Getting Around El Calafate. Public Transport, Taxis, Car Rental

Public Transport Basics

El Calafate has a small local public bus system, mainly for residents. For major tourist spots outside town, specific tour buses or shared shuttles are more common and practical for visitors. The town's compact nature means many central areas are easy to walk.

The main bus terminal (Terminal de Ómnibus) is the hub for inter-city and inter-town travel. From here, you find buses to El Chaltén and to Perito Moreno Glacier (operated by tour companies). Local bus routes within town are less formally defined or easily reached by tourists.

Public Transport Points

Limited local bus service for town areas.
Tour buses and shared shuttles are the main ways to major attractions.
Town center is compact and very walkable.
Tickets for inter-town buses are from company desks or tour agencies.

Route Hubs

The Terminal de Ómnibus (Bus Terminal) is the main point for all regional routes.

Operation Times

Local buses have limited hours. Inter-town buses run on schedules, with more frequent service in high season.

Accessibility

Public buses may not be fully accessible. Inquire with tour operators or consider private transport for mobility needs.

Efficient Travel Tips

Within Town

Walking is often the easiest and quickest way to get around the town center.
Most hotels, restaurants, and shops are within walking distance.
Enjoy the scenery on foot.

To Attractions

For sights like Perito Moreno Glacier, pre-booked tours are ideal.
These often come with pickup from your accommodation.
Book ahead for popular tours, especially in high season.

Taxi and Ride-Sharing

Remises Taxis

Licensed private cars for hire. Call a "remiseria" or ask your hotel.

Fares

Often fixed for common routes. Confirm price before starting. Cash payment mostly.

Ride-Sharing Apps

Uber, Cabify, Didi are not consistently available. Rely on local remises.

Safety & Arrangements

Licensed remises are safe. Available at airport/bus terminal booking desks or outside.

Rental Options Overview

Renting a car brings flexibility for exploring the region around El Calafate.

Car Rental Information

Valid driver's license, International Driving Permit (IDP) recommended.
Valid passport and credit card for security deposit are needed.
Minimum age for rental is typically 21-25.
Major companies (Hertz, Avis) have airport/downtown offices. Book ahead for better rates.

Other Vehicle Types

Motorcycle and scooter rentals are not commonly available. Climate and road conditions make them less practical.
Limited bicycle sharing. Some hostels offer rentals for local town use.
Bicycles are good for town and Laguna Nimez, not long distances or national park access.
No unique specialty vehicle options beyond standard cars, SUVs, or vans.

Driving Laws & Conditions

Drive on the right side of the road.
Seatbelts are mandatory for all.
Using a mobile phone while driving is against the law.

Paved roads to main attractions are in good shape.
Many secondary roads are gravel ("ripio"). Drive slowly.
Strong crosswinds are a constant factor.

Parking Information

Town Parking

Parking is generally available and free in El Calafate town.

Park Parking

Paid parking may be needed at some national park sites.

Designated Areas

Always park in marked areas to follow local rules.

Walking and Cycling

El Calafate's town center is compact and very friendly to those on foot.

Pedestrian Zones

Most shops, restaurants, and hotels are within walking distance along Avenida del Libertador.
A paved walkway along Lago Argentino offers scenic views.
The lakeside path leads to the Laguna Nimez Reserve, a good walk.
Self-guided walks are popular and easy to do.

Cycling Information

Limited dedicated bicycle infrastructure within town.
For safety, stick to quieter roads or the paved path along the lake.
Unpaved (ripio) roads outside town can be tough for cyclists due to loose gravel and wind.
No specific "no-go" areas for safety, but exercise care on main highways.

Specialized Transportation

Tour Buses

Main way to visit Perito Moreno Glacier and Estancia Cristina. Book through local tour agencies.

Simplify your excursions.

Water Transportation

Catamaran tours on Lago Argentino for glacier viewing. These are scenic tours, not simple transport.

See glaciers from the water.

Teleférico Cerro Huyliche

A chairlift offering panoramic views of El Calafate and Lago Argentino. Operates seasonally.

Panoramic town views.

Accessibility Services

Dedicated Services

Dedicated accessible transport services are limited.
Tour operators often try to accommodate mobility needs.
Communicate specific needs when booking.

Attraction Accessibility

Parts of the Perito Moreno Glacier walkways are designed with accessibility in mind.
Inquire about specific tour details for accessibility.
Planning ahead for transport and attractions is .

Important Considerations

There are no hop-on-hop-off bus services.
No funiculars or unique local transport like tuk-tuks.
No train services connect to El Calafate.
Sea or river ferries are not main arrival modes.

Some tours may be seasonal, especially in winter.
Always check current schedules and availability.
Confirm specific details when planning your itinerary.
Road maintenance or weather can affect routes.

Final Local Transit Notes

El Calafate's transportation options are mainly designed to connect travelers to the stunning natural attractions, with local town movement mostly on foot.

Choose the method that best suits your comfort, budget, and exploration goals.

Getting Around El Calafate