El Calafate is the gateway to Argentina’s most breathtaking landscapes—towering glaciers, turquoise lakes, and some of Patagonia’s most iconic adventures. in this guide, you’ll find the 10 best things to do in el calafate in 2025. Whether you’re here to see the world-famous Perito Moreno Glacier, trek on ancient ice, take photos of flamingos at sunset, or take a day trip to El Chaltén, this charming town has something unforgettable for every traveler.
This guide includes top attractions, hidden gems, and practical tips to help you plan your trip. From glacier cruises to local food spots, here’s everything you need to know to make your Patagonia adventure unforgettable.
1. Visit the perito Moreno Glacier (el Calafate’s #1 attraction)
If there is one thing you absolutely cannot skip, it’s the Perito Moreno Glacier—one of the only glaciers in the world that’s still advancing. Standing on the viewing platforms and listening to the glacier crack, roar, and calve into the water is an experience you will never forget.
what to expect
- A series of boardwalks and balconies with amazing views
- Easy access for all fitness levels
- Massive ice walls up to 74m tall
- Frequent ice collapses into the water below, the sound of the glacier cracking is so loud!
Tips
- Best time to visit: late morning to mid afternoon (lots of sun on the glacier)
- Bring: a windbreaker (it can Get a bit chilly), Sunglasses, and a good camera!
- Time Needed: 3-5 hours – the walkways are beautiful and there are many different levels, so its best to take time and enjoy the view from every angle
2. Go trekking on the glacier
If seeing the glacier isn’t enough adventure, you can walk on it! The iconic ice-trek is a bucket-list experience that lets you explore the glacier at another level!
Mini-trekking
- ~3 hours on the ice
- Moderate difficulty
- Ages around 8-65
- Book Minitrekking tour here!
Big ice Trek
- ~7 hours of trekking
- Moderate difficulty
- Requires a good level of fitness
- ~ 7 hours of trekking
- Difficulty is more challenging and requires a good level of fitness
Why its Worth it
Some experiences feel once-in-a-lifetime—and this is one of them. Walking on a glacier that’s thousands of years old is surreal.
3. Take a boat tour to the glacier face
For a completely different perspective, you can hop on a boat tour that takes you close up to the massive southern wall of perito Moreno. This puts it into perspective how big and powerful the glacier really is.
What You’ll See:
- Towering blue ice walls
- Floating icebergs
- Close up view for the best photos
- Day tour options here!
4. Explore los glaciares national park trails
El Calafate isn’t just glaciers – there are several stunning trails, and viewpoints in the surrounding areas.
Best Trails
Mirador de Los Cóndores
- Short 1 hour hike
- Panoramic Views of the town and lake
- Great spot for sunset
Laguna Capri (near el chaltén, accessible by day trip)
- Great warm up hike
- If the weather is good, you can see views of El Chaltén
Mirador de Los Tres (El Chaltén)
- The most iconic trek in patagonia
- Can be done in a day trip if you leave early enough in the morning
What makes these Trails Special
Patagonia’s landscapes are wild, untouched, and constantly changing—sun, wind, clouds, rainbows—you get it all.
5. Take a Day Trip to El Chaltén (Fitz Roy)
El Calafate is only a 3 hour bus ride from El Chaltén, the hiking capital of Argentina. Even if you’re not staying overnight, a day trip is definitely worth it.
Best Day Hikes
- Laguna de Los tres (full day, iconic Fitz Roy View)
- Mirador Torre (easy-moderate, great for limited time)
- Mirador del Cóndor y de las Águilas (short and stunning)
Tips
- If the weather appears bad, don’t skip! The mountains can clear suddenly
- Bring snacks, layers, and trekking poles
- Book your bus ahead of time the day before
6. Explore the Upsala + Spegazzini Glacier Boat Tour
A full day boat trip that takes you right out into the Lago Argentino glacier zone. This is a photographer’s dream and a less crowded alternative to Perito Moreno.
Highlights
- The massive Spegazzini wall (135m)
- Bright blue icebergs
- Incredible photography spots
- Options for booking listed here!
7. Wander the Town Center
El Calafate is small but super charming, with colourful buildings, cozy cafes, and local artisan shops.
Best Things to Do
- Try Calafate berry ice cream
- Check out the handmade souvenirs
- Taste freshly made dulce de leche
- photo cafes, souvenirs
Good Coffee Spots & Local Eats
- Borges Y Álvarez
- La Callaberiza Café
- Olive Café
- Wanaco (personal favourite for sangria and papas rústicas)
8. Try Traditional Patagonian Lamb
Patagonia is famous for its slow-roasted lamb, cooked “al asador” (cross style over a fire). Even if you’re not a meat lover, this cultural experience is special.
Best Places
- La Tablita
- Don Pinchón
- Mi Rancho (cozy and popular)
9. Go Horseback Riding in the Patagonia Steppe
One of the most peaceful ways to experience Patagonia is on horseback. Wide open fields, distant mountains, and iconic photos of mountains and wildlife.
Options
- Sunset rides
- Half-day excursions (linked here!)
- Estancia Cristina (premium experience)
10. Stargazing in El Calafate
Patagonia’s skies are some of the clearest in the world. On cloudless nights the Milky Way shines incredibly bright! Bring your tripod for the best night photography!
Where to Go
- Lago Argentino shoreline
- Open areas around the town center
El Calafate is one of those destinations that stays with you long after you’ve left—the sound of ice crashing into turquoise water, the glow of Patagonian sunsets, and the sheer scale of Perito Moreno make it unlike anywhere else in the world. Whether you spend two days or an entire week here, these unforgettable experiences will help you make the most of your time in Patagonia. If you’re also visiting Ushuaia, here’s my full guide on what to do at the end of the world!
If you’re planning more adventures in Argentina, be sure to explore my full page of Argentina travel guides and tips for the north in Iguazu, Patagonia, and beyond. Your next journey is just getting started.