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Argentina , Patagonia

Visiting el chalten: all you need to know (2024 guide).

El Chalten is a beautiful mountain town in the heart of one of South America’s most stunning National Parks, Los Glaciares National Park. Known as the hiking capital of Argentina , El Chalten is one of the most famous hiking destinations in the world.

El Chalten had been at the top of my bucket lisoet for years . I had planned to go in 2020, but a certain pandemic put a stop to that. In 2024, I finally got to spend an entire week in El Chalten as part of a backpacking trip to Argentina. This gave me plenty of time to explore the many hiking trails, test out the best food and discover what else there is to do in the area. It’s become one of my favourite places in the entire world.  

In this guide, I’ve shared all you need to know about visiting El Chalten. This includes how to get to El Chalten, the best food, the best hiking trails in El Chalten and some backpacking tips.

Despite being nestled in the Patagonian Mountains, El Chalten is surprisingly easy to get to and attracts thousands of tourists every year. The town is built around tourism and the main street is lined with bakeries, restaurants, hotels, and bars. Despite being a popular tourist destination, El Chalten is an outdoor lovers’ paradise.

Surrounded by magnificent scenery including the towering Mount Fitz Roy and several glaciers, El Chalten is one of the most stunning places I have ever visited.

Most people who visit El Chalten plan to hike at least one of the famous hiking trails. But if you’re not a fan of hiking, El Chalten is still well worth a quick visit. The town is surrounded by spectacular scenery and there’s a selection of other outdoor activities on offer.

One of my favourite things about El Chalten is the atmosphere. It’s like a ski town, but for hiking instead. As everyone returns from their hikes, the bars fill up with people drinking and making the most of the happy hours. It’s a fantastic spot and I’m already planning my return.

Table of Contents

How to get to El Chalten? (Without a car)

Getting to El Chalten without a car is very straightforward. Patagonia has an extensive bus network connecting all the major visitor spots.

For most people heading to El Chalten, the easiest route is flying to El Calafate and getting a coach, shuttle, or taxi from there. The drive from El Calafate to El Chalten takes about 2 ½ hours. The coaches can collect you directly from El Calafate Airport or the town centre.

I suggest booking your bus through Bus Bud – this website is the best way to book buses in Patagonia.

There are several companies that operate this route including El Chalten Travel, Taqsa Marga, and Cal-Tur. Honestly, they are all pretty much the same. I would choose the bus which suits your schedule rather than worrying about which company to choose.

Sit on the bus’s left side for the best views. If you’re lucky enough to drive to El Chalten on a clear day, you’ll be rewarded with some of the most incredible scenery. Unfortunately, the buses don’t make any stops for photos.  

During the peak season, there are several flights a day to El Calafate from Buenos Aires , Ushuaia, and Bariloche. In the winter, there are fewer flights and generally only from Buenos Aires.

El Calafate is also well-connected by bus to other destinations in the area. This includes Rio Gallegos, Bariloche, and Puerto Natales (if coming from Torres Del Paine National Park). Just be prepared for some long bus rides!

If you do want to hire a car, you can pick this up at the El Calafate airport. It’s a very easy drive with paved roads. You’ll also be able to stop at the viewpoints.

Tip : don’t miss visiting the Perito Moreno Glacier which is close to El Calafate. It’s one of the most breathtaking things I have ever seen in all my travels. There’s even the opportunity to hike on the glacier .

How many days to spend in El Chalten?

There are a few things to consider when deciding how long to spend in El Chalten. For some, two days is plenty of time. For others, a week isn’t long enough. I spent a week in El Chalten and could easily have stayed longer.

If you’re a keen hiker, I’d suggest spending at least five days in El Chalten. This will allow you to make the most of the hiking trails, have a rest day, and be flexible with the weather.

If you’re not planning to do much hiking, then two or three nights is plenty of time.

The weather is another thing to consider when it comes to deciding how long you want to spend in El Chalten. The chances of having several consecutive days of sunshine and no wind are very low.

While it’s all very well and good to say you’re happy to hike in bad weather, this can be dangerous in Patagonia. I had to turn around on a hike as it was too windy. An experienced hiker ahead of me told me he had nearly got blown off a ridge. This is why it’s a good idea to give yourself some extra days to be flexible with the weather.

Out of my seven days in El Chalten, only four of them were good for hiking (which according to the staff at my hostel, is pretty good going). 

Here’s how long I suggest spending in El Chalten:

For avid hikers who want to hit as many trails as possible : 5-7 days

For those who want to just do the main hikes: 3 days

For those who don’t plan to do any long hikes: 1 or 2 days

Best time of year to visit El Chalten

The best time to visit El Chalten is during the summer months of December through March . While it can be very windy during these months, the days are generally a good temperature for hiking.

It’s important to note that the summer is the peak season in Patagonia. Prices will be higher, accommodation booked out well ahead of time and the hiking trails can often be crowded.

To avoid the crowds, consider visiting in the shoulder season months of November or April .

It’s technically possible to visit El Chalten during the winter months (May to October), but many tourist services will be closed. The snow in the area can be extreme and it’s unlikely any of the hiking trails will be accessible (unless you’re a very experienced hiker with the correct equipment).

Solo travel in El Chalten

If you’re questioning solo travel in Patagonia, don’t worry! I backpacked around Argentinian Patagonia as a solo female traveller with no issues whatsoever.

El Chalten is a very friendly, welcoming town and no one cares that you’re by yourself. I found the hostels to be social, so you’ll likely meet people.

Of course, hiking alone can be a scary prospect and it’s reasonable to be a little nervous. I did all my hikes in El Chalten by myself and never once felt unsafe. The popular trails are filled with hikers so you’re never fully alone.

When hiking by yourself , it’s important to let someone know where you’re going, even if it’s a friend back home. Make sure you have a map of the trail downloaded offline ( AllTrails is great for this) and take plenty of food and water. The mountains in El Chalten can be dangerous so always stick to the main hiking trails.

Patagonia turned out to be one of my favourite destinations for solo travel. There’s something so special about being out in those mountains alone and having the freedom to go at your own pace. Related read: Solo Hiking Tips

Where to stay in El Chalten

There is no shortage of accommodation in El Chalten. Most buildings in the town accommodate tourists in one way or another. You’ll find a range of hostels, luxury hotels, bed & breakfasts, and cabin-style accommodations (even tiny homes!).

