Lago Argentino | El Calafate

Lago Argentino – El Calafate, Patagonia, Argentina

Lago Argentino is the largest lake in Argentina, located in the Patagonian region of Santa Cruz Province. This magnificent lake is a central feature of Los Glaciares National Park, situated near the town of El Calafate. It is renowned for its stunning turquoise waters, dramatic icebergs, and the Perito Moreno Glacier that flows into its waters. Lago Argentino is one of the most breathtaking natural landmarks in Patagonia and attracts tourists from around the world for its unparalleled beauty and array of outdoor activities.

General Information

• Location: Lago Argentino is located in Santa Cruz Province, in southern Argentina. It lies at the edge of Los Glaciares National Park and is accessible from El Calafate, which is about 80 kilometers (50 miles) to the north.
• Size: The lake covers an area of approximately 1,415 square kilometers (547 square miles), making it the largest lake in Argentina. It is about 160 kilometers (99 miles) long and has an average width of 10-15 kilometers (6-9 miles). The lake has a maximum depth of 500 meters (1,640 feet), making it incredibly deep in some areas.
• Best Time to Visit: The best time to visit Lago Argentino is during the Patagonian summer (December – March) when the weather is warmer and ideal for outdoor activities like boat tours, hiking, and wildlife watching. However, the area is worth visiting year-round, with winter offering a more peaceful experience and unique snowy landscapes.

Key Highlights & Attractions

1. Icebergs and Glacial Waters

• Lago Argentino is famous for its icebergs, which break off from the Perito Moreno Glacier and float across the lake’s waters. These icebergs are often blue in color and create a striking contrast against the turquoise waters of the lake. The sight of these massive ice formations drifting in the water is a highlight of any visit to the lake.
• Visitors can take boat tours on Lago Argentino to get close to the glacial ice and see the icebergs up close. The boat tours often include views of the Perito Moreno Glacier as it flows into the lake.

2. Boat Tours

• Boat cruises on Lago Argentino are a must-do activity for visitors to the region. These cruises allow travelers to explore the lake’s magnificent scenery, including views of the Perito Moreno Glacier and the icebergs that float in the lake’s waters.
• Cruises typically depart from the Puerto Bajo las Sombras port near the glacier and take passengers through various parts of the lake, offering close-up views of the glacial front and ice formations. Some tours also pass through the Upsala Glacier and Glen Glacier, giving visitors a comprehensive experience of the area’s ice fields.

3. Upsala Glacier

• One of the most significant glaciers that feeds into Lago Argentino is the Upsala Glacier, one of the largest glaciers in the Southern Patagonian Ice Field. The glacier is renowned for its stunning size and dramatic landscape. Visitors can take boat tours from Lago Argentino to get close to the glacier, where they can witness the sheer scale of the ice and surrounding landscapes.
• The Upsala Glacier is also famous for the icebergs that calve off from it and drift into the lake, often creating a beautiful scene of floating blue ice.

4. Viedma Glacier

• The Viedma Glacier is another major glacier that flows into Lago Argentino. It is one of the most accessible glaciers in the region and is famous for its striking blue ice and ice trekking opportunities. Viedma Glacier can be explored by boat or via glacier trekking excursions, allowing visitors to get up close to the ice and explore its unique formations.

5. Scenic Views and Observation Points

• Lago Argentino offers numerous scenic spots and viewpoints around the lake, with mountains, forests, and glacial ice creating stunning backdrops. Some of the best views are found from the Los Glaciares National Park, where visitors can walk along trails and enjoy panoramic views of the lake and glaciers. The viewpoints near Perito Moreno Glacier provide stunning vistas of the ice wall, and hikers can also visit Laguna de los Tres for a spectacular view of Mount Fitz Roy and the surrounding area.

6. Wildlife Watching

• Lago Argentino and the surrounding area are home to a variety of wildlife, including birds such as Andean condors, flamingos, and cormorants. The lake is also known for its rich aquatic life, including Patagonian fish species like trout and salmon.
• Wildlife enthusiasts can enjoy birdwatching and spotting various animals in the area, particularly in the wetlands and forests near the lake.

7. Fishing

• Fishing is another popular activity on Lago Argentino. The lake is home to an abundance of fish, including trout and salmon, and there are numerous fishing excursions available for those interested in trying their luck in the lake’s clear waters.
• Fishing tours often include guides who provide assistance and local knowledge about the best fishing spots in the area.

8. Kayaking and Canoeing

• For more active exploration, kayaking and canoeing on Lago Argentino offer an intimate experience with the lake and its surroundings. Visitors can rent kayaks or join guided tours to explore the lake's many bays, islands, and scenic spots.
• Paddling through the calm waters allows for up-close views of the glaciers, icebergs, and surrounding mountains.

How to Get There

• By Car: El Calafate is the nearest town to Lago Argentino and is easily accessible by car. The lake is only about 30 minutes to 1 hour from El Calafate, depending on the specific destination or tour.
• By Bus: Long-distance buses to El Calafate run from various Argentine cities, including Buenos Aires, Ushuaia, and Bariloche. From the town, visitors can access the lake via bus, taxi, or private transfer.
• By Air: The closest airport to Lago Argentino is Comandante Armando Tola International Airport (FTE) in El Calafate, which connects to major cities like Buenos Aires and Ushuaia. From the airport, visitors can take a bus or private transfer to the lake.

Best Time to Visit

• Summer (December – March): The summer months are the best time to visit Lago Argentino, offering mild weather perfect for outdoor activities like boat tours, hiking, kayaking, and glacier trekking. This is the peak tourist season, so there will be more visitors, but the weather and accessibility are optimal.
• Spring (October – November): Spring is a good time to visit, with fewer tourists and milder temperatures. The surrounding nature also begins to bloom, and it's a peaceful time to explore the lake.
• Autumn (April – May): Autumn provides a quieter experience, with stunning fall foliage around the lake. The weather is still relatively mild, but the number of visitors drops significantly.
• Winter (June – September): Winter offers a serene, snow-covered landscape and fewer crowds. However, some activities may be limited due to the cold, and the weather can be harsh. Winter is best for those who enjoy winter landscapes and solitude.

Conclusion

Lago Argentino is a natural wonder that offers a wealth of activities and breathtaking landscapes. From its towering glaciers and icebergs to its picturesque lakesides and rich wildlife, the lake is a must-see destination for nature lovers, adventurers, and anyone visiting the Patagonian region of Argentina. Whether you’re interested in glacier cruises, trekking, fishing, or simply soaking in the awe-inspiring beauty, Lago Argentino provides an unforgettable experience that showcases the natural splendor of Patagonia.