Pre-Trip Checklist: El Calafate

Chronological Planning Timeline

Make your trip preparation systematic and stress-free.

Milestones in Planning

A structured approach to your El Calafate adventure.

-6 Months Ahead

Documents & Flights

Confirm passport validity and visa needs. Book international flights.

Accommodation & Tours

Secure high season accommodation and popular tours in El Calafate early.

Insurance & Health

Arrange travel insurance. Consult a travel doctor.

-2 Months Ahead

Domestic Travel

Book domestic flights to El Calafate or long-distance bus tickets.

Permit Check

Check for any specific permits for remote activities.

Financial Prep

Inform your bank and credit card companies of travel dates.

Days Before Departure

Final Confirmations

Confirm all bookings (flights, accommodation, tours).

Gear & Apps

Purchase Travel gear and download offline maps and apps.

Last-Minute Tasks

Convert some local currency. Charge all electronics.

Required Advance Bookings

Certain elements benefit greatly from early reservations.

Reservations

Flights (international and domestic to FTE).
Perito Moreno ice treks (Mini-Trekking or Big Ice).
High-season accommodation in El Calafate.
Buses to El Chaltén and Puerto Natales (especially during peak season).

Pre-Trip Research

insight enriches your journey.

Recommended Study

Read up on Argentine culture and customs.
Familiarize yourself with Argentina's economic situation, especially currency rates.
Study weather patterns and Patagonian wind conditions.
Look at maps of Los Glaciares National Park and El Chaltén for hiking trails.

Home Preparations

Ensure peace of mind before you depart.

Notifications

Notify friends or family of your itinerary.
Inform your bank and credit card companies.
Arrange for mail collection or forwarding.
Leave emergency contacts.

Household Matters

Organize pet care if you have pets.
Secure your home (lock doors/windows, set alarms).
Adjust thermostat and turn off unnecessary appliances.
Dispose of perishable food items.

Digital Documents

Organize digital and physical copies of documents securely.
Upload important documents to a secure cloud service.
Make extra copies of ID and passports.
Email copies to yourself or trusted contacts.

Essential Gear & Planning

Essential gear and thoughtful planning aid your trip to Patagonia's dynamic landscapes.

Arrival Checklist

These steps aid a smooth start to your El Calafate adventure.

Smooth Start

1
Immigration:
Clear immigration; receive entry stamp.
2
Luggage Collection:
Collect your luggage.
3
Airport Transfer:
Find your pre-booked airport transfer or locate the taxi/shuttle stands.

Orientation & Purchases

Accommodation:
Head to accommodation and drop off your bags.
Neighborhood Walk:
Take a walk around the immediate neighborhood to get your bearings, locate nearby restaurants or supermarkets.
Tourist Information:
Visit a local tourist information office in the town center to pick up maps and inquire about current conditions or events.

Arrival Logistics

Currency Exchange

Withdraw cash from an ATM or exchange currency for immediate expenses upon arrival.

Remember the "tourist dollar" rate when using international cards for larger transactions.

Connectivity

Purchase a local SIM card if you plan to use mobile data immediately.

Local SIM cards ensure reliable communication.

Airport Transport

If arriving at FTE airport, a pre-booked shared shuttle is recommended for ease and cost-effectiveness.

From the bus terminal, your accommodation may be a short walk, or you can take a remise (taxi).

Pre-Departure Tip

For domestic flights from FTE, plan to arrive at the airport 2-3 hours before your scheduled departure, especially during the peak season.

Departure Preparation

Plan your departure to avoid any last-minute stress.

Souvenirs & Shipping Considerations

Purchase souvenirs in advance to avoid a last-minute rush at the airport.
Check your airline's baggage allowance for weight and size restrictions.
Shipping large items internationally from El Calafate is complex.
Factor shipping costs into your budget and time.

VAT Refund Procedures

Argentina offers VAT refunds for foreign tourists on certain goods and services, often accommodation.
You typically complete these forms at the airport (usually EZE or AEP for international flights) before departing the country.
Ensure you have the goods available for inspection if required.
Keep all original receipts for the refund process.

VAT Refund Checklist

A simplified guide to recovering VAT.

Steps

Keep original receipts.Important
Inquire about "Tax Free" forms when purchasing.Ask Store
Complete forms at the airport (EZE or AEP).Airport Step
Have goods ready for inspection.Be Prepared

Return Trip Preparation

Reconfirm your return flights 24-48 hours before departure.
Check in online if your airline offers this service.
Pack your bags carefully, ensuring all valuables are secure.
Ensure liquids comply with airline regulations.

Departure Timing Recommendations

For bus departures, arrive at the bus terminal 30-60 minutes before your scheduled departure time.

If you have an international connecting flight from Buenos Aires, allow 3-4 hours or more between your domestic arrival in Buenos Aires and your international departure, especially if transferring between airports (AEP and EZE).

Pre-Trip Checklist