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San Carlos de Bariloche, Rio Negro to El Calafate, Santa Cruz from $25: 4 ways by bus, train, flight or car

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from
San Carlos de Bariloche, Argentina
to
El Calafate, Argentina

How to Get from San Carlos de Bariloche to El Calafate: Cheapest, Fastest and Best Way

1Map provides directions to cities, towns, landmarks, attractions, and addresses worldwide, offering thousands of multi-modal routes to easily get you from point A to point B.

$25 by busBest price
640.7 kmDistance
3h 40m Fastest

Compare Train, Bus, Flight, and Driving Options

Get detailed, step-by-step directions below for your trip from San Carlos de Bariloche 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
Aerolíneas Argentinas
Plane
Average Duration
3h  40m
Estimated price
$142-603
Recommended
Company
various
Bus
Average Duration
30h  35m
Estimated price
$25-179
Cheapest
route map
Distance: 640.7 km
Duration: 3h 40m

See more options

Company
various
Taxi
Average Duration
21h  34m
Estimated price
$110-140
Company
N/A
Drive
Average Duration
21h  34m
Estimated price
$130-190
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Traveling From San Carlos de Bariloche to El Calafate

The journey from San Carlos de Bariloche to El Calafate offers a striking contrast between the lush, mountainous landscapes of Patagonia and the vast, windswept plains that cradle the iconic Perito Moreno Glacier.

Best Neighbourhoods in El Calafate

El Calafate features distinct neighborhoods, each with its charm and offerings.

Centro
• Bustling shops and restaurants abound.
• Close proximity to Lake Argentino.
Calafate Alto
• Scenic views of the surrounding hills.
• Quieter atmosphere, ideal for relaxing.
El Chaltén
• Gateway to Los Glaciares National Park.
• Popular among hikers and adventure seekers.

Best Times To Visit El Calafate's Attractions

Timing your visits to El Calafate's attractions can enhance your experience significantly.

Perito Moreno Glacier
Visit in early morning or late afternoon for fewer crowds and stunning light.
Los Glaciares National Park
Ideal during shoulder seasons, spring and fall, for mild weather and solitude.
Lake Argentino
Enjoy sunset views in the evening for a magical and less crowded experience.

El Calafate Weather: What to Expect Year-Round

El Calafate experiences a cold desert climate, characterized by dry summers and chilly winters, with temperatures varying greatly between seasons. Planning your visit between October and March typically offers milder weather, enhancing outdoor activities and glacier excursions.

Dining in El Calafate

At La Tablita, indulge in the mouthwatering Patagonian lamb, tenderly roasted and infused with local flavors that starkly contrast with the chocolate-centric offerings of San Carlos de Bariloche. The rustic atmosphere, complete with stunning views of the surrounding landscape, elevates your dining experience, connecting you to the rich culinary heritage of the region.

San Carlos de Bariloche - El Calafate operators

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

Plane
Website
aerolineas.com.ar

Plane from San Carlos de Bariloche (BRC) to El Calafate (FTE)

Average Duration
1h 45m
Estimated price
$160-650
Bus
Contact phone
0800-3331188
Website
taqsa.com.ar

Bus from Terminal de Omnibus Bariloche to El Chaltén

Average Duration
26h 55m
Estimated price
$13-170

Bus from El Chaltén to El Calafate

Average Duration
2h 40m
Estimated price
$13-0
Contact phone
+5411 2150 3372
Website
chaltentravel.com

Bus from El Chaltén to El Calafate

Average Duration
2h 40m
Estimated price
$13-0
Contact phone
+54 02902 491-368
Website
caltur.com.ar

Bus from El Chaltén to El Calafate

Average Duration
2h 40m
Estimated price
$14-0
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Contact phone
+54 2944 433-100

Other from Bariloche to El Calafate

Average Duration
21h 34m
Estimated price
$110-140

Other from Bariloche to El Calafate

Average Duration
21h 34m
Estimated price
$130-190

San Carlos de Bariloche to El Calafate: Overview of Bus, Train, Flight, and Car Trips

