Argentinian Patagonia: El Calafate

10 things you need to know about El Calafate

1. Perito Moreno is one of the few glaciers still advancing, and one of the easiest to see up close—by boardwalk, boat, or on foot. It's massive, and the main reason most people come to El Calafate.

2. Stay overnight in El Calafate. Don’t make this a rushed day trip from somewhere else. Base yourself in El Calafate for at least one night—ideally two—to give yourself a buffer for weather, bookings, or simply to soak it all in. We took the bus from Puerto Natales to El Calafate and got picked up by our hotel (Los Ponchos) from the bus station. We did not rent a car, but having one gives you more flexibility—especially if you want to explore beyond the town or move on your own schedule.

3. Go Glacier Trekking. There’s two types: mini trekking which is 1.5–2 hours on the ice and includes a boat ride + boardwalk visit. Or the Big Ice Trek which is 3.5 hours on the glacier and a more challenging terrain. Ages 18–50 only. The Mini trekking we thought, was the perfect amount of time on the glacier without the muscle cramps.

4. Book early — this isn’t a walk up tour. From December to March especially, spots fill up fast. Hielo y Aventura is the main operator and includes boat transfer, crampons, and guides. Don’t wing this—book weeks ahead.

5. Buy all your national park tickets online in advance to save time at the checkpoints. The Los Glaciares passes are valid across the whole park—- northern (Laguna de los Tres/Laguna Torre) and southern parts (Perito Moreno Glacier).

6. Wear the right footwear. Sturdy hiking boots are mandatory. Tour companies won’t let you hike in sneakers. Crampons are provided and fitted by guides, but they work best with proper ankle support.

7. Don’t skip the boardwalks. The Perito Moreno boardwalks across the lake offer jaw-dropping panoramic views—and are arguably the best place to witness a glacier calving.

8. Like everywhere in Patagonia, dress in layers. You’ll get sun, wind, cold, and sweat—often all within an hour.
   Wear: thermal base, fleece/down, waterproof shell. Gloves and sunglasses are a must. The glare off the ice is next level.

9. Pack Light. Bring a small daypack with water, snacks, layers, and camera gear. No drones, no trekking poles or big bags on the glacier. The glacier is a dream to photograph so keep your camera ready, but secure.

10. Don’t miss out on El Calafate’s food scene. This little town is a foodie gem, especially if you love Argentine beef, Patagonian lamb, and Malbec wine. Top dishes to try are cordero patagónico (slow-roasted lamb), bife de chorizo (sirloin steak) and empanadas with house-made chimichurri. Spots like Parrilla don PIchon, Tierra and Pura Vida did not disappoint.

El Calafate may be a glacier town, but it’s more than just a stopover. Stay a night (or two), get on the ice, walk the boardwalks, and don’t skip the steak. No filter needed—just sturdy boots, layers and a few days off.

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