On my trip to El Calafate, I quickly realized there’s no better base for exploring the breathtaking Perito Moreno Glacier. If you’re trying to figure out where to stay in El Calafate, don’t stress—I’ve created a complete guide covering the top neighborhoods and the best hotels for every type of traveler.
El Calafate is a charming town set on the shores of the vast Lago Argentino, the largest freshwater lake in Argentina. Most of the buzz happens around the main tourist center, where you’ll find cafés, restaurants, travel agencies, and souvenir shops. Still, the true magic of El Calafate lies in its natural surroundings: scenic hiking trails, breathtaking viewpoints, and unforgettable outdoor adventures. Just keep in mind that most of the best things to do in El Calafate are actually located outside the town center.
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best place to stay in El Calafate
Editor’s Choice
The best area to stay in El Calafate is right in the heart of downtown. Look for a hotel near Avenida del Libertador, the town’s main street lined with cafés, restaurants, boutiques, and tour agencies. For the perfect location, stay between Perito Moreno Street and Ezequiel Bustillo Street, right where they meet Avenida del Libertador—you honestly can’t go wrong here. I stayed at Hotel Posada Los Álamos during my trip and loved being just steps away from the best places to eat and shop.
Quick Summary: Best Areas to Stay in El Calafate
In a hurry or just want the essentials? Here’s a quick breakdown of the best areas to stay in El Calafate, perfect if you want to decide fast and find the right neighborhood for your trip:
- Downtown El Calafate – The best area to stay if you want convenience and quick access to restaurants, cafés, shops, and tour agencies.
- Hotels by Lake Argentino – Perfect for travelers looking for peace, breathtaking views, and a close connection to Patagonia’s incredible nature.
- El Calafate’s Surroundings (Estancias) – Ideal for those who want an authentic Patagonian stay, surrounded by wide-open landscapes, local traditions, and rustic charm.
Here on They Travelling, I share detailed travel guides with the best neighborhoods and hotels to stay in across Argentina’s most stunning destinations, all inspired by my personal experiences and discoveries along the way. Take a look:
Where to stay in El Calafate, Argentina: Neighborhood Guide
El Calafate may be a small town, but it offers a surprisingly wide range of places to stay. The areas I most recommend are Downtown El Calafate, the lakeside hotels, and the nearby estancias, each offering a distinct way to experience the very best of Patagonia.
The best area for you will depend on your travel style and budget. Below, I’ll walk you through the pros and cons of each neighborhood, along with my top hotel picks to help you choose the perfect place to stay in El Calafate.
1. Downtown: The best place to stay in El Calafate
If you want to stay close to the bars, restaurants, and cafés (or simply enjoy being able to go out for a drink or grab coffee nearby) the best area to stay in El Calafate is right in the town center. I recommend booking a hotel in the heart of downtown, ideally between Perito Moreno Street and Ezequiel Bustillo Street, near Avenida del Libertador, where most of the town’s buzz happens.
Hotels in downtown El Calafate average around USD 100 per night, but during peak season, prices can rise to USD 300 or more.
What I Love About Downtown – It’s perfect for travelers who value convenience, with hotels just steps away from bars, restaurants, and local shops. The area has a charming, lively vibe and offers easy access to both public transportation and private tours.
What I Don’t Love as Much – It’s busier and more touristy, and some hotels are fairly simple, lacking scenic views or a real connection to nature.
Who Downtown Is Best For – Great for first-time visitors, travelers without a car, and anyone who enjoys staying in the heart of the action.
Where to Stay in Downtown El Calafate:
Here are my top hotel picks in the heart of the city. Posada Los Alamos is my personal favorite in this area.
- Hotel Kosten Aike – A fantastic choice for anyone looking to stay in downtown El Calafate. This charming hotel features spacious rooms with super comfortable beds, great leisure facilities, and a generous breakfast spread. Its central location makes it easy to explore the town on foot.
- Hotel Posada Los Alamos – The most complete hotel in central El Calafate. This classic, beautifully designed property offers full resort-style amenities, including a spa, restaurant, and indoor pool. Rooms are large and inviting, and the warm, rustic décor gives the entire place a cozy Patagonian feel.
