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El Calafate to El Chalten from $3: 5 ways by bus, train, flight or car

Compare Travel Options and Prices

from
El Calafate, Argentina
to
El Chalten, Argentina

How to Get from El Calafate to El Chalten: Cheapest, Fastest and Best Way

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$3 - TourBest price
134 milesDistance
2h 40m Fastest

Compare Train, Bus, Flight, and Driving Options

Get detailed, step-by-step directions below for your trip from El Calafate to El Chalten with 1Map travel planner. Easily compare ticket prices, explore various transport options, and find the best routes for a seamless and cost-effective travel experience.

Company
Chalten Travel, Caltur
Bus
Average Duration
2h  40m
Estimated price
$12-14
Recommended
Company
various
Drive
Average Duration
9h 
Estimated price
$3-35
Cheapest
route map
Distance: 134 miles
Duration: 2h 40m

See more options

Company
various
Drive
Average Duration
3h  18m
Estimated price
$10-30
Company
various
Taxi
Average Duration
3h  18m
Estimated price
$16-20
Company
various
Drive
Average Duration
3h  18m
Estimated price
$19-28
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Traveling From El Calafate to El Chalten

This journey takes you from El Calafate's serene lakes and glaciers to El Chaltén's rugged mountains and vibrant trekking culture, offering you two contrasting yet captivating experiences.

Best Neighbourhoods in El Chalten

El Chaltén offers distinctive neighborhoods, each with its own charm and adventure.

Centro
• Close to trailheads and dining options
• Bustling atmosphere with shops and services
La Lenga
• Peaceful vibes with stunning mountain views
• Great for relaxing after hiking adventures
Pueblo Viejo
• Historic charm with quaint cabins
• An authentic feel of local culture

Best Times To Visit El Chalten's Attractions

Timing your visits can greatly enhance your experience in El Chaltén.

Fitz Roy Trail
Visit early morning in spring or fall to avoid crowds and savor the tranquility.
Laguna de los Tres
Mid-week visits in late spring provide clearer views and fewer hikers.
Cerro Torre
Go during weekdays in early fall for stunning colors and less traffic.

El Chalten Weather: What to Expect Year-Round

El Chaltén experiences a varied climate, with warm summers and cold winters, making spring and fall ideal for comfortable hiking conditions. Be prepared for sudden weather changes, as they can impact your travel plans and experiences in the stunning Patagonian landscape.

Dining in El Chalten: A Culinary Contrast

Try the hearty Patagonian lamb at La Tapera, where the rustic atmosphere and locally sourced ingredients create a dining experience distinctly different from El Calafate’s more refined offerings. The bold flavors and cozy vibe capture the spirit of adventure that defines El Chaltén, making every bite a reflection of its wild surroundings.

El Calafate - El Chalten operators

Explore transport companies operating between El Calafate and El Chalten, with prices starting at . These companies offer competitive pricing, flexible schedules, and comfortable travel experiences.

Bus Show bus routes
Contact phone
+5411 2150 3372
Website
chaltentravel.com

Bus from El Calafate to El Chaltén

Average Duration
2h 40m
Estimated price
$12-14
Contact phone
+54 02902 491-368
Website
caltur.com.ar

Bus from El Calafate to El Chaltén

Average Duration
2h 40m
Estimated price
$14-14
Shuttle
Website
southroad.com.ar

Shuttle from El Calafate to El Chaltén

Average Duration
9h
Estimated price
$33-33
Contact phone
+54 9296 670 9153
Website
zonaaustralturismo.com

Shuttle from El Calafate to El Chaltén

Average Duration
3h 18m
Estimated price
$30-30
Website
tolkeyenpatagonia.com

Shuttle from El Calafate to El Chaltén

Average Duration
3h 18m
Estimated price
$10-10
Contact phone
+54 2902-492365
Website
mundoaustral.com.ar

Shuttle from El Calafate to El Chaltén

Average Duration
3h 18m
Estimated price
$4-4
Taxi
Contact phone
+54 9 2902 48-4111
Website
taxiremiscalafate.com.ar

