DEHUROEN

Plizio Visual Lab

El Calafate

Plizio editorial teamData Sources
City
—°10
El Calafate (Argentina)
ℹ️

Practical info — El Calafate

▾

🌤 Weather — 5 days

📍 Nearby

Sights nearby

Set on the southern border of the massive Lake Argentino, El Calafate has grown from a humble sheep-farming estate into one of Patagonia's most crucial and bustling tourist hubs. It is globally recognized as the primary stepping stone to the monumental Perito Moreno Glacier, one of the few advancing glaciers in the world. Visitors come in droves to witness immense ice blocks calving violently into the turquoise waters below. The town itself gives a cozy alpine atmosphere characterized by appealing wooden architecture, boutique shops, and craft breweries. Culinary enthusiasts can indulge in traditional Patagonian roast lamb (cordero patagónico) and taste the local calafate berry. According to local folklore, anyone who eats this berry is guaranteed to return to Patagonia in their lifetime. El Calafate is exceptionally well-connected via its international airport (FTE), welcoming multiple daily flights from Buenos Aires. The austral summer, from November to March, is the absolute optimal time for visiting, providing milder temperatures and much longer daylight hours for glacier trekking and comprehensive boat tours.

Geography

Population
8,000 (2017)
Coordinates
-50.33778, -72.26000

Facts

  • Gateway to the Perito Moreno Glacier
  • Located on the shores of Lake Argentino
  • Named after the local calafate berry
  • Officially founded in the year 1927
  • Main hub for Los Glaciares National Park
  • Famous for Patagonian roast lamb dishes
  • Features the high-tech Glaciarium ice museum
  • Population is approximately 22,000 residents

Explore nearby

Notable places around

Argentino LakeArgentino Lake5 km · NEExplore →
Viedma LakeViedma Lake30 km · NEExplore →
San Martín LakeSan Martín Lake52 km · SEExplore →
Puerto NatalesPuerto Natales54 km · SWExplore →
Milodon CaveMilodon Cave57 km · SWExplore →
El ChalténEl Chaltén77 km · SEExplore →
Torres del PaineTorres del Paine83 km · SExplore →
Torres del Paine National ParkTorres del Paine National Park85 km · SExplore →

Route planner — Car & Motorhome

Where do you start? We build the route here, with stops and country notes along the way.

Vehicle
Only stops with (optional):

© OpenStreetMap contributors · OpenRouteService

Sights in the town El Calafate (10)

Centro de Interpretación Histórica🏛 museum

This historical museum traces the region's past, featuring extensive exhibits that range from ancient dinosaur fossils to the bustling culture of the Tehuelche people.

Libeluasur Teatro🎭 culture

This intimate cultural venue in El Calafate hosts a variety of independent plays, artistic workshops, and local performing arts events.

Anfiteatro del Bosque🎭 culture

Set against a natural backdrop, this spacious outdoor amphitheater serves as the main stage for El Calafate's major music festivals and public gatherings.

Cartel de El Calafate📍 landmark

This large, brightly colored sign spelling out the town's name is a classic photo stop for tourists arriving in El Calafate.

Gate🌿 nature

This elevated viewing platform near the town's entrance provides a commanding panorama over the surrounding Patagonian steppe.

Free Entrance📍 landmark

This freely accessible public area has a welcoming spot for visitors to take a leisurely walk among native Patagonian flora.

Museo Argentino del Juguete🏛 museum

Featuring pieces from the late 19th century onwards, this pleasant museum displays a nostalgic collection of antique Argentine toys.

Centro Cultura El Calafate🎭 culture

Serving as the town's artistic hub, this cultural center frequently hosts regional art exhibitions, community workshops, and live music performances.

Iglesia Del Nazareno⛪ religious

This modest and welcoming Protestant church provides a quiet space for spiritual reflection and community worship in El Calafate.

Parroquia Santa Teresita del Niño Jesús📍 landmark

Built from traditional local stone, this quaint Catholic parish church serves as a peaceful spiritual sanctuary for the town's residents.

Frequently asked questions

El Calafate: where is it located?
El Calafate is located in Argentina.
El Calafate: what is there to see?
Highlights include Centro de Interpretación Histórica, Libeluasur Teatro, Anfiteatro del Bosque.
El Calafate: why is it worth visiting?
Set on the southern border of the massive Lake Argentino, El Calafate has grown from a humble sheep-farming estate into one of Patagonia's most crucial and bustling tourist hubs.
View on map → The Top 50 Attractions → OpenStreetMap →
South America
Explore with Plizio Discover more places in South America
More places in Argentina →

Nearby cities

Buenos Aires — El Calafate (Argentina)
Buenos Aires
The capital and largest city of Argentina, known for its European-style architecture and vibrant tango scene.
Córdoba — El Calafate (Argentina)
Córdoba
Argentina's second-largest city, Córdoba is a vibrant cultural hub known for its colonial history, universities, and surrounding hills.
Rosario — El Calafate (Argentina)
Rosario
A major port city on the Paraná River, known as the birthplace of the Argentine flag and home to Che Guevara.
Mar del Plata — El Calafate (Argentina)
Mar del Plata
Argentina's premier seaside resort on the Atlantic coast, known for its beautiful beaches, vibrant nightlife, and grand casino.
Salta — El Calafate (Argentina)
Salta
The capital of Salta province, celebrated for its well-preserved colonial architecture and vibrant Andean traditions.
Santa Fe — El Calafate (Argentina)
Santa Fe
The capital of Santa Fe province, situated near the Paraná and Salado rivers, with rich colonial heritage.
Corrientes — El Calafate (Argentina)
Corrientes
The capital of Corrientes Province, located on the banks of the Paraná River and known for its colonial charm and carnivals.
Posadas — El Calafate (Argentina)
Posadas
The capital of Misiones province, sitting on the Paraná River, with a blend of regional culture and modern life.
Bahía Blanca — El Calafate (Argentina)
Bahía Blanca
An important port city and industrial hub in the south of Buenos Aires Province, acting as a gateway to the Patagonian region.
Resistencia — El Calafate (Argentina)
Resistencia
The capital of Chaco Province, Resistencia is celebrated as the 'City of Sculptures' with hundreds of artworks displayed on its streets.
Quilmes — El Calafate (Argentina)
Quilmes
A historic industrial city located within the Greater Buenos Aires metropolitan area.
San Salvador de Jujuy — El Calafate (Argentina)
San Salvador de Jujuy
The capital of Jujuy province, a high-altitude city surrounded by colorful Andean mountains and indigenous culture.
Santiago del Estero — El Calafate (Argentina)
Santiago del Estero
The oldest city in Argentina, known for its rich colonial history and ancient architecture.
Paraná — El Calafate (Argentina)
Paraná
The capital of Entre Ríos Province, Paraná is a scenic city perched on high cliffs overlooking the majestic Paraná River.
Neuquén — El Calafate (Argentina)
Neuquén
The capital of Neuquén province, a center of the oil and gas industry in Northern Patagonia.