- Kau Kaleshen – A cozy, family-run hotel just one block from Avenida del Libertador. It’s a simple yet charming stay that truly feels like home, with warm hospitality, a peaceful garden, and an excellent homemade breakfast, perfect for a relaxed and authentic experience in El Calafate.
- Hotel ACA – Conveniently located just a block from Avenida del Libertador, this hotel sits inside a historic stone building. Rooms are spacious and bright, combining comfort with a touch of local Patagonian charm.
See more hotels in downtown El Calafate.
2. Hotels in El Calafate with Lake Argentino Views
If you’re looking for a quieter place to unwind and take in the stunning views, the hotels overlooking Lake Argentino are a fantastic choice for your stay in El Calafate. This area is just a short walk from downtown (about 15 to 20 minutes on average) and it’s truly worth it if you book a room with a lake view.
Staying here means being surrounded by the wild beauty and native wildlife of Argentine Patagonia. Hotels with lake views typically start around USD 200 per night, and during peak season, rates can reach USD 400 or more.
What I Love About Lake Argentino – It’s a dream spot for nature lovers. The area offers peaceful, comfortable hotels with absolutely breathtaking views of the lake and the surrounding Patagonian landscape.
What I Don’t Love as Much – It’s a bit farther from downtown, so you’ll find fewer dining and shopping options nearby, and getting to certain tours may require extra transportation or a short taxi ride.
Who Lake Argentino Is Best For – Ideal for travelers looking for tranquility, postcard-worthy scenery, and a closer connection to Patagonia’s incredible natural beauty.
Where to stay in El Calafate with lake views:
Here are my top picks for hotels overlooking Lake Argentino. Mirador del Lago Hotel is my personal favorite in this area.
- Mirador del Lago Hotel – A perfect place to unwind and take in the breathtaking lake views. The rooms are spacious and beautifully designed, with warm, rustic décor that creates a cozy and inviting atmosphere. Located a short distance from downtown, it’s ideal for travelers who want to slow down, reconnect with nature, and enjoy the hotel’s peaceful setting and thoughtful amenities.
- Xelena Hotel & Suites – A five-star hotel in El Calafate with breathtaking views of Lake Argentino. Rooms are spacious and beautifully decorated, and the property features a full range of amenities, including a luxurious spa and relaxing lounge areas, perfect for unwinding after a day of exploring Patagonia.
- Esplendor by Wyndham El Calafate – An elegant hotel located about 1 kilometer (0.6 miles) from the main downtown area. Even if you’re staying here, you can still walk to most restaurants and shops if you don’t mind a short stroll. The hotel offers excellent service and room options with stunning lake views. It’s the best choice if you want to enjoy panoramic views of Lake Argentino while still being close to town.
See more hotels by Lake Argentino.
3. El Calafate’s Surroundings (Estancias): Experience the Authentic, Rural Side of Patagonia
Craving something truly authentic? Staying outside the city center might be just what you’re looking for. In the outskirts of El Calafate, you’ll find traditional estancias, working ranches that keep the essence of Patagonian culture alive. These unique accommodations offer a deeper, more immersive way to experience the region’s rural lifestyle, local traditions, and breathtaking natural scenery.
At these estancias, you can watch sheep herding in action, go horseback riding, try your hand at fishing, and, of course, take in the kind of awe-inspiring landscapes that only Argentine Patagonia can offer.
To make the most of this type of stay, having a car is highly recommended. Nightly rates at estancias near El Calafate average around USD 200, though prices can vary depending on the level of comfort, meals, and activities included.
What I Love About the El Calafate Region – A stunning blend of untouched nature, deep-rooted cultural traditions, and breathtaking Patagonian landscapes.
What I Don’t Love as Much – Exploring this area takes more planning and travel time — and you’ll need to be willing to trade modern comforts for a more remote, often pricier, experience.
Who It’s Perfect For – Travelers seeking authentic stays that offer a genuine taste of Patagonia’s heritage, local culture, and wild beauty.
Where to Stay Around El Calafate:
These are my top picks for estancias near El Calafate, and Estancia La Estela is hands down my favorite in the region.
