El Calafate Holidays

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Your El Calafate Holiday

With one of our holiday packages to El Calafate, you'll discover endless opportunities for adventure and relaxation. There's tons to enjoy, including its rugged landscapes and spectacular views. If your trip to El Calafate includes a little sightseeing, take in renowned attractions like Glaciarium, El Calafate Historical Interpretation Centre and Argentinian Museum of Toys. Check out Expedia's extensive range of travel options and start organising your dream holiday to El Calafate now.

Where to stay in El Calafate

Find the best El Calafate areas and neighborhoods for the activities you enjoy most. Learn more about El Calafate
A winding road curving alongside a lake with a mountain in the background.

El Calafate Centro

1 out of top 10 points of interest in this area

If you're spending some time in El Calafate Centro, Gnome Village and Casino Club El Calafate are top sights worth seeing.

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A glacier with turquoise water, surrounded by mountains.

Macrozona Bahía Redonda y Primeros Faldeos

2 out of top 10 points of interest in this area

Macrozona Bahía Redonda y Primeros Faldeos is known for its lake views, and you can plan a trip to Gnome Village and Calafate Fishing while you're in town.

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A town nestled in a valley with a river, mountains in the background, and a bridge crossing the river.

Cerro Calafate

Lake views and restaurants are some things travellers note about Cerro Calafate. Check out Gnome Village or Casino Club El Calafate while you're familiarising yourself with the larger area.

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A glacier with a turquoise lake at its base, surrounded by mountains.

Macrozona Lago Argentino

Unique features of Macrozona Lago Argentino include the lake views and restaurants. Make a stop by Lake Argentino or Laguna Nimez while you're exploring the area.

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Things to do in El Calafate

El Calafate offers a stunning backdrop for outdoor and adventure holidays, featuring a recreational area, shopping centre, and various water sports. Visitors can explore the best tours and unique excursions available, ensuring an unforgettable experience. Don't miss out on the opportunity to discover the top El Calafate tours and memorable trips, making the most of your time in this picturesque Argentinian destination.

Shopping

El Calafate offers charming local shops for unique souvenirs like handmade crafts and traditional Patagonian products. For a wider selection, head to the El Galpón de Los Artesanos, featuring local artisans. If you're up for a drive, the nearby shopping centres in Río Gallegos offer more variety.

Recreation

Unwind at luxurious spas offering soothing massages and rejuvenating treatments. Enjoy yoga sessions amidst stunning landscapes, or partake in mindfulness workshops. For outdoor recreation, explore breathtaking trails, go birdwatching, or take leisurely boat trips on Lake Argentino, all while soaking in the serene Patagonian atmosphere.

Adventure

In El Calafate, Calafate Fishing offers an exhilarating water sports experience amidst breathtaking landscapes. Engage in thrilling fishing adventures that connect you with nature while enjoying the fresh, invigorating air of Patagonia. It's the perfect way to embrace the outdoor spirit of this stunning region.

Nightlife

El Calafate's nightlife offers a charming blend of local culture and entertainment. Visit La Zorra for vibrant cocktails and a friendly atmosphere. For a taste of traditional Argentine music, head to El Bar de Siete for live performances that showcase the region's folk heritage.

*Distances are measured in a straight line; actual driving distances may vary depending on the route.

Find the best attractions in El Calafate

El Calafate in Santa Cruz Province, Argentina, offers stunning scenery and thrilling outdoor adventures, making it an ideal destination for culture and nature enthusiasts. Explore historical sites like the El Calafate Regional Museum, engage with local culture in charming villages, and immerse yourself in the breathtaking landscapes. Don't miss the opportunity to discover the main attractions and hidden gems that this remarkable area has to offer.

  • Gnome Village: Immerse yourself in the whimsical charm of Gnome Village, a delightful cultural enclave filled with enchanting sculptures and vibrant gardens. This unique attraction offers a playful atmosphere, perfect for families and those seeking a bit of magic in their travels.
  • El Calafate Historical Interpretation Center: Discover the rich history of El Calafate at the Historical Interpretation Center. This engaging museum showcases the region's heritage and culture, providing insights into the local customs, traditions, and the natural wonders that surround this remarkable area.
  • Santa Teresita del Nino Jesus Church: Visit the serene Santa Teresita del Nino Jesus Church, a beautiful architectural gem that offers a peaceful retreat. Its stunning stained glass and tranquil atmosphere make it a perfect place for reflection amidst your explorations.

