Sitting on the edge of Patagonia’s ice field, in the province of Santa Cruz, is the bustling town of Calafate. This is the main entry point to view the advancing Perito Moreno glacier in the popular Parque Nacional Los Glaciares.
Calafate is a must for photographers and nature lovers as viewing the ever-shifting landscape of the Perito Moreno is a not-to-be-missed spectacle. Here, guests can traverse through spectacular iceberg-strewn lakes on a boat ride up to the Perito Moreno to witness it “calve” (huge chunks of ice can fall off the glacier’s snout at a moment’s notice) and also have the opportunity to walk on its icy surface.
Other than witnessing glaciers, visitors to Calafate can embark on a hiking or climbing expedition at nearby El Chalten and enjoy a fishing excursion to Lago Roca, horse riding, mountain and quad biking or spending a day at an estancia (working ranch).
Why Visit?
- Calafate is the true gateway to experience the sparkling lakes, snow-capped mountains, and towering glaciers of Patagonia. It is the perfect entry point from which to explore the Los Glaciares National Park (Parque Nacional Los Glaciares).
- Los Glaciares National Park is the main attraction of the region and has been declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It is the second-largest national park in Argentina that boasts 47 glaciers, the most famous of which is the breathtaking Perito Moreno Glacier.
- The magnificent Perito Moreno Glacier spans an incredible 60 metres high and 5 kilometres wide. Travel up close to this gigantic spectacle and wait in anticipation for large chunks of ice (some the size of small buildings) to fall from its peak.
- The beautiful rustic charm of the Calafate region is a drawcard in itself. However, the town of Calafate contrasts its rugged surrounds with lovingly kept gardens, pretty homes and luxurious boutique hotels.
Climate
Summer (December – February)
Average daily high temperature is around 13°C.
Winter (June – August)
Daily temperatures average between -2 and 1°C.
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