El Calafate

Where to stay

Most budget hostels sit within a few blocks of Avenida del Libertador General San Martín, the main strip running through the center. Staying near the intersection with Av. Julio A. Roca puts you a short walk from the bus terminal, which is where everything departs.

Getting around

• Take the public Taqsa/Marga bus to Perito Moreno Glacier from the bus terminal instead of booking a tour. It costs a fraction of the price and drops you at the same boardwalks.
• Buy groceries at La Anónima supermarket on Av. Libertador. Restaurant prices in El Calafate are high relative to the rest of Argentina, so making your own lunches cuts costs noticeably over several days.
• If you need to rent gear for trekking in Los Glaciares, the shops along Av. Libertador charge tourist prices. Ask your hostel staff if there is a gear-lending arrangement or local rental contact before walking into the first shop you see.

When to go

June and July are the cheapest months, with some hostels closed entirely, while January and February fill up weeks in advance and prices reflect it.