Travelers to Argentina typically plan a trip for about 15 days when combining Buenos Aires, Ushuaia, El Calafate, and El Chaltén with Puerto Natales. If you’re only headed to Buenos Aires, Ushuaia, El Calafate, and El Chaltén, you can enjoy a well-paced trip in 10 to 14 days. With less time, it’s still possible to see the highlights in as few as eight or nine days. Check out the favored Buenos Aires, Ushuaia, El Calafate, and El Chaltén trips below.
## Exploring the Wonders of Argentina: Buenos Aires, Ushuaia, El Calafate & El Chaltén – Crafting Your Perfect Itinerary
Planning a trip to the captivating landscapes of Argentina? The destinations of Buenos Aires, Ushuaia, El Calafate, and El Chaltén offer a diverse range of experiences, from bustling city life to breathtaking natural wonders. Deciding how many days to dedicate to each location can be tricky, but this guide will help you craft the ideal itinerary.
**How Many Days Do You Need?**
The optimal duration for exploring Buenos Aires, Ushuaia, El Calafate, and El Chaltén combined generally falls between 10 and 14 days. This timeframe allows for a comfortable pace, providing ample opportunity to immerse yourself in the unique offerings of each destination.
While visiting Buenos Aires, Ushuaia, El Calafate, and El Chaltén in a shorter timeframe of 8 or 9 days is feasible, be prepared for a whirlwind experience. Such a condensed itinerary may leave you feeling rushed, with limited time to fully appreciate the nuances of each location. You will be spending more time in transit and less time experiencing the activities.
If you have the luxury of 15 or more days, the possibilities expand considerably. Many travelers opt to extend their journey to include additional highlights in Argentina or neighboring countries. Popular extensions include Puerto Natales, a gateway to the stunning Torres del Paine National Park in Chile, Puerto Iguazú, home to the awe-inspiring Iguazu Falls, and Puerto Madryn, a coastal town renowned for its incredible marine wildlife. These locations are all within reasonable distances and allow for drastically different experiences to be added to your journey.
## Tailored Itineraries for Unforgettable Adventures
To assist in planning your trip, here are some recommended itineraries, each designed to cater to different interests and timeframes:
### A 10-Day Patagonian Adventure: Buenos Aires, El Calafate & El Chaltén, and Ushuaia
This itinerary provides a fantastic introduction to the highlights of Argentine Patagonia, balancing natural beauty with cultural experiences.
**Day 1: Arrival in Buenos Aires and City Exploration**
Begin your journey in the vibrant capital city of Buenos Aires. Immerse yourself in the city’s rich history and culture with a walking tour, exploring iconic landmarks such as the Plaza de Mayo, the Casa Rosada (Presidential Palace), and the colorful La Boca neighborhood. Enjoy a delicious Argentine dinner and perhaps a tango show to complete your first day.
**Day 2: Flight to El Calafate, the Gateway to Glaciers**
Take a morning flight from Buenos Aires to El Calafate, a charming town situated on the shores of Lago Argentino. Settle into your accommodation and take some time to explore the town. This beautiful town offers views that are incomparable.
**Day 3: Discover the Majestic Perito Moreno Glacier**
Embark on a full-day excursion to the awe-inspiring Perito Moreno Glacier, located within Los Glaciares National Park. Witness the glacier’s immense scale and the dramatic spectacle of ice calving into the lake. You can even opt for a guided ice hike on the glacier itself for an unforgettable experience.
**Day 4: Scenic Transfer to El Chaltén**
Enjoy a picturesque transfer from El Calafate to El Chaltén, a renowned trekking destination nestled at the foot of Mount Fitz Roy. Settle into your hotel and enjoy the breathtaking mountain views that surround you. This is also a great time to familiarize yourself with the town and plan your hikes for the coming days.
**Day 5: Hike to the Iconic Laguna de Los Tres**
Embark on a challenging yet rewarding full-day hike to Laguna de Los Tres, a stunning glacial lake located at the base of Mount Fitz Roy. Marvel at the iconic mountain’s towering granite peaks and the breathtaking panoramic views.
