing . The good thing is that the hotels have good heating , which helps to dry wet clothes quickly.

Because of the reflection of the sun on the ice mass, sunscreen and sunglasses are also indispensable.

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2-Days and 1 Night Experience El Calafate with Airfare from Buenos Aires

• 1 Night Accommodation at a 4* Hotel (breakfast included)
• Transfer from/to Airport in Calafate
• Hotel Pick-Up and Drop-Off
• Roundtrip Airfare Included (Tourist Class)
• National Park Entrance Fees
• Bilingual Professional Guide
• Full Day to Perito Moreno tour with 1 hour navigation (Shared service)
• Entry/Admission - Perito Moreno Glacier
• Food and Drinks
• Transfer from/to Domestic Airport in Buenos Aires
• El Calafate Airport, Santa Cruz Province, Argentina
• Not wheelchair accessible
• Infants must sit on laps
• Confirmation will be received at time of booking
• Not recommended for travelers with back problems
• Not recommended for pregnant travelers
• No heart problems or other serious medical conditions
• Travelers should have a strong physical fitness level
• This tour/activity will have a maximum of 15 travelers
• All sales are final and incur 100% cancellation penalties.

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2-Days and 1 Night Experience El Calafate with Airfare from Buenos Aires provided by Signature Tours

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Patagonia Tours & Trips from El Calafate

An adventure starting in El Calafate is a great way to see Patagonia. We have 44 tours that range from 3 days up to 17 days. The most popular time for tours from El Calafate is November, which has the most tour departures.

44 Patagonia tours from El Calafate with 88 reviews

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• Hiking & Trekking

Argentina & Chile: Amazing Patagonia - 13 days

This trip was very good. Accommodation was also good however in El Calafate we were a long way from the township. Everywhere else was within easy walking distance. The tours included in this trip were well operated and most enjoyable. The public bus from Puerto Arenas to Ushuaia was not what we expected. Beautiful coach for the first 5 0r 6 hours. Then the bus was stopped and we all had to get off. The 4 people on the Say Hueque trip were told to get in a car and we were taken to the town Rio Grande.We didnt know what was going on and just told we would catch a local mini bus in an hour from there to Ushuaia. Very strange and no explanation given. This bus company should be investigated to see what is happening. I would definitely recommend this trip however, would suggest a stay in Terres del paine for an extra day to improve it.

Argentina & Chile: Amazing Patagonia - 9 days

This was a self guided tour which I wasn’t aware of and needs to be highlighted on the website. Excellent organisation and no issues with any timings of events. Only issue was the itinerary stated we were going to have lunch at a cattle ranch which didn’t happen and was subsidised with a local restaurant meal. After further investigation we found out the ranch had burnt down in November 2019 yet the itinerary was not updated therefore we missed out on this event which was very disappointing and we would like to be reimbursed as such. Hotels are not walking distance from the bus stations and the transfer to the port at Puerto Natales was included contrary to the itinerary. Charge for Miloden caves needs to be added as an extra. It was 8000 Chilean Pesos. The bus trip from El Calafate to Puerto Natales takes between 5-6 hours depending on the border crossing. This needs to be amended in the itinerary as well as there is no baggage limit for the tour. Also a note should be made about the pick up times for the airport transfer at the start of the tour as we had to wait for two hours and just happened to see our names on a board at a transfer window rather than a person waiting for us. Also the talk about the devil listed on day six of the itinerary didn’t happen and needs to be removed. Besides the cattle ranch incident I enjoyed the tour and found the organisation of a very high standard

Land of Glaciers: El Calafate

Todo super geniall!!

Highlights El Calafate & El Chalten

Absolutely top marks for the people taking care of me: the hotel staff, drivers, mountain guide, ... They were friendly, accommodating, competent and extremely well-organized. From that point of view, it's five stars. However, there is one detail that I recommend everyone to inquire about before the booking, so you are not disappointed like I was. For any trip, there is a maximum number of people given, 10 in this case, and when I checked for the date that I wanted, it said 5 places left on that trip. That meant 5 people were already booked, right? No such luck, it turned out I was the only participant. Later I realized that this is a default setting, just like the slogan "Filling fast" beside every upcoming start date. Wrong again. This kind of company policy is misleading at best.

