A long weekend in El Calafate is enough to see the essentials: the first day, arrival and a walk along the waterfront; the second, the All Glaciers Navigation, with five glaciers and disembarkation at the Spegazzini Base; the third, El Chaltén with the Viedma Full Day Adventure or a quiet day in the town before returning.
We've been sailing on Lake Argentino since 1980, and on long weekends we see many travelers arriving with little time but plenty of enthusiasm. This is the plan we recommend.
Long weekend in El Calafate: the plan in a table
| Daytime | Plan | Rhythm |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Arrival, shoreline of Lake Argentino and Laguna Nimez Reserve | Quiet |
| 2 | All Glaciers Navigation | Full time |
| 3 | Viedma Full Day Adventure, or free morning and return | According to your return schedule |
Day 1: Arrive and settle in
The first day is spent on the journey. When you arrive, drop off your luggage and go for a walk. The shores of Lake Argentino and the Laguna Nimez Reserve are the perfect starting point: birds, the turquoise lake, and the wind that will accompany you throughout your trip. Learn more about this corner of the Laguna Nimez Reserve.
Before going to sleep, take care of things for the next day:
- Park ticket purchased online at pnlosglaciares.ar.
- Backpack packed with layers of warm clothing, waterproof jacket, hat, gloves, sunglasses and sunscreen.
- Confirmation of the transfer or the route to Puerto Punta Bandera, 47 km away.
Day 2: All Glaciers Navigation
It's the heart of the weekend. The All Glaciers Navigation operates from 8:30 a.m. to 16:00 p.m. (from April to August, from 9:30 a.m. to 17:00 p.m.) and is a 7-hour sailing trip, about 10 hours total if you include the transfer. The route:
- Departure from Puerto Punta Bandera and passage through the Devil's Mouth.
- Icebergs of the Upsala Glacier and view of the 765 km² Upsala.
- Dry Glacier, a hanging glacier, and Heim Glacier.
- Spegazzini Glacier, the highest in the Park, with walls up to 135 m high.
- Landing at Spegazzini Base: trails, walkways, viewpoints overlooking Spegazzini, Heim and Peineta, and the Spegazzini Refuge.
If it's a special trip, add the Refuge Menu or the Captain's Club. On the way back, enjoy a leisurely dinner: there's more to come the next day. We explain how to organize each leg of the trip in our " How to Plan Your Day" guide for All Glaciers.
Day 3: Two options depending on your flight
If you're leaving late in the day or the next day: the Viedma Full Day Adventure takes you to El Chaltén and the Viedma Glacier in 12 hours, from 7:30 am to 19:30 pm. It includes a stop at the La Leona rest stop, a 4-hour boat trip on Lake Viedma with a hike to a viewpoint overlooking Iceberg Bay and the face of the Viedma Glacier, a visit to the town, and a short hike to the Chorrillo del Salto waterfall. This way, you add a second lake and another scenic view of the park.
If your flight leaves early or mid-afternoon: dedicate the morning to exploring the town. Enjoy a leisurely breakfast, stroll along the waterfront in its different light, and pick up a local souvenir before heading to the airport. For ideas, check out what to do in El Calafate after sailing.
Long weekends from May to August
During the colder months, the schedule changes. The All Glaciers tour departs every other day, and the Viedma Full Day Adventure departs every other day plus Saturdays. Before purchasing tickets, consult the departure schedule and choose the boat trip on the corresponding day. Winter has its charm: fewer people, snow on the mountains, and a low, photogenic light. We tell you all about it in All Glaciers in Winter.
Tips for making three days count
- Book in advance. Long weekends see a surge in demand; secure your sailing tickets along with your travel arrangements.
- Don't set the navigation on the day of arrival. With a day's margin, any travel delay can be arranged.
- I chose the third day well. The Full Day is intense; if your flight leaves that same day, you won't make it.
- Leave room for the weather. The weather changes several times a day; always wear an extra layer.
Plan your weekend in the glaciers
Three well-spent days are enough to return with the Upsala, Spegazzini, and, if you like, the Viedma glaciers in your memory. Book the All Glaciers Navigation tour and check availability and current rates on the tour's website.
FAQ
Is a long weekend enough to visit El Calafate?
Yes, for the essentials. With three days you can arrive at a relaxed pace, do the All Glaciers Navigation, and add a third day in El Chaltén or in the town.
What excursion should I take if I only have one free day in El Calafate?
The All Glaciers Navigation, which in one day travels across five glaciers and disembarks at the Spegazzini Base.
Is it possible to go to El Chaltén on a long weekend from El Calafate?
Yes. The Viedma Full Day Adventure departs from El Calafate and in 12 hours combines Lake Viedma, the Viedma Glacier and El Chaltén, with a return trip in the same day.
Do the cruises run every day in winter?
No. From May to August, the All Glaciers tour runs every other day, and the Viedma Full Day Adventure tour runs every other day plus Saturdays. Check the departure schedule.