I would like to say there is something to suit every budget in El Chalten, but unfortunately, the prices here are very high! Even in the off-season, prices can feel extortionate compared to some destinations.

I ended up staying in a budget hostel reminiscent of a tea house in Nepal. It had a lovely atmosphere but was very basic… yet it was one of the most expensive hostels I’ve ever stayed in! Just be prepared to pay a lot for what feels like very little, especially in the high season.

Here are a few ideas for where to stay in El Chalten.

There are several fantastic hostels in El Chalten. I stayed in the Refugio El Chalten Hostel . As I mentioned above, it was very basic but felt sufficient. It had a great atmosphere. The Rancho Aparte Hostel is another popular choice for backpackers in Patagonia.

Mid-range in El Chalten is certainly on the more expensive side, but some popular options include Hosteria Senderos and Hotel Poincenot .

Destino Sur Hotel & Spa de Montaña is one of the nicest hotels in El Chalten. It’s a little bit away from the centre, but easily walkable to all the restaurants and bars. Los Cerros del Chaltén Boutique Hotel is another great spot in a more convenient location.

There are several “Estancias” close to El Chalten. An Estancia is a ranch or farm, but they often have accommodations for guests.

I wish I had got to experience an Estancia on my trip, but unfortunately, they don’t come cheap.

Estancia Bonanza is one of the most famous Estancias near El Chalten. Breakfast, lunch, and dinner are included too which is a bonus! You’ll need a car to get there as it’s well away from the town.

Something unique

For a unique stay, consider the Patagonia Eco Domes . Each dome has a bed and boasts epic views of Fitz Roy.  Meals are also included (but you’ll need a car to reach here). Chalten Camp offers a similar experience.

Camping in El Chalten

Camping is a popular choice and budget-friendly option in the El Chalten area. You can hire equipment in the town itself or bring your own tent.

There are several campsites in the town of El Chalten, as well as campsites on the famous hiking trails.

Check out this full guide to camping in El Chalten .

Day trip to El Chalten from El Calafate

It’s entirely possible to visit El Chalten as a day trip from El Calafate. The mountain town is only 215km from El Calafate and the drive takes about 2 ½ hours.

You can drive yourself by renting a car, or opt to join an organised tour.

During the summer months in Patagonia, the days are long and the sun doesn’t set till after 10 pm. This gives you plenty of time to drive to El Chalten, hike, and drive back to El Calafate.

If you’re choosing to join a tour, I suggest this organised tour which gives you time to go hiking. It won’t be long enough for Fitz Roy, but you can potentially squeeze in Laguna Torre or Laguna Capri.

I much preferred El Chalten over El Calafate. If you can, try and spend a couple of days in El Chalten. It’s a magnificent spot.

Where to eat in El Chalten

I’m not sure where to start with this one. Everything I ate in El Chalten was delicious. I had the best pizza, the best sandwich, the best pasta, and the best cake of my life in El Chalten. Not what I was expecting in a small mountain town in the middle of Patagonia…

I could sit and write for hours about all the amazing places to try, but here are a few of my favourites.

El Chalten cafes

There’s no shortage of cafes in El Chalten. I had some of the best coffee and pastries of my life in the cafes there. The main street of San Martin is lined with cafes and bakeries, and I didn’t have a single bad experience.

Tip : most cafes open around 8 am, so if you’re hitting the hiking trails before this, you will have to go without a coffee.

For tasty coffee, I recommend trying La Nieve Café or Lo De Haydee (they do great cinnamon buns!).

If you’re after a bigger breakfast, brunch, or lunch, I can’t recommend Brunch enough. The food here was great. It’s off the main street as well so was a little quieter than other spots.

Mathilda Resto also has a great brunch menu which is very reasonably priced. For some cake, try Vouna … best carrot cake of my life. They also sell cheese and ham here which was a bit nicer than what I found in the supermarkets.

El Chalten restaurants and bars

If you’re after a bigger meal, you’ll be pleased to hear there are plenty of restaurants to choose from in El Chalten.

For pizza, Laborum is a MUST. I don’t say this lightly, this was the BEST pizza I’ve ever eaten in my entire life. Fair enough, I had just done a 30km hike… but the reviews on Google say it all. It’s an absolute must while you’re in El Chalten. Get there early as it’s very small with limited tables.

Patagonicus is another great spot for pizza (and Italian food). They serve up a range of pasta and do half portions of pizzas. The prices here are reasonable too.

Speaking of Italian food, don’t miss a trip to Maffia . This small Italian restaurant in El Chalten serves up homemade pasta.

If you’re after one of the best sandwiches or burgers in El Chalten, visit La Lomiteria . This fast-food spot makes incredible sandwiches and burgers. They were so delicious I went there twice. They have some great vegetarian options as well.

The main street of El Chalten is lined with various bars which also serve food. Don’t miss Bandidos Patagonicos for easy pub-style food (and great craft beer), La Vinerua Grill for steak and Chica Ramen for your Japanese food fix (yes, they have a Japanese restaurant in El Chalten).

Finally, if you’re vegetarian, there are several fantastic options. I had lunch at Curcuma Cocina Vegana where everything is plant-based. If you prefer to cook for yourself, stop by the Puentes Amarillos store . This supermarket is focused on health foods with plenty of vegetarian options. This includes tofu and hummus (plus the only place in El Chalten where I could find pesto!).

Hiking in El Chalten

El Chalten is the hiking capital of Argentina, so it goes without saying that one of the best things to do in El Chalten is… hiking!

While the focus is mainly on the famous Fitz Roy Hike (Laguna de Los Tres), there’s an array of other hiking trails which are equally as impressive.

If you’re not a fan of hiking, there are a few short hikes in El Chalten as well, so there’s something to suit everyone.

I’ve written a whole guide on the best hikes in El Chalten , but here’s a quick overview.

Mount Fitz Roy (Laguna de Los Tres)

This is one of the most popular hikes in Argentina and all of South America (and for good reason!). Honestly, if you only do one hike while you’re in El Chalten, make it this one.

