Distance 121 km (75.6 miles) | |
Price range US$35-US$572 | |
Ride Duration Range 2h 10m-4h | |
Earliest Departure 10:00 | |
Latest Departure 23:00 | |
Most Popular Operator |
Find up-to-date information on departure times, schedules, and prices so you can easily compare and book your tickets.
Fastest bus: 2h 10m
Cheapest bus: US$35
El Calafate is a crucial stop on any Patagonian itinerary, home to the iconic Perito Moreno Glacier and the Southern Patagonian Ice Field.
However, there's plenty more to do and see in the region! So don't hang around for too long. It's time to up sticks and see the equally mesmerizing El Chalten.
El Chalten is a tiny village located within Los Glaciares National Park (a UNESCO World Heritage Site). And it really is tiny — especially in contrast to the towering peaks of Mount Fitz Roy and Cerro Torre. Whether you're keen to hike the trails or embark on a climbing adventure, this spot is all about enjoying the great outdoors.
You can get from El Calafate to El Chalten in 2.5 to 3 hours. Compared to other journeys within Patagonia, this is shorter, even though it still covers 137 miles (222 km).
The main travel options are buses, minivans, and cars.
Gather up your hiking boots, crampons, and walking poles. It's time to learn how to get from El Calafate to El Chalten without stress.
El Chalten is known as the region's capital of trekking. So, unsurprisingly, most activities here are outdoorsy. Here are a few you should know before you arrive:
Laguna de los Tres hike: This trek takes you through different landscapes to the foot of Mount Chalten. Its viewpoint is also the closest you can get to Mount Fitz Roy. The difficulty is moderate, and the route takes around nine hours with a 2,300 ft (701 m) elevation.
Mirador del Torre: If you'd prefer a more relaxed hike, the Mirador del Torre should be on your list. This is a more leisurely hike that only takes three to four hours. On the way, you see the iconic Mount Solo panoramic viewpoint, the Cerro Torre massif, and the Adela range.
Explore the village: While the main attraction to El Chalten is hiking, the town is worth your time. There are plenty of coffee shops, sports shops, bars, and a few restaurants to keep you busy. Nothing beats an Argentinian steak with a view of the Patagonian wilderness!
Rock climbing: El Chalten is also a haven for keen rock climbers. There aren't any gyms here! You'll be climbing and bouldering on actual mountain terrain.
Book with local guides if you want an expert or don't have your kit.
Buses, cars, and minivans are the main ways to bridge the gap between El Calafate and El Chalten. Here's the lowdown on each.
Buses from El Calafate to El Chalten are the most affordable way to travel, making them extremely popular with most travelers. Ticket prices start from $36 per person.
The bus's driving time varies from 2.5 to 3.5 hours, depending on the provider and whether there are stops along the way.
Buses leave from El Calafate Airport (FTE) or the Terminal de Omnibus El Calafate and arrive at the Terminal de Omnibus El Chalten. Note these to plan your onward journey!
You can expect amenities like A/C, WCs, reclining seats, and large luggage storage on most buses.
Cars from El Calafate to El Chalten are ideal for small groups who want private transfers.
They take around four hours to arrive.
Car prices start at $357 per booking. Since the car capacity is two people, you can split the cost to $178 each.
Cars pick you up from your El Calafate hotel or El Calafate (FTE) airport. You'll be dropped at your hotel in El Chalten.
Most cars offer large luggage storage, A/C, toilet stops, and English-speaking staff.
Minivans from El Calafate to El Chalten are best for those traveling in small groups or if you want to be dropped off directly at your hotel.
The journey time with this ride is approximately 3.5 hours.
Shared minivans start at $51 per person. You will ride with other travelers with these bookings.
Minivans will pick you up from El Calafate Airport (FTE) or your hotel and drop you off at your hotel in El Chalten.
Standard amenities in minivans include A/C, large luggage storage, and toilet stops on route.
Private transfer minivans cost $467. This sounds expensive initially, but if you fill the six-person capacity, the price comes to $77 each. Perfect if you don't want to share.
Pro tip: To view only private transfers, please enable the "Private Transfer" option in the left menu.
The journey from El Calafate to El Chalten takes 137 miles (222 km) north through the Santa Cruz Province. Both destinations are on the Argentinian side of Patagonia, so you won't have to worry about border crossings on this journey.
All rides will follow the main highways in the area, and you'll be treated to views of pristine natural landscapes set against mountainous backdrops. On the way, you'll pass Lago Argentino and Lago Viedma.
Plus, over half the drive is in Los Glaciares National Park, so you'll want a window seat for this journey.
Traveling from El Calafate to El Chalten is exceptionally safe for travelers of all ages, nationalities, and genders. The area is set up for international tourism, and hundreds of travelers make the journey every day.
The best time to visit El Chalten is from November to March when the temperatures are drier and sunnier for outdoor activities. The average high in these months is 66°F/19°C.
You'll still need layers and warm clothes for the evening, but you won't have to suffer through freezing temperatures.
The weather drops from April to October, as this is the southern hemisphere's winter period. The temperatures are coldest in July, with an average of 41°F/5°C.
The tourism industry also shuts down during the cold period. This is because the weather is too harsh for hiking and climbing. Don't book in these months!
If you have more time to explore after El Chalten, consider Los Antiguos! Also located in Patagonia, Los Antiguos is a stunning town 1.2 miles (2 km) from the Chilean border.
Whether you want to hike or admire Lago Buenos Aires, Los Antiguos offers complete serenity. Buses from El Chalten to Los Antiguos take 11 hours.
Terminal de Omnibus El Calafate
El Calafate Airport (FTE)
El Calafate Airport (FTE)
Hoteles Calafate
Terminal Calafate
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