El Calafate
El calafate
El Calafate is a small city located at the Southeast of Santa Cruz province, in the argentinian region of Patagonia. Better known as the “Land of Glaciers”, it’s the entrance to Los Glaciares National Park, which hosts y protects a total of 47 major glaciers. In 1981 it was declared World Heritage by UNESCO. About 80 km away from the city, the Perito Moreno Glacier is the main atraction, located at the south arm of the gigantic Argentinian Lake. Moreover, 220 km northwards from Calafate, stands El Chaltén, which hosts the famous Mount Fitz Roy and it’s the National Capital of Trekking.
The city’s name is due to a local bush with yellow flowers and violet berries (similar to blueberries), which is common in the region: Calafate (Berberis Buxifolia). Originally, this place was a provisioning stop for wool sellers, and it was not until 1927 when it turned into a permanent locality.
As for gastronomy, stick lamb is the emblematic dish of the region. The berry of Calafate is also used for ice cream, jam and licor production.
Around here it’s possible to navigate the different parts of the Argentinian Lake, in order to see glaciers Upsala & Spegazzini. You can also walk on the Perito Moreno Glacier, and even kayak right in front of it! Additionally to the National Park, the destination presents several touristic activities either in the local mountains, the patagonian steppe or the regional farms. 4×4 rides, flora & fauna sighting, bike tours, horse back riding, kayaking, zipline tours, trekking, gastronomic tours, farm days, museums and much more!
Above all the argentinian destinations, El Calafate has one of the highest index of foreign tourism. Its beauty and the immensity of its lakes and glaciers are world wide known.
Get in touch with immensity, live the true patagonic experience! That’s what this is all about.
As part of the whole patagonic circuit, it’s also suggestable to visit El Chaltén. Located inside the National Park, this town offers an infinity of free trekking trails, allowing access to lakes, rivers, woods and mountains of a unique beauty. Both cities are connected with daily transportation options.