Taxi from El Calafate to El Chaltén

Average Duration
3h 18m
Estimated price
$16-20
Contact phone
+54 2902 491-745

Taxi from El Calafate to El Chaltén

Average Duration
3h 18m
Estimated price
$16-20
Contact phone
+54 2902 491-655
Website
taxicondor.com.ar

Taxi from El Calafate to El Chaltén

Average Duration
3h 18m
Estimated price
$16-20

El Calafate to El Chalten: Overview of Bus, Train, Flight, and Car Trips

Traveling between El Calafate and El Chalten offers a variety of convenient options to suit your preferences, schedule, and budget. Whether you prioritize affordability, speed, or comfort, you’re sure to find the perfect way to travel without compromising on quality or convenience.

🚗 Embark on a picturesque road trip from El Calafate to El Chaltén, covering a distance of 215.7 km in just about 3 hours and 18 minutes of drive time. Enjoy the scenic beauty of Patagonia as you cruise along the open roads towards your destination. 💸 Experience budget-friendly travel as the cost of driving from El Calafate to El Chaltén ranges from $19 to $28. Spend less on transportation and more on exploring the stunning landscapes, hiking trails, and charming village of El Chaltén, known as the trekking capital of Argentina.
Average price
$19 - $28
🚌 The direct bus journey from El Calafate to El Chaltén takes approximately 2 hours and 40 minutes, with services running four times a day. 💰 Prices for the bus trip between El Calafate and El Chaltén typically range from $12 to $14, making it an affordable and convenient option for those looking to explore the beauty of Patagonia.
Departure Point
El Calafate station
Arrival Point
El Chaltén station
Useful tips for bus travellers
• Book your bus tickets online in advance through Chaltén Travel's website (chaltentravel.com) or via other operators like Seleccion de Viajes (selecciondeviajes.com.ar) to ensure you have a confirmed seat, especially during peak travel seasons.
• Pack snacks and water for the trip, as there are limited opportunities to purchase refreshments during the 2h 40m journey between El Calafate and El Chaltén; however, you will get breathtaking views of the Patagonian landscape, so having a camera ready is advisable.
• Upon arrival at El Chaltén station, be prepared for a laid-back atmosphere; the station is small and doesn't have extensive facilities, but there are tourist information kiosks nearby where you can pick up maps and get advice on local hiking trails.

Frequently asked questions

Find out more about the route from El Calafate to El Chalten.

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The distance between El Calafate and El Chalten is approximately 121 km by air. If you prefer traveling by road, it is a longer distance of 216 km. By car, it typically takes around 3 hours and 18 minutes to reach El Calafate from El Chalten, and by bus, the travel time is shorter at 2 hours and 40 minutes.
The most cost-effective option for traveling from El Calafate to El Chaltén is by driving, which costs $19-$28 and takes approximately 3 hours and 18 minutes. However, if time-efficiency is a priority, taking a bus is the quickest option, with a travel time of 2 hours and 40 minutes. The cost of taking a bus ranges from $20-$35.
The prices for a bus between El Chalten and El Calafate vary depending on the service and company. On average, you can expect to pay between $20 and $35 for a one-way ticket.
To get from El Calafate to El Chalten without using public transportation, you can opt to drive or take a taxi. The driving distance between the two cities is approximately 216 km, and it takes around 3 hours and 18 minutes. Prices for car rental or private taxi services can vary between $19 and $28.
The best way to travel from El Calafate to El Chaltén without a car is by taking a bus. The bus journey takes approximately 2 hours and 40 minutes. The cost of the bus ticket ranges from $20 to $35.
Yes, there is a direct link between El Calafate and El Chalten in Argentina. Chalten Travel operates bus services that depart from El Calafate and arrive at El Chalten. The buses run three times a day and operate every day, with the journey taking approximately 2 hours and 40 minutes.
There are many options for accommodation near El Chaltén. With over 167 hotels to choose from, there are options for every budget. Prices start at $48, providing affordable choices for travelers. Whether you prefer luxury hotels or budget options, you are sure to find a suitable place to stay near El Chaltén.