Argentina offers an adrenaline-pumping array of outdoor activities that take advantage of its breathtaking landscapes, from the towering peaks of the Andes to the lush forests of Patagonia. This multi-sport itinerary will guide you through the ultimate adventure experience, featuring trekking, climbing, kayaking, and mountain biking.
Start your journey in Buenos Aires, Argentina’s vibrant capital. Fly into Aeroparque Jorge Newbery (AEP), located just 2 kilometers from downtown. Expect to pay around 10,000 ARS (about $27 USD) for a round-trip shuttle to the city center. To get to your next adventure, take a domestic flight to El Calafate, a gateway to the stunning Los Glaciares National Park. Flights cost around 20,000 ARS (approximately $54 USD) one way and take about 3 hours. In El Calafate, rent a car for flexibility, with prices starting around 6,500 ARS ($18 USD) per day.
Public transport is also available; buses run regularly from El Calafate to El Chaltén, the trekking capital of Argentina. The journey takes about 3 hours and costs around 3,000 ARS ($8 USD). Once in El Chaltén, you can explore the village on foot or rent a mountain bike from local shops like La Chocolatería, where rentals start at 1,000 ARS ($2.70 USD) per day.
Your adventure begins with accommodations that match your bold spirit. In El Calafate, check out Hotel Posada Los Alamos, where you can find cozy rooms starting at 22,000 ARS ($59 USD) per night. Enjoy their outdoor pool and spa facilities after a long day of trekking. In El Chaltén, stay at the budget-friendly Hostel Rancho Grande, offering shared dorms for around 4,500 ARS ($12 USD) per night. This hostel is a favorite among backpackers and adventurers, creating a vibrant atmosphere perfect for meeting fellow explorers.
If you prefer a touch of luxury, consider spending a night at the luxurious Eolo Patagonia Spirit, where rooms start at around 90,000 ARS ($245 USD). Nestled in the foothills of the Andes, this hotel offers stunning views and personalized experiences to cater to your adventurous desires.
Fueling your adventure means sampling Argentina's rich culinary offerings. Start your day with breakfast at La Anónima Café in El Calafate, where a hearty breakfast costs about 1,200 ARS ($3.25 USD) and features delicious medialunas (croissants) and coffee. Lunch options abound, but don’t miss El Chaltén's renowned La Waflería, where savory and sweet waffles start at 2,500 ARS ($6.75 USD).
For dinner, savor the quintessential Argentine experience at Los Dos Pinos in El Calafate. Indulge in a parilla (grill) feast for around 5,000 ARS ($13.50 USD), featuring perfectly cooked steaks and local wines. In El Chaltén, grab a hearty meal at Restaurante Estancia El Chaltén, where you can enjoy the famous Patagonian lamb for about 6,500 ARS ($18 USD). Don't forget to treat yourself to a famous Argentine Malbec; bottles start at around 1,500 ARS ($4 USD) in local wine shops.
Your adventure kicks off in Los Glaciares National Park, where you’ll hike the iconic Laguna de los Tres trail. This 20-kilometer round trip trail will take about 8 hours, leading you through stunning landscapes to views of Mount Fitz Roy. Start early; the trailhead is reachable via the local bus service (300 ARS/$0.80 USD one way). Be sure to pack plenty of water, snacks, and a camera to capture the breathtaking scenery.
Next, head to El Chaltén for some climbing. The region offers routes for all skill levels. Visit Chaltén Climbing Guides, where a day of guided climbing costs around 15,000 ARS ($41 USD). Afterward, decompress at the picturesque Río de las Vueltas, where you can kayak amid stunning mountain vistas. Rentals can be found at local adventure companies for about 5,000 ARS ($13.50 USD) per hour.
Finally, don’t miss a day trip to Perito Moreno Glacier, one of the few advancing glaciers in the world. You can book a guided tour from El Calafate, typically costing around 6,000 ARS ($16 USD) and lasting about 8 hours, including transportation and park entrance fees. Walk along the boardwalks to witness the glacier’s incredible blue hues and, if you’re daring, opt for an ice trekking tour on the glacier itself for around 16,000 ARS ($43 USD).
To ensure your adventure goes smoothly, keep these practical tips in mind:
| Item | Cost | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Domestic flight to El Calafate | 20,000 ARS ($54 USD) | Book in advance for best rates. |
| Car rental in El Calafate | 6,500 ARS ($18 USD) | Reserve early, especially in peak season. |
| Laguna de los Tres trail bus | 300 ARS ($0.80 USD) | Local bus to the trailhead. |
| Guided climbing day | 15,000 ARS ($41 USD) | Includes equipment and guide. |
| Perito Moreno Glacier tour | 6,000 ARS ($16 USD) | Check for included entry fees. |
| Hostel in El Chaltén | 4,500 ARS ($12 USD) | Popular with backpackers. |
| Lunch at La Waflería | 2,500 ARS ($6.75 USD) | Known for its sweet and savory waffles. |
The best time for outdoor adventures in Argentina, particularly in Patagonia, is during the summer months from December to February. Temperatures are milder, ranging from 20°C to 30°C (68°F to 86°F), and trails are generally accessible. However, these months can also attract large crowds, so plan ahead.
No special permits are required for most popular treks in Argentina's national parks, including Los Glaciares National Park. However, you will need to pay entrance fees, which are approximately 2,500 ARS ($6.75 USD) for foreigners. Always check the latest regulations before your visit, as rules can change.
Traveler comments
Add a route note, correction, timing tip or question for this guide.