• In-depth Cultural
• Sightseeing

Argentina: Calafate & Ushuaia or Viceversa - 5 days

I loved this tour and I could not be more impressed with Receptivo Aborigen. They went above and beyond in looking after me.

Argentina - Getaway to the Glaciers

4-Day El Calafate Tour

Everything was perfect! From the organization to the beauty of the sites.

Perito Moreno Glacier Short Break

• Wildlife & Nature Photography

3-night Getaway to El Calafate, land of Glaciers!

El Calafate Basic Program - 3 nights

4-Day El Calafate Luxury Tour

Ushuaia to Santiago (Ruta 40) Travel Pass

• 10% deposit on some dates Some departure dates offer you the chance to book this tour with a lower deposit.

Fitz Roy & Perito Moreno Glacier

The trip was very well organised. I was kind of late with booking two weeks before the departure, but the operators were really quick to respond and did a really good job. I really appreciate that. The tours itself were great! The guides were perfectly informed and super friendly. Especially the last tour with Dani was unique! As we were alone, we decided to adapt the tours a little bit to see more places. It was a bit longer than planned, but totally worth it! Dani teached me a lot about the area of El Chaltén. I wished I had more time to stay with her and do more tours. You could really sense that she loves the place a lot. I really enjoyed our time and I can highly recommend to visit both places, Calafate and El Chaltén. However, for the latter one, I would suggest to stay a bit longer than three days.

What people love about Patagonia Tours from El Calafate

I was really happy with my tour! The company had created a very nice itnerary and I could cover all good areas in Patagonia.

Most of the tour was well planned and executed. We enjoyed seeing the Perito Moreno Glacier, viewing Mt. Fitz Roy and walking among the Penguins in Beagle Channel. Transfers were well planned. The trips in Ushaia that didn't have transfers were within easy walking distance of our hotel. The one snag was the hike to Torres del Paine. The day before that hike started early and ended with a long bus ride from Torres del Paine National Park back to Puerto Natales which was made longer since we had to deliver one participant to an out of the way hotel. The day of the hike started early once again and required a long bus ride back to Torres del Paine National Park. We decided we were not ready to spend that much time on another bus and decided to forgo the hike. Our request for a refund for the hike was denied though we thought this was the one situation where poor planning interfered with our enjoyment of the activities.

Tours starting from El Calafate

• El Calafate to El Calafate tours (25)
• El Calafate to Ushuaia tours (8)
• Explorer from El Calafate (26)
• Private from El Calafate (21)
• Hiking & Trekking from El Calafate (20)
• Active from El Calafate (19)
• Family from El Calafate (18)
• Self-Guided from El Calafate (13)
• In-depth Cultural from El Calafate (10)
• 10 Best Patagonia Trekking Companies (with 143 Reviews)

Passing Thru Travel

15 Best Places in Patagonia To Visit in 2024

Posted: February 24, 2024 | Last updated: February 24, 2024

Patagonia, a region shared by Argentina and Chile, is a land of awe-inspiring natural beauty. Known for its rugged landscapes, towering mountains, and pristine glaciers, Patagonia is a haven for adventurers and nature lovers alike. This guide takes you through the most breathtaking destinations in Patagonia, each offering a unique experience of this wild and untamed region. Patagonia’s diverse landscapes promise an unforgettable journey from the iconic Torres del Paine to the remote Tierra del Fuego.

1. Torres del Paine National Park, Chile

Torres del Paine National Park, a highlight of Chilean Patagonia, is renowned for its dramatic peaks, bright blue icebergs, and vast pampas. The park’s network of trails, including the famous W Trek and the O Circuit, offers some of the world’s best trekking experiences. Hikers are treated to stunning views of the park’s namesake towers, the Paine Massif, and the Grey Glacier. The diverse ecosystems within the park, from steppe to subpolar forests, are home to an array of wildlife, including guanacos and condors.

