Overview
Take a trip to El Calafate on your Argentina Vacation
El Calafate is a city located in Patagonia, Argentina, situated in the southwest part of the Santa Cruz province. A popular tourist destination on Argentina tours, El Calafate is often considered a gateway to Antarctica’s glaciers.
El Calafate’s origins date back to the beginning of the 20th century when it was a frontier town catering to a community of remote estancias (ranchers) and wool traders. While the city was officially founded in 1927 by the government of Argentina with the main goal of promoting settlement, it was the creation of Perito Moreno National Park in 1937 that accelerated the growth of the city. El Calafate began to attract tourists and continues to do so today.
The main draw for tourists on an Argentina vacation coming to El Calafate is the option to visit the Perito Moreno glacier which is one of few glaciers in the world that is not retreating. Scientists say that the glacier is “in balance” because it is always shrinking and growing. By travelling to the national park that shares the glacier’s name, visitors are able to see this magnificent spectacle just metres away. Tourists on Argentina travel can also visit an estancia to experience local history and travel back in time to discover the true heart of Patagonia.
At a Glance
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The best time to visit Argentina depends on the region you want to see, but Spring (September-November) and Autumn (March-May) are generally ideal for visiting Buenos Aires, Mendoza, and Iguazú Falls, offering pleasant weather and beautiful scenery. For Patagonia, the summer months (December-March) are best for hiking and accessible trails, though you can visit other times of year with appropriate clothing.
If you are lucky enough to visit during August, make sure you attend the iconic Buenos Aires Tango Festival, which fills the city with performances, lessons, and open-air parties celebrating the birthplace of Tango.
While football (soccer) is extremely popular, the official national sport is Pato, a game involving horseback riders trying to grab a duck or a similar ball.
A unique local experience is visiting El Ateneo Grand Splendid in Buenos Aires, one of the largest and most beautiful bookstores in the world. It’s set inside a former theatre.
Argentina’s climate varies widely: the north is subtropical, the Pampas are temperate, the Andes are cooler, and Patagonia is cold and windy. Travellers should pack accordingly for each region.
Welcome to El Calafate
El Calafate, Argentina
Sightseeing at Perito Moreno Glacier
Perito Moreno Glacier is a great photo opportun...
Most Popular Time to Travel
Know when to go.
Place
Conditions
Daily max temperatureMonthly rainfall
El CalafatePartly Cloudy
11°C / 53°F
25mm / 1.0"
Weather data is based on monthly averages.Popularity rating
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