The waterfront promenade of El Calafate runs along the edge of Bahía Redonda, the inlet of Lake Argentino around which the town grew. It's a flat, pedestrian walkway located just a few blocks from the town center. It's the best place in town to view the lake, its birds, and the sunsets over the Andes Mountains.
Since 1980 we have been sailing across Lake Argentino towards the glaciers, and the waterfront is, for many of our passengers, their first glimpse of the lake. What you see from the town's shore is just a tranquil bay of an enormous lake that, to the west, extends between mountains all the way to the ice.
What is Round Bay?
Redonda Bay is a cove on the southern shore of Lake Argentino, almost circular in shape with shallow waters. El Calafate was born next to it: in the days of the cart drivers who transported wool to the Atlantic coast, this sheltered spot with water was a natural place to spend the night, as we recounted in the history of El Calafate.
Being a low-lying, sheltered bay, it behaves differently than the main body of the lake. In very cold winters, parts of the bay can become covered in a layer of ice, something that doesn't happen in the deeper areas of the lake. If you're intrigued by this difference, we explain it in why Lake Argentino doesn't freeze.
What is it like to walk along the El Calafate waterfront?
The promenade follows the bay's shoreline with a flat path, walking trails, and areas to sit and admire the lake. It requires no particular fitness level and can be done in sections: a half-hour round trip or a longer walk, depending on the weather and wind.
- In the morning: The lake is usually calmer and the light hits the water head-on.
- In the afternoon: The Patagonian wind tends to blow stronger; bring something windproof even if the day is nice.
- At sunset: The sun sets in the west, on the side of the mountain range, tinting the water and the sky. It is the most photographed moment.
From various points along the waterfront, you can access the Laguna Nimez Reserve, the protected wetland located next to the bay. We've dedicated a full article to it: Laguna Nimez Reserve, birds steps from the city center.
What birds can be seen from the shore?
Even without entering the reserve, the bay's coastline offers good viewing opportunities. The most common sights are:
- Southern flamingos filtering the water down, often in groups.
- Black-necked swans and ducks in the quieter areas.
- Cauquenes grazing on the grassy edges.
- Seagulls and lapwings on the coastline.
Its presence varies with the season and water level. A small pair of binoculars is sufficient to enjoy it much more.
From the lake on the waterfront to the lake of the glaciers
Standing on the waterfront, you gaze at the same Lake Argentino we sail on every day, but in its calmer form. To the west, out of sight, the lake narrows at the Devil's Mouth and enters the North Arm, where icebergs and the face of the Upsala Glacier appear. Further on, in Glacier Bay, lie the Seco, Heim, Peineta, and Spegazzini Glaciers.
| Waterfront (Round Bay) | North Arm and Glacier Bay | |
|---|---|---|
| Landscape | Steppe, low bank, village | Mountains, Andean forest and ice |
| Water | Shallow bay | Deep waters of a milky turquoise color |
| Ice | Only in very cold winters, on the shore | Icebergs and glacier fronts |
| How to get there | Walking from the center | Only by water, on the All Glaciers Navigation |
That contrast is part of what makes the trip interesting: the lake is one, but it changes completely as you approach its source. We explain why the water turns turquoise in " Why Lake Argentino is Turquoise ."
When to add the waterfront to your trip
- The day you arrive: It's an ideal walk to stretch your legs after the journey and get your bearings in the town.
- Upon returning from sailing: In spring and summer, when you return from Todo Glaciares there is still daylight; a short walk along the shore is a good way to end a long day.
- The last day: a peaceful farewell to the lake before continuing the journey.
If you're planning your afternoon after sailing, this guide might be helpful for things to do in El Calafate after returning from Todo Glaciares.
Some simple care
- Respect the distance from the birds, especially in spring, when many are breeding.
- Don't leave any trash: the wind carries it straight to the water.
- In winter, do not walk on the ice in the bay: its thickness is uneven and it is not safe.
- If you are going with dogs, keep them on a leash near bird areas.
From a stroll along the shore to a journey to the ice
The waterfront offers views of Lake Argentino from the town; the boat trip takes you to its source, amidst icebergs and walls of ice. If you'd like to visit Upsala, Spegazzini, and Spegazzini Base, check availability and current rates on the All Glaciers Navigation website.
FAQ
Where is the El Calafate waterfront located?
It borders Redonda Bay, on the southern shore of Lake Argentino, a few blocks from the town center. It's within walking distance.
Can you see glaciers from the waterfront?
No. From the waterfront you can see Redonda Bay and part of Lake Argentino; the glaciers are to the west and can be seen by sailing the North Arm, as in the All Glaciers Navigation.
What is the best time to walk it?
The morning is usually calmer, and sunset is the most photogenic time. The wind tends to pick up in the afternoon, so it's a good idea to bring a windbreaker.
Does Redonda Bay freeze over?
In very cold winters, parts of the bay can become covered in ice because it is shallow. It is not safe to walk on that ice.