Insider’s Tip: Book refugios or campsites well in advance if you plan to trek.

When To Travel: The best time to visit is during the Southern Hemisphere’s summer, from November to early March.

How To Get There: Fly to Punta Arenas in Chile and then take a bus or a rented car to the park.

2. Perito Moreno Glacier, Argentina

The Perito Moreno Glacier, part of Argentina’s Los Glaciares National Park, is one of the most accessible and dynamic glaciers on the planet. Visitors can witness the awe-inspiring sight of ice calving from the glacier into Lake Argentino. The park offers various viewing platforms and boat tours for different perspectives of this natural wonder. Unlike many other glaciers worldwide, Perito Moreno is one of the few still growing, making it a particularly fascinating site for glaciology enthusiasts.

Insider’s Tip: Take a guided glacier walk on the ice for a memorable experience.

When To Travel: Visit between October and April for milder weather.

How To Get There: Fly to El Calafate in Argentina, and then it’s a short drive to the glacier.

3. Fitz Roy Mountain, Argentina

Fitz Roy Mountain, near the small town of El Chaltén, is a paradise for experienced hikers and climbers. The mountain’s iconic jagged peaks present one of the world’s most challenging and rewarding climbs. For those seeking less strenuous activities, numerous trails like Laguna de los Tres offer breathtaking views of Fitz Roy and the surrounding Patagonian landscape. The town of El Chaltén itself is a charming base for exploring the region, with cozy accommodations and local eateries.

Insider’s Tip: Start your hike early in the morning to avoid crowds and enjoy the best views.

When To Travel: Trekking season runs from November to April.

How To Get There: Fly to El Calafate and then take a bus to El Chaltén.

4. Tierra del Fuego, Argentina and Chile

Tierra del Fuego, an archipelago off the southern tip of South America, is a land of stark contrasts and extreme beauty. Ushuaia, the world’s southernmost city, is the gateway to this remote region. Here, visitors can explore the Tierra del Fuego National Park, take boat trips along the Beagle Channel, or embark on expeditions to Antarctica. The region’s unique flora and fauna, including Magellanic penguins and Andean foxes, make it a fascinating destination for wildlife enthusiasts.

Insider’s Tip: Visit the End of the World Museum in Ushuaia to glimpse the area’s history.

When To Travel: The best time is during the Southern Hemisphere’s summer, from December to March.

How To Get There: Fly to Ushuaia from major cities in Argentina or Chile.

5. Marble Caves, Chile

The Marble Caves on Lake General Carrera are a breathtaking natural formation. Millennia of waves washing against calcium carbonate have sculpted these caves into stunning formations. The caves’ walls, with their swirling patterns of blue and grey, are a photographer’s dream, especially when reflected in the lake’s azure waters. Accessible only by boat, the caves offer a serene and otherworldly experience.

Insider’s Tip: Take a boat or kayak tour for the best views of the caves.

When To Travel: Visit between September and February for the best weather.

How To Get There: Fly to Balmaceda, then drive to Puerto Río Tranquilo, where tours to the caves are available.

6. Valdés Peninsula, Argentina

Image Credit: Shutterstock / Natalia Di Marco The Valdés Peninsula is a UNESCO World Heritage Site celebrated for its unique marine wildlife and rugged coastline. It’s one of the best places in the world to see Southern Right Whales, which come close to shore between June and December. The peninsula also hosts large colonies of sea lions, elephant seals, and various bird species. Its steppe-like interior and dramatic coastline offer stunning landscapes and excellent wildlife viewing opportunities.

Insider’s Tip: Take a whale-watching tour between June and December to see Southern Right Whales.

When To Travel: Wildlife viewing is best from September to March.

How To Get There: Fly to Puerto Madryn or Trelew, then drive to the peninsula.

7. Cerro Castillo, Chile

Cerro Castillo, less crowded than Torres del Paine, offers equally stunning scenery for those willing to venture off the beaten path. The trek around Cerro Castillo takes you through diverse landscapes, including forests, alpine meadows, and high mountain passes, with the castle-like peaks of Cerro Castillo as a constant backdrop. The trek is challenging but rewards hikers with incredible views of glaciers, turquoise lakes, and the Patagonian wilderness.

