El Calafate Holidays

Things to do in El Calafate

El Calafate is a stunning destination for outdoor and adventure lovers, boasting breathtaking scenery and a range of activities. Enjoy exciting excursions to nearby glaciers, explore fascinating glacier museums, and indulge in wonderful birdwatching. The town also features a recreational area and shopping centre, perfect for leisurely days. With opportunities for water sports and various leisure activities, El Calafate promises an unforgettable experience for every visitor.

Shopping

In El Calafate, you'll find quaint shops along Avenida del Libertador, offering local crafts and souvenirs. If you're up for a drive, visit the El Boliche de Gualicho, about 24.1km away, for unique artisanal products and traditional Argentine gifts.

Recreation

In El Calafate, check out the Los Glaciares Spa, where you can indulge in rejuvenating treatments amid breathtaking views of the Andes. For outdoor activities, explore the stunning landscapes on a guided trek in Los Glaciares National Park, immersing yourself in nature's serenity.

Adventure

In El Calafate, Calafate Fishing offers thrilling water sports with stunning views of the lake and surrounding landscapes. Experience the thrill of casting your line in the crystal-clear waters while enjoying the vibrant outdoor atmosphere that defines this adventure hub.

Nightlife

In El Calafate, explore La Lechuza for its vibrant atmosphere and local live music. Alternatively, head to the historic El Bar for a cosy drink and engaging conversation. Both venues offer a taste of Argentinian hospitality and a chance to unwind after a day of adventure.

Find the best attractions in El Calafate

El Calafate is perfect for those seeking scenic outdoor adventures and rich cultural experiences. Key attractions include museums, environmental centres, and cultural villages, catering to a variety of interests from history to romance. Don't miss exploring the iconic Cerro Calafate and other local attractions that highlight the region's natural beauty and heritage. This charming town promises to create unforgettable memories for every traveller.

• El Calafate Historical Interpretation Center: Immerse yourself in the rich history and culture of El Calafate at this engaging museum. Explore exhibits that showcase the region’s heritage, traditions, and the significance of Patagonia's natural wonders.
• Glaciarium: Discover the fascinating world of glaciers at this eco-friendly environmental centre. Featuring interactive displays and informative panels, Glaciarium highlights the importance of glaciers and climate change while promoting sustainability.
• Gnome Village: Step into a whimsical realm at Gnome Village, where charming gnome sculptures and enchanting landscapes create a unique cultural experience. This delightful village offers a playful atmosphere perfect for families and nature lovers alike.

Best time to go to El Calafate

The best time to visit El Calafate can depend on the weather and when visitor numbers rise and fall. The hottest average temperature in El Calafate falls in January and February. February has high visitor numbers and mostly sunny weather. The coolest average temperature in El Calafate falls in July, visitor numbers are low and weather is mostly sunny with no rain (dry).

Calendar Month	Temperature	Precipitation	Cloudiness	Occupancy	Pricing
January	51.4°F (10.8°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Mostly Sunny	High	Slightly High
February	51.4°F (10.8°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Mostly Sunny	High	Average
March	47.8°F (8.8°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average
April	42.6°F (5.9°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average
May	37.4°F (3.0°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Mostly Sunny	Average	Slightly Low
June	32.7°F (0.4°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Mostly Sunny	Low	Average
July	31.1°F (-0.5°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Mostly Sunny	Low	Average
August	32.2°F (0.1°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Mostly Sunny	Low	Slightly Low
September	36.1°F (2.3°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Mostly Sunny	Average	Slightly Low
October	40.8°F (4.9°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average
November	45.7°F (7.6°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Mostly Sunny	Average	Slightly High
December	49.3°F (9.6°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Mostly Sunny	High	Slightly High

Booking tips and Expedia advantages for El Calafate

El Calafate is budget-friendly, with free attractions like Gnome Village and no entry fees. For transport, consider buses or hiring a car. To save on accommodation, visit during the cheaper months of May and August to September, and book about a month in advance. Tuesdays are the least expensive days to stay, while Thursdays tend to be pricier. Use Expedia to compare prices, explore last-minute deals, and combine hotel reservations with flights for extra savings. Don't forget to filter for eco-certified options for sustainable stays.

• The most and least expensive months on average to stay in a hotel: The cheapest months to stay in El Calafate are May and August to September, where the prices are slightly lower. This is in comparison to November to January, where prices are slightly higher.
• The best time to book a hotel: Booking a hotel in El Calafate about 1 month out from when you are planning to stay is usually when prices are lowest. If you're a little more spontaneous, you could also peruse Expedia's last minute deals for hotels, look out for the green banner below the price, as this indicates a cheaper deal.
• The most and least expensive days on average to stay in a hotel: The least expensive day to stay in El Calafate is Tuesday. The most expensive day to stay in El Calafate is Thursday.
• Find cheap hotels on Expedia: Make the most of Expedia’s search tool to narrow down your options based on your budget, preferred location, and the type of accommodation you’re after. For instance, selecting the Eco-certified filter will showcase sustainable and environmentally-friendly hotels that are currently available. To find the best prices and deals, simply sort the price filter from low to high.
• Consider bundling your trip: You can save some dollars by combining your El Calafate hotel reservation with your flights and activities through an Expedia package deal.