How to get to El Calafate: There are two ways. By plane, to El Calafate International Airport, about 20 km from the town center, with direct flights from Buenos Aires and other cities in Argentina. Or by land, via National Route 40 and Provincial Route 11, which enters the town along the shores of Lake Argentino. We'll tell you from El Calafate, where we've been working since 1980: every day we receive passengers who have arrived one way or another, and the key is to seamlessly integrate their arrival with the rest of their trip.
How to get to El Calafate by plane
This is the most common way to get there. The airport is east of the town, on the shore of Lake Argentino, and from the plane, if you get a window seat, you can already see the turquoise color of the lake. The direct flight from Buenos Aires takes just over three hours. There are also connections to other cities in Patagonia depending on the season.
From the airport to the city center there are regular shuttles, taxis, private car services, and car rentals. The journey is short and on a paved road.
A planning tip: Don't book a full-day cruise for the same day you land. Leave the All Glaciers Cruise for the following day, so you'll be rested and avoid delays.
How to get to El Calafate by road
El Calafate is connected by Provincial Route 11, which branches off from National Route 40. The most useful references:
| From | Ruta | Reference |
|---|---|---|
| Rio Gallegos | RN 40 and RP 11 | About 300 km across the steppe |
| El Chaltén | RP 23, RN 40 and RP 11 | A little over 200 km, passing through the Parador La Leona |
| Northern Patagonia | RN 40 | For long journeys, plan your fuel accordingly. |
| Chile | Border crossings south of the province | Bring the vehicle's documentation |
By land, Route 40 is a journey in itself: open steppe, guanacos by the roadside, and finally, Lake Argentino. Regular long-distance bus services arrive at the town's terminal.
Key distances once you are in El Calafate
- Punta Bandera Port: 47 km. From here the All Glaciers NavigationWe have optional transfers from El Calafate and our own parking if you come by car.
- El Chaltén: A little over 200 km to the north. If you want to visit without moving, the Viedma Full Day Adventure It departs from your hotel in El Calafate.
- Laguna Nimez Reserve: Steps from the center, ideal for the afternoon of arrival.
To find out what the port is like and what's at the terminal, read our guide on how to get to Puerto Punta Bandera.
What to do on the day you arrive
The day you arrive offers more than you might expect. You can stroll along the waterfront and through the town center, visit the Laguna Nimez Reserve to watch birds at sunset, and take care of the details for the following day: buy your National Park entrance ticket online at pnlosglaciares.ar and confirm your transfer to Punta Bandera. This way, you can start your sailing trip without feeling rushed.
Tips for traveling by land
- Fill up whenever you can: there are long stretches without stations.
- The wind is the main variable; drive with both hands and watch out for guanaco crossings.
- In winter, check road conditions before setting out.
- Plan to arrive during the day: the steppe landscapes are worth it and it's safer to drive.
How to fit the arrival with the sailing
The order that works best for most travelers is: arrival day to settle in and explore the town; the next day, explore all the glaciers; and another day for Lake Viedma and El Chaltén. If you're deciding how long to stay, our article on how many days to spend in El Calafate might be helpful.
Once in El Calafate, into the water
Once you've figured out how to get to El Calafate, the next step is to sail. Check availability and current rates on the Todo Glaciares Navigation website and book in advance during peak season.
FAQ
What is the fastest way to get to El Calafate?
By plane. El Calafate International Airport receives direct flights from Buenos Aires, which take just over three hours, and is about 20 km from the town center.
Which route do you take to get to El Calafate?
It can be reached via National Route 40 and Provincial Route 11, which enters the town along the shore of Lake Argentino. It is about 300 km from Río Gallegos.
How far is El Chaltén from El Calafate?
Just over 200 km away by road. If you're staying in El Calafate, the Viedma Full Day Adventure includes the bus, a boat trip to the Viedma Glacier, and a visit to El Chaltén in a 12-hour day.
Is it advisable to do the sailing on the same day I arrive in El Calafate?
It's not ideal. It's best to leave the All Glaciers Navigation for the day after you arrive, so you can leave rested and without worrying about travel delays.