The hike gets you as close as possible to the incredible Mount Fitz Roy and the glacial lake of Laguna de Los Tres. It’s truly one of the most beautiful hikes I have ever done anywhere in the entire world.

The hike is a big one – it’s 13.7 miles (22km) return with over 1000m (3500 feet) in elevation gain (a big chunk of that is in the last km too!). It can take 7-9 hours to complete the hike, so certainly isn’t one for beginners.

It’s a well-marked and straightforward hike. The main challenge is the final km where you gain 400ft of elevation. It’s incredibly steep and there are lots of loose rocks and gravel. I promise it’s worth it though.

Laguna Capri

If the Fitz Roy (Lagune De Los Tres) hike sounds like too much of a challenge for you, you can hike just part of the trail to Laguna Capri.

This beautiful loop walk takes you to Laguna Capri where there are some beautiful views of Fitz Roy. The hike is only 6 miles (10km) and you are rewarded with some incredible views. It takes most people around 4 hours (round trip) to do this hike.

Laguna Torre

The other major day hike in El Chalten is Laguna Torre. This hike takes you out to a beautiful glacial lake where you’re rewarded with views of the Cerro Torre mountain and Glacier Torre.

The hike is 11 miles (18km) long but is flat for the most part (once the first hour is out of the way anyway). It’s an incredibly popular hike as it’s much easier than the nearby Fitz Roy Hike, with almost equally as beautiful views (sorry – but it doesn’t get much better than the views from the Fitz Roy Hike).

For those who want to do a shorter version of the Laguna Torre hike, you can hike about an hour to a viewpoint of the mountain and glacier before turning around.

Chorillo Del Salto

This short hike to a beautiful waterfall is the easiest in El Chalten. You can either walk the flat trail from the town itself or drive to a nearby parking lot (from here it’s a few minutes walk to the waterfall).  

It took me about an hour each way from the town, but it’s completely flat making it nice and easy.

The trail begins at the North end of Avenida San Martin. This is where you’ll also find the trailhead for the Mount Fitz Roy / Laguna de Los Tres hike.

Mirador de Los Condores

This short hike is another popular hike in El Chalten. It takes you to a viewpoint above the town where you’re rewarded with incredible views of Fitz Roy (on a clear day), and the town itself. If you’re lucky, you’ll also get to see some condors flying.

The hike is only 1.6 miles (2.6km) long. It’s a little bit steep but most people reach the viewpoint within 30-minutes.

This is another popular hike with lots of people walking up to the viewpoint. Try and get on the trail as early as you can to avoid the crowds. I also recommend walking the loop to Mirador Las Aguilas. The views from there are incredible and there are way fewer people.

Tip : if you’re looking for multi-day hikes, consider hiking the Huemul Circuit .

Check back soon for my full hiking guide for El Chalten.

Other things to do in El Chalten (that’s not hiking)

While hiking is the main draw to El Chalten, there are several other exciting things to do in the area. The main street has a few agencies selling various tours and outdoor activities.

Here are some of the top things to do in El Chalten that don’t involve hiking.

Kayaking (or river rafting)

There is the option to kayak down the beautiful Rio De las Vueltas. This glacial river is surrounded by impressive scenery. The tour is sold at several tour agencies in the town.

For those who want something a bit more adventurous, there’s also the option to go rafting.

Horse riding

Have you been to Patagonia if you haven’t been horseback riding? Doing it in the area surrounding Mount Fitz Roy is a bucket list-worthy activity.

There are horse riding tours for all abilities available in the town including at the famous Estancia Bonanza.

Mountain Biking

Estancia Bonanza is also home to a stunning mountain bike trail . Spend two hours cycling through the incredible scenery.

It’s also common for people to hire bikes and cycle to Lago Del Desierto.

Visit Lago Del Desierto  

This beautiful lake is just over an hour’s drive from El Chalten. You can drive there yourself and walk one of the hiking trails or join an organised tour.

Many of the tours also include a boat trip. You’ll find the tour being sold in the town of El Chalten.

As mentioned above, cycling from El Chalten to Lago Del Desierto is a popular option. There are some incredible views along the way. I hope to do this when I return to El Chalten.

Glacier Ice Trekking and Via Ferrata

If you want something more challenging than your regular glacier walk, consider trekking across the Cagliero Glacier.

You’ll need to join an organised tour to do this , but it’s certainly a unique activity.

The tour consists of a regular hike, rock climbing, via Ferrata and finally, a glacier hike. No experience is required but it’s a tough activity so you’ll need a good fitness level.

Wander the town

El Chalten is a cute little town. It has a unique charming feel to it. It’s almost like a ski town except for hiking instead. Once everyone finishes their hikes, the bars and restaurants fill up with everyone making the most of the readily available happy hours.

I spent a day in the town café hopping and wandering around. There are a few nice souvenir shops as well as an art gallery.  

Related read: did you know there is a petrified forest near El Chalten? Find out all you need to know about visiting La Leona Petrified Forest .

Do you need a car in El Chalten?

No, you don’t need to rent a car in El Chalten. I debated hiring one and I’m glad I didn’t. All the main hiking trails are well within walking distance from anywhere in the town. There are also taxis available if you did for some reason need one.

Of course, if you want to venture further afield then a car may come in handy. But I don’t think it’s necessary at all. You can walk the length of the entire town in about 15 minutes.

The only real downside of being without a car is being unable to stop on the drive into El Chalten. This is meant to be one of the most beautiful drives in the world. The main buses won’t stop, but some of the private shuttle buses do.

El Chalten packing list

This packing list for El Chalten is for those planning to hit the hiking trails. I’ve left out the obvious but shared a few must-haves.