Insider’s Tip: Pack for all weather conditions, as the weather can change rapidly.

When To Travel: The trekking season is from November to April.

How To Get There: Fly to Balmaceda and then drive or take a bus to Villa Cerro Castillo.

8. Cape Horn, Chile

At the southernmost tip of the South American continent, Cape Horn is a legendary location known for its challenging sailing conditions and rich maritime history. Cruises to this remote area offer a unique opportunity to experience the wild beauty of the southern seas and the sense of adventure that comes with reaching the “end of the world.” The area is also significant for its unique flora and fauna adapted to harsh conditions.

Insider’s Tip: Choose a cruise that includes lectures on the region’s history and wildlife.

When To Travel: Cruises run during the Southern Hemisphere’s summer, from December to March.

How To Get There: Cruises to Cape Horn typically depart from Ushuaia.

9. Los Alerces National Park, Argentina

Los Alerces National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site in Argentina, is known for its ancient Alerces trees, some of which are over 3,000 years old. The park’s lakes, rivers, and forests offer a serene setting for hiking, kayaking, and fishing. The park is a testament to Argentina’s commitment to conservation, with well-maintained trails and minimal-impact tourism practices. The park’s diverse ecosystems are home to various wildlife, including deer, pumas, and several bird species.

Insider’s Tip: Explore the Arrayanes Forest for a magical walk among unique cinnamon-colored trees.

When To Travel: Visit from October to April for the best weather.

How To Get There: Fly to Esquel and then drive to the park.

10. Pumalín Park, Chile

Pumalín Park, one of the largest private parks in the world, is a testament to conservation efforts in Chilean Patagonia. Created by conservationist Douglas Tompkins, the park spans over 400,000 hectares of temperate rainforests, fjords, and waterfalls. Visitors can hike through pristine forests, kayak along untouched fjords, and witness the park’s commitment to environmental preservation firsthand. The park’s infrastructure, including trails and campgrounds, is designed to minimize human impact on the environment.

Insider’s Tip: Visit the park’s environmental information centers to learn about its conservation efforts.

When To Travel: The best time to visit is from December to March.

How To Get There: Fly to Puerto Montt, then drive or take a ferry to the park.

11. El Chaltén, Argentina

El Chaltén, often called Argentina’s trekking capital, is the gateway to some of Patagonia’s most iconic trails. The town offers a range of trekking options, from easy day hikes to challenging multi-day expeditions. The surrounding landscapes of glaciers, lakes, and mountains provide a stunning backdrop for outdoor activities. In addition to trekking, visitors can enjoy rock climbing, horseback riding, and fishing.

Insider’s Tip: Visit the Los Condores viewpoint for a stunning panoramic view of the town and surrounding peaks.

When To Travel: Trekking season is from October to April.

12. Laguna San Rafael National Park, Chile

Laguna San Rafael National Park is home to the San Rafael Glacier, one of the largest and most actively calving glaciers in the Chilean Patagonia. The park offers boat tours that provide close-up views of the glacier and the icebergs in the lagoon. The park’s remote location and stunning ice landscapes make it a must-visit for adventure seekers and nature enthusiasts. Visitors can also explore the surrounding rainforests and spot wildlife such as sea lions and dolphins.

Insider’s Tip: Take a boat tour that includes visiting the hot springs at Quitralco Fjord.

When To Travel: The best time for boat tours is from October to April.

How To Get There: Access is mainly by boat or plane from Coyhaique or Puerto Chacabuco.

13. King Penguin Colony, Tierra del Fuego, Chile

The King Penguin Colony on the Chilean side of Tierra del Fuego offers a unique opportunity to observe these majestic birds. Located at Parque Pingüino Rey, the colony is one of the few places outside Antarctica where you can see king penguins in their natural habitat. The park provides a respectful and sustainable way to observe the penguins, with designated viewing areas to minimize disturbance.

Insider’s Tip: Respect the penguins’ space and observe them from a distance to avoid disturbing them.