- Estancia La Estela – Set in a charming mansion overlooking Lake Viedma, this estancia is a fantastic choice for travelers looking to stay just outside El Calafate. It features a cozy restaurant and a bar, and breakfast is included. Guests can enjoy horseback riding and guided excursions, including visits to the La Leona Petrified Forest and other scenic Patagonian landmarks.
- El Galpón del Glaciar – Surrounded by breathtaking Patagonian scenery, this cozy estancia near El Calafate offers comfortable rooms, a restaurant, a bar, a private beach, and breakfast included. Guests can go horseback riding and spend the afternoon experiencing daily life on a traditional sheep ranch.
- Estancia Cristina Lodge – Tucked away in a spectacular natural setting, this charming lodge offers top-notch amenities and organizes unforgettable excursions — including boat trips to the majestic Upsala Glacier.
- Estancia Nibepo Aike – A fantastic option for travelers seeking an authentic rural experience. Set on a working sheep farm, it features a beautiful garden, inviting common areas, a restaurant, and a bar, all wrapped in a warm, tastefully decorated Patagonian atmosphere.
See more estancias and rural hotels around El Calafate.
Top 5 Hotels in El Calafate for an Unforgettable Stay
Now that you’re familiar with the best areas to stay in El Calafate, it’s time to decide what kind of experience you’re after, whether it’s the convenience of staying downtown, the serenity of panoramic views over Lake Argentino, or the authentic charm of a Patagonian estancia.
Whichever you choose, your stay in El Calafate will surely be one of the most memorable parts of your Patagonian adventure.
Hotel Posada Los Alamos
A longtime favorite in El Calafate, this hotel is ideal for travelers seeking a full-service stay right in the heart of town, the perfect base for exploring the region. The spacious, cozy rooms overlook the gardens, and the property features a wide range of amenities, including an indoor pool, spa, golf course, fitness center, and several on-site dining options. It’s the perfect blend of comfort, convenience, and Patagonian charm.
Hotel Kosten Aike
Perfectly located in downtown El Calafate, this hotel is a fantastic choice for travelers who want to stay close to everything. The rooms are spacious, with ultra-comfy beds and décor inspired by Patagonian culture, giving each space a warm, local touch. Along with its prime location, the hotel offers a spa, fitness center, inviting common areas, and a generous breakfast spread to start your day off right.
Mirador del Lago Hotel
One of the best places to stay in El Calafate for travelers seeking peace, comfort, and breathtaking views. Located just a short walk from Lake Argentino, the hotel offers spacious rooms with rustic yet elegant décor. Its standout feature is the on-site restaurant, where large panoramic windows frame the stunning Patagonian scenery as you dine.
Estancia La Estela
A charming getaway just outside El Calafate, this beautiful estancia sits in a grand mansion overlooking Lake Viedma. It features cozy rooms, a restaurant, and a bar, all designed to create a warm and memorable stay. What truly sets it apart are the authentic Patagonian experiences it offers, such as horseback rides and guided excursions to the nearby La Leona Petrified Forest, giving guests a genuine taste of rural life in southern Patagonia.
Estancia Cristina Lodge
One of the most exclusive lodging experiences in El Calafate, this remote estancia is accessible only by boat across Lake Argentino. Nestled in a breathtaking and secluded setting, it offers comfortable suites, delicious local cuisine, a small museum, and a range of unforgettable activities such as trekking, 4×4 excursions, and guided visits to the Upsala Glacier. Perfect for travelers seeking a truly once-in-a-lifetime adventure, stays include breakfast, lunch, and dinner, along with ground transfers from El Calafate hotels and boat transportation from Puerto Punta Bandera.
Luxury Hotels in El Calafate, Argentina
If comfort and exclusive service are what you value most, El Calafate won’t disappoint. While the town doesn’t have an abundance of five-star resorts, it does offer a handful of upscale hotels that deliver exceptional comfort, refined design, and unforgettable Patagonian experiences.