• Layers! Even if you’re visiting El Chalten in the summer, it can still be cold (especially at night). The summer is also known for its incredibly strong winds.  Make sure you have plenty of layers for your hikes. This includes long-sleeved shirts, thin fleeces, and a down jacket.
• Hiking boots . Many of the hikes in the El Chalten area are serious hikes. You’ll need sensible hiking shoes with strong ankle support. (Sidenote: I saw a girl attempt Fitz Roy in Converse, she did not have fun on the rocks and gravel!)
• Windproofs and waterproofs . The weather in Patagonia can be extreme, especially the wind and rain. Make sure to pack a waterproof coat and waterproof trousers. Try and find a jacket that’s also windproof to keep that chill away.
• Cooler clothes . Patagonia can be cold and wet, but it can also be very warm during the day. Trust me, when you’re on a hike and that sun is blazing it can get HOT . Make sure you’re prepared for all weather.
• Sun protection . Don’t forget a sun hat and SPF when visiting El Chalten.
• Hiking poles . Some of the hikes in El Chalten can be very steep on loose terrain. It’s not a bad idea to use hiking poles, especially if you’ve had knee issues in the past. You can bring them with you or rent them in the town.
• Day bag . If you’re tackling one of the longer hikes in El Chalten, you’re going to need a bag to carry your food and water.
• Lunch bags/Tupperware . You’ll need to carry lunch with you on the hikes. I suggest bringing some ziplock bags or reusable lunch containers for this.

Other tips for your trip to El Chalten

Bring cash! You’ll struggle without cash in El Chalten. While many El Chalten restaurants, shops and hotels do accept card, it’s not uncommon for their system to go down due to poor reception. Additionally, you’ll find the conversion rate is much higher when using a card. Hotels will add a charge to card transactions. Bring plenty of cash (get your cash before coming to El Chalten).

Withdrawing cash in Argentina

I recommend using Western Union Bank to withdraw money in Argentina.

ATMs in Argentina have small withdrawal limits and high fees. One bank only let me withdraw USD 10 and expected me to pay a USD 8 fee for doing so!

Western Union saved the day. You send them money and then go into any branch to collect it. There is no limit (in Buenos Aires), and your first withdrawal is free. There are no Western Unions in El Chalten. I’d advise withdrawing money in Buenos Aires. There is a branch in El Calafate but it often runs out of money and has a limit.

Expect all types of weather . The weather in Patagonia is extreme and it’s not uncommon to experience all four seasons in a day. Even if visiting Patagonia in the summer months, bring plenty of layers and waterproof clothing.

Related read: all you need to know about visiting Buenos Aires

Be prepared for high prices . El Chalten is not cheap. I stayed in one of the most basic hostels I’ve ever stayed in, yet it was also the most expensive. Food prices are also incredibly high. A dinner out can easily set you back around USD 15. The prices in the supermarkets are also high. Alcohol prices are on the more reasonable side, with most bars offering a happy hour with a selection of craft beers.

There’s poor Wi-Fi . Even the “best” wi-fi in El Chalten is bad. It went down altogether several times when I visited. It’s also worth noting that the 4G reception is poor. Everything takes a long time to load. Don’t expect to make video calls or stream movies while you’re in El Chalten. 

Hit the hiking trails early . Some of the popular hiking trails in El Chalten get painfully busy. In the summer months, the days are long and most people seem to start their hikes mid-morning. Try and get on the trails as early as possible to avoid the rush.

Summary: is El Chalten worth visiting?

If there is only one place you visit in Patagonia, make it El Chalten. This incredible little mountain town is well worth visiting. It’s completely won my heart.

El Chalten had been on my bucket list for years and it did anything but disappoint. This charming town has a wonderful atmosphere and is an outdoor lover’s paradise.

Even if you’re not the biggest fan of hiking, El Chalten is still worth visiting. The scenery surrounding the town is beautiful and you could easily fill a day by doing a short hike and wandering the town.

I can’t wait to be back in El Chalten soon.

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Chalten Travel Turismo - All You Need to Know BEFORE You Go (2024)

The Partying Traveler

Survival of the littest.

The Backpacker’s Guide to El Chalten, Argentina

I had dreamed of visiting El Chalten for years. When I finally made it there, it blew away even my loftiest expectations. This little village deep in Argentinian Patagonia was my idea of a perfect travel destination. A small, walkable town tucked away between dense forests, majestic mountain ranges, roaring rivers and nature in all of its untamed glory. The village itself was littered with breweries and bars for post-trekking happy hours. I seriously couldn’t ask for more. Even the bleak Wi-Fi and cell signal situation could not bring me down in a place like this. In fact, it might have only improved the experience. Despite the monstrous expectations that I had set for El Chalten, it had met and exceeded all of them.

As a backpacker, El Chalten is a destination that most of us could only imagine up. My love for the mountains is no secret. As we reached the twentieth hour of the bus ride from Esquel, the sun started to rise. The morning light set the Patagonian landscapes ablaze with soft hues of pink and purple. Fitz Roy started peeking out from the background, jutting into the skies as I smushed my face onto the window to try and get a better view. My eight month journey throughout South America was coming to its dramatic climax, as my dream destinations of El Chalten, Perito Moreno Glacier, Torres del Paine National Park, and Ushuaia were all finally within reach.

Of course, for those of you that have kept up with my coronavirus ordeals, it wasn’t to be so. My journey ended in El Calafate shortly after having to flee an El Chalten under lockdown. It was a bitter irony for me. I slowly worked my way down to Patagonia thinking to myself that the lengthy journey would make the reward even more sweet. I had to fly home from El Calafate before I could cross off the rest of my Patagonian bucket list, but I was at least able to experience El Chalten.

Those six days in El Chalten were enough for me to know that it would be a place that I would be coming back to in the future. Never had I felt so free in a little village before. Everywhere you looked, there were mountains. The strong winds of Patagonia would often make you feel like you were flying, and in a place like this, it was hard not to feel like you were. My time in El Chalten made me feel both like a powerful conqueror and a powerless conquer-ee. Nature is as humbling as it is inspiring, and never have I felt as in tune with nature as I did in El Chalten.

How To Get To El Chalten

El Chalten is one of the most popular stops along a Patagonian road trip. If a road trip isn’t your style, the quickest way to get to El Chalten is to fly to El Calafate airport and then catch a bus. The ride costs about $20 and lasts around three hours. If you are traveling by bus or by Ruta 40 from north to south, then you’ll likely need to find a Marga Taqsa ticket booth. Marga Taqsa is the only bus company that currently does routes from all the way north, such as Bariloche , El Bolson, Esquel, and more.

The adventurous soul could also hitchhike down Ruta 40. Plenty of travelers and road trippers make this same journey, and with Ruta 40 being the main road spanning almost all of Argentine Patagonia, you’re guaranteed to find someone going the same way. 