Traveling between San Carlos de Bariloche 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 San Carlos de Bariloche to El Calafate by car, covering a vast distance of 1488.6 km. 💰 Enjoy the flexibility of pricing options ranging from $130 to $190 for the road trip adventure between these captivating Argentine destinations. 🏞️ Traverse approximately 21 hours and 34 minutes through picturesque landscapes, discovering the beauty of Patagonia as you make your way from Bariloche to El Calafate.
Average price
$130 - $190
🛫 The quickest flight from San Carlos de Bariloche Airport to El Calafate Airport is a direct one with a duration of 1 hour and 45 minutes, making it a convenient option for travelers looking to save time. 🌄 Travelers can expect a flight duration of approximately 3 hours and 40 minutes when flying from San Carlos de Bariloche to El Calafate, with flight prices ranging from $142 to $603, offering options for different budget preferences.
Departure Point
San Carlos de Bariloche Airport
Arrival Point
El Calafate Airport
🚌 The journey from San Carlos de Bariloche to El Calafate by bus is an adventure through the stunning landscapes of Patagonia, with a total travel time of approximately 30 hours and 35 minutes. 💰 Ticket prices for the bus ride between these two destinations can range from as low as $25 to a maximum of $179, offering different options to suit various budgets for this extended but rewarding trip.
Departure Point
Terminal de Omnibus Bariloche station
Arrival Point
El Calafate station
Useful tips for bus travellers
• Considering that there is no direct bus from Bariloche to El Calafate, plan for your journey with the Marga Taqsa and Chalten Travel companies; Marga Taqsa operates the route from Bariloche to El Chaltén, while Chalten Travel takes you from El Chaltén to El Calafate — be sure to check their schedules to optimize your transfer time. For Marga Taqsa, visit their website at margataqsa.com.ar, and for Chalten Travel, check chaltentravel.com
• The scenic route between Bariloche and El Calafate offers stunning views of the lakes and mountains, so charge your camera and download a playlist or audiobook for the long journey, as it can take up to 30 hours and 35 minutes depending on transfers and delays.
• Upon arriving at the El Calafate bus station (Terminal de Ómnibus El Calafate), be prepared for a bustling environment; there are local taxis available just outside the terminal and shared shuttles that can take you to your accommodation or directly to the renowned Perito Moreno Glacier, so have your itinerary and accommodation details ready for smooth navigation.

Frequently asked questions

Find out more about the route from San Carlos de Bariloche to El Calafate.

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The distance between San Carlos de Bariloche and El Calafate is approximately 641 miles. By plane, it takes around 3 hours and 26 minutes to travel between the two cities. If you prefer to drive, the road distance is 925 miles, which would take approximately 21 hours and 34 minutes. Alternatively, taking a bus would take around 27 hours and 28 minutes.
The most cost-effective option to travel from San Carlos de Bariloche to El Calafate is by bus, with prices ranging from $35 to $120. However, this mode of transportation is time-consuming, taking approximately 27 hours and 28 minutes. On the other hand, if time is a priority, flying is the most time-efficient option, taking only 3 hours and 26 minutes. Flights are more expensive, with prices ranging from $150 to $650. Ultimately, the choice between cost-effectiveness and time-efficiency depends on individual preferences and priorities.
The prices for a bus journey between El Calafate and San Carlos de Bariloche can vary between $38 and $117. These prices depend on factors such as the type of bus, the company, and any additional services provided on the journey. It is recommended to compare prices from different bus companies to find the best deal for your trip.
To get from San Carlos de Bariloche to El Calafate without using public transportation, you can rent a car or hire a private driver. The driving distance between the two cities is 925 miles, and it takes approximately 21 hours and 34 minutes to drive. Rental car prices can vary between $130 and $190, depending on the company and vehicle chosen. This option allows you to have flexibility in your travel schedule and explore the scenic routes at your own pace.
To travel from San Carlos de Bariloche to El Calafate without a car, the best option is to take a bus. The bus journey takes around 27 hours and 28 minutes, and the ticket prices range from $35 to $120. While it is a long journey, taking the bus offers a scenic and affordable way to reach El Calafate, allowing you to relax and enjoy the beautiful landscapes of Argentina along the way.
The flight between San Carlos de Bariloche and El Calafate typically takes 1 hour and 45 minutes. The prices for this flight can vary between $154 and $606. It is recommended to check with different airlines and booking platforms to find the best deals and availability for your travel dates.
There are over 338 hotels available in El Calafate. Prices for accommodations in the area start at $51 per night. Some popular options include hotels such as Hotel Posada Los Alamos, Mirador del Lago Hotel, and Los Ponchos Apart Boutique. There are a variety of choices available to suit different budgets and preferences in El Calafate.