There's no better starting point to get to Los Glaciares National Park than the Patagonian city of El Calafate. Sitting on the coast of the massive, turquoise Lake Argentino, El Calafate is about 48 miles (77 km) from the Perito Moreno Glacier, the most famous of the park's glaciers and southern entrance to the park.
You have several options to make the journey between the city and the park entrance. Buses, private transfers, rental cars, tour shuttles, and taxis all make the journey along RP11. While a bus may be the most affordable option, a private transfer or tour shuttle offers more privacy, and a rental car provides the maximum flexibility. Remember that for any of these options you'll need to bring some extra cash to pay the park's entrance fee.
While the main entrance and most popular feature of Los Glaciares National Park is the Perito Moreno Glacier, this 8-day itinerary will take you to the other landmarks in the park, including Laguna Torre and Mount Fitz Roy. This guide offers several travel options from El Calafate to the park's northern neighbor, the village El Chaltén.
By Private Transfer
Duration: 1 hour, 30 minutes
As in many heavily-traveled areas in Argentina, private transfers are available between El Calafate and the entrance to Los Glaciares National Park. This option gives you more flexibility than the fixed bus schedules while still allowing you to relax and take in the views of the Patagonian steppe on your way to the park. Your local specialist or concierge at your hotel or accommodation will be able to put you in touch with the right driver.
By Tour Shuttle
Duration: 1.5 hours, depending on stops
Booking a spot on a tour shuttle offers two advantages: more privacy than a public bus and the addition of a tour guide. Your guide will be able to inform you about the park and direct you to the best viewing points, and the tour may include additional perks, like a boat tour of the glacier from Lago Argentino or ice trekking on top of Perito Moreno itself. Keep in mind that tours tend to leave even earlier than public buses, and may fill up fast during the peak season.
By Rental Car
Duration: 1.5 hours, depending on stops
For the most flexibility in travel time and pit stops, consider hiring a rental car. Hertz, Avis, and Servicar have offices in El Calafate Airport or in town. When renting a car for your trip, consider booking in advance during the summer months (December-February) and keep in mind that the weather and roads may be uncooperative during the off-season (July-September).
By Taxi
Duration: 1 hour, 30 minutes
Taxis are certainly available to take you between El Calafate and the entrance to Los Glaciares National Park, but they can be more costly than other travel options. Consider taking a taxi when traveling in a group.
By Bus
Duration: 1 hour, 30 minutes
A few companies offer trips between Calafate and Perito Moreno from as early as 9:30 a.m. with returns as late as 9:30 p.m. Caltur, Chaltén Travel, Tasqa, and other companies offer trips to the park from El Calafate Bus Terminal. Most schedules leave several hours between drop-off and pick-up to allow passengers ample time to view Perito Moreno from the viewing decks. During peak season from December to February, it's a good idea to book your tickets in advance to ensure your spot on the bus.
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