The Best Things To Do In El Chalten

El Chalten was named the national capital of trekking by Argentina, a title that is more than well-deserved. There are dozens and dozens of hikes that one could go on in El Chalten, as it is located ideally right at the doorstep of Parque Nacional Los Glaciares. It is going to be impossible to do all of the hiking that El Chalten and the surrounding national parks offer, but these are the essentials. Throw in a few other adventures like horseback riding and rock climbing, and you’ve got more adventure than you could ask for.

Laguna de los Tres

Laguna Torre

Hike to Laguna Torre

For most travelers, this is the must-do hike when in El Chalten. It is a challenging 20+ kilometer round trip from the trailhead, but well worth the struggle. This is where you will catch the iconic view of Cerro Fitz Roy from the laguna at its base. A lot of people try to trek here for sunrise, which warrants a wake up call of around 2 AM, or a scramble for the limited campsites in the area. No matter what time of day you go, it is a stunner.

Huemul Circuit

Laguna madre y la hija, laguna capri.

You’ll pass this laguna on the way up to Laguna de los Tres, and it’s honestly an attraction in itself. There’s a campsite here along the lake, which would be the star of El Chalten if it weren’t for Lagunas Torre and de los Tres.

Mirador de los Condores y Aguiles

Chorrillo de salta.

At the trailhead to Laguna de los Tres is another trailhead. This one is to one of the lesser-visited destinations in El Chalten, the  Chorrillo de Salta waterfalls . If you’ve got time to kill in El Chalten, this makes for a great starter hike with some even greater views.

Lago del Desierto and Glacier Huemul

Along with all of these epic treks, there are lots of other non-hiking outdoor activities in El Chalten. Among the most popular ones are rock climbing , bouldering, kayaking, rafting, and horseback riding.

Where To Stay in El Chalten

The cabin-style hotels and  hostels in El Chalten  only add to the magic of this little backpacker haven. Make sure to bring cash because most hostels will offer discounts if paid for in cash. For example, when I stayed at Patagonia Traveler’s Hostel, I was able to get the price down to 1000 pesos per night by paying with cash, as opposed to 1300 if I paid with card. 

Location doesn’t matter too much in El Chalten since the little village is very small and walkable. It takes about 15 minutes to walk from one side of town to the other. The Wi-Fi is also almost universally bad throughout El Chalten. You’d be lucky to have a hostel that didn’t experience internet outages for hours at a time. The main things to consider when choosing a hostel in El Chalten is its social atmosphere, common kitchen space, and price.

Accommodation in Patagonia will be more expensive than the rest of South America. A shared hostel room in El Chalten will likely run you a minimum of $15, depending on what the exchange rate chooses to be while you are in Argentina. Seriously, it can be a wild crapshoot. Like I said, paying with cash can get you sizeable discounts, and I was paying the equivalent of about $13 a night for the hostel I stayed in. I’ve seen nicer hostels go all the way up to $25-30 for a shared room. Let’s be honest. After a long day of trekking, you won’t have problems falling asleep wherever you lay your head.

My favorite hostel that I stayed at was Patagonia Travelers’ Hostel. It was affordable and had everything you needed. The Wi-Fi was actually decent and it has a wide array of common rooms to choose from. It looks more like a hotel when you walk in but you will undoubtedly meet fellow travelers and backpackers in your room or the common areas. It is located as centrally as can be in El Chalten, so about a 7 or 8 minute walk in either direction to the bus station or the entrance of the national park.

Other good ones include Hostel del Lago and Pioneros del Valle for cheaper accommodation and Rancho Grande and Aylen-Aike for people looking to shell out a bit more for the added comfort.

Nightlife in El Chalten

El Chalten knows what the people want. For a town with a population of only about 450 permanent residents year-round, El Chalten has an abundance of breweries, bars, and restaurants. El Chalten even has a nightclub, or  boliche  if we’re using Argentine-speak. Unfortunately, the nightclub was closed as coronavirus started to make its way to Argentina, so I can’t give you the low-down on that right now. I’m certain I’ll be back one day to take over the dance floor, though.

The main street of San Martin is where you’ll find most of these establishments, many of which are much nicer than you’d expect for a small town. Here are some of my favorite places to have a drink in El Chalten:

• My personally favorite spot in El Chalten. The music’s always bumping and it’s got great happy hour deals. Oh yeah, and the view. The view is to die for.
• Exactly what it sounds like. Good beer and good burgers. Simple as that.
• My other favorite, mainly because their loaded fries were the perfect counter-balance to a long day of hiking. It’s a smaller joint but it’s got great beer and great food.
• One of your best bets for a late night in El Chalten. We ended up here a few times because the other bars tend to shut down pretty early. However, Rancho Grande is usually open all night, restaurant included so it’s where people flock to for late night eats.
• El Chalten is expensive. La Vineria is not. For the best bang for your buck, come here for there several-hour-long happy hour. Like their name suggests, they do wine as well as beer. I also would recommend the mulled wine, if not for the taste, for the warmth it gives your hands on a cold El Chalten night.

How To Travel El Chalten On A Budget

Like most places in Patagonia, El Chalten is more expensive than the rest of Argentina. Its remote location and popularity as a tourist destination means that pretty much everything is more expensive here. Hostels and other accommodation, restaurants and bars, and even supermarkets will be pricier than what you are used to. In the supermarkets, I was paying maybe double what one would pay in other places in Argentina. They even have a special price for the locals just because even they know their prices are ridiculously high.

However, there are still plenty of ways to stick to a budget. Like I mentioned before, bring a lot of cash as you will either get a discount or avoid surcharges for paying with a credit card. There are no reliable places to withdraw cash in El Chalten, so stock up before you get here.

Here are some of the best ways to travel in El Chalten on a budget.

Volunteer At A Hostel

There are no shortage of hostels in El Chalten, and many of which would be happy to take on volunteers. You can reach out to hostels beforehand to see if any of them are in need of volunteers. However, be prepared to stay at least two weeks. Most hostels will only take on volunteers if they can stay longer-term or offer something that other employees or volunteers can’t. For example, I am often able to stay at hostels for free in exchange for photography work or promotion on my blog and social media pages. If you have a similar talent, you might be able to work something out.