When To Travel: Penguins can be seen year-round, but the best time is during the breeding season, from September to March.

How To Get There: Fly to Punta Arenas, take a ferry and drive to the park.

14. Bariloche, Argentina

San Carlos de Bariloche, known simply as Bariloche, offers a unique combination of stunning natural landscapes and a lively city atmosphere. Bariloche is located in Argentina’s Lake District, a hub for outdoor activities like hiking, kayaking, and mountain biking. The city’s Swiss-style architecture and renowned chocolate shops add to its charm, making it a popular destination year-round. In winter, Bariloche transforms into a ski resort, while the summer months are perfect for exploring the surrounding lakes and mountains.

Insider’s Tip: Take the cable car to Cerro Campanario for one of the best views in the region.

When To Travel: Visit from December to March for outdoor activities and pleasant weather.

How To Get There: Fly to Bariloche Airport, with regular flights from Buenos Aires.

15. Aysén Region, Chile

The Aysén Region in Chilean Patagonia is a secluded paradise for adventurers. Less crowded and largely untouched, it offers a wilderness experience that includes the Northern Patagonian Ice Field and numerous fjords. The Carretera Austral, a scenic route through the region, leads to remote beauty spots ideal for hiking, kayaking, and fishing. Aysén’s rugged terrain and pristine landscapes are perfect for those seeking an immersive nature experience away from tourist trails.

Insider’s Tip: Plan a road trip along the Carretera Austral for a unique way to explore the region’s diverse landscapes.

When To Travel: The best time to visit is during the Southern Hemisphere’s summer, from December to March.

How To Get There: Fly to Balmaceda Airport and rent a car for the best exploration experience.

The Bottom Line

Patagonia is a land of endless natural wonders, offering experiences that range from witnessing colossal glaciers to trekking through pristine forests. Each destination in this vast region presents an opportunity to connect with nature and witness the raw beauty of one of the world’s most spectacular landscapes. As you plan your journey through Patagonia, remember that the true essence of this place lies in its wild and untamed spirit, inviting you to explore and discover its many treasures.

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The post 15 Best Places in Patagonia To Visit in 2024 republished on Passing Thru with permission from The Green Voyage .

Featured Image Credit: Shutterstock / Olga Danylenko.

For transparency, this content was partly developed with AI assistance and carefully curated by an experienced editor to be informative and ensure accuracy.

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Annular solar eclipse 2024: Everything you need to know about the next solar eclipse

After the Great North American Eclipse comes a long "ring of fire" annular solar eclipse that can be seen in some iconic destinations.

Now that the "Great North American Eclipse" is over, you may be itching for the next opportunity to witness another celestial marvel. So when is the next solar eclipse ? 

The next  total   solar eclipse  is more than two years out, on  Aug. 12, 2026,  in Greenland, Iceland and Spain. However, on  Oct. 2, 2024 , a "ring of fire"  annular solar eclipse  will pass over parts of the Pacific Ocean, southern Chile and southern Argentina.

Whereas 43.8 million people were able to experience totality for the April 8, 2024, eclipse in North America, only 175,000 people will have that opportunity for the Oct. 2 annular solar eclipse, according to  Time and Date . The paths of both eclipses  cross in the Pacific Ocean .

Related: Eclipse from space: See the moon's shadow race across North America at 1,500 mph in epic satellite footage

During an annular solar eclipse, it is NEVER safe to look directly at the sun without  solar eclipse glasses  designed for solar viewing.

So, ready to go eclipse chasing? Here's everything you need to know about the annular solar eclipse on Oct. 2, 2024, in Chile and Argentina. 

What is an annular solar eclipse?

The Oct. 2 eclipse will be very similar to the annular solar eclipse on Oct. 14, 2023, which was visible across the U.S. Southwest, Central America and South America. All solar eclipses occur when a new moon is positioned precisely between  Earth  and the  sun  and casts its shadow on Earth. However, unlike a total solar eclipse, an annular solar eclipse occurs when the  moon  is slightly farther from Earth. So, even when the disks align from our perspective, the moon's shadow doesn't completely block out the sun's light. Instead, a ring of sunlight is visible around the moon.

