2 days in el calafate

2 Days in El Calafate: Part of Patagonia You’ll Never Forget

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When I first planned 2 days in El Calafate, I knew I’d see beautiful views—but I didn’t expect to walk on a glacier or drink water straight from its surface. This small town in Southern Argentina packs in more than most places in a week. You’ll get raw natural beauty, unforgettable treks, and some of the best lamb I’ve ever eaten.

If you love connecting with nature, watching icebergs drift past ancient glacier walls, and indulging in hearty local food after a full day outdoors, El Calafate is your kind of place.

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Where is El Calafate?

El Calafate is in the southern region of Argentina in Patagonia. It sits on the edge of Lago Argentino, the country’s largest freshwater lake. The town gets its name from the local calafate berry, which has a legend: eat one and you’ll return to Patagonia.

The region is known for its wide skies, glacial lakes, and the Perito Moreno Glacier—one of the few glaciers in the world that is still advancing.

parque national map

How to Get to El Calafate

Most travelers fly from Buenos Aires to El Calafate, like I did. It’s a 3-hour flight into Comandante Armando Tola International Airport (FTE). From there, the town is only 20 minutes by car or shuttle.

You can also reach El Calafate by bus from other Patagonian towns like El Chaltén or Puerto Natales if you’re adding it to a longer Patagonia itinerary.

Day 1: Perito Moreno Glacier

Start early—you’ll want all the time you can get at Perito Moreno Glacier. Located in Los Glaciares National Park, this glacier is over 18 miles long and towers nearly 240 feet above the lake.

Perito Moreno Glacier - full

I booked a full-day trek, and it was one of the most surreal experiences I’ve ever had. You start by crossing the lake by boat, then gear up with crampons and follow a trained guide across the ice. The glacier itself groans and cracks beneath you, and at one point, I bent down and drank fresh glacier water right off the surface!

Other Things to Do Near Perito Moreno:

  • Walk the viewing platforms for panoramic glacier views
  • Watch for ice calving—when chunks of ice crash into the water
  • Visit the park’s eco-friendly interpretation center
On Perito Moreno Glacier

After a day on the ice, I dined at Isabel Cocina al Disco, where traditional Argentine dishes are cooked in cast-iron discs over open flames. The lamb stew was hearty and flavorful, embodying Patagonian comfort food.

Isabela Cocina al disco

Day 2: Lago Argentino Cruise

Lago Argentino is massive. The best way to see it is by boat, and the glacier cruise is the perfect way to spend your second day. I boarded a catamaran that took us past floating icebergs and three different glaciers: Upsala, Spegazzini, and more views of Perito Moreno.

Upsala Glacier is known for the massive icebergs that calve from its face. Spegazzini is the tallest in the park—its cliffs rise almost 450 feet.

Spegazzini glacier

Insider Tip:
Dress in layers. The wind can bite, even in the sun. You’ll want your camera handy for this one—there’s no bad angle on this lake.

Wrap up your day with dinner at La Tablita, known locally as the place to try Patagonian lamb. The grilled meats here are done over an open flame and served with simple, delicious sides.

la tablita

Additional Things To Do

If you have extra time or want to swap out an activity, there are other ways to experience Patagonia’s highlights. Here are a few ideas worth considering:

  • Glaciarium: Explore a modern museum dedicated to glaciology and the natural world of Patagonia. The interactive exhibits break down how glaciers form, why they matter, and how climate impacts them. It’s a great indoor activity if the weather shifts.
  • Pasarelas Perito Moreno: Walk the network of boardwalks for a panoramic view of the glacier. These “pasarelas” offer multiple angles of Perito Moreno, and you can spot ice calving from a safe and scenic distance.
  • Laguna Nimez Nature Reserve: Wander through this quiet wetland area just outside town, home to flamingos and over 80 bird species. It’s ideal for nature lovers and birdwatchers looking to slow down and reconnect.
  • Avenida Libertador: This is the main street through town, lined with restaurants, artisan shops, cafes, and gear stores. It’s a relaxed way to enjoy El Calafate’s charm and pick up a few local souvenirs.
  • La Leona Petrified Forest: Step back in time with a visit to this ancient fossil site, where you’ll find petrified tree trunks over 70 million years old. Guided tours provide insight into the area’s prehistoric past and Patagonian geology.
icebergs - lago argentino

Where to Stay in El Calafate

I stayed at a small guesthouse just outside the town center with views of the lake and mountains, but you’ll find a range of hotels here from rustic lodges to boutique luxury.

Stay somewhere walkable to the main street—this is where you’ll find shops, restaurants, and tour operators.

Avenida Libertador

FAQs for Spending 2 Days in El Calafate

Perito Moreno Glacier Tour & Cruise2 days in El Calafate gives you time to see the top highlights: Perito Moreno Glacier and the Lago Argentino cruise. If you’re doing both, you’ll be satisfied—but if you love hiking or photography, you could easily add a third day.

Layers are key. Weather changes fast. Bring a windproof jacket, fleece or down mid-layer, long pants, gloves, and a warm hat—even in summer. For glacier trekking, waterproof hiking boots are a must. Make sure you have all your essentials for your trip.

Yes. I traveled here solo and felt safe the entire time. The town is small, friendly, and tourism-focused. As always, use common sense and secure your valuables.

Yes. When I trekked on Perito Moreno Glacier, I drank water straight from the ice. In town, tap water is generally safe—but if you’re sensitive, stick to bottled.

Packing List

Make sure you download your free packing list for Patagonia, so you know what to pack when visiting El Calafate.

Final Thoughts: Why 2 Days in El Calafate is Worth It

If you’re heading to Patagonia, don’t skip El Calafate. These 2 days in El Calafate were some of the most memorable of my trip to Argentina. You’ll walk on a glacier, cruise through floating ice, and warm up with some of the best lamb dishes in the country.

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Melanie is the founder of The World Travel Girl. She has been traveling for over 12 years and decided to share her passion with others. She is a travel writer and travel planner who also loves hiking, birdwatching and watching wildlife. Her mission is to help every day people explore the outdoor world and connect with nature.