I’d say nearly every other building in El Chalten is a hostel or hotel, so you could just go door-to-door once you arrive in the village. Sometimes, it is more effective to talk to them up front than it is to reach out via email. El Chalten has notoriously bad Wi-Fi so it isn’t easy to get in touch right away.

Cooking Your Own Food

I was a hungry boy in El Chalten. Between all that trekking, there is not much else to do but stuff your face to regain all those calories that you’ve lost. Unfortunately, El Chalten’s restaurant scene is not very cheap. Neither are the supermarkets, but you will save a significant amount of money cooking your own meals. My hostel charged 350 pesos for breakfast. I could make the same thing for about 50 pesos from the supermarket. Eggs, rice, meat, pasta, fruits, and vegetables are all much more affordable at supermarkets in El Chalten.

Renting Or Buying A Tent and Camping Equipment

Some hostels will offer you discounted rates if you bring your own tent. You’ll be able to use all of the hostel facilities and amenities without paying the price for a dorm. Normally, you would pay about 1,000 pesos or more for a dorm bed. With a tent and your own sleeping bag , most hostels will usually only charge about 400 pesos.

If you are looking for campsites outside of town, there are plenty of those as well. Unlike the Chilean side of Patagonia, entrance to Argentina’s national parks around El Chalten are free. There are plenty of campsites to choose from, although the hikes are always much more grueling with your entire pack on your back.

Hitchhiking

Hitchhiking is a very common and popular means of getting around in Patagonia. You know how it’s done. While you don’t necessarily need to hitchhike for any of the treks in El Chalten itself, there are a few further away attractions that might need you to catch a ride with someone.

Hitching a ride to El Calafate is also a popular option for travelers looking to save a bit of money. A bus will cost you about $15-20 from El Chalten to El Calafate. Hitchhiking etiquette is usually between you and your ride, so I can’t really say whether or not there is a standard to tipping or paying around these parts. I’d say it’s a good idea to offer them some money as a way of saying thanks and whether they accept it or not is up to them.

I would be going on and on forever if I had to keep rattling off all of the things I love about El Chalten. I keep fumbling my words just trying to describe it with any semblance of the justice it deserves. El Chalten has a vibe to it that is difficult to put into words. It is one of my happy places, to put it simply. Give yourself plenty of time in this action-packed little village in the mountains.

If this post helped you out, show some love and support for the blog and help keep my adventures going by  buying me a beer ! My adventures are entirely self-funded, so any show of support is greatly appreciated, and allows me to keep writing helpful travel guides and creating travel content to help you all travel the world on a budget.

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11 thoughts on “ the backpacker’s guide to el chalten, argentina ”.

Oh this is amazing. I had no idea Argentina looks like this. I’d love to be surrounded by mountains. I must go! Mich X

Wow, these photos are amazing! Definitely adding this to my travel bucket list.

Best, Emily https://emilyltran.com/

Hoping to be in Argentina next year depending on international travel situation – after reading this I’m definitely adding El Chalten to my plans! Looks breathtaking – stunning pics

Looks like the mountain in Argentina are different from the rest of the world that I have been visited. It will be in my bucket list.

Awesome photos! These are the kinds of places that I want to visit. Thank you for sharing 🙂 – Dan “Jay” Reyes

I love that your travels are always filled with stunning adventures. These mountains of Patagonia looks amazing and I wish I could visit the village as well to see what you have seen

I love these pictures. So beautiful!

I would love to go backpacking one day. Maybe when my kids are older I can go with my husband.

backpack travellers always makes me curious, how you do that. Great story as always.

Argentina is on my TO DO list for sure! A must see, hopefully next year when things are better.

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Tours & Trips including El Chalten

Find the right tour for you through El Chalten. We've got 93 adventures going to El Chalten, starting from just 2 days in length, and the longest tour is 26 days. The most popular month to go is December, which has the largest number of tour departures.

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93 el chalten tour packages with 535 reviews.

• Hiking & Trekking
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Patagonia Trekking: El Chalten – 3 Days

Amazing Experience , Highly Recommended

• In-depth Cultural

Treasures of Patagonia

First part of the tour: Los Glacieres Hotel in El Calafate and tour of Perito Moreno Glacier. First of all, the tour guide and bus driver for SayHueque (Sebastien & Daniela) were great. We were picked up as scheduled, the drive was good and safe and Daniela spoke perfect English and gave us detailed information throughout the day. Highly recommend this tour group. The hotel was OK, room mostly clean and comfortable (one of the rooms had a stained bedspread). Breakfast was on the simple side compared to other hotels. Box lunch also very simple. Loved the tour of the Perito Morino Glacier. 2nd part, tour to El Chalten. Did not enjoy the tour company as much. They were nice enough but didn't pick us up in a timely manner. The guide was nice but spoke mostly Spanish on the tour. My husband and I were the only two English people and he barely gave us 5 minutes of instructions. We were supposed to stop at the Park Office for information but they never did stop. The hotel, Pudo Lodge was nice and comfortable. Wifi only available in lobby and still not very good. The box lunch was fabulous. Staff were friendly and helpful. Note that the brochure you have us has some errors in it. We expected a box lunch in El Chalten and had an embarrassing discussion with the hotel about this. It turns out that part of your brochure talks about Torres del Pain and not El Chalten, thus the confusion. I cannot attach the copy of the brochure here but can send it to you if you provide an email address. Overall we were very satisfied with the services of Tourradar and SayHueque. Thank you

Highlights El Calafate & El Chalten

Our trip to Patagonia is something that I will never forget. I was willing to travel to Patagonia a long time ago and everything went as it was planned. Hotel Las Dunas and Hotel Chalten Suites were very nice hotels to stay and a special note to Pablo, the guide who joined us at El Chalten during the treks to Laguna de los tres and Torre Mount. We will definetely come back to Patagonia soon.

Essencial Patagonia: El Calafate & El Chalten with Camp

Fantastic Experience. Flor is a very pasionate person with lot of experience.

El Calafate & El Chalten Full Day – 4 Nights

This is a great tour to get a glance of Patagonia if you have limited time and budget. The third day which is free allows either for relaxation in El Calafate or another adventure. We went to Torres del Paine in Chile which was a long day trip but definitely worth it.

