Adventure Travel in El Calafate, Argentina

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Advisor - Caitlyn Johnston
Curated By

Caitlyn Johnston

  • Argentina

  • Active Travel

  • Adventure Travel

  • Couples Travel

  • International Travel

  • Nature Escapes

  • Off-the-Beaten-Path Travel

  • Hiking

  • Mountains

  • Tours

Snow-covered mountains and blue water on a cloudy day
Curator’s statement

The Patagonia region, specifically El Calafate, of Argentina has been high on my bucket-list for quite some time. It is stunning in photos and seems to be a natural place of beauty.

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Day 1: Kayak or take a boat tour around the Perito Moreno glacier

An aerial view of the white and blue glacier, Perito Moreno, in El Calafate, Argentina floating in a light blue freshwater lake with green trees and white snow-capped mountains around.

The Perito Moreno glacier is one of the few places in the world where you see an ice field that makes up part of the third largest frozen body of freshwater worldwide. This is the biggest attraction near El Calafate, Argentina but it is certainly worth the effort. Kayaking or taking a boat around the glacier offers a unique perspective of the tall body of frozen water.

Day 2: Glacier trek on Perito Moreno glacier

The Perito Moreno glacier in El Calafate, Argentina with brown and grey rocks at the basin of white snow with a line of people trekking in black.

The Perito Moreno glacier is one of the most accessible glaciers in the world and you need no experience to complete the glacier trekking. It is an amazing experience to feel the thick ice being crushed underneath your feet. Climb over deep blue crevasses, discover ice caves and splash through rivers of melted water during your unforgettable adventure.

Day 3: Explore La Leona Petrified Forest

A black asphalt road surrounded by green and brown mountains in El Calafate, Argentina and blue sky with white clouds.

The La Leona Petrified Forest is located about 110 km away from El Calafate; however, if you want to feel like you have stepped back in time, this is a must do. This is a place where dinosaurs roamed and the forest became petrified many years ago.

Day 4: Hike around Laguna Nimez

Laguna Nimez bird sanctuary in El Calafate, Argenina with a pink and black-winged flamingo flying over the dark blue water with brown and green tall grass lining the lake water.

Laguna Nimez bird sanctuary is close to the town of El Calafate and allows for a relaxing day in some very peaceful scenery. Take a walk around the planked pathways in order to take in the beauty of the nature around you.

Day 5: Take a day tour, or visit El Chalten for a 5 day hike through Torres del Paine National Park

A tan llama standing on green grass with white snow-capped grey rock mountains in Torres del Paine National Park near El Calafate, Argentina.

Torres del Paine National Park is a top reason to visit El Calafate. If you're up for it, there is a famous five day trek that takes you to hike and camp around the entire park. This hike is located in Chile; however, you can access it from El Calafate, Argentina. Explore the French Valley, Lake Pehoe and Grey Lake. If you're up for the challenge, hike through Ascencia Valley to the Towers for a strenuous hike. Once you get to the top, you will be able to overlook the famous glacier for an unbeatable view.

For more adventure travel, check out Caitlyn's guide on 'Adventure in Queenstown, New Zealand: 5-Day Itinerary'.

Advisor - Caitlyn Johnston

Travel Advisor

Caitlyn Johnston

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