Southern Patagonia

El Calafate
It is the main tourist city in Southern Patagonia. Located 80 km from Perito Moreno Glacier, it is one of the natural wonders of the world. There, you will witness an exceptional event: the collapse of giant blocks and walls of ice 60 metres high. In the surroundings of El Calafate, you may also take part in adventure activities of all kinds, and contemplate the lifestyle at the estancias (ranches) in the south of Argentina.

El Chalten
This beautiful mountain village, 214 km from El Calafate, may be reached by taking National Route 40 and Provincial Route 23. This destination is known as the National Capital of Trekking. If you wish to spend your days hiking around forests, lagoons and streams, here you will find a wide range of trails that originate at the foot of Mount Fitz Roy. You can also reach Desierto Lake and embark on an adventure by boat, on foot, on horseback, or on a bike.

Perito Moreno and Los Antiguos
In the north of the province, these two towns offer various accommodations and services. If you want to stay either in Perito Moreno or Los Antiguos, take National Route 40 and Scenic Route 41 to connect various attractions such as Patagonia National Park, Posadas Lake, Cueva de las Manos (Cave of the Hands), and Perito Moreno National Park.

How to get there and move around

The main gateway to the region is the airport of El Calafate. If you are planning to visit the attractions in the north, you may take a flight directly to Comodoro Rivadavia (380 km from Perito Moreno and 440 km from Los Antiguos) in Chubut. An alternative way to reach this destination is on the legendary National Route 40.

The best way to explore this 900 km region is by car, due to the long distances between villages and cities. Take your time and enjoy the views along the journey. You can go on excursions to visit many of the must-sees in the area, including Scenic Route 41, the Hands Cave, and Posadas Lake.

There is a bus company that runs on a regular schedule along National Route 40 connecting El Calafate, El Chalten, Perito Moreno and Los Antiguos.

Where to stay

Some of the main accommodation options are found in El Calafate and El Chalten, in the south. 

Other urban centres also offer lodging, including Perito Moreno and Los Antiguos in the north, or Gobernador Gregores and Lago Posadas, a small village, in the central area.

Another option is to stay at touristic estancias (ranches) that offer accommodation, gastronomic options and excursions. You may also decide to camp in wild campsites or stay in a shelter in the national parks. 

When to go

The best time of the year to visit the area is from October to April. From May to September, temperatures may significantly decrease and the snow on the road may pose problems.

Remember

You will encounter some inhospitable areas and may be on the road for hours and not see a single creature. Some locations have no mobile phone or Wi-Fi signal. Bring paper maps or download them on your mobile phone before setting off.

These are long distances and there are few petrol stations. It is of utmost importance to check that your vehicle is in good driving conditions, fill the tank before you hit the road, and always bring water and food with you.

During the winter season, some routes may have snow or ice. Check their status and whether it is necessary to use snow chains.

During summer, you may also be exposed to cold temperatures. Keep warm clothing handy at all times.