Mountain Escape – Patagonia: El Chalten – 5 Days

The guide and porter, Pedro and Miguel, were fantastic. Pedro is very knowledgeable about the route, the terrain, what conditions are safe and the best techniques to mitigate for icy, snowy terrains etc. He also knew everything about the areas history, culture, traditions, wildlife etc. He was very patient and also kept up the motivation on what is a very demanding route. Miguel was our porter. He is a stoic quiet man but funny, and friendly. Miguel has some fantastic stories too. He is a trained mountain rescuer so I felt very safe with him accompanying us on some of the more challenging passes. The route itself was difficult and risky in places, but enjoyable. It is not for the faint hearted but the risk was rewarded with amazing views. Recommendations for the tour opporator would be to send the itinerary in English and perhaps a packing list.

Patagonia Glaciers Eco-Trek 3D/2N

• 10% deposit on some dates Some departure dates offer you the chance to book this tour with a lower deposit.

El Chalten + El Calafate, Glaciers and Trekking (5 nights)

9 Days Trekking to Discover the best of Torres del Paine & El Chalten, with a visit to Moreno Glacier @ El Calafate

Overall, I thought this was a pretty great trip package! The BIG highlights are of course Mount Fitz Roy and Laguna Torre (El Chalten), Glacier Perito Moreno (El Calafate), and Base Las Torres (Torres Del Paine, Chile). I personally thought the initial hike of the trip though (on the 2nd day) called Laguna Amarga was a little basic, short, and not overly fascinating or challenging and maybe could've been replaced with something else? But that said, we still saw some guanacos (llama-like animals) on the path and the bulk of the Los Torres park mountains in the distance during that hike. So I guess it was okay. In terms of the accommodations, I was very very pleased with the selection, especially the first and last hotels (in Puerto Natalas, Chile, and El Chalten, Argentina). They were all pretty bouge-y / snazzy looking places with nice amenities. I wish the hotel in El Chalten had better / faster wifi though. As a side note, I bought a cell data plan for Argentina and only had Edge (slower than 3G) in El Chalten and there were also no cell service on the bus rides / roads between cities. So better and faster wifi especially in this last location would've been nice. In terms of the flow, organization, and execution of the itinerary and this travel company, A+, I must say! Drivers there to pick you up from airport / bus and transfer to hotel, waiting for you with a name card in hand. Good communication from the tour companies if there was a change in itinerary for the following day. Hotels were well picked with breakfasts included. Final thoughts? Look, if you wanted to do all the above highlights for hiking in a more budget-friendly way, sure you can find a way to do it. You can buckle down, search the places, organize the accomodations, stay at cheaper hostels, pay for taxis as you go, organize the bus transfers, not have guides on the hikes and do them all solo, etc. Therefore, you might pay a hair bit more in taking this package than you would if you figured out and just did everything yourself, but you do feel like you're living in the heart of luxury once your done the hikes. And the views and open-air, scenic experiences of those hikes are pretty great, too! 4.5 out of 5 stars

Fitz Roy & Perito Moreno Glacier

The trip was very well organised. I was kind of late with booking two weeks before the departure, but the operators were really quick to respond and did a really good job. I really appreciate that. The tours itself were great! The guides were perfectly informed and super friendly. Especially the last tour with Dani was unique! As we were alone, we decided to adapt the tours a little bit to see more places. It was a bit longer than planned, but totally worth it! Dani teached me a lot about the area of El Chaltén. I wished I had more time to stay with her and do more tours. You could really sense that she loves the place a lot. I really enjoyed our time and I can highly recommend to visit both places, Calafate and El Chaltén. However, for the latter one, I would suggest to stay a bit longer than three days.

• Mountain Hikes

Fitz Roy Patagonia (PRIVATE TRIP)

• Wildlife & Nature Photography

Ushuaia, El Calafate and El Chaltén - 9 nights

We had very good experience. English interpreters were good. Pick up buses were exactly on time. Hotels were good

Patagonia Hiking

Comprehensive , enjoyable

Argentina & Chile: Amazing Patagonia - 9 days

We took a 9 day tour of Patagonia, all organised by Say Hueque. They were absolutely marvellous, took all the hassle out of organising everything ourselves. The hotels they chose were all great, everything went like clockwork. I would not hesitate to recommend Say Hueque!

Customized Private Argentina Tour to Patagonia with Daily Departure

I enjoyed my visit to Argentina very much -- but it would have been even better had I not sustained injuries requiring hospitisation & sutures, plus altitude sickness for the remainder, and the ocean tours in Ushuaia not been all cancelled due to weather.

• Book With Flexibility This operator allows you to rebook your dates or tours with them for free, waiving change fees.

What people love about El Chalten Tours

Practically this is a transport plus accomodation arrangement, plus a one day tour. It suits me fine which give me full flexibility.

Absolutely top marks for the people taking care of me: the hotel staff, drivers, mountain guide, ... They were friendly, accommodating, competent and extremely well-organized. From that point of view, it's five stars. However, there is one detail that I recommend everyone to inquire about before the booking, so you are not disappointed like I was. For any trip, there is a maximum number of people given, 10 in this case, and when I checked for the date that I wanted, it said 5 places left on that trip. That meant 5 people were already booked, right? No such luck, it turned out I was the only participant. Later I realized that this is a default setting, just like the slogan "Filling fast" beside every upcoming start date. Wrong again. This kind of company policy is misleading at best.

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About explora

Destinations, conservation reserves.

• Echo Society
• Patagonia National Park
• Torres del Paine
• A journey to Tierra del Fuego

Sacred Valley & Machu Picchu

• Sacred Valley and Machu Picchu

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• Atacama & Uyuni

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Patagonia, Argentina

• Our Journeys
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Travel Tips

• Important Information
• What to bring
• About El Chaltén

Pick-Up & Drop-Off

• El Calafate Airport and Hotels: Free pick-up shuttle at 12:00 noon from the El Calafate Airport to explora El Chaltén.
• Hotels in El Calafate: Free pick-up shuttle at 11:00 AM (approximate time) from the city’s hotels to explora El Chaltén.

Last-minute flight changes less than 24 hours before check-in may carry an additional cost for travelers if an exclusive transfer is required to pick them up because of that change.