**Day 6: Trek Around the Serene Laguna Torre**
Explore another of El Chaltén’s remarkable trails with a hike to Laguna Torre, a serene lake framed by the jagged peaks of the Cerro Torre massif. Enjoy the stunning scenery and keep an eye out for wildlife along the way.
**Day 7: Return to El Calafate and Visit the Glaciarium**
Travel back to El Calafate and spend the afternoon at the Glaciarium, a fascinating museum dedicated to glaciers and the Patagonian ice sheet. Learn about the formation and dynamics of glaciers through interactive exhibits and displays.
**Day 8: Flight to Ushuaia, the End of the World**
Catch a morning flight from El Calafate to Ushuaia, the world’s southernmost city. Explore the city’s charming streets and waterfront, taking in the unique atmosphere of this remote location.
**Day 9: Cruise the Beagle Channel**
Embark on a scenic boat cruise along the Beagle Channel, offering stunning views of the surrounding mountains, islands, and wildlife. Observe seabirds, seals, and possibly even penguins in their natural habitat.
**Day 10: Return to Buenos Aires and Departure**
Take a morning flight from Ushuaia back to Buenos Aires for your departure flight home, filled with unforgettable memories of your Patagonian adventure.
This 10-day journey allows you to breathe in the fresh Patagonian air and soak up the incredible scenery. The itinerary is packed full of outdoor adventures, including trekking on a massive glacier in Los Glaciares National Park, hiking around dramatic mountains in El Chaltén, and cruising down the Beagle Channel on a boat ride in Tierra del Fuego. Rounding out the trip are a number of cultural activities, from a walking tour of Buenos Aires and cocktails at Argentina’s first ice bar in El Calafate to learning about Indigenous cultures at the Museo del Fin del Mundo (End of the World Museum) in Ushuaia.
### An 11-Day Adventure for Outdoor Enthusiasts: Buenos Aires, El Calafate & El Chaltén, and Ushuaia
This itinerary builds upon the 10-day itinerary, offering more in-depth exploration of Patagonia’s natural wonders.
**Days 1-3:** Same as the 10-day itinerary.
**Day 4: Enjoy a Scenic Transfer to El Chaltén**
Another picturesque transfer to El Chaltén. Be sure to take this opportunity to explore the town.
**Day 5: Full-Day Hike to Laguna de Los Tres & Mount Fitz Roy**
Today, you will experience a full day hike to Laguna de Los Tres and Mount Fitz Roy. Be sure to take it all in, because these landscapes are truly something special!
**Day 6: Hike to Mirador Cerro Torre**
Today will be spent hiking to Mirador Cerro Torre. Enjoy all of the beautiful views.
**Day 7: Return to El Calafate and Visit the Glaciarium**
After all this hiking, a relaxing visit to the Glaciarium is a great choice!
**Day 8: Fly to Ushuaia, Explore**
Fly to Ushuaia and spend some time exploring the town.
**Day 9: Hiking & Canoeing in Tierra del Fuego National Park**
Embark on a full-day excursion to Tierra del Fuego National Park, where you can enjoy nature hikes through the stunning landscapes and a tranquil canoeing trip on one of the park’s rivers.
**Day 10: Beagle Channel Cruise**
Embark on a scenic boat cruise along the Beagle Channel.
**Day 11: Fly to Buenos Aires, Depart**
Fly to Buenos Aires and depart.
This 11-day tour through Argentine Patagonia is designed for adventure travelers and outdoor lovers. After 24 hours in Buenos Aires, you’ll fly to Los Glaciers National Park, where you’ll visit Perito Moreno Glacier and traverse the glacier on a guided hike. After, you’ll travel to Tierra del Fuego to enjoy nature hikes, a canoeing trip, and a boat tour up the Beagle Channel.
### A 12-Day Exploration of Southern Argentina: Buenos Aires, El Calafate & El Chaltén, and Ushuaia
This itinerary offers a balanced mix of adventure and cultural experiences, with an added excursion in Ushuaia.