Here are the top luxury places to stay in El Calafate:
- Xelena Hotel & Suites – Located slightly away from the buzz of downtown, this hotel turns its setting into an advantage, offering a calm and peaceful atmosphere. Rooms are spacious and elegantly decorated, and the property features a full range of upscale amenities for a relaxing, high-end stay.
- Imago Hotel & Spa –A sleek, modern hotel with a clean, minimalist design. It offers an indoor pool, spa services, and massage treatments, perfect for unwinding after a long day exploring Patagonia’s breathtaking landscapes.
- EOLO – Patagonia’s Spirit –Situated farther from town, this refined retreat blends understated elegance with deeply personalized service. An exclusive and tranquil escape, it’s ideal for travelers seeking true luxury surrounded by nature in the heart of Patagonia.
Map of Where to Stay in El Calafate: Best Areas and Hotels
Use this map to explore the top areas and hotels in El Calafate, from the convenience of the town center to the scenic shores of Lake Argentino and the authentic experiences offered by nearby Patagonian estancias. Find the stay that best suits your travel style and make the most of your time in this unforgettable corner of Patagonia.
How Many Days to Stay in El Calafate?
I recommend spending at least two nights in El Calafate. That way, you’ll have enough time to explore the Perito Moreno Glacier at a relaxed pace and take at least one boat tour among the icebergs. In the evening, make the most of your stay by strolling through the town’s charming downtown area.
If you’re interested in adding more experiences (like visiting a traditional estancia or going on a scenic hike) consider staying an extra night or two. Traveling through Patagonia? Then it might make sense to save the estancia experience for your next stop, such as El Chaltén.
El Calafate vs. El Chaltén: Which Is More Worth Visiting?
El Calafate will win you over with the sheer scale and beauty of the Perito Moreno Glacier, set against a backdrop of shimmering lakes and snowcapped mountains, perfect for a laid-back, romantic escape.
El Chaltén, on the other hand, is pure adventure, a paradise for hikers and nature lovers, with world-famous trails leading to Laguna de los Tres, Mount Fitz Roy, Laguna Torre, and other breathtaking viewpoints.
Ideally, visit both; they complement each other perfectly on a Patagonian itinerary. But if you have to pick just one, go for El Chaltén. Just make sure to set aside at least one full day to experience the unforgettable Perito Moreno Glacier while you’re in the region.
Did you enjoy our tips on where to stay in El Calafate, Argentina? Also, check out the best places to travel with friends.
Plan your trip to Argentina—Hotels, Car Rentals & Tours
Organizing your trip to Argentina? Here’s our go-to travel toolkit, with hotels, car rentals, and tours we personally use and recommend. It’s everything you need for a smooth, stress-free adventure.
Book your hotel in Argentina in advance
We always use Booking.com and Hotels.com for our trips; they offer the best rates, secure bookings, and often include free cancellation. Whether you’re traveling as a couple or with family, you’ll find the perfect hotel in Argentina. Our top picks:
- Mine Hotel (Buenos Aires)
- Diplomatic Hotel (Mendoza)
- Hotel Nahuel Huapi (Bariloche)
- Hotel Kosten Aike (El Calafate)
Check availability and prices now.
Travel Insurance for Argentina: A Must-Have for a Stress-Free Trip
If you’re planning a trip to Argentina, keep in mind that travel insurance is mandatory. But it’s not just about meeting a requirement; it’s your safety net for unexpected situations like illness, accidents, lost luggage, or even trip cancellations. Our top recommendation for reliable travel insurance is World Nomads.
Want More Freedom? Rent a Car in Argentina
If you’re looking to explore Argentina at your own pace, with total freedom to create your own itinerary and uncover hidden gems between cities, renting a car is the way to go. Not only will you enjoy added comfort, but you’ll also have the flexibility to savor every stop without feeling rushed.
Book your tours and experiences
Planning your tours in advance can save you a lot of time during your trip. Imagine being able to book all your activities directly from the comfort of your home and even pay with your credit card. The companies we use and recommend for booking tours and buying tickets are Viator, Civitatis, and Get Your Guide.
*By booking through our links, you won’t pay anything extra—and you’ll be supporting our work in creating exclusive travel tips. Safe travels, and see you on the next adventure!
