El Calafate & El Chaltén
Dive into the rugged majesty of Southern Patagonia with our private guided 13-day itinerary, curated for those eager to experience the Argentina’s deep south. The adventure begins in El Calafate, the gateway to Los Glaciares National Park, a landscape dominated by ancient ice and vast steppes. Witness the awe-inspiring glaciers of the region, stepping away from the crowds to experience thundering ice falls and a thrilling private ice trek across Perito Moreno. You will also have the opportunity to stay in a lovely remote ranch, kayak on the beautiful Santa Cruz River, as well as go on a Patagonia 4×4 safari – a true adventure. The journey then takes you deeper into the wild, to El Chaltén, nestled at the foot of the towering Mount Fitz Roy. Explore pristine trails, silent lagoons, and ancient forests, connecting with the untamed spirit of the Andes. This itinerary includes stays in carefully selected boutique properties, designed to offer comfort after a day of exploration. The itinerary is an excellent choice for travellers who like active trips. We can tailor this itinerary to suit your plans by changing the length of the trip or the order of activities.
13 Days – From £2,150 per person
*equivalent in USD, EUR accepted
Itinerary: El Calafate, Los Glaciares National Park, El Chaltén
- Price is per person, based on two people sharing in a double/twin room
- Mentioned hotels with breakfast (Browse More Hotels)
- All the excursions and experiences mentioned in the itinerary
- All transfers are private
- Entrance & guiding fees to all visited places
- All mandatory local taxes
- Visa, where applicable
- International Flights (See Flights to Argentina)
- Domestic Flights
- Personal Expenses
- Insurance
- Tips & Freebies
- Meals not mentioned in the description
International flights are not included in the package price. We give you the freedom to book the flights yourself, use miles and choose your preferred airline, and if you are stuck we can help you find the right connections. Return flights to Argentina start from £800 per person, depending on the connections and time of the year. Fly to El Calafate (FTE).
For families and groups (starting with 7 pax), we can book domestic flights in Argentina, during the high season, and if the trip is part of a more complex itinerary. This is to ensure a seamless travel and no complications.
Send us an email us at to check availability, discuss your references and get a quote.
This is a sample itinerary and prices are correct at the time of writing. We can tailor the trip up to your plans and book other hotels. You can also combine this trip with other sights in Argentina, like the cosmopolitan Buenos Aires, the exciting Ibera Wetlands, the fascinating Iguassu Falls, the wine region of Mendoza or the deeper south. For more Argentina travel inspiration check these itineraries .
The optimal time to experience this southern frontier is from October to April. During these months, the austral spring and summer offer longer daylight hours and milder temperatures, providing ideal conditions for glacier explorations and trekking the trails of El Chaltén. The transition months of October and November bring a burst of life to the steppe, while March and April transform the ancient lenga forests into a spectacular canvas of fiery reds and deep oranges. Visiting during this window ensures you can fully enjoy the outdoor majesty of Southern Patagonia with clearer skies and accessible mountain paths.
To avoid unpleasant weather surprises, we recommend to check our Argentina Weather Guide to plan your trip in the right season. Click on the month you want to travel in and see the tours which are best for each month of the year.
Day 1 - Arrival in El Calafate
Today you will arrive in El Calafate, the gateway to southern Argentina’s most spectacular landscapes. Set on the shores of vast Lake Argentino, the largest freshwater lake in Argentina, the town is surrounded by windswept steppe, turquoise waters and the distant peaks of the Andes. The region offers a striking combination of mountains, lakes, open Patagonian steppe and traditional ranches. On arrival, your private driver will meet you at the airport and transfer you to your hotel. Settle in and enjoy the peaceful surroundings, breathing in the crisp Patagonian air as you prepare for the adventures ahead. Overnight at Los Ponchos Hotel.
