The southwest of the province of Santa Cruz, in the vast and majestic Argentinian Patagonia, houses some of the most impressive and spectacular landscapes of the South American continent. This area, which extends between desolate plateaus, steep ridges and deep blue lakes, is home to three tourist jewels: El Calafate, El Chaltén and the imposing Glaciar Perito Moreno. These internationally renowned destinations attract, year by year, thousands of travelers who seek to connect with nature in their purest state, experience the adventure and know stories of explorers and communities who have been able to live together with a demanding and fascinating environment. The region is part of the Los Glaciares National Park, a protected area declared World Heritage by UNESCO, recognized not only for its extensive ice fields and majestic glaciers, but also for its biodiversity, unique ecosystems and geological and cultural value.
Los Glaciares National Park: Ice and Mountain Giants
The Los Glaciares National Park covers an area of 726,927 hectares, making it the largest national park in Argentina and one of the most impressive in Latin America. Its name derives from the vast field of Patagonian ice that feeds it, one of the world’s largest freshwater reserves. From this giant ice-cold mass, 47 glaciers descend, extending along valleys and lakes of glacier origin. Unlike other glaciers in the world, born at very high altitudes, many of the glaciers in this park originate just 1500 meters above sea level and reach up to 200 meters, making them accessible for observation and exploration.
The park is divided into two well-differentiated areas. To the south, you will find Lake Argentino, the largest in the country, where glaciers like the Perito Moreno, the Upsala and the Stigazzini, all famous for its huge ice fronts. To the north, in the area of influence of Lake Viedma, the impressive granite formations of Mount Fitz Roy and Cerro Torre, icons of climbing and hiking in South America, which guard minor glaciers and turquoise water lagoons, are raised.
Wildlife in the park is also a protagonist. The subantarctic forests, made up of lengas, guindos and ñires, provide shelter to many endemic and emblematic species, such as the huemul (an Andean deer in danger of extinction), the dodgy puma, groups of guanacos and majestic birds such as the Andean condor, the purple eagle, the black carpenter, as well as aquatic birds such as black-necked swans and southern flamingos living in the lagoons of the park. The administrative headquarters of the park is located in El Calafate, while El Chaltén has a report and reception centre attended by park guards.
El Calafate: Entrance to the Glaciers
Calafate is a picturesque Patagonian town located on the banks of Lake Argentino. Its growth is directly linked to the tourist activity and, in particular, to its proximity to the famous Glaciar Perito Moreno. Its name comes from the indigenous bush called calafate, from yellow flowers and edible purple fruits, the protagonist of a tehuelche legend that says, “whoever eats calafate always returns.” This phrase has become an emblem of destiny, reflecting the charm that leaves a mark on each visitor.
Activities and attractions in El Calafate:
- Perito Moreno Glacier Tour: About 80 kilometres from the city are the impressive glacier walkways, from where it is possible to see the ice slides live.
- Navigation in the Lake Argentino: From the port of Punta Bandera they leave lacustre excursions that walk the north and south arms of the lake to approach glaciers like the Upsala and the Stigazzini. These navigations offer a unique view of the ice and surrounding landscapes.
- Laguna Nimez Reserve: A natural protected area just a few meters from the city center, ideal for the sight of Patagonian birds. More than 80 species live in this wetland, including flamingos, swans, ducks and migratory birds.
- Excursions 4×4: All-terrain vehicles ascend to the hills around the city, such as Cerro Huyliche, offering panoramic views of the lake, steppe and distant glaciers. They are ideal for those who want to combine nature with adventure.
- Patagonic conditions: Several historical rooms offer the visitor a field experience, with shows of ski, horseback riding, typical meals like the lamb to the roaster, and stories about the life of the pioneers.
- Walichu caves: An archaeological site where rock paintings dating back thousands of years can be observed, testimony of the first inhabitants of the area.
- Glaciarium: A modern interactive museum dedicated to glaciology, where you can learn about the formation of glaciers, climate change, and enjoy the original Ice Bar with walls, furniture and glasses made of ice.
Perito Moreno Glacier: The Spectacular Ice Wall
The Perito Moreno Glacier is certainly one of the most impressive natural wonders in Argentina and the world. With a 5 km wide front and ice walls that rise to 60 meters above the water level, this glacier becomes a natural spectacle in itself. Its international fame is also due to the phenomenon of its cyclical rupture: as it progresses, the glacier blocks an arm of the lake, forming a natural dam whose water pressure ends up breaking the ice with shady collapse.