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Related:  What's the difference between a total solar eclipse and an annular solar eclipse?

The eclipse on Oct. 2, 2024, will have an eclipse magnitude of 0.9326,  according to EclipseWise.com . That means about 93% of the sun will be blocked by the moon during the eclipse, resulting in an "annulus" (Latin for "ring"). The moon will appear 6.4% smaller than average,  according to MoonBlink .

The closer the observer is to the centerline, the more circular the ring of fire will be and the longer it will last. But experienced eclipse chasers often observe from the edge of the path during an annular solar eclipse to see extended views of Baily's beads fizzing around where the limb of the moon appears to touch the sun. They can be visible for several minutes.

From where can you see the Oct. 2 annular solar eclipse?

The ring of fire will be visible only within a path of annularity that passes across the Pacific Ocean, southern Chile and southern Argentina.

This area will include the volcanic island of Rapa Nui/Easter Island, an iconic travel destination that's famous for the mysterious stone statues called moai, some of which reach 40 feet (12 meters) tall and weigh 75 tons. The island, which is only 63 square miles (163 square kilometers), is located 2,300 miles (3,700 km) from the Chilean coast, making it the most isolated inhabited landmass on Earth. Remarkably, it will be the second time a central solar eclipse has been visible from this tiny Pacific island in recent decades, with a total solar eclipse glimpsed there on July 11, 2010. The next total and annular eclipses there will be in 2324 and 2345, respectively.

A good option would be to position yourself slightly south of a moai at multiple sites to get a view of the ring of fire just above one of the statues,  according to the Atlas of Solar Eclipses — 2020 to 2045 . Iconic locations will include the platform at Ahu Tongariki, where 15 moai are positioned on a 200-foot-long (60 m) ceremonial platform and nearby Rano Raraku.

October's ring of fire will also be visible from southern Patagonia in Chile and Argentina. The path will be 180 to 185 miles (290 to 300 km) wide.

Where and when can I see the Oct. 2 annular solar eclipse?

Here are some places eclipse chasers will gather for this annular solar eclipse:

• Rapa Nui/Easter Island, Chile (5 minutes, 38 seconds to 6 minutes, 12 seconds of annularity starting at 14:03 EAST, 67 degrees above North)
• Cochrane, Chile (5 minutes, 40 seconds of annularity starting at 17:21 CLST, 26 degrees above NNW)
• Perito Moreno National Park , Argentina (6 minutes, 17 seconds of annularity starting at 17:21 ART, 25 degrees above NNW)
• Puerto Deseado, Argentina (3 minutes, 22 seconds of annularity starting at 17:27 ART, 20 degrees above NNW)
• Puerto San Julian, Argentina (5 minutes, 12 seconds of annularity starting at 17:24 ART, 21 degrees above NNW)

Organized eclipse-viewing tours include  Sky & Telescope , TravelQuest and AstroTrails . All are experienced eclipse tour operators that are headed to Rapa Nui/Easter Island.

What will the weather be like for the Oct. 2 annular eclipse?

It's always best to travel somewhere you want to visit regardless of a solar eclipse. That certainly applies to the Oct. 2 event, because the prospects of a completely clear sky are relatively low. The chances of  clouds  that day are 75% for Rapa Nui/Easter Island,, 90% for Perito Moreno National Park, and 65% to 70% for locations on Argentina's Atlantic coast,  according to Time and Date .

On Rapa Nui/Easter Island, the cooling of the land could cause convective clouds to dissipate,  according to Eclipsophile , with the south coast statistically slightly favored. The chances of seeing the ring of fire are smallest on Chile's Pacific Coast and highest on Argentina's Atlantic coast. The latter has the least interesting scenery of anywhere in the path, but the eclipse will arguably be a more dramatic sight because it will occur much lower in the sky.

Why is the Oct. 2, 2024, annular solar eclipse special?

The Oct. 2, 2024, annular solar eclipse is special for three very different reasons. First, it follows the Great North American Eclipse of April 8 — so interest in solar eclipses should be high, and many eclipse chasers will travel to see it.

