El Calafate, nestled in the picturesque Patagonia region of Argentina, serves as the perfect base for exploring the stunning natural wonders of the area through a variety of day trips from El Calafate. From majestic glaciers to pristine lakes and rugged mountains, these day excursions offer travelers a chance to immerse themselves in the breathtaking beauty of Patagonia. Whether you’re seeking adventure, wildlife encounters, or simply a peaceful escape into nature, the day trips from El Calafate cater to all preferences. Join us as we delve into the top day trip options that showcase the unparalleled beauty of this enchanting region.
Perito Moreno Glacier
Travel tips
- Distance from El Calafate: Approximately 50 miles
- Time to get there: Around 1.5 hours by bus
- How to get there: You can take a bus from El Calafate to Perito Moreno Glacier. The bus station in El Calafate is located at Av. Libertador 935. The bus will drop you off at the entrance of the glacier park.
Exploring Perito Moreno Glacier: Things to do
Perito Moreno Glacier is a must-see destination for nature lovers and adventure seekers alike. This stunning glacier is one of the few in the world that is still advancing, making it a unique and awe-inspiring sight to behold.
One of the top activities to do at Perito Moreno Glacier is taking a boat tour to get up close and personal with the massive ice walls. The boat will take you on a journey through the icy waters, allowing you to witness the glacier from different angles and perspectives.
For the more adventurous travelers, trekking on the glacier itself is an unforgettable experience. Guided tours are available for all levels of hikers, providing a safe and thrilling way to explore the icy terrain.
Photography enthusiasts will also find Perito Moreno Glacier to be a paradise, with endless opportunities to capture the beauty of the glacier and its surroundings. The ever-changing light and colors of the ice create a mesmerizing spectacle that is sure to impress even the most seasoned photographers.
Overall, a visit to Perito Moreno Glacier offers a unique opportunity to witness the raw power and beauty of nature up close. Whether you’re seeking adventure, relaxation, or simply a breathtaking sight to behold, this glacier has something to offer for every type of traveler.
Torres del Paine National Park
Travel tips
- Distance from El Calafate: Approximately 200 miles
- Time to get there: Around 4-5 hours
- How to get there: The most convenient way to reach Torres del Paine National Park from El Calafate is by taking a bus. Buses depart regularly from El Calafate bus station and will take you to the park entrance. Alternatively, you can also drive or hire a private transfer. There are no train stations directly connecting the two locations.
Exploring Torres del Paine National Park: Things to do
Torres del Paine National Park is a must-see destination for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts alike. The park’s rugged landscapes, towering mountains, and pristine lakes offer a unique opportunity to experience the raw beauty of Patagonia. One of the top activities to do in Torres del Paine is hiking. The park boasts a variety of trails catering to different skill levels, with the iconic W Trek being a favorite among visitors. The stunning views of the famous granite peaks, including the namesake Torres del Paine, are a highlight of any hike in the park. Wildlife spotting is another popular activity in Torres del Paine, with opportunities to see guanacos, foxes, and even the elusive puma if you’re lucky. For those seeking a more leisurely experience, boat tours on the park’s glacial lakes offer a relaxing way to take in the scenery. Whether you’re an avid hiker or simply looking to connect with nature, Torres del Paine National Park promises an unforgettable adventure in the heart of Patagonia.
Upsala Glacier
Travel tips
- Distance from El Calafate: Approximately 37 miles
- Time to get there: Around 1.5 hours
- How to get there: You can take a bus from El Calafate to Puerto Bandera, where you can then board a boat that will take you to the Upsala Glacier. Alternatively, you can drive to Punta Bandera and take a boat from there.
Exploring Upsala Glacier: Things to do
The Upsala Glacier is a must-see destination for nature lovers and adventure seekers alike. This stunning glacier is one of the largest in South America, offering visitors a unique opportunity to witness the raw power of nature up close.
One of the top activities to do at the Upsala Glacier is taking a boat tour that allows you to sail through the icy waters and marvel at the towering walls of ice. The boat ride offers breathtaking views of the glacier and its surroundings, providing a truly unforgettable experience.
For the more adventurous travelers, there are also opportunities for ice trekking on the glacier itself. Walking on the pristine ice and exploring its crevasses is a thrilling experience that allows you to connect with the glacier in a way that few people ever get to.
Photography enthusiasts will also find plenty to capture at the Upsala Glacier, with its stunning blue hues and dramatic ice formations providing endless opportunities for striking shots.
Overall, visiting the Upsala Glacier is a once-in-a-lifetime experience that showcases the beauty and power of nature in a way that few other places can. Whether you’re seeking adventure, natural beauty, or simply a unique travel experience, the Upsala Glacier is sure to leave you in awe.
El Chalten
Travel tips
- Distance of El Chalten from El Calafate: Approximately 130 miles
- Time to get there: Around 3 hours by bus
- How to get there: You can take a bus from El Calafate to El Chalten. The main bus station in El Calafate is Terminal de Omnibus El Calafate. The bus ride offers stunning views of the Patagonian landscape.
- Click for Google maps directions: El Chalten
Exploring El Chalten: Things to do
El Chalten is a must-see destination for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts visiting Patagonia. This charming village is renowned for its breathtaking landscapes, including the iconic peaks of Fitz Roy and Cerro Torre. Hiking is the main attraction here, with a variety of trails catering to different skill levels.