**Days 1-7:** Same as the 11-day itinerary.
**Day 8: Fly to Ushuaia, Explore**
You know the drill, fly to Ushuaia and take some time to explore!
**Day 9: Trekking & Canoeing in Tierra del Fuego**
More time for trekking and canoeing in Tierra del Fuego National Park.
**Day 10: Beagle Channel Cruise**
More time spent cruising along the Beagle Channel.
**Day 11: Day Trip to Estancia Harberton & Isla Martillo**
Take a fascinating day trip to Estancia Harberton, a historic sheep farm, and Isla Martillo, a penguin colony where you can observe these adorable creatures up close.
**Day 12: Return to Buenos Aires, Depart**
Today, you will depart from Buenos Aires.
This adventurous itinerary is geared toward active travelers looking to experience the natural wonders of southern Argentina. Hike ancient glaciers in Los Glaciares National Park before heading to Ushuaia—the southernmost city in the world—for canoeing, channel cruising, and frolicking with penguins. You’ll have many full days of hiking on this itinerary, but you’ll still have time to experience the local culture, food, and wines.
### A 13-Day Patagonian Journey with a Free Day in El Chaltén: Buenos Aires, El Calafate & El Chaltén, and Ushuaia
This itinerary provides a more relaxed pace in El Chaltén, allowing for flexibility and personal exploration.
**Days 1-6:** Same as the 12-day itinerary.
**Day 7: Free Day in El Chaltén**
Enjoy a free day in El Chaltén to relax, explore the town, or embark on an optional hike or activity of your choice. This is a great opportunity to tailor your experience to your own interests.
**Days 8-13:** Same as days 7-12 of the 12-day itinerary.
This active itinerary is perfect for outdoor adventure enthusiasts, and will award you with views of ancient glaciers, turquoise lakes, and storied mountain peaks. Start with a free day in Buenos Aires before you fly to Patagonia to hike in Los Glaciares National Park, and then head to Ushuaia—the southernmost city in the world—for more trekking, canoeing, and channel cruising. End your trip with a special excursion to Isla Martillo, where you’ll see thousands of penguins up close.
### A 2-Week Immersive Patagonian Experience: Buenos Aires, El Calafate & El Chaltén, and Ushuaia
This itinerary offers a comprehensive exploration of Patagonia, with more time for activities and relaxation.
**Day 1: Arrive in Buenos Aires, Explore**
Begin your journey in the vibrant capital city of Buenos Aires.
**Day 2: Fly to El Calafate, Visit the Glaciarium**
Fly to El Calafate and pay a visit to the Glaciarium.
**Day 3: Ice Trek on Perito Moreno Glacier**
Participate in an Ice Trek on Perito Moreno Glacier.
**Day 4: Ride Horses, Kayak, or See Wildlife Near El Calafate**
Today, you get to choose your own adventure! You can ride horses, kayak, or see wildlife.
**Day 5: Enjoy a Scenic Transfer to El Chaltén**
Be sure to enjoy the transfer to El Chaltén!
**Day 6: Hike to Laguna de Los Tres**
Hike to Laguna de Los Tres.
**Day 7: Hike to Laguna Torre**
Hike to Laguna Torre.
**Day 8: Free Day in El Chaltén**
Today, you are free to explore!
**Day 9: Return to El Calafate, Free Afternoon**
Return to El Calafate and relax for the afternoon.
**Day 10: Fly to Ushuaia, Explore**
Fly to Ushuaia and take some time to explore!
**Day 11: Trek & Canoe in Tierra del Fuego National Park**
Trek and canoe in Tierra del Fuego National Park.
**Day 12: Beagle Channel Cruise**
Cruise along the Beagle Channel.
**Day 13: Estancia Harberton & Isla Martillo**
Visit Estancia Harberton & Isla Martillo.
**Day 14: Depart Ushuaia**
Depart from Ushuaia.
