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Punta Arenas, Magallanes to El Calafate, Santa Cruz from $45: 5 ways by bus, train, flight or car

Compare Travel Options and Prices

from
Punta Arenas, Chile
to
El Calafate, Argentina

How to Get from Punta Arenas 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.

$45 by busBest price
328 kmDistance
8h 10m Fastest

Compare Train, Bus, Flight, and Driving Options

Get detailed, step-by-step directions below for your trip from Punta Arenas 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
9h  11m
Estimated price
$45-47
Recommended
Company
various
Bus
Average Duration
9h  11m
Estimated price
$45-48
Cheapest
route map
Distance: 328 km
Duration: 8h 10m

See more options

Company
various
Bus
Plane
Average Duration
6h  10m
Estimated price
$0-0
Company
various
Bus
Average Duration
9h  15m
Estimated price
$46-63
Company
various
Drive
Average Duration
8h  10m
Estimated price
$65-100
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Traveling From Punta Arenas to El Calafate

The journey from Punta Arenas, with its rich maritime history and coastal charm, to El Calafate, a gateway to stunning glaciers and breathtaking landscapes, offers a fascinating contrast in experiences.

Best Neighbourhoods in El Calafate

El Calafate offers vibrant neighborhoods, each with its own charm and attractions.

Centro
• Bustling with shops and restaurants.
• Close to major tour operators.
Los Glaciares
• Scenic views of mountains and lakes.
• Ideal for outdoor enthusiasts.
El Calafate Lakefront
• Beautiful lake views and pathways.
• Great for leisurely walks and picnics.

Best Times To Visit El Calafate's Attractions

Planning your visit to El Calafate's attractions can enhance your experience significantly.

Perito Moreno Glacier
Visit early in the morning or late afternoon for fewer tourists and stunning light.
Los Glaciares National Park
Spring and fall offer fewer crowds and ideal hiking weather.
El Calafate Town
Weekdays are less busy, making it perfect for leisurely exploration.

El Calafate Weather: What to Expect Year-Round

El Calafate experiences a cold steppe climate, with cool summers and chilly winters that can influence your travel plans. The best times to visit are during the summer months of December to February when days are longer and warmer, allowing for comfortable exploration of stunning natural landscapes.

Dining Recommendation in El Calafate

At La Tablita, savor the mouthwatering Patagonian lamb, a dish that showcases the rich, smoky flavors distinct to this region, setting it apart from the seafood-heavy cuisine of Punta Arenas. The cozy atmosphere and use of local ingredients create an inviting dining experience that immerses you in the essence of El Calafate.

Punta Arenas - El Calafate operators

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

Bus
Contact phone
+56 61 224 2313
Website
busesfernandez.com

Bus from Punta Arenas to Puerto Natales

Average Duration
3h
Estimated price
$10-450

Bus from Puerto Natales to El Calafate

Average Duration
5h
Estimated price
$450-451
Contact phone
+56 61 261 4224
Website
bussur.com

Bus from Punta Arenas to Puerto Natales

Average Duration
3h 15m
Estimated price
$10-452

Bus from Puerto Natales to El Calafate

Average Duration
5h
Estimated price
$450-451
Contact phone
+56 61 241 2260
Website
turismozaahj.co.cl

Bus from Puerto Natales to El Calafate

Average Duration
5h
Estimated price
$0-0
Contact phone
0800-3331188
Website
taqsa.com.ar

Bus from Punta Arenas to Río Gallegos

Average Duration
4h
Estimated price
$453-454
Contact phone
+56 61 263 9157
Website
busesbarria.cl

Bus from Punta Arenas to Río Gallegos

Average Duration
5h 30m
Estimated price
$453-453
Plane
Contact phone
+549 297 4172555
Website
lade.com.ar

Plane from Río Gallegos to El Calafate

Average Duration
45m
Estimated price
$0-0

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

Traveling between Punta Arenas 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 Punta Arenas to El Calafate, spanning 349 miles through breathtaking Patagonian landscapes. 💸 Enjoy the flexibility of prices ranging from $65 to $100 for a memorable road trip experience filled with stunning natural beauty. 🌄 Revel in the freedom of the open road as you traverse from Chile to Argentina in approximately 8 hours and 10 minutes, creating unforgettable memories along the way.
Average price
$65 - $100
🗺️ The bus service operates with transfers via Puerto Natales, adding to a total travel time of approximately 9 hours and 11 minutes. Buses Fernández and Bus-Sur are the primary operators for this route. 💰 The cost of a bus ticket between El Calafate and Punta Arenas ranges from $45 to $47, making it an affordable and convenient option for travelers exploring the stunning Patagonian region.
Departure Point
Punta Arenas station
Arrival Point
El Calafate station

Frequently asked questions

Find out more about the route from Punta Arenas to El Calafate.

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The distance between Punta Arenas and El Calafate is 204 miles. The road distance is slightly longer at 349.4 miles. The typical travel time by bus and flying is 6 hours and 10 minutes, while by car it takes 8 hours and 10 minutes. If traveling by bus, the journey can take around 9 hours and 11 minutes.
The most cost-effective option for traveling from Punta Arenas to El Calafate is by bus. The bus ticket costs between $45 and $48, and the journey takes approximately 9 hours and 11 minutes. If time is of the essence, the quickest way to reach El Calafate from Punta Arenas is by driving. This option takes around 8 hours and 10 minutes, but it is slightly more expensive, costing between $65 and $100.
The prices for a bus ticket between El Calafate and Punta Arenas range from $45 to $47. It's important to note that these are approximate prices and may vary depending on the bus company and season. It's recommended to check with different bus companies and compare prices to find the best deal.
To travel from Punta Arenas to El Calafate without using public transportation, you can consider renting a car or hiring a private transfer service. The driving distance between the two cities is approximately 349 miles, and it takes about 8 hours and 10 minutes to drive. Rental car prices can vary, but you can expect to pay around $65 to $100 for the journey.
To travel from Punta Arenas to El Calafate without a car, the best option is to take a bus. The journey takes approximately 9 hours and 11 minutes and the ticket prices range from $45 to $48. The bus ride allows you to enjoy the beautiful scenery along the way and is a convenient and cost-effective way to reach El Calafate.
Yes, there is a link between Punta Arenas and El Calafate but it is not a direct route. The journey involves taking a bus from Punta Arenas to Puerto Natales and then transferring to another bus that goes to El Calafate. The total travel time is approximately 9 hours and 11 minutes, including transfers. Bus services operated by Buses Fernández and Bus-Sur provide transportation for this route.
There are plenty of options for accommodation near El Calafate. With over 338 hotels available, you can find a variety of options to suit your needs and budget. Prices start at $51, making it possible to find affordable lodging options. Whether you prefer a luxury hotel or a budget-friendly hostel, El Calafate has something for every traveler.