Patagonia, the land of wonders, is a very big region taking up most of Southern Argentina. The region features a glacier-dotted mountainous interior, unique coastal wildlife and amazing Andean national parks. The mountains and lakes in Patagonia are also some of the most beautiful of all found in the world. Just a moderate plane ride from Buenos Aires, El Calafate is the premiere destination for travelers aching to experience the Southern Patagonia and the Los Glaciers National Park. With access to the park, the Perito Moreno glacier, the hiking haven of El Chalten, and Chile's beautiful Torres del Paine National Park, there is no better place to rest your head at night than El Calafate. A small city, chalked with culture, tradition, and all of the necessary amenities, El Calafate will meet your every need during any Argentine vacation.
The Perito Moreno Glacier
Imagine a fifteen-story tall wall of ice looming over a turquoise backdrop of snow-capped mountain peaks, and you'll begin to understand the majesty that is the Perito Moreno Glacier. This formation, which is one of the largest in the region, is also the most scientifically significant in that it is still growing in size every day. The glacier provides spectacular vistas from a variety of vantage points, consistently impressing travelers and scientists alike.
El Chalten
El Chalten is a small hiking village accessible from El Calafate, which is surrounded by towering glaciers, crystal lagoons, vast lakes, and the ever-looming presence of mount Fitz Roy. This is quiet village is often deemed the "National Trekking Capital of Argentina," due to its unparalleled access to glacial terrain. The area is also known, however, for recreational climbing, camping, horseback riding, fishing, and rafting excursions.
Los Glaciers National Park
Recently recognized by UNESCO as a World Heritage Site, Los Glaciers National Park is one of the most picturesque places in the world. The park is a staggering 8,500 square miles, half of which are covered by ice fields that connect over forty-five major glaciers. While also featuring two of Argentina's largest lakes and the beautiful mount Fitz Roy, Los Glaciers National Park provides an incomparable variety of terrain for Patagonian travelers.