Spend two action-packed weeks traveling around Argentine Patagonia! This itinerary starts in Buenos Aires, where you’ll take a city tour before flying south to El Calafate, the gateway to Los Glaciares National Park. Boat to glaciers and try an ice trekking excursion, then hike the trails around El Chaltén, Argentina’s trekking capital. Continue to Ushuaia for a cruise on the Beagle Channel, canoeing in Tierra del Fuego National Park, and a visit to a penguin colony.
## Expanding Your Horizons: Extended Itineraries
For those with even more time to spare, consider extending your Patagonian adventure to include other captivating destinations.
### A 2-Week Itinerary Including Torres del Paine & Puerto Natales
This itinerary combines the highlights of Argentine Patagonia with the stunning landscapes of Torres del Paine National Park in Chile.
**Day 1: Arrive in Buenos Aires, Explore**
Arrive in Buenos Aires and explore the area.
**Day 2: Fly to El Calafate**
Fly to El Calafate.
**Day 3: Perito Moreno Glacier Tour**
Take a tour of Perito Moreno Glacier.
**Day 4: Enjoy a Scenic Transfer to El Chaltén**
Enjoy a picturesque transfer to El Chaltén.
**Day 5: Self-Guided Hiking in El Chaltén**
Go for a day of self-guided hiking in El Chaltén.
**Day 6: Return to El Calafate, Visit the Glaciarium**
Return to El Calafate and visit the Glaciarium.
**Day 7: Transfer to Torres del Paine**
Transfer to Torres del Paine.
**Day 8: W Trek to Refugio el Chileno (Day 1)**
Hike the W Trek to Refugio el Chileno.
**Day 9: W Trek: Hike to Refugio Los Cuernos (Day 2)**
Continue on the W Trek and hike to Refugio Los Cuernos.
**Day 10: W Trek: Hike to the French Valley (Day 3)**
Continue on the W Trek and hike to the French Valley.
**Day 11: W Trek: Hike to Grey Glacier (Day 4)**
Complete the W Trek and hike to Grey Glacier.
**Day 12: Transfer to Ushuaia, Explore**
Transfer to Ushuaia and explore!
**Day 13: Hiking & Canoeing in Tierra del Fuego National Park**
Hike and Canoe in Tierra del Fuego National Park.
**Day 14: Depart Ushuaia**
Depart from Ushuaia.
This 14-day journey to Patagonia begins in Buenos Aires, then quickly moves to El Calafate, the gateway to Los Glaciares National Park. After marveling at the Perito Moreno Glacier, you’ll take the scenic route to El Chaltén for a full day of self-guided hiking. Cross the border to Chile to access Torres del Paine National Park. You’ll spend four days hiking the famous W Trek before circling back to Argentina, where you’ll spend the end of the trip exploring Tierra del Fuego and Ushuaia, the world’s southernmost city.
## Navigating Patagonia: Transportation Tips
Understanding the transportation options between these destinations is crucial for efficient travel planning.
**How to Get to El Calafate**
Nestled on the banks of the ice-blue Lago Argentino, El Calafate is primarily recognized as the entry point to the magnificent Los Glaciares National Park, home to the renowned Perito Moreno Glacier. Many travelers opt to fly directly into El Calafate from Buenos Aires or include El Calafate in their itinerary when traveling north from Ushuaia and Tierra del Fuego. The most convenient way to reach El Calafate is by plane. However, if you’re traveling to or from El Chaltén, which is located approximately 133 miles (214 km) to the north, ground transportation is a viable option.
**How to Get to El Chaltén**
El Chaltén, celebrated as one of Patagonia’s most spectacular hiking destinations, sits almost directly beneath the shadow of Mount Fitz Roy and amidst a truly breathtaking section of the Andes Mountains. The nearest airport is located three hours away in El Calafate. The easiest way to reach El Chaltén is to travel to El Calafate and then continue by road, utilizing a private transfer, rental car, or bus.
**How to Get from El Chaltén to Ushuaia**
The distance between El Chaltén and Ushuaia, situated at the southernmost tip of Patagonia, is nearly 640 miles (1,030 km). The most practical way to travel from El Chaltén to Ushuaia is to first return to El Calafate, which has the closest airport, and then take a flight to Ushuaia.
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