El Calafate vs. El Chaltén: Which Patagonia Town Should You Choose?

When it comes to choosing between El Calafate vs El Chaltén, the answer isn’t as straightforward as you might hope—because, honestly, it depends. Whether you’re an avid hiker, a digital nomad seeking reliable Wi-Fi, or someone on a short vacation, your decision hinges on what you’re after. I spent 2 months in Argentina, and faced this same dilemma during my three-week stay in Patagonia, weighing factors like activity options, costs, and connectivity. But don’t worry, I’ll walk you through the key factors to consider, so you can make the best decision for your Patagonian adventure.

What You Need to Know About El Calafate and El Chaltén

El Calafate and El Chaltén are two of the must-visit mountain towns in Argentine Patagonia, each offering unique experiences on the edge of Los Glaciares National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Both towns are paradise for outdoor enthusiasts, with a variety of guided tours and accommodation options catering to all budgets. The peak season, from December through March, sees both towns bustling with activity, from trekking and glacier tours to enjoying local craft breweries. So, which one’s right for you? Let’s dive into what makes each town tick.

El Calafate at a Glance

El Calafate feels like a big town that’s almost grown into a small city around Lake Argentino, with about 20,000 people calling it home. It’s come a long way from its sheep-farming days—now, thanks to the jaw-dropping Perito Moreno Glacier just an hour away. You can do everything from glacier trekking and kayaking to sipping a cold one at a local brewery. The town has a lively vibe, with plenty of places to eat, shop, and explore. And while the sheep might be fewer, you’ll still see wild guanacos roaming around, keeping things authentically Patagonian.

El Chaltén at a Glance

El Chaltén, on the other hand, is a laid-back and charming town with just about 1,600 residents—think of it as Patagonia’s ultimate hiking hub. Founded in 1985 (basically a baby compared to El Calafate), this place exists for one reason: to get you closer to those epic trails, like Laguna de los Tres and Laguna Torre. The vibe here is super chill, attracting backpackers, climbers, and anyone who’s down for a bit of adventure. Nights are quiet, but the town’s got a few cool breweries to unwind after a day on the trails. And with Mount Fitz Roy looming in the background, you’re never far from a stunning view.

Getting There: Accessibility and Transportation

How to Get to El Calafate

El Calafate is hands-down the easier town to reach, especially if you’re flying in. The town is home to El Calafate Airport (FTE), which has direct flights from Buenos Aires and other major Patagonian destinations like Mendoza and Ushuaia. Once you land, it’s just a 30-minute drive to town. If you’re more into road trips, El Calafate also has a bus terminal with connections to other spots in Argentine and Chilean Patagonia. Even if you’re coming from Torres del Paine in Chile, you’ll find daily buses that will get you here without much hassle. Just keep in mind that the bus terminal is a bit outside of town, so a taxi might be your best bet if you’ve got a lot of luggage.

How to Get to El Chaltén

Getting to El Chaltén is a bit more of an adventure. You’ll most likely fly into El Calafate first and then hop on a bus or drive about 2.5 hours to reach this tiny hiker’s paradise. The bus terminal is right on the edge of town, but since El Chaltén is so small, you can easily walk everywhere once you’re there—no need for taxis or shuttles. If you’re planning to visit both towns, it’s a straightforward three-hour bus ride or drive between El Calafate and El Chaltén, making it easy to split your time between the two.

Getting Between El Calafate and El Chaltén

Getting between El Calafate and El Chaltén is fairly easy thank to regular bus services along the iconic Ruta 40. The journey is a three-hour drive, with multiple daily departures making it easy to plan your trip. While some travelers opt to stay overnight in El Calafate due to bus schedules, many prefer to maximize their time in El Chaltén, delving into its incredible trails. The drive itself offers a glimpse of Argentina’s famous National Route 40, a road known for its breathtaking landscapes as it winds through the rugged beauty of Patagonia.

Activities: What to Do in El Calafate vs. El Chaltén

We picked to stay in Calafate and then travel to El Chalten for the activities. In hindsight, this wasn’t the best decision but we were tied by our budget (more on that later). There is definitely more activities you can do in El Chaltén than in El Calafter but here’s a breakdown.

Activities in El Calafate

If you’re heading to El Calafate, it’s probably to see the Perito Moreno Glacier, and rightly so. Whether you opt for a guided tour, take a bus and explore on your own, or hop on a boat tour for a close-up view, this colossal glacier is the town’s main attraction. The walking trails offer amazing views, and if you’re lucky, you’ll witness chunks of ice crashing into the water below.

Beyond Perito Moreno, El Calafate has plenty to offer. Visit the Glaciarium, a museum dedicated to Patagonian glaciers, or sip a drink at the ice-themed Yeti Ice Bar. For other outdoor activities, hike around Reserva Laguna Nimez, perfect for wildlife watching and soaking in the natural beauty of Patagonia.

Activities in El Chaltén

If you’re in El Chaltén, it’s all about the hiking. The town is renowned for its access to some of Patagonia’s best trails, catering to all levels of hikers. For an easy start, try the short Mirador Cascada Margarita or Mirador Cerro Torre hikes, both offering stunning views with minimal effort. If you’re up for more of a challenge, Laguna Capri provides a moderate day hike with rewarding views of the Fitz Roy Massif.

