From El Calafate: Full-Day Tour to El Chaltén

Exploring the vast wilderness of Patagonia is undoubtably a bucket-list item for many travelers. The full-day tour from El Calafate to El Chaltén provides an opportunity to take in this stunning region, offering a glimpse of its captivating landscapes and unique experiences. From a scenic journey along the Santa Cruz River to free time to discover the charming town of El Chaltén, this tour promises an unforgettable adventure. Whether you’re seeking breathtaking vistas or a chance to relax and savor homemade treats, this excursion has something to captivate every visitor to this remarkable corner of the world.

Key Points

• A full-day tour from El Calafate to El Chaltén, covering a distance of 220 km and lasting approximately 15 hours.
• Includes hotel pickup and drop-off, a bilingual guide, and either a packed or restaurant lunch with drinks.
• Offers 5 hours of free time to explore El Chaltén, with guided walks to scenic viewpoints like Mirador de Los Cóndores and Chorrillo del Salto.
• Suitable for moderately fit travelers, with recommendations for comfortable clothing and footwear.
• Overall customer satisfaction rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars based on 386 reviews, with praise for knowledgeable guides and breathtaking views.

You can check if your dates are available here:

Tour Overview

The full-day tour to El Chaltén from El Calafate offers a comprehensive sightseeing experience. Priced from $108 per person, the tour lasts 15 hours and provides live guides in Spanish and English.

Cancellation is free up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, and customers can reserve now and pay later. Pickup is available from centrally located hotels in El Calafate, and the tour covers a distance of 220 km, crossing the Santa Cruz River.

Along the way, guests enjoy a rest stop at Estancia La Leona for homemade cakes and drinks before exploring El Chaltén for 5 hours and visiting key viewpoints.

Itinerary and Experience

Guests begin their adventure by getting picked up from centrally located hotels in El Calafate.

They’ll travel 220 km to El Chaltén, crossing the Santa Cruz River along the way.

The tour includes:

• A rest stop at Estancia La Leona for homemade cakes and drinks
• 5 hours of free time to explore El Chaltén
• A guided 700-meter walk to the Mirador de Los Cóndores viewpoint
• A visit to Chorrillo del Salto with a 300-meter flat terrain walk

Around 8 PM, guests will return to El Calafate.

Inclusions and Exclusions

This tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off, a bilingual guide, a packed lunch or restaurant lunch (seasonal), and drinks with the restaurant lunch (seasonal).

However, personal expenses, optional gratuities, and pickup from residential lodgings are excluded.

The tour isn’t suitable for people with mobility impairments or wheelchair users. Participants are recommended to wear comfortable shoes, sunglasses, and sunscreen.

Pets, luggage, and large bags aren’t allowed on the tour.

Participant Information

Not suitable for mobility-impaired individuals or wheelchair users, this tour requires participants to navigate some uneven terrain and engage in moderate walking.

Recommended items for the tour include:

• Comfortable, supportive shoes
• Sunglasses and sunscreen to protect against the elements
• Light, breathable layers to accommodate changing weather conditions

Pets and large bags aren’t allowed on the tour, as they can be disruptive and take up valuable space.

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Customer Feedback

Reviewers have praised the tour, awarding it an overall rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars based on 386 reviews. The guide was particularly well-received, earning a 4.5/5 rating, as were the transportation (4.5/5) and overall service (4.7/5). Participants were also impressed with the organization of the tour, which received a 4.6/5 rating. While some guests requested more trekking options, the majority of reviews highlighted the tour’s knowledgeable guides and the breathtaking views of El Chaltén.

Metric	Rating
Overall	4.3/5
Guide	4.5/5
Transportation	4.5/5
Service	4.7/5
Organization	4.6/5

Pickup and Transportation

The tour begins with pickup from centrally located hotels in El Calafate, excluding hostels and Airbnb accommodations.

The total travel distance is 220 km, crossing the scenic Santa Cruz River along the way. Passengers can expect a comfortable journey with the following transportation details:

• The tour operates with a modern, air-conditioned vehicle.
• Bottled water is provided during the trip.
• Rest stops, including one at Estancia La Leona, offer a chance to enjoy homemade cakes and drinks.

After exploring El Chaltén, the tour returns to El Calafate, arriving around 8 PM.

Dining and Refreshments

After the comfortable journey, travelers can look forward to dining and refreshments on the tour.

On the way to El Chaltén, the group stops at Estancia La Leona for homemade cakes and drinks.

Once in El Chaltén, the tour includes a packed lunch or a restaurant lunch, depending on the season. The restaurant lunch also comes with drinks.

These meals and snacks provide sustenance and energy for exploring the natural wonders of El Chaltén. The tour ensures travelers are well-fed and hydrated throughout the day’s activities.

Scenic Viewpoints

The tour includes guided visits to two scenic viewpoints in El Chaltén.

The first stop is the Mirador de Los Cóndores, a 700-meter walk that offers panoramic vistas of the surrounding mountains and glaciers. Visitors can spot the iconic Patagonian condor soaring overhead.

Next, the tour visits Chorrillo del Salto, a 300-meter flat trail leading to a beautiful waterfall cascading over a rocky cliff. This tranquil spot allows travelers to admire the impressive natural scenery of the region.

• Mirador de Los Cóndores: 700-meter guided walk with views of mountains and glaciers
• Chorrillo del Salto: 300-meter flat trail to a scenic waterfall
• Opportunities to spot the majestic Patagonian condor

Frequently Asked Questions

What Is the Weather Typically Like in El Chaltén?

El Chaltén’s weather is typically cool and unpredictable. Temperatures range from 5-20°C (41-68°F) year-round. Layers and rain gear are recommended, as sudden changes in weather and strong winds are common in this mountainous region.

Are There Any Other Activities Available in El Chaltén Besides Hiking?

Besides hiking, El Chaltén offers several other activities like rock climbing, horseback riding, and fly fishing. Visitors can also explore the town’s charming streets, visit local shops and breweries, and learn about the region’s indigenous culture.

How Difficult Are the Hikes in El Chaltén for Average Fitness Levels?

The hikes in El Chaltén cater to various fitness levels. While some are fairly easy, with flat terrain and short distances, others can be more strenuous, requiring endurance and agility. Most hikes are suitable for average fitness levels with proper preparation.

Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks on the Tour?

Participants can bring their own food and drinks on the tour, though the tour includes a packed lunch or restaurant lunch (seasonal) with drinks. Personal expenses, such as additional snacks or beverages, are excluded from the tour price.

Are There Any Age Restrictions or Requirements for the Tour?

The tour is not suitable for people with mobility impairments or wheelchair users. There are no age restrictions, but participants should be able to walk 300-700 meters on flat terrain.

Recap

The full-day tour from El Calafate to El Chaltén provides an exceptional opportunity to explore Patagonia’s breathtaking landscapes. Guests enjoy a scenic journey, free time to discover El Chaltén, and guided walks to stunning viewpoints, creating an unforgettable experience. With hotel pickup, homemade treats, and an affordable price, this tour is an excellent choice for travelers seeking to enjoy the natural wonders of Patagonia.

You can check if your dates are available here: