From El Calafate to El Chaltén, it's just over 200 km of paved road, about a three-hour drive. You head east, take Route 40 north across the steppe, pass the historic Parador La Leona, and the last stretch skirts Lake Viedma with Mount Fitz Roy directly in front.
We take this route with passengers on the Viedma Full Day Adventure, which departs daily from September to April and every other day plus Saturdays from May to August. After so many trips, we know it's not just a transfer: it's part of the experience. Here's a step-by-step guide to what you'll see out the window.
The route from El Calafate to El Chaltén, section by section
The journey is divided into three very distinct parts:
- Eastbound exit from El Calafate: You leave the town with Lake Argentino on one side and go to the junction with Route 40.
- Route 40 Northbound: The pure steppe, long straight roads, plateaus and enormous sky, all the way to the La Leona river and the inn of the same name.
- Route 23 Westbound: The detour that skirts the northern shore of Lake Viedma and takes you to El Chaltén, with the mountain range getting closer and closer.
The road is paved the entire way, but there are long stretches without services. If you're going on your own, make sure you have a full tank of gas, water, and some warm clothing.
The steppe of Route 40: what you can see
Those who arrive in Patagonia expecting forests are surprised by the steppe: an open landscape of coirones and low shrubs, ochre and yellow colors, and horizons that seem to go on forever.
The wildlife is part of the journey. If you look closely, you'll see:
- Guanacos: in groups, often next to fences or crossing the road.
- Choiques (small rheas): They walk quickly through the bushes.
- Birds of prey: caracaras, chimangos and, sometimes, black-chested buzzard-eagles perched on the posts.
- Gray foxes: less frequent, but they appear on the side of the road.
The La Leona River and the La Leona Inn
About halfway along the route, Route 40 crosses the La Leona River, which originates in Lake Viedma and flows into Lake Argentino: it's the river that connects the two large lakes of the park. Its turquoise color, amidst the ochre steppe, is one of the most beautiful sights of the trip.
Beside the river is Parador La Leona, a historic stop on Route 40 that has been welcoming travelers for over a century. It's the perfect place to stretch your legs, and on the Viedma Full Day Adventure, we make a stop there. We tell its story, including explorers, travelers, and legends, in our article about Parador La Leona.
Route 23 and the arrival at El Chaltén with Fitz Roy in front
After La Leona, the route continues north to the Route 23 junction, which turns west. From there, the journey changes character:
- On the left appears the Lake Viedma, immense, of a turquoise that changes with the light and the wind.
- Up ahead, if the day is clear, the Fitz Roy Hill with Cerro Torre by its side: it's the classic postcard of the arrival.
- On the other side of the lake, to the south, rise the mountains that surround the Viedma Glacier.
Mount Fitz Roy isn't always visible: clouds often obscure it. If it's clear, take advantage of it. In our article about Mount Fitz Roy, we tell you where its name comes from and where it's best viewed from.
How to travel from El Calafate to El Chaltén in one day
The question we receive most often is whether it's worth doing a day trip. Going there and back just to see the town is a lot of driving for very little time at your destination. It's different if the day has a clear objective. That's the idea behind the Viedma Full Day Adventure , a 12-hour day trip from El Calafate that includes everything:
| Time | What includes |
|---|---|
| Bus from your hotel | Route 40 and the undriven steppe |
| Parador La Leona | Historic stop on Route 40 |
| 4-hour boat trip on Lake Viedma | From Puerto Bahía Túnel, 18 km from El Chaltén, with a walk to the viewpoint of the Bay of Icebergs and an approach to the face of the Viedma Glacier |
| Snack on board | Included during navigation |
| El Chaltén | Visit to the National Capital of Trekking and views of Fitz Roy |
| Chorrillo del Salto | Short hike to a waterfall in the Andean forest |
If you're planning to stay overnight in El Chaltén, the best option is the 4-hour Viedma Adventure tour, departing from there. In our article, "Viedma Adventure or Full Day Tour," we compare the two depending on your accommodation.
Tips for traveling on Route 40
- Wind and fauna: On the steppe, the wind can be very strong, and guanacos cross without warning. If you're driving, slow down when you see them nearby.
- Layered coat: In a single day you can go from full sun to cold wind; wear a windbreaker even if you go out in the sun.
- Camera in hand: The turquoise waters of the La Leona River and the first glimpse of Fitz Roy appear suddenly.
- Park Entrance: To sail to the Viedma Glacier you need the entrance ticket to Los Glaciares National Park, which can be purchased separately at pnlosglaciares.ar.
Your day on Route 40, with the Viedma Glacier as your destination
The road from El Calafate to El Chaltén is one of Patagonia's great journeys, and it truly comes alive when it ends in front of the park's largest glacier. If you'd like to experience it without driving and with navigation included, check availability, departure schedules, and current rates on the Viedma Full Day Adventure website.
FAQ
How many kilometers is it from El Calafate to El Chaltén?
It's a little over 200 km on paved roads, combining Route 40 and Route 23. By car it takes about three hours without stopping.
What can you see on the road from El Calafate to El Chaltén?
Patagonian steppe with guanacos and rheas, the La Leona River that connects Lake Viedma with Lake Argentino, the La Leona rest stop and, in the last stretch, Lake Viedma with Mount Fitz Roy in front.
Is it possible to go to El Chaltén and return in the same day from El Calafate?
Yes. The Viedma Full Day Adventure is a 12-hour day trip from El Calafate that includes the bus, the stop at La Leona, the 4-hour boat trip to the Viedma Glacier, the visit to El Chaltén and the Chorrillo del Salto waterfall.
Is the road to El Chaltén paved?
Yes, the road between El Calafate and El Chaltén is paved. There are long stretches without services, so it's advisable to bring fuel, water, and warm clothing.
Do I need a National Park entrance ticket to sail to the Viedma Glacier?
Yes. Entrance to Los Glaciares National Park is not included in the tour and must be purchased separately, for example online at pnlosglaciares.ar.