Day 2 - Los Glaciares National Park
Set out around 08:30 for a full-day journey in the Los Glaciares National Park, crossing the turquoise waters of Lake Argentino towards Patagonia’s spectacular ice fields. As the boat travels through the northern channels, you’ll pass close to the Upsala, Peineta, Seco and Heim Sur glaciers, before reaching the highlight of the day: Spegazzini Glacier, one of the tallest in the park. At Spegazzini Base, disembark and follow private forest trails through the forest to viewpoints around 300 metres away from glaciers. The scale is impressive, with towering walls of blue-white ice rising up. Continue to Refugio Spegazzini, a panoramic shelter, where you can enjoy a warm lunch with a views. Return to the boat around 16:30 and travel back to your hotel. Overnight at Los Ponchos Hotel.
Day 3 - Perito Moreno
Today, discover one of Patagonia’s most extraordinary natural wonders: Perito Moreno Glacier, located in Los Glaciares National Park, 80 km away from El Calafate. Depart around 08:30 for a scenic 1.5-hour drive through the Patagonian landscape. Upon arrival, walk along the extensive network of wooden catwalks (pasarelas) that face the glacier’s towering front. The paths offer multiple angles and heights to observe the massive ice formations. Spend time admiring the deep blue crevasses and listening the thunderous roars as enormous blocks of ice break away and crash into the lake below. Weather permitting, take a boat excursion to admire the glacier’s imposing ice wall from the water. Return to El Calafate in the late afternoon, around 17:00. Overnight at Los Ponchos Hotel.
Day 4 - Ice Trekking
Today, experience the glaciers up close with a guided ice-trekking expedition on Perito Moreno Glacier. Depart at 08:00 for a scenic drive to Puerto Bajo de las Sombras, followed by a 20-min boat crossing of Lake Argentino’s Brazo Rico to the glacier’s southern face. After a safety briefing, you will be equipped with crampons and guided onto the ancient ice. Warm, layered clothing, waterproof jacket and trousers, sturdy hiking boots, gloves and sunglasses are essential. Good mobility is required, and age restrictions apply. You will spend from 1.5 to 3 hours on the glacier, exploring deep blue crevasses, ice formations and meltwater pools. It is a thrilling experience that provides a completely new perspective on the scale and power of the Patagonian ice fields, a constantly changing place. Return to El Calafate around 20:00. Overnight at Los Ponchos Hotel.
Day 5 - Life on the Ranch
After a few intense days of glacier exploration, slow down and experience the authentic Patagonian ranch life. At the ranch you will be welcomed with hot drinks, homemade tortas fritas, and cakes. Learn about the pioneer family that runs the property and witness rural traditions. Witness a sheep shearing demo, sheep herding, and a display of gaucho riding skills. Then, enjoy a horseback ride toward La Angostura, the stunning confluence of Lago Roca and Lago Argentino. As the day draws to a close, savour traditional Patagonian cuisine, including slow-roasted lamb, accompanied by local folklore and acoustic music. Enjoy a relaxing evening in this remote place. Overnight at Estancia Nibepo Aike.
Day 6 - Patagonia Desert Safari
Shift gears and venture into the vast, arid beauty of the Patagonian steppe for a 4×4 safari. Discover the untamed desert landscapes around El Calafate while travelling off-road to panoramic viewpoints overlooking the Verlika and Baguales hills, near the Chilean border. You will spot native wildlife, such as guanacos, foxes and condors. Along the way, your guide will introduce you to the steppe’s distinctive geology, hardy vegetation and the history of the region’s Indigenous peoples. Stop at La Sección, part of Estancia 25 de Mayo, to enjoy a hearty country meal of cheese and salami, warming lentil stew and homemade cheesecake. Returning to your hotel. Overnight at Kau Yatún Hotel Boutique.
Day 7 - Santa Cruz River Kayaking
Follow in the footsteps of legendary explorers on a 5-hour kayaking adventure. Take a 4×4 transfer via Route 40 to the majestic Santa Cruz River. After a debrief and gearing up with dry suits, you will embark on a kayaking expedition down vividly blue waters (90 min, 15 km). Paddle past unique geological formations that once inspired Charles Darwin. Your journey ends at Estancia Río Bote, where a well-deserved riverside lunch awaits, with focaccia with eggplant dip, provoleta with tomato, strip loin a la criolla, and homemade chocolate mousse. This active excursion offers a unique perspective on Patagonia’s wilderness from the water. Then, return to El Calafate. Overnight at Kau Yatún Hotel Boutique.