Best time to go to El Calafate

The best time to visit El Calafate is dependent on what kind of holiday you are seeking. January and February are its hottest month on average. At the time of February, visitor numbers are high and weather is mostly sunny. July is its coolest month on average. At this time, visitor numbers are low and weather is mostly sunny with no rain.

calendarCalendar MonthtemperatureTemperaturerainPrecipitationmostlyCloudinessoccupationOccupancypricePricing
January51.4°F (10.8°C)No RainMostly SunnyHighSlightly High
February51.4°F (10.8°C)No RainMostly SunnyHighAverage
March47.8°F (8.8°C)No RainMostly SunnyAverageAverage
April42.6°F (5.9°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageAverage
May37.4°F (3.0°C)No RainMostly SunnyAverageSlightly Low
June32.7°F (0.4°C)No RainMostly SunnyLowAverage
July31.1°F (-0.5°C)No RainMostly SunnyLowAverage
August32.2°F (0.1°C)No RainMostly SunnyLowSlightly Low
September36.1°F (2.3°C)No RainMostly SunnyAverageSlightly Low
October40.8°F (4.9°C)No RainMostly SunnyAverageAverage
November45.7°F (7.6°C)No RainMostly SunnyAverageSlightly High
December49.3°F (9.6°C)No RainMostly SunnyHighSlightly High

Tips to save on your trip to El Calafate

  • Take advantage of package deals on Expedia and combine flights, hotels, or car rentals for a convenient and cost-effective trip to El Calafate.
  • Consider traveling to El Calafate during the low season (May and August to September) for more affordable options.
  • Use the Price per traveler filter on Expedia to find a package deal that suits your budget.
  • Check the VIP Access properties filter to discover outstanding hotels with added member perks at select properties.

El Calafate Essential Information

Language
Spanish
Currency
Argentine pesos
Local Welcome
¡Hola!
Local Goodbye
Adiós
Closest Airport
Comandante Armando Tola Intl. Airport (FTE)
Population
8,000
Max Temp Winter
2ºC
Max Temp Summer
13ºC
Top Sights
Calafate History Exhibition Hall, El Calafate Regional Museum and El Calafate Historical Interpretation Centre

Top hotels in El Calafate

Mirador del Lago Hotel

Mirador del Lago Hotel

Avenida Del Libertador 2047 El Calafate Santa Cruz
Fully refundableReserve now, pay when you stay
£82
30 Aug - 31 Aug
Mirador del Lago Hotel
Hotel Posada Los Alamos

Hotel Posada Los Alamos

Ing. Hector Mario Guatti 1135 El Calafate Santa Cruz
Fully refundableReserve now, pay when you stay
£77
19 Aug - 20 Aug
Hotel Posada Los Alamos
Hotel del Glaciar Libertador

Hotel del Glaciar Libertador

Avenida Libertador 587 El Calafate Santa Cruz
Fully refundableReserve now, pay when you stay
£45
1 Sept - 2 Sept
8.4/10 Very good! (418 reviews)
"Good place to stay , close to restaurants and stores ."

Reviewed on 26 Apr 2026

Hotel del Glaciar Libertador
See all 229 properties in El Calafate
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.
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Stay near popular El Calafate attractions

A wooden building with a green door, a flower pot, and a hanging plant.

Gnome Village

8.4/10 (57 reviews)
This whimsical shopping gallery features gnome-themed décor and local artisan stores in wooden structures. Browse handcrafted Patagonian souvenirs and savour regional chocolates from Bonifácio.
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A glacier with a boat in the foreground.

Calafate Fishing

9.4/10 (13 reviews)
Cast a line in Patagonia's pristine waters with Calafate Fishing's expert-led excursions. Enjoy rainbow trout fishing near Perito Moreno Glacier while savouring Argentine steak lunches in rustic settings.
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El Calafate Historical Interpretation Center

9.0/10 (46 reviews)
Journey through 100 million years of Patagonian history at this museum featuring dinosaur skeletons and Tehuelche artefacts. Explore the exhibits then relax with a traditional mate in the cosy library area.
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Irma Port Ruins

8.8/10 (15 reviews)
Witness Argentina's labour history at these ruins from the 1921 Patagonian Rebellion. Explore with a local guide who can illuminate the site's profound connection to the workers' rights movement.
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Avenue del Libertador

8.0/10 (1 review)
After visiting Avenue del Libertador, make a plan to see the other sights and activities in El Calafate. While you're in the area, stroll along the lakeside.
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Santa Teresita del Nino Jesus Church

8.8/10 (45 reviews)
This intimate church welcomes visitors with wooden ceilings and a serene garden visible through a glass wall behind the altar. Pause in the rose-filled grounds for quiet reflection away from El Calafate's tourist bustle.
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Laguna Nimez

8.6/10 (124 reviews)
Observe flamingos and black-necked swans at this tranquil wetland sanctuary near El Calafate. The 3-kilometer interpretive trail offers prime photography spots and insight into Patagonia's unique ecosystem.
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Plaza de los Pioneros

8.8/10 (46 reviews)
Find out about the history of El Calafate when you spend time at Plaza de los Pioneros. Stroll along the lakeside in this relaxing area or seek out the local tours.
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What to do in El Calafate

Perito Moreno Glacier: Full-Day Ice Adventure

Perito Moreno Glacier: Full-Day Ice Adventure

£38
per adult
100% of travellers recommend
Perito Moreno Glacier: Full-Day Ice Adventure
From El Calafate: El Chalten Full Day

