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Puerto Natales to El Calafate from $5: 5 ways by bus, train, flight or car

Compare Travel Options and Prices

from
Puerto Natales, Chile
to
El Calafate, Argentina

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

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$5 ShuttleBest price
156.16 kmDistance
4h 41m Fastest

Compare Train, Bus, Flight, and Driving Options

Get detailed, step-by-step directions below for your trip from Puerto Natales to El Calafate 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
various
Bus
Average Duration
4h  41m
Estimated price
$8-85
Recommended
Company
various
Drive
Average Duration
5h  15m
Estimated price
$5-30
Cheapest
route map
Distance: 156.16 km
Duration: 4h 41m

See more options

Company
various
Bus
Drive
Average Duration
7h  58m
Estimated price
$0-0
Company
various
Bus
Average Duration
5h 
Estimated price
$21-65
Company
various
Drive
Average Duration
5h  16m
Estimated price
$30-50
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Traveling From Puerto Natales to El Calafate

The journey from Puerto Natales to El Calafate reveals a shift from Chile's rugged fjords and glacial landscapes to Argentina's expansive steppe and iconic Perito Moreno Glacier.

Best Neighbourhoods in El Calafate

El Calafate boasts diverse neighborhoods, each offering a distinct experience.

El Centro
• Vibrant dining and shopping options
• Close proximity to local attractions
Laguna Los Cóndores
• Scenic views and tranquility
• Ideal for nature lovers and hikers
Puerto San Julián
• Charming waterfront access
• Offers fishing and boat tours

Best Times To Visit El Calafate's Attractions

Timing your visit can enhance your experience at El Calafate's must-see sites.

Perito Moreno Glacier
Visit early morning or late afternoon for fewer crowds and stunning light.
Los Glaciares National Park
Plan trips in May or September for pleasant weather and quieter trails.
Glaciarium Museum
Weekdays are best to explore without the weekend rush of visitors.

El Calafate Weather: What to Expect Year-Round

El Calafate experiences a cold semi-arid climate with significant temperature variations, making layers essential year-round. The best times to visit are during the warmer months of November to March, when mild weather enhances outdoor activities, while winter can bring dramatic landscapes but may limit accessibility.

Dining in El Calafate: A Culinary Delight

Try the iconic Patagonian lamb at La Tablita, a restaurant renowned for its traditional grilling methods and rustic ambiance that contrasts with the seafood focus in Puerto Natales. This experience showcases local ingredients and offers a warm, inviting atmosphere, perfect for savoring the rich flavors of Argentine cuisine.

Puerto Natales - El Calafate operators

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

Bus Show bus routes
Contact phone
+56 61 261 4224
Website
bussur.com

Bus from Puerto Natales to Laguna Amarga

Average Duration
2h
Estimated price
$5-19

Bus from Puerto Natales to El Calafate

Average Duration
5h
Estimated price
$13-29
Contact phone
+56 9 9321 1378
Website
basetorres.cl

Bus from Puerto Natales to Laguna Amarga

Average Duration
2h
Estimated price
$11-11
Contact phone
+56 96 300 1898
Website
busesgomez.cl

Bus from Puerto Natales to Laguna Amarga

Average Duration
2h
Estimated price
$16-16
Contact phone
+56 9 8529 1514
Website
busesjbpatagonia.com

Bus from Puerto Natales to Laguna Amarga

Average Duration
2h 15m
Estimated price
$11-11
Contact phone
+56 61 241 2260
Website
turismozaahj.co.cl

Bus from Laguna Amarga to El Calafate

Average Duration
2h 8m
Estimated price
$1-65

Bus from Puerto Natales to El Calafate

Average Duration
10h
Estimated price
$21-65
Shuttle
Contact phone
+541150312868
Website
alwaysglaciers.com

Shuttle from Puerto Natales to El Calafate

Average Duration
5h 15m
Estimated price
$5-30
Website
southroad.com.ar

Shuttle from Laguna Amarga to El Calafate

Average Duration
4h 30m
Estimated price
$68-68

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

Traveling between Puerto Natales and El Calafate 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 scenic journey from Puerto Natales to El Calafate, navigating through approximately 272.0 km of breathtaking landscapes in southern Patagonia. 💰 Enjoy the flexibility of prices ranging from $30 to $50 for the road trip, ensuring a budget-friendly adventure across the Chile-Argentina border. ⏰ Spend around 5 hours and 16 minutes on the road, savoring the freedom and thrill of an unforgettable drive between these two enchanting destinations.
Average price
$30 - $50
🚂 Embark on a scenic train journey from Puerto Natales to El Calafate. The route covers a distance of 157 km and takes around 6 hours and 39 minutes to reach your destination.
🚌 Travelling from Puerto Natales to El Calafate by bus is a convenient and scenic journey. The direct bus route operated by Bus-Sur takes approximately 5 hours, departing once daily. 🌄 Enjoy the picturesque landscapes as you cover the 157 km distance between Puerto Natales and El Calafate. The bus service by Bus-Sur offers a comfortable ride, with prices ranging from $8 to $85.
Departure Point
Puerto Natales station
Arrival Point
El Calafate station
Useful tips for bus travellers
Before your trip, check the bus schedules at the Bus-Sur website (recorrido.cl) to confirm departure times and availability, as services only operate once daily.
Be prepared for border crossing procedures, which may include showing your passport and completing paperwork; ensure you have both your Chilean and Argentine exit and entry documents ready to streamline the process.
Upon arrival at El Calafate station, be aware that local transport options such as shared taxis or shuttles can take you to the city center or your accommodation; it's a good idea to have cash on hand (local Argentine pesos) for these services as not all accept cards.

Frequently asked questions

Find out more about the route from Puerto Natales to El Calafate.

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The distance between Puerto Natales and El Calafate is 156 km, with a road distance of 271 km. The typical travel times by various modes of transportation vary. It takes 7 hours and 58 minutes to travel from Puerto Natales to El Calafate by bus and tour, 5 hours and 15 minutes by ferry, 5 hours and 16 minutes by car from El Calafate to Puerto Natales, and 4 hours and 41 minutes by bus from Puerto Natales to El Calafate.
The most cost-effective and time-efficient transportation option for traveling from Puerto Natales to El Calafate is by bus via Laguna Amarga. This option takes 4 hours and 41 minutes and costs between $9 and $24.
The prices for a bus ticket between El Calafate and Puerto Natales range from $10 to $24. On the other hand, the prices for a ferry ticket between the two cities vary from $12 to $30.
To travel from Puerto Natales to El Calafate without using public transportation, you can hire a private car or use a ride-sharing service. The driving distance between the two cities is approximately 272 km and takes about 5 hours and 16 minutes. The prices for hiring a car vary, ranging from $30 to $50.
To travel from Puerto Natales to El Calafate without a car, the best option is to take a bus. The journey takes around 4 hours and 41 minutes and costs between $9 and $24. The bus route typically includes a stop at Laguna Amarga.
Yes, there is a direct link between Puerto Natales and El Calafate. Bus-Sur operates a bus service that departs twice daily and takes approximately 5 hours.
There are plenty of options for accommodation near El Calafate. With over 338 hotels available, travelers can find a range of options to suit their preferences and budgets. Prices start at $51 and vary depending on the location, amenities, and star rating of the hotels.