Second, it's a long eclipse, with the ring of fire lasting up to 7 minutes, 25 seconds. That's much longer than the 4 minutes, 52 seconds possible in the U.S. during the last annular solar eclipse on Oct. 14, 2023.

Third, the best place to view this event is a truly iconic destination: Rapa Nui, also called Easter Island.

Where to see the partial solar eclipse on Oct. 2

Although a ring-of-fire eclipse will be visible only from the aforementioned areas of Chile and Argentina, other areas will experience a partial solar eclipse on Oct. 2. These areas include parts of the Pacific Ocean and the southern half of South America. Here's what percentage of eclipse will be seen from major cities and destinations in the partial-eclipse zone:

• Galapagos Islands (1%)
• La Paz, Bolivia (1%)
• Rio de Janeiro, Brazil (9%)
• São Paulo, Brazil (10%)
• Buenos Aires, Argentina (42%)
• Montevideo, Uruguay (42%)
• Santiago, Chile (44%)
• Villarrica, Chile (63%)
• El Calafate, Argentina (83%)
• Falkland Islands (84%)
• South Georgia Island (76%)
• Punta Arenas, Chile (75%)
• Ushuaia, Argentina (72%)
• Elephant Island (56%)
• Port Lockroy, Antarctica (44%)

After October 2024, when is the next annular solar eclipse?

Here are the dates and locations for some upcoming annular solar eclipses:

• Feb. 17, 2026 : Antarctica
• Feb. 6, 2027 : Chile, Argentina, Uruguay, Côte d'Ivoire, Ghana, Togo, Benin and Nigeria
• Jan. 26, 2028 : Galapagos Islands, Ecuador, Brazil, French Guiana, Portugal, Morocco and Spain
• June 1, 2030 : Algeria, Tunisia, Greece, Turkey, Russia, Kazakhstan, China and Japan

Additional resources

Want to look further ahead? You can find a concise summary of solar eclipses out to 2030 on  NASA's eclipse website . Read more about solar and lunar eclipses on  EclipseWise.com , a website dedicated to predictions of eclipses. See beautiful maps on eclipse cartographer Michael Zeiler's  GreatAmericanEclipse.com  and interactive Google Maps on  Xavier Jubier's  eclipse website. You can find climate and weather predictions by meteorologist Jay Anderson on  eclipsophile.com .

Bibliography

— Here are the best photos of the April 8 total solar eclipse over North America

— No, you didn't see a solar flare during the total eclipse — but you may have seen something just as special

— Why I watched the solar eclipse with my kids, a goose and 2,000 trees

Anderson, J. (February 2024). Annular Solar Eclipse 2024 October 2. Retrieved March 1, 2024 from   https://eclipsophile.com/annular-solar-eclipse-october-2-2024/

Bakich, M. and Zeiler, M. (2022). Atlas Of Solar Eclipses 2020-2045.  https://www.greatamericaneclipse.com/books/atlas-of-solar-eclipses-2020-to-2045

Espenak, F. Solar Eclipse Prime Page: Annular Solar Eclipse of 2024 October 2. Retrieved March 1, 2024 from:  https://eclipsewise.com/solar/SEprime/2001-2100/SE2024Oct02Aprime.html

Jubier, X. (n.d.). Solar eclipses: Interactive Google Maps. Retrieved March 1, 2024 from  http://xjubier.free.fr/en/site_pages/SolarEclipsesGoogleMaps.html

Time and Date. (n.d.). October 2 2024 Annular Solar Eclipse. Retrieved March 1, 2024 from  https://www.timeanddate.com/eclipse/solar/2024-october-2

Originally posted on Space.com .

Jamie Carter is a freelance journalist and regular Live Science contributor based in Cardiff, U.K. He is the author of A Stargazing Program For Beginners and lectures on astronomy and the natural world. Jamie regularly writes for Space.com, TechRadar.com, Forbes Science, BBC Wildlife magazine and Scientific American, and many others. He edits WhenIsTheNextEclipse.com .

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