Hello, traveler! Are you getting ready to explore one of the most exciting destinations in Argentine Patagonia ? We're happy for you. The city of El Calafate in Santa Cruz province has a wealth of tourist attractions to enjoy, whether you prefer adventure or contemplating glaciers and mountains in silence with a warm cup of coffee.
If you're in the first category, trekking in El Calafate is a unique experience that allows visitors from across the country and from different corners of the world to immerse themselves in beautiful Patagonian landscapes , such as imposing glaciers, crystal-clear lakes, and majestic mountains within Los Glaciares National Park , declared a World Heritage Site.
This region offers a variety of trails for all levels , from gentle walks to more challenging routes. All are perfect for connecting with nature and enjoying fresh air in an environment of great ecological and scenic value.
If you prefer to travel to El Calafate for trekking with everything included, choose from our packages with accommodation, transfers and excursions with specialized guides.
Where to go trekking in El Calafate
The most famous and sought-after activity is trekking on the Perito Moreno Glacier in El Calafate . Walking with crampons across the imposing ice formations of this glacier is a world-renowned experience and a must-do on any itinerary. However, while it is the undisputed star of the destination, it is far from the only option available.
Los Glaciares National Park and the surrounding steppe conceal a vast diversity of landscapes that deserve to be explored on foot. From treks that delve into ancient lenga forests and viewpoints teeming with native wildlife , to combined expeditions to less-traveled glaciers or visits to the legendary National Capital of Trekking. Below, the best suggestions for discovering El Calafate step by step.
Big Ice Perito Moreno Glacier
The "Big Ice" tour offers a challenging trek across the Perito Moreno Glacier , located in Los Glaciares National Park, 80 kilometers from El Calafate. The tour begins with a bus transfer and a 20-minute boat ride on the Brazo Rico arm of Lake Argentino.
Once on the glacier, crampons are used for a four-hour hike across the ice , exploring sinkholes, crevasses, and blue lagoons . This activity requires a good level of fitness, is exclusively for people between 18 and 50 years old, and allows you to admire the Patagonian majesty from within.
Mini Trekking Perito Moreno Glacier
The "Minitrekking" allows you to explore the famous Perito Moreno Glacier with a moderate two-hour hike across its ancient ice formations. It is located 80 kilometers from El Calafate. Travelers reach the National Park by bus and then cross the Brazo Rico arm of Lake Argentino in a 20-minute boat ride .
Equipped with crampons, they traverse a landscape of crevasses and small meltwater pools . Finally, the excursion includes free time to explore the traditional wooden walkways and observe the impressive rockfalls from different panoramic perspectives.
Trekking and boat trip in Los Glaciares National Park
This full-day excursion combines boating and hiking in the southern part of Los Glaciares National Park . The bus journey covers 50 kilometers along the Estancias Route to Lake Roca. From there, a 45-minute boat trip follows before the first hike to Lake Frías.
After crossing this body of water in speedboats, a trek to the Glaciar Grande begins. A five-hour hike through pristine forests leads to the "Amphitheater of the Glaciers," a valley surrounded by the Grande, Cubo, and Dickson glaciers .
Trekking at Lake Roca
This tour includes a hike to the Mirador del Lago Roca viewpoint , one of the most breathtaking in Patagonia. The transfer by vehicle covers approximately 50 kilometers from El Calafate along Provincial Route 15, passing landmarks of the Patagonia Rebellion and visiting Tehuelche rock paintings . This route traverses the steppe and the dense Andean forest of the National Park.
Finally, the day culminates at Estancia Nibepo Aike , where visitors enjoy a traditional Patagonian lamb while appreciating the impressive panoramic views of the South and Rico arms of the imposing Lake Argentino.
Trekking on Cerro Frías
Ideal for observing the vastness of the Patagonian steppe, this route takes place on Cerro Frías, located 23 kilometers from the center of El Calafate. After a short bus ride, the two-hour hike begins at Estancia Alice and crosses the southern slope of the hill.
From its natural viewpoints, you can appreciate the best panoramic views of the Centinela Valley, Lake Argentino, and the Torres del Paine . The route crosses lenga forests, offering great opportunities for spotting native wildlife such as guanacos, foxes, hares, and condors in their natural habitat.
Differences between Mini Trekking and Big Ice in El Calafate
The Mini Trekking in El Calafate is a shorter, more accessible excursion lasting approximately 3 to 4 hours, including the walk on the ice of the Perito Moreno Glacier . It's ideal for those seeking a safe, educational, and moderately strenuous experience, suitable for a wide range of people. The mini trek also includes a boat trip on the lake and visits to the walkways offering different vantage points to view the glacier.
In contrast, the Calafate Big Ice Trek is a more intense and longer adventure that ventures into more remote and deeper areas of the glacier. This trek is longer and more challenging, requiring better physical fitness and, ideally, prior experience on uneven terrain. It offers a more demanding and immersive glacier experience .
In summary, the main difference between Mini Trekking and Big Ice is that the former is perfect for enjoying the glacier in a relaxed and educational way, while the latter is geared towards adventurers with greater physical preparation who are looking for a more intense and prolonged experience on the ice.
Is it possible to combine a trip to El Calafate with trekking in El Chaltén?
Yes. The distance between El Calafate and the National Capital of Trekking is about 220 kilometers. The trekking excursion to El Chaltén from Calafate includes the bus journey along the legendary Route 40, skirting Lake Argentino, the La Leona River, and Lake Viedma . Before arriving, there is a photo stop in front of the Viedma Glacier and Mount Fitz Roy and Mount Torre.
Once in the village, adventurers receive a map and a packed lunch to freely explore the various self-guided mountain trails . It's an excellent option for those who want to explore the stunning Andean landscapes on a day trip, before returning to their itinerary in El Calafate.
Weather in El Calafate: What is the best time for trekking?
The climate in El Calafate is predominantly dry, with an average annual temperature of 7.2°C and strong winds, especially in summer. The ideal season for trekking is from October to April , when the days are longer and the weather conditions are more favorable for outdoor activities.
It is essential to dress in layers , with comfortable clothing, a windbreaker, appropriate footwear for trekking, a hat, gloves, and sun protection.
Furthermore, it is always advisable to consult official sources from the Municipality of El Calafate and the Government of the Province of Santa Cruz for updated information on trails, weather conditions and safety recommendations.