Day 8 - El Chaltén
Today drive north towards El Chaltén (3.5 hours). Keep an eye out for guanacos and other wildlife along the way. The 215-km journey follows the legendary Route 40 across the vast Patagonian steppe, before joining Route 23, with sweeping views of Lake Viedma and the distant Andes. Nestled beneath the spectacular granite peaks of Mount Fitz Roy and Cerro Torre, El Chaltén is a paradise for nature lovers, hikers and climbers, offering pristine rivers, glacial valleys and trails through some of Patagonia’s most dramatic scenery. The area offers breathtaking scenery at every turn. Settle in and enjoy a copious meal, before the active days ahead. Overnight at Aguas Arriba Lodge.
Day 09 - Lakes & Glaciers
Today, take a scenic drive that follows the winding De las Vueltas River to Lago del Desierto, a remote glacial lake near the Chilean border. This peaceful corner of Argentine Patagonia feels wonderfully untouched. With your guide, set off on a rewarding, moderately challenging two-hour hike through ancient woodland, climbing towards the spectacular Huemul Glacier. Hidden above the forest, this hanging glacier overlooks a striking emerald-green lagoon, coloured by glacial meltwater and framed by steep mountain slopes. Take in the extraordinary views and enjoy the stillness of this secluded wilderness. Stop to enjoy your generous packed lunch box. Back at the lodge, unwind and look forward to a well-deserved dinner. Overnight at Overnight at Aguas Arriba Lodge.
Day 10 - Salto del Chorrillo
Start the morning with your guide on an easy nature walk, following a gentle trail to Chorrillo del Salto, a beautiful waterfall cascading down a rocky cliff into the forest. The walk is peaceful and rewarding, with views of the surrounding mountains. After enjoying the waterfall, continue with a short scenic drive through the Fitz Roy valley, stopping at one of the area’s viewpoints for a final glimpse of the dramatic Patagonian landscape. Continue to your next hotel, located closer to town, where you can settle in and enjoy the spectacular settings. Overnight at Patagonia Eco Domes.
Day 11 - Laguna de los Tres
Today, take on one of Patagonia’s most iconic hikes – the trek to Laguna de los Tres, the spectacular viewpoint facing Mount Fitz Roy. The trail leads through ancient lenga forests, open Patagonian valleys and mountain landscapes, gradually building towards the challenging final ascent. The steep climb is demanding, but the reward is extraordinary: an unforgettable panorama of the jagged Fitz Roy massif rising dramatically above a vivid turquoise glacial lagoon. Your guide will set the pace according to your ability and the conditions, with time to stop and appreciate the changing scenery along the way. Overnight at Patagonia Eco Domes.
Day 12 - El Chaltén
After yesterday’s challenging trek, enjoy a slower morning to rest and take in the peaceful surroundings of El Chaltén. In the afternoon, meet your guide for a gentle walk to Mirador de los Cóndores, a panoramic viewpoint overlooking the town, Río de las Vueltas and the dramatic peaks of the Fitz Roy range. Keep an eye on the skies as Andean condors often ride the mountain thermals above the valley. Afterwards, continue to Casa Madsen, one of El Chaltén’s historic pioneer houses, where you can enjoy a traditional afternoon tea while hearing stories of the early settlers and the challenges of life in this remote corner of Patagonia. Overnight at Patagonia Eco Domes.
Day 13 - Departure
Enjoy your last breakfast in El Chaltén. As you reflect on your time in Los Glaciares National Park, you may find yourself lucky to be able to see these pristine landscapes. When you are ready, your private driver will take you to El Calafate Airport (3,5 hours). Depart Patagonia with memories of spectacular natural wonders, the warmth of its people and the spirit of the far south – a place that feels wild, remote and unforgettable. If you have more time to explore Argentina, consider continuing further north to Bariloche, home to spectacular lakes, or head to Buenos Aires to discover its rich cultural heritage and renowned culinary scene. Check out other itineraries here.
