Part of the Argentina Travel Guide
← Back to ArgentinaSouthern Patagonia is the reason most people put Argentina on a list, and two towns carry it. El Calafate is the base for Perito Moreno, one of the few glaciers in the world that is still advancing, and you will hear it crack and calve before you ever see it happen. El Chaltén sits at the foot of Fitz Roy about three hours up the road, and it was built almost entirely for hikers, with trailheads that start right at the edge of town and no permits to arrange.
The distances are what shape a trip here. Buenos Aires to El Calafate is a little over three hours by air and closer to two days by bus, and once you are this far south the next thing worth seeing is usually a long way off. The buses between the towns are comfortable and reliable, but they will take days you may not have accounted for.
We have traveled both towns and been out on the ice, and the pattern is consistent. The weather turns without warning, the season is short, and accommodation books out months ahead for December through February. Plan in advance if you are particular about your accommodation or are on a tighter budget, especially in El Chaltén.
Across the border in Chilean Patagonia
Torres del Paine sits west of El Calafate, a bus ride and one border post away, and most people traveling this far south do both parks on the same trip. The Chilean side is more organized and more expensive, and it books out earlier.
Chilean Patagonia travel guideQuick Resources to Plan Your Trip to Argentina
Argentina's Southern Patagonia articles
What to Do in El Chalten When It Rains (Or Shines)
The variety of activities when considering what to do in El Chalten for a weekend, even if it is raining. We also list the various popular hikes in El Chalten.
What to Do in El Calafate: The Best Attractions and Experiences
An overview of what to do in El Calafate in Patagonia, including glacier trekking, hiking, and other adventure and nature activities
Perito Moreno Mini Trekking: What to Expect
The experience of the Perito Moreno mini trekking on a glacier, including what to expect and if the adventure is worth it when in El Calafate.
First-hand
How we've traveled Argentina's Southern Patagonia
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