Recommended activities:
- Panoramic walkways: Kilometers of wooden trails allow to observe the glacier from different angles and heights. There are accessible circuits for people with reduced mobility and strategically located viewpoints.
- Minitrekking on ice: One of the most popular excursions. Guided by experts, visitors can walk on the glacier with crampons, walking cracks, caves and glacier streams.
- Big Ice: Extended version of the trekking, which allows you to get deeper into the glacier. It is aimed at people with good physical condition and experience in long-term walks.
- Nautical safari: Navigation on ships that approach the front of the glacier, allowing to appreciate its height from the water and to photograph the detachment from a privileged perspective.
- Kayak facing the glacier: An exclusive experience that allows you to paddle in waters close to the glacier, surrounded by thorns and in an environment of total serenity.
El Chaltén: National Capital of Trekking
The Chaltén is a charming and remote mountain village located at the foot of the Fitz Roy massif. Founded in 1985, it was strategically designed to consolidate Argentine sovereignty in the area, but quickly became a favorite destination for trekking and nature lovers. Today it is known as the National Capital of Trekking, a title that honors its many paths of free access, well signposted and of various lengths and difficulties.
Main paths:
- Laguna of the Three: A demanding walk from 20 to 25 km back and forth, which rewards with an unparalleled view of the Fitz Roy reflecting in the lagoon.
- Laguna Torre: Path of 18 km back and forth, overlooking the majestic Cerro Torre and its glacier. It is less demanding than the previous one, ideal for intermediate walkers.
- Lome of the Tumbado Pligue: It requires effort, but provides a complete overview of the Fitz Roy and Torre massiums, as well as the valley and Lake Viedma.
- Condors and Eagles: Short walks ideal for the first day. They offer views of the village, the valleys and the surrounding steppe.
- Jumping: Short and low difficulty walk to a waterfall surrounded by Andean forest.
Other activities in El Chaltén:
- Scaling and mountaineering on granite walls of international level.
- Riding guided by the valleys and trails.
- Mountain bike routes.
- Navigation and kayak in the Desert Lake.
- Wildlife and flora watching.
- Excursions of vehicles to distant rooms or viewpoints.
The village, though small, has good tourist infrastructure: accommodation at different levels, restaurants, crafts shops, tea houses, and tour agencies. Its atmosphere is relaxed, with a strong young and backpack imprint.
Culture and History in the Region
The wealth of this region does not lie only in its natural landscapes. Patagonic history and culture are also an essential part of the experience:
- Native peoples: The Tehuelches have inhabited these lands since remote times. Their customs, legends like the calafate, and archaeological vestiges, can still be known in specific sites.
- Explorers and pioneers: Figures like Francisco Pasasasio Moreno were fundamental for the exploration and conservation of the region. Ancient situations tell the lives of the first settlers.
- History of mountaineering: The Fitz Roy and the Cerro Torre are legend among the climbers of the world. His first ascension is surrounded by feats and disputes.
- Heritage and conservation: Environmental protection has been a constant objective, and the park has numerous conservation and monitoring initiatives.
- Gastronomy and traditions: Typical food, such as the lamb to the stick, the lamb empanadas, the calafate sweet, and local parties, enrich cultural experience.
Practical Information for the Traveller
Access and transport: El Calafate has an international airport with flights from Buenos Aires and other cities. There are also buses that connect with El Chaltén. The main routes are asphalt and well maintained.
Best time: Summer (December to February) offers the most benign climate, long days and the most services available. Spring (Octobre-November) and autumn (Marzoo-April) are ideal seasons to avoid crowds and enjoy the colorful landscape.
Climate: Very changing and unpredictable. In one day there can be sun, wind, rain and even snow. It is recommended to dress in layers and always wear waterproof clothes and coat.
Recommended equipment: Waterproof, water-resistant trekking shoes, sunscreen, sunglasses, hat, sticks, comfortable backpack, water recharge bottle and energy food.
Services: Both locations have accommodation, restaurants, medical centers, ATMs and tourist reports offices. In rural areas and trails, connectivity is limited.
Security: It is essential to notify the itinerary in the report centres before taking long walks. Always follow the indications of National Parks, do not make fire, do not leave waste and respect the local fauna.
The sector of El Calafate, El Chaltén and the Perito Moreno Glacier offers a complete and deep experience. Its impressive landscapes, the possibility of adventure and the wealth of its heritage make this corner of Patagonia an unforgettable destination for the senses and the soul.
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