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Hey there, adventurer! If you dream of glaciers, breathtaking landscapes, and a touch of the wild beauty of Patagonia, then El Calafate should definitely be on your travel itinerary. But before you start packing your bags and getting your camera ready, let’s talk about how to get to El Calafate, Argentina, so you can plan your route smoothly. Don’t worry; I’ve got all the info you need to make your trip easy and hassle-free. First things first…
Where is El Calafate?
El Calafate is located in Santa Cruz province in the Patagonian region of Argentina. It’s a town situated on the shores of Lake Argentino and is known as the gateway to Los Glaciares National Park, home to the famous Perito Moreno Glacier. El Calafate is a popular destination among travelers due to its stunning natural scenery and a variety of outdoor activities available. Among these, ice trekking and boat tours are definitely highlights.
It’s common to arrive in El Calafate from several major cities in Argentina and other countries like Chile. Keep reading, and I’ll share some of the most common routes.
How to Get from Buenos Aires to El Calafate
Without a doubt, the main connection point to El Calafate (and other cities in Argentina) is its capital, Buenos Aires. If you’re starting your adventure in this city, you have a couple of options for getting to El Calafate.
Getting to El Calafate by Plane
The quickest way is to take a domestic flight between the two cities. Several airlines operate daily flights from Buenos Aires to El Calafate, with a flight time of about three hours. Once you land at the small but charming El Calafate Airport, you’ll just need a short shuttle ride to the town center. At the end of your trip, you can also book this shared transfer service in the opposite direction: El Calafate – FTE Airport.
Getting to El Calafate by Bus
If you’re feeling adventurous and want to enjoy the scenery while opting for a more budget-friendly option, you can also take a long-distance bus. This option takes around 36 hours (yes, you read that right), but it’s an excellent way to see more of Argentina along the way and save some cash on your travel budget. Just make sure to pack snacks and have your Netflix list ready!
How to Get from Puerto Natales to El Calafate
Now, if you’re coming from Puerto Natales in Chile (the gateway to Torres del Paine National Park), getting to El Calafate is pretty straightforward despite having to cross the border between Chile and Argentina.
You can catch a bus that regularly operates between these two destinations. The journey takes about five hours and offers stunning views of the Patagonian landscape along the way. Be sure to check bus schedules in advance as they may vary by season, and don’t forget all necessary documents for crossing the border.
How to Get from Torres del Paine to El Calafate
For those exploring Torres del Paine National Park, traveling from the park itself to El Calafate is also very easy. You can take a bus or private transfer directly from the park entrance or nearby accommodations. The trip usually lasts around four hours, so sit back and enjoy the ride while soaking up more of those incredible Patagonian views.
How to Get from El Calafate to Torres del Paine
If you’re already in El Calafate and want to continue your journey into Torres del Paine, organized tours handle all logistics for you. These tours include transportation, meals, and a bilingual guide throughout the trip. Plus, you’ll get several guided hikes that cover all the must-see spots in Torres del Paine while enjoying lunch with breathtaking views. Lakes, flora, fauna, and stunning landscapes await you!
Book your tour from El Calafate to Torres del Paine and turn a road trip into a unique experience.
Traveling to El Calafate via Private Transfer
If you’re looking for a more comfortable and personalized option for getting around or traveling between El Calafate, Puerto Natales, and Torres del Paine, consider Howlanders’ private transfer service. This service allows you to enjoy worry-free travel with the flexibility of choosing your schedule and stops. Imagine cruising in a comfy vehicle while taking in those amazing Patagonian views—it’s an ideal way to maximize your time in this beautiful region!
How to Get to Perito Moreno Glacier from El Calafate
And here’s a little bonus! We can’t wrap up this article without mentioning Perito Moreno Glacier because if you’re going to be in El Calafate, this should be a must-visit on your trip.
One of the top attractions near El Calafate is undoubtedly Perito Moreno Glacier—and getting there is super easy! You can either book an excursion that includes transportation from your hotel directly to the glacier or drive yourself if you have your own vehicle or plan on renting one in El Calafate. You can reach Los Glaciares National Park on your own and book activities at Perito Moreno Glacier without transfers.
So there you have it: your ultimate guide on how to get to El Calafate—and beyond! Whether flying from Buenos Aires or taking a scenic bus ride through Patagonia, adventure awaits you in this beautiful corner of Argentina!
