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Santiago, Santiago Metropolitan to El Calafate, Santa Cruz from $48: 7 ways by bus, train, flight or car

Compare Travel Options and Prices

from
Santiago, Chile
to
El Calafate, Argentina

How to Get from Santiago 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.

$48 by busBest price
1893 kmDistance
8h 53m Fastest

Compare Train, Bus, Flight, and Driving Options

Get detailed, step-by-step directions below for your trip from Santiago 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
Plane
Average Duration
8h  53m
Estimated price
$156-578
Recommended
Company
various
Bus
Average Duration
48h  2m
Estimated price
$48-267
Cheapest
route map
Distance: 1893 km
Duration: 8h 53m

See more options

Company
various
Bus
Average Duration
45h  49m
Estimated price
$59-1560
Company
various
Plane
Drive
Average Duration
12h  36m
Estimated price
$140-375
Company
various
Plane
Drive
Average Duration
11h  9m
Estimated price
$156-578
Company
various
Bus
Plane
Average Duration
14h  57m
Estimated price
$237-549
Company
N/A
Drive
Average Duration
33h  49m
Estimated price
$1561-480
Browse car rentalsExplore flights

Traveling From Santiago to El Calafate

This journey from the bustling urban energy of Santiago to the tranquil beauty of El Calafate offers a striking contrast between city life and stunning Patagonian landscapes.

Best Neighbourhoods in El Calafate

El Calafate features inviting neighborhoods, each with its own charm.

Centro
• Lively atmosphere with shops and restaurants.
• Ideal for walking to popular attractions.
Lago Argentino
• Stunning views of the lake and surrounding mountains.
• Great for outdoor activities and nature walks.
El Calafate Old Town
• Charming streets with local artisan shops.
• Rich history and cultural experiences.

Best Times To Visit El Calafate's Attractions

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

Perito Moreno Glacier
Early morning visits offer fewer crowds and stunning light for photography.
Los Glaciares National Park
Visit during weekdays for a more peaceful exploration of the trails.
El Calafate Town
Late afternoon is ideal for a quieter stroll and local dining options.

El Calafate Weather: What to Expect Year-Round

El Calafate experiences a cold desert climate, characterized by cool summers and chilly winters, making spring and fall the most pleasant times to visit. Weather conditions can change rapidly, so being prepared ensures you enjoy the stunning landscapes, regardless of the season.

Dining Recommendation in El Calafate

Indulge in a hearty Patagonian lamb dish at La Tablita, where the flavors of local ingredients shine in a rustic setting that contrasts with the urban dining scene of Santiago. This experience, steeped in tradition, showcases the region's rich culinary heritage and offers a warm atmosphere that invites you to savor every bite.

Santiago - El Calafate operators

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

Plane Show flights
Website
latam.com

Plane from Santiago (SCL) to Puerto Natales (PNT)

Average Duration
3h 15m
Estimated price
$1569-5780

Plane from Santiago (SCL) to Punta Arenas (PUQ)

Average Duration
3h 25m
Estimated price
$5781-5782
Website
aerolineas.com.ar

Plane from Santiago (SCL) to El Calafate (FTE)

Average Duration
7h 1m
Estimated price
$5783-5784

Plane from Santiago (SCL) to El Calafate (FTE)

Average Duration
8h
Estimated price
$5783-5784
Website
skyairline.com

Plane from Santiago (SCL) to Puerto Natales (PNT)

Average Duration
4h 29m
Estimated price
$5781-5786

Plane from Santiago (SCL) to Punta Arenas (PUQ)

Average Duration
4h 48m
Estimated price
$5787-5788
Website
jetsmart.com

Plane from Santiago (SCL) to El Calafate (FTE)

Average Duration
10h 36m
Estimated price
$5789-15670
Bus Show bus routes
Contact phone
+56 97 580 5380
Website
buses-fierro.cl

Bus from Terminal San Borja to Puerto Montt

Average Duration
12h 15m
Estimated price
$482-483
Contact phone
+56 9 5358 0026
Website
lastorres.com

Bus from Puerto Natales Airport to Hotel Las Torres Patagonia

Average Duration
2h
Estimated price
$480-0

Bus from Hotel Las Torres Patagonia to El Calafate

Average Duration
3h
Estimated price
$0-0
Contact phone
+5411 2150 3372
Website
chaltentravel.com

Bus from El Chaltén to El Calafate

Average Duration
2h 40m
Estimated price
$489-0
Contact phone
0800-3331188
Website
taqsa.com.ar

