Found on the south end of Lake Argentino, El Calafate is a dream come true for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts alike.
South America holidays are well known for their natural beauty and El Calafate is one of the most illustrious jewels in its crown.
You can climb mountains, get your feet wet in its many stunning lakes, check out icebergs, visit glaciers or simply go for a walk and discover its countless mesmerising sites.
El Calafate is a place so full of natural splendour that you’re bound to find something amazing whichever way you look.
In fact, there’s so much to see, do and experience that it can be hard to know where to start.
Well, we’re here to give you a helping hand so you can enjoy tailor made holidays in unforgettable locations.
Here’s just five experiences you’ll want to have as part of your Argentina holiday at El Calafate.
1. Take a boat out to Lago Argentino
For all its many incredible sights, there’s possibly none more stunning – nor more famous – than the glaciers of El Calafate.
They are an absolute must-see for any journey to the city, and there’s only one way of getting up close and personal – that’s by boat.
There’s few holiday memories as satisfying and impressive as taking a catamaran out on a crisp, clear day and seeing some of nature’s most marvellous creations.
2. Visit the Perito Moreno Glacier
You may be wondering why another entry on our list has been dedicated to El Calafate’s glaciers. What could this one possibly offer us compared to what we’ve already seen?
Well, first off, you can actually see this behemoth from Lago Argentino. However, it’s not the only, or necessarily the best, way to take in its majestic presence.
To put it simply, this gets singled out for being a 70-metre thick marvel of beastly blue ice and probably the most famous tourist attraction in the area.
It’s so large that many prefer to see it from a viewing point rather than on a boat – although both are such fantastic experiences, you could always do both.
3. Sample the local cuisine
If there’s one thing that El Calafate simply does not get enough credit for, it’s the incredible food.
This is a city that’s proud of its local cuisine and showcases its culinary talents through its many fantastic restaurants. Local specialities include lamb steak and rack of lamb.
Basically, what we’re saying is the lamb is pretty great here.
You also can’t leave without trying one of its many jams and infusions, which utilise the beloved barberry – which, when translated, is where El Calafate derives its name.
4. Explore the city of El Calafate
It may be best known for its natural splendours – and for very good reason – but that doesn’t mean the more modern parts of El Calafate aren’t worth exploring.
The city itself has plenty going on, including great shops, bars, restaurants and more.
You can try their traditional jams, pick up some local arts and crafts and try their locally brewed beer. They even make delicious ice cream here, which is the perfect accompaniment for a spot of browsing on a sunny day.
5. Be mesmerised by the La Leona petrified forest
Another amazing natural wonder in El Calafate – even if it’s not as famous as its epic glaciers – is the almost otherworldly La Leona petrified forest.
Here, you can visit somewhere unlike anywhere else in the world.
It’s almost like you’re standing upon a sun-kissed moon of fossils, rock formations and petrified trees.
Get a guide to take you on the journey and you’ll gain a deeper insight into this truly unique place.