One of the top things to do in El Chalten is trekking to Laguna de los Tres, offering a stunning view of Mount Fitz Roy. The hike is challenging but rewarding, providing an up-close encounter with the majestic mountain. Another popular trek is to Laguna Capri, a serene lake surrounded by snow-capped peaks.
For those seeking a more leisurely experience, a stroll along the scenic trails of Los Glaciares National Park is highly recommended. The park is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and home to diverse flora and fauna, making it a paradise for nature enthusiasts.
Photography enthusiasts will find endless opportunities to capture the beauty of Patagonia in El Chalten. The changing light conditions create dramatic landscapes, perfect for capturing stunning images.
Overall, El Chalten offers a unique blend of natural beauty, adventure, and tranquility, making it a must-visit destination for anyone exploring the wonders of Patagonia.
Estancia Cristina
Travel tips
- Distance from El Calafate: Approximately 31 miles
- Time to get there: Around 2 hours by boat
- How to get there: To reach Estancia Cristina from El Calafate, you can take a boat trip across Lake Argentino. The boat departs from Punta Bandera port, which is about 25 miles from El Calafate. Once you arrive at the port, you will board the boat that will take you to Estancia Cristina.
Exploring Estancia Cristina: Things to do
Estancia Cristina is a must-see destination for travelers visiting El Calafate due to its rich history and stunning natural surroundings. One of the top activities to do at Estancia Cristina is exploring the surrounding glaciers, including the famous Upsala Glacier. You can take a guided tour to learn about the glacier’s formation and significance in the region.
Another highlight of Estancia Cristina is the opportunity to hike through the beautiful Patagonian landscape. The trails offer breathtaking views of the mountains and lakes, making it a paradise for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts. You can also opt for horseback riding excursions to explore the vast expanse of the estancia.
For those interested in history, a visit to the Estancia Cristina museum provides insight into the traditional Patagonian way of life. You can learn about the early settlers and the challenges they faced in this remote region. Additionally, the estancia offers a glimpse into the daily activities of a working ranch, allowing visitors to experience authentic gaucho culture.
Overall, Estancia Cristina offers a unique blend of natural beauty, adventure, and cultural experiences, making it a must-visit destination for anyone exploring the wonders of Patagonia.
Lago Roca
Travel tips
- Distance from El Calafate: Approximately 31 miles
- Time to get there: Around 1 hour by car
- How to get there: You can reach Lago Roca from El Calafate by taking a car or joining a guided tour. The journey offers stunning views of the Patagonian landscape. If you prefer public transportation, you can take a bus from El Calafate to the entrance of the Los Glaciares National Park, from where you can hike or take a taxi to Lago Roca.
Exploring Lago Roca: Things to do
Lago Roca is a must-see destination for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts visiting El Calafate. The lake is part of the expansive Los Glaciares National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its breathtaking landscapes and diverse wildlife.
One of the top activities at Lago Roca is hiking along the scenic trails that surround the lake. The trails offer panoramic views of the surrounding mountains, forests, and, if you’re lucky, glimpses of local wildlife such as guanacos and Andean condors. Birdwatching is also popular here, with many species of birds calling the area home.
For those looking to relax and take in the tranquility of the Patagonian wilderness, picnicking by the shores of Lago Roca is a perfect way to spend a leisurely afternoon. The crystal-clear waters of the lake reflect the surrounding mountains, creating a picturesque setting for a peaceful meal.
If you’re feeling more adventurous, you can try your hand at fishing in Lago Roca. The lake is known for its abundance of trout, providing anglers with a rewarding experience in a pristine natural environment.
Overall, Lago Roca offers a serene escape from the hustle and bustle of city life, allowing visitors to connect with nature and experience the beauty of Patagonia in its purest form.
La Leona Petrified Forest
Travel tips
- Distance from El Calafate: Approximately 100 miles
- Time to get there: Around 2 hours by car
- How to get there: The best way to reach La Leona Petrified Forest from El Calafate is by car. Take Route 40 heading north towards El Chaltén. The entrance to the forest is well marked along the road.
Exploring La Leona Petrified Forest: Things to do
La Leona Petrified Forest is a fascinating destination that offers a unique glimpse into the ancient past. This must-see place is renowned for its well-preserved petrified trees that date back millions of years. As you wander through the forest, you’ll be amazed by the sheer size and detail of these ancient trees turned to stone.
One of the top things to do at La Leona Petrified Forest is to take a guided tour. Knowledgeable guides will lead you through the forest, providing insights into the geological processes that led to the petrification of the trees. You’ll learn about the history of the area and the significance of the petrified trees in understanding the Earth’s past.
Another highlight of visiting La Leona Petrified Forest is the opportunity to witness the stunning natural landscapes that surround the area. The forest is set against a backdrop of rugged mountains and vast plains, creating a picturesque setting for exploration and photography.
For nature enthusiasts and history buffs alike, La Leona Petrified Forest offers a one-of-a-kind experience that is both educational and awe-inspiring. Whether you’re interested in geology, paleontology, or simply enjoy being in nature, a visit to this unique destination is sure to leave a lasting impression.