From El Calafate: Full-Day Trip to El Chaltén

£113
per adult
88% of travellers recommend
From El Calafate: Full-Day Trip to El Chaltén
Full Day Tour to Perito Moreno Glacier with Navigation

Full-Day Tour to Perito Moreno Glacier with optional Navigation

£74
per adult
100% of travellers recommend
Full-Day Tour to Perito Moreno Glacier with optional Navigation
See all activities in El Calafate

Frequently asked questions

Why should I book my El Calafate holiday with Expedia?
Choose Expedia to organise your next big adventure simply and all in one convenient place. Our top tip for getting a fabulous deal on an El Calafate retreat? Bundle your airfares, hotel and/or hire car into a package holiday. Then add some fun tours and activities. Many bookings also have flexible cancellation policies, so there's no need to stress if you have to switch up your travel agenda. Round-the-clock help with making tweaks to your trip is available via our Customer Service Portal link.
When is the best time of year to holiday in El Calafate?
El Calafate is a busy place in August, September and October. If you're not into large crowds and prefer a calmer pace, book your getaway for January, April and December. Arrange your getaway to El Calafate based on what style of holiday you're looking for. June is the coolest time of year, when average daytime temperatures are 0ºC. In January, the warmest period, you'll experience temperatures of around 10ºC during the day.
What are the top hotels for my holiday in El Calafate?
Many visitors to El Calafate often stay in Macrozona Bahía Redonda y Primeros Faldeos. Michelangelo Hotel Calafate and Edenia Punta Soberana are popular retreats in this neighbourhood. But it's not the only vibrant place around town! Avenue del Libertador is another great area and where you'll find Linda Vista Apart Hotel and Esplendor by Wyndham El Calafate.
How do I get a cheap holiday to El Calafate?
If you love getting a great deal, bundle your bookings into an El Calafate holiday. Whether you're chasing hotels, flights, hire cars or activities, you can book everything in one place. You'll have a wealth of choice at your fingertips too. Expedia has more than 400 partner airlines and 321,000 properties across the globe to take your pick of. Fly with who you prefer, stay anywhere you like and save a pretty penny — now that's the perfect getaway! Learn more about how you can save money on your next holiday when you combine your hotel and flight bookings with Expedia.
What should I do on my El Calafate holiday?
There are lots of things to keep you busy while having a holiday in El Calafate. Glaciarium, Puerto Irma Ruines, Santa Teresita del Nino Jesus Church and Gnome Village are among this destination's best attractions.
What is the best area to stay in when on holiday in El Calafate?
A getaway to El Calafate isn't complete without stopping by Glaciarium. Why not book a stay near this popular attraction?
Do I need a visa for my El Calafate holiday?
Official government websites are the best source of information on visa requirements, application procedures and any necessary documentation. Your nationality and reason for visiting, whether it be for tourism or work, will determine if you'll need a visa for El Calafate. Also be sure that your passport is up to date and has at least six months validity remaining beyond your intended return date. Finalise all your travel planning ahead of time to avoid any last-minute surprises.
What should I wear on my El Calafate holiday?
Though everyone's personal style differs, it can be helpful to have a few guidelines for what type of clothes to bring on your holiday in El Calafate. Think about looking up style blogs before you head off for inspiration on local fashion trends. Daytime temperatures during June, El Calafate's coolest month, are around 0ºC. January marks this destination's warmest month when the average reaches 10ºC. Our top tip? Take the guesswork out of what to pack and check the local weather conditions.
What does an Expedia El Calafate holiday include?
With Expedia, you can choose a combination of flights, car hires and hotels to create your perfect El Calafate package. Once you've made your booking, simply add on all the fun stuff like activities and tours. Remember — the more you bundle, the more you stand to save! Explore an excellent range of property types and pick one that fits the size of your group. The most sought-after rentals here are hotels and apartments. With Expedia, it's a breeze to design your El Calafate escape however you want.
Does Expedia offer Book Now, Pay Later El Calafate holidays?
We sure do. Expedia has joined forces with online lender Klarna to help you conveniently pay for your trip in manageable instalments. Simply pick the payment plan that works for you during the checkout process and take away the stress of budgeting for your next trip. Remember to bundle your accommodation, car hire and flights with Expedia to get the biggest bang for your travel buck. Browse our flexible payment options below:
  • Pay monthly holidays: Klarna offers easy monthly payment plans that fit all budgets, so you can take that well-deserved holiday sooner.
  • No-deposit holidays: Pressing the "book now" button is much easier with this payment plan. With no deposit required for your escape, you can Book Now, Pay Later and start packing your bags.
Can I choose my airline with an El Calafate Expedia holiday?
Yes, definitely. Expedia has over 400 airline partners to select from around the world. With so much choice, finding the ideal carrier to take you to El Calafate will be easy.

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* Savings based on package bookings compared to the price of the same components booked separately. Savings not available on all packages. Flight-inclusive packages are ATOL protected.