For those seeking a full-day adventure, Laguna Torre and Laguna de los Tres are must-do hikes. Laguna Torre takes you on a scenic journey alongside Río Fitz Roy, ending at a breathtaking glacial lake. Laguna de los Tres, though more challenging, offers some of the most iconic views of Fitz Roy and is a hiker’s dream. Whether you’re looking for a quick jaunt or a serious trek, El Chaltén has the trails starting from the centre of town to match your ambition

Accommodation: Where to Stay in El Calafate vs. El Chaltén

El Calafate Accommodation Options

El Calafate has something for everyone when it comes to accommodation. Whether you’re a budget backpacker or someone looking for a bit of luxury, you’ll find plenty of options. From cheap dorm rooms in hostels to high-end hotels catering to retirees, there’s a wide range of places to stay. We opted for a cabin a little further out of town, which cost us $40 a night—about as cheap as it gets in El Calafate. The town’s accommodation scene is diverse, reflecting the variety of tourists who visit, so you’ll likely find something that fits your budget and style.

El Chaltén Accommodation Options

In El Chaltén, you’re pretty much guaranteed to be close to everything, no matter where you stay. It’s a small town, so even the furthest accommodation is just a short walk from the bus terminal. However, be prepared to pay a bit more—on average, prices are about 50% higher than in El Calafate. That’s one of the main reasons we chose to stay in El Calafate, especially since we were working most of the weekdays and didn’t need to be right in the heart of Chaltén. Still, with such a compact layout, it’s hard to go wrong with your choice of lodging. Just keep in mind that the further south you go in Patagonia, the more you’ll end up paying for everything, and accommodation is no exception.

Costs: Budgeting for El Calafate vs. El Chaltén

When planning your budget for El Calafate and El Chaltén, you’ll find that each town has its quirks. El Calafate generally offers cheaper accommodation, making it a good option for travelers looking to save on lodging. This is the primary reason we based out of El Calafate and thought it would be better to head to El Chalten for camping on the weekends. However, activities—especially those involving the Perito Moreno Glacier—can get pricey, so be prepared to spend more on excursions.

In contrast, El Chaltén tends to have more expensive accommodation, but the silver lining is that many of its best activities, like hiking, are free. While dining costs are similar in both towns, El Chaltén can be slightly pricier overall.

Best For: Who Should Choose El Calafate vs. El Chaltén?

Best for Hikers and Adventure Seekers

If you’re the type who lives and breathes the outdoors—think hiking, climbing, and exploring remote landscapes—then El Chaltén is your paradise. This town is a haven for hardcore outdoor enthusiasts, with trails that start right from the town center and lead you straight into some of Patagonia’s most stunning scenery. El Calafate, while beautiful, is more of a one-time visit. But El Chaltén? It’s the kind of place you’ll want to return to again and again, soaking up the rugged, untamed vibes of Patagonia.

Best for Relaxation and Less Mobility

Patagonia isn’t exactly known for being accessible, but if you’re looking for a more relaxed experience or have mobility challenges, El Calafate is your best bet. The town is relatively flat, and taxis are available to get you around. Plus, you can enjoy the breathtaking Perito Moreno Glacier from accessible viewing platforms without too much effort. El Chaltén, on the other hand, is all about hiking, with no taxis and mostly rough trails, making it less suitable for those who need a bit more ease in their travels.

Best for Relaxation and Family-Friendly Travel

If you’re looking for a more relaxed experience or traveling with family, El Calafate is your go-to. The town’s relatively flat layout and accessible activities, like the Perito Moreno Glacier viewing platforms, make it ideal for those who prefer a less physically demanding trip. It’s also a better choice for families with younger kids or those who aren’t up for extensive hiking. El Calafate offers a variety of activities that don’t require intense effort, providing comfort and ease, while still delivering the stunning Patagonian scenery you’re after.

Best for Digital Nomads

For digital nomads, El Calafate is the clear winner. The town has decent phone signal, and most hotels offer Wi-Fi that’s good enough for basic work, though maybe not for video calls. There are also plenty of cafes where you can set up shop for a few hours. El Chaltén, on the other hand, struggles with connectivity—expect weak phone signals and Wi-Fi that’s as slow as watching paint dry. If staying connected is crucial, El Calafate is the place to be.

 

Practical Information: What You Need to Know Before You Go

Weather and Best Time to Visit

Patagonia’s weather is notoriously unpredictable, but there are still some general rules to follow. El Calafate and El Chaltén both experience their high season from December to March, when the weather is warmest and days are long—perfect for outdoor adventures. However, be prepared for sudden changes, with rain and wind always a possibility. If you prefer fewer crowds and cooler temperatures, consider visiting in the shoulder seasons of October-November or April-May. Just pack layers, because even in summer, it can get chilly, especially in El Chaltén, which tends to be a bit cooler and windier than El Calafate.

Language and Communication

In both El Calafate and El Chaltén, Spanish is the primary language, and while many people working in tourism speak basic English, it’s helpful to know some key phrases in Spanish. Communication shouldn’t be a major issue in either town, but don’t expect everyone to be fluent in English. A little effort to speak the local language goes a long way and is always appreciated by locals.

Cash, Cards, and Connectivity

ATMs are available in both El Calafate and El Chaltén, though it’s wise to carry some cash, especially in El Chaltén, where card machines can be temperamental. Debit and credit cards are widely accepted in El Calafate, but smaller businesses in El Chaltén might prefer cash. Make sure you exchange money in Buenos Aires, as currency exchange options are limited in both towns and offer horrible rates! As for connectivity, El Calafate has decent internet and mobile phone coverage, making it suitable for those who need to stay connected. El Chaltén, however, is much more limited—Wi-Fi is slow, and mobile signals are weak, so plan accordingly if you need reliable internet access during your stay.

Both El Calafate and El Chaltén are must-visit destinations in Patagonia, and neither should be skipped. Where you decide to make your base depends entirely on your personal preferences. We chose El Calafate primarily for the cost and the need for reliable internet. However, if I were on a shorter trip, I would 100% choose to stay in El Chaltén for its unbeatable hiking and outdoor experiences. Both towns offer something unique, so whichever you pick, you’ll be rewarded with an incredible Patagonian adventure.