
El Calafate
argentina
About El Calafate
El Calafate in Patagonia, southern Argentina, is the gateway to Los Glaciares National Park – home to one of the world’s few advancing glaciers. The town is named after the local calafate berry – the legend goes that once you’ve eaten one, you're guaranteed to return to Patagonia. But with trekking across ice fields, horse riding over vast plains and the formidable Glaciar Perito Moreno just 80km away, you probably won’t need a berry to ensure another visit.
El Calafate's lake and mountain scenery is breathtaking, so you'll want to choose an El Calafate hostel that makes the most of it, with views from on-site bars, restaurants or bedroom windows. Try local specialities like Patagonian lamb grilled in a traditional asado (a kind of Argentinian barbecue) way as you warm yourself by a cosy fireplace. Some El Calafate hostels have rooms with underfloor heating and en-suite bathrooms, though you could even splash out on a bungalow with your own private kitchen.
The main road in El Calafate, Avenida del Libertador San Martín, is lined with craft beer bars, ice cream shops and artisan chocolatiers. Pioneer-style buildings made of bricks and adobe can be found in the older parts of town, while the wooden chalets with gable roofs and large windows elsewhere in the town are reminiscent of a Swiss ski resort. Wander along the shores of Lago Argentino and you’ll reach Reserva Laguna Nimez, an eco-reserve that's home to flamingos, black-necked swans and hawks.
You can see Glaciar Perito Moreno from the panoramic Curva de los Suspiros (Curve of Sighs) viewpoint – listen for the sound of large shards of ice crashing into the water. Jump on a boat trip for a closer look at the advancing glacier wall. Guided ice trekking tours are also available, where you'll strap on a pair of crampons before traversing the glacier itself to see blue lagoons, sinkholes and crevasses. Hike, horse ride or drive a 4x4 up Cerro Frías for 360-degree views across Lago Argentino, Torres del Paine and Mount Fitz Roy.
If your feet are tired from trekking, you can hire a bike to get around El Calafate. Aeropuerto Lago Argentino is 23km from the town, with a direct bus connection. You can travel by bus to neighbouring Argentinetowns El Chaltén in 3 hours and Rio Gallegos in 4 hours, or across the border to Puerto Natales in Chile. The bus terminal in El Calafate is located on Julio A. Roca, just off Avenida del Libertador San Martín.
City Info
12 Hostels in El Calafate
Located in El Calafate
Hello Welcome to Hostal Schilling, located in the city of El Calafate, gateway to Glacier National Park and only 80 km from Perito Moreno glacier.
Located in El Calafate
Folk Hostel is the ideal for your trip to El Calafate in Argentina.
Located in El Calafate
We are a family business run by its owners. With an excellent location in downtown, close to everything you need, we offer a comfortable, warm, clean and safe space that invites to share with others.
Located in El Calafate
America del Sur Hostel is located in the city center, very close to the bus station and to the main attractions
Located in El Calafate
Situated in Villa Parque Los Glaciares neighbourhood, only 10 minutes from the commercial area......
Located in El Calafate
Bla Guesthouse in Calafate, the gateway to Los Glaciares National Park. A place where to stay like at home!
Located in El Calafate
Viajero Calafate Hostel in El Calafate offers a cozy stay with modern amenities, including free bikes, a garden, and tour assistance, all within a friendly and secure environment.
Located in El Calafate
Welcome to Folk Suites the best place for your holidays in Argentina.
Located in El Calafate
Welcome to I Keu Ken Hostel, located in the beautiful place of El Calafate, enjoy your days in the common areas and meet other travellers or go to explore the city center.
Located in El Calafate
Calafate Hostel has been considered the largest, best served and most modern hostel in the Argentine Republic.
Located in El Calafate
Pioneros Hostel is located in El Calafate, Argentina
Located in El Calafate
La Casa del Viajero 2 in El Calafate offers comfortable, en-suite accommodations and a friendly atmosphere, perfectly located for travelers exploring Patagonia.
El Calafate is a fantastic destination for backpackers offering a perfect blend of culture, adventure, and affordability. Whether you're planning a short trip or making it part of a longer backpacking journey, this city should definitely be included in your travel itinerary. When looking for accommodation in El Calafate, hostels provide the best value and opportunity to meet fellow travelers.
Whether you're looking for a social party hostel, a quiet retreat, a centrally located base for exploring the city, or something in between, El Calafate has options for every type of traveler. Many hostels in El Calafate offer additional amenities like free breakfast, communal kitchens, outdoor spaces, and organized activities.
When visiting El Calafate, don't miss the opportunity to:
- Explore the local cuisine and nightlife
- Visit historical landmarks and cultural sites
- Connect with other travelers at hostel events
- Discover hidden gems off the tourist path in El Calafate