Bus from El Bolsón to El Chaltén

Average Duration
24h 45m
Estimated price
$488-4850
Contact phone
0810 122 1122
Website
andesmar.com

Bus from Terminal San Borja to Bariloche

Average Duration
19h
Estimated price
$2671-2672

Bus from Terminal Sur de Santiago to Terminal Mendoza

Average Duration
6h 45m
Estimated price
$481-0

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

Traveling between Santiago 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 an epic road trip from Santiago to El Calafate spanning 1655 miles of diverse landscapes and breathtaking scenery. 💰 Plan your budget accordingly as the prices to travel by car from Santiago to El Calafate range from $320 to $480, offering flexibility for different travel preferences and comfort levels. 🏞️ Enjoy the long but rewarding journey that takes approximately 33 hours and 49 minutes, with plenty of opportunities to stop, explore, and embrace the beauty of South America along the way.
Average price
$320 - $480
🌎 The approximate duration of the flight is 6 hours and 35 minutes, with a total travel time of 8 hours and 53 minutes from Santiago to El Calafate. Prepare for a comfortable and scenic journey across the South American skies. 💸 Prices for flights between Santiago and El Calafate can range from $156 to $578, offering flexibility for travelers with different budget considerations. Plan your trip accordingly and enjoy the adventure awaiting you in the beautiful region of Patagonia.
Departure Point
Santiago Airport
Arrival Point
El Calafate Airport. The quickest flight takes 6h 35m and has one stopover
🚌 Embark on an epic bus journey from Santiago to El Calafate despite no direct routes available. The trip involves multiple transfers through stunning destinations like Puerto Montt, El Bolsón, El Chaltén, culminating in approximately 45 hours and 49 minutes of travel time. 💰 Prices for the Santiago to El Calafate bus vary between $48 to $267, providing budget-friendly options to explore the breathtaking beauty of Patagonia while enjoying the comfort and convenience of bus travel. Pack your bags and get ready for a memorable adventure through some of the most picturesque regions in South America.
Departure Point
Terminal San Borja station
Arrival Point
El Calafate station

Frequently asked questions

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

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The distance between Santiago and El Calafate is approximately 1176 miles. If you choose to drive, it will take around 1655 miles and about 33 hours and 49 minutes. By taking a bus, the travel time is much longer, with about 47 hours and 28 minutes. However, flying is the quickest option, taking only 9 hours and 16 minutes.
The most cost-effective transportation option to travel from Santiago to El Calafate is by bus. Although it takes longer, approximately 43 hours and 54 minutes via Puerto Montt, the cost is significantly lower, ranging from $110 to $220. For a quicker and more time-efficient option, flying is recommended, taking around 9 hours and 16 minutes and costing between $140 and $600. Overall, the decision depends on individual preferences and priorities, with some travelers prioritizing cost over time and vice versa.
The prices for a bus ticket between El Calafate and Santiago range from $91 to $324. It is important to note that the prices may vary depending on factors such as the time of year, the operator, and the type of bus. It is recommended to check with different bus companies or travel agencies to get the most accurate and up-to-date prices for this route.
To travel from Santiago to El Calafate without using public transportation, you can choose to drive. The driving distance is 1655 miles, and the journey takes approximately 33 hours and 49 minutes. The estimated prices to rent a car and make this journey range from $320 to $480, depending on the rental company and vehicle type.
To travel from Santiago to El Calafate without a car, the best option is to take a bus via Puerto Montt. This journey will take approximately 43 hours and 54 minutes and the ticket price can range from $110 to $220. The bus trip includes multiple transfers and stops along the way, so it is recommended to bring necessary supplies for the long journey.
No, there is no direct bus link between Santiago and El Calafate. To make the journey by bus, you would need to take multiple transfers and the total travel time would be approximately 43 hours and 54 minutes. The bus services are operated by Buses Fierro and Chalten Travel. It is recommended to check the schedules and availability before planning this trip.
The flight duration from Santiago to El Calafate typically takes around 6 hours and 20 minutes, including one stopover. However, there are no direct flights available between the two cities. As for the cost, prices for flights between El Calafate and Santiago can range from $146 to $558, depending on factors such as the airline, time of booking, and availability. It is advisable to check with different airlines and compare prices to find the best deal.
There are plenty of accommodation options available near El Calafate. With over 338 hotels to choose from, travelers are sure to find something to suit their needs and budget. Prices for hotels in the area start at $51 per night, offering a range of choices for different budgets. Whether you're looking for luxury resorts or budget-friendly lodgings, there are plenty of options to consider.

Trips from Santiago