• El Calafate Airport: Leaving the hotel at 08:00 AM to arrive at the airport at 11:30 AM.
• Hotels in El Calafate: Leaving the hotel at 08:00 AM arriving at hotels at 12:00 PM.

You can opt for a private transfer, which has an additional cost. Please contact your reservation executive or get in touch with [email protected] prior to arrival for availability.

*Confirm with your booking agent. **Exclusive for programs with transfer included.

Check-in & Check-out

Check-in: After 13:00 We recommend arriving at noon for an afternoon exploration.

Check-out: 10: 00 We want you to be able to maximize your time during your stay, which is why the possibility of going on a half-day exploration on your check-out day before leaving for the airport (if your flight schedule allows) has been considered.

In this case, you will have to check out at 07:00 before going out to explore, while we watch your bags.

* Lunch service is not included on the day of check-out and is available at an additional charge per person.

**If you want to access to a late check-out for your own convenience, we recommend that you consult availability and rates with our team.

Transfers from/to Torres del Paine

We offer ground transportation by van between Torres del Paine and El Calafate or El Chaltén on certain days of the week.

Travel between the two Explora destinations: Travelers who combine their stays in Explora Torres del Paine and Explora El Chaltén can make the one-way trip without additional cost on Tuesdays, Thursdays or Saturdays. The other days must pay an additional value of USD 350 per person (min 2 travelers).

*The trip between Torres del Paine and El Chaltén is 402 km and takes about 8-9 hours.

• Limited spaces.
• The transfer service only includes passenger pick-up and drop-off between hotels in El Calafate and Explora in Torres del Paine.
• Consult schedules with the reservation team: [email protected]
• Transfer is subject to the calendar between October and April. For other required dates, consult for private transfers.
• Explora does not respond for delays that may occur due to border crossings or road difficulties.

How to get there?

Buenos aires, argentina.

From the Buenos Aires, Argentina Airport: Take a connecting flight to El Calafate. From there, a 137-miles land route takes you to El Chaltén, with a 3-hour traveling time.

Santiago, Chile

From the Santiago de Chile Airport: Take a connecting flight to Punta Arenas or Puerto Natales, and cross the border to Argentina through the Río Don Guillermo border crossing to Calafate. Our team will pick you up here and take you to explora El Chaltén in a van.

Explora en Torres del Paine, Chile

From a stay in Explora: You can travel with us to Explora in El Chaltén in a trip that takes approximately eight hours, with one stop over to eat and rest. This trip has an additional cost that varied depending on the date of your stay.

El Chaltén (town), Argentina

From El Chaltén: If you are traveling in a private or own car, download the indications and google maps route before initiating the trip.

Flights from Argentina

The nearest airport is the Comandante Armando Tola International Airport at El Calafate, located at 137 miles from El Chaltén. Landings are mainly from Buenos Aires, with a non-stop travel time of approximately 3.5 hours. Operating lines are Aerolíneas Argentinas, Jetsmart y Flybondy.

Distance Chart

Pick-up & drop-off.

El Chaltén has a cool and dry mountain weather, with irregular winds. In Patagonia you can experience the four seasons in the same day.

Explora provides travelers with trekking poles and give them a bottle of water.

• A hat for the sun
• Fleece/wool/windproof hat
• 1st layer: T-shirts and thermal underwear
• 2nd layer: Fleece
• 3rd layer: Down jacket
• 4th layer: Waterproof jacket and trousers
• Long- and short sleeve t-shirts
• Hiking trousers and shorts.
• Hiking shoes
• Hiking socks (long)
• Thin gloves
• Windproof gloves
• Waterproof leggings
• Buff or protective neckwear
• Small backpack (25 liters)

El Chaltén has a cool and dry mountain weather, with irregular winds. In Patagonia you can experience the four seasons in the same day. However, there are certain weather events that mark the different periods of the year:

Spring-Summer: From October until March, the weather is mainly temperate, with average temperatures between 10ºC and 20ºC (50ºF and 68ºF). There is sunlight during most of the day and nights are fairly short.

Autumn: Daily sunlight hours and temperatures reduce starting March. Patagonia forest are tinged with classic autumn colors, including red, ocher and yellow.

Winter: They typical Patagonian wind is almost gone during this season. Days are shorter and average temperatures vary between -5ºC and 5ºC (23ºF and 41ºF).

Wi-fi and voltage

• Because we are in remote areas, Wi-Fi access in rooms and common areas is limited.
• The voltage in El Chaltén is 220V.

Tips are voluntary at our lodge, but we can only accept them in cash, as Argentine legal regulations on credit cards do not allow paying tips that way.

If you wish to leave any, you can do so at the hotel reception at the end of your stay. It will be distributed among all those who contributed to making your trip a unique experience. We suggest leaving USD 100 per day per room.

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With information like Chaltén Travel phone number or the closest Chaltén Travel bus station, Busbud makes sure you get easy access to all the important information.

Partnering up with Chaltén Travel allows Busbud to ensure high quality Chaltén Travel bus services to travelers from all corners of the world.

Amenities on Chaltén Travel buses

• Air conditioning
• Standard seat
• Lie-flat Seat or Bed
• Entertainment (No Wifi)

Chaltén Travel's Coverage in Numbers

• Daily Departures 117
• Countries 1

Chaltén Travel Bus classes

• 5 Estrellas
• Cama Ejec Indiv LCD/Cena/Desayuno
• Cama Ejec. LCD/Cena/Desayuno
• Cama Ejecutivo
• Cama Ejecutivo con Cena Fria
• Cama con Servicio
• Cama sin Auxiliar
• Convencional
• Ejuctivo sin Auxiliar
• Promo Semi Cama con Servicio
• Promo Suite
• Semi Cama Cena/Desayuno
• Semi Cama Expreso
• Semi Cama Promo Cena/Desayuno
• Semi Cama Promocionada
• Semi Cama Superior
• Semi Cama con Cena Fria
• Semi Cama con Servicio
• Semica Directo
• Servicio Cama Ejecutivo
• Servicio Suite

Chaltén Travel User Reviews

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User reviews from travelers who booked their tickets with Chaltén Travel

Ratings and Reviews (495)

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Chaltén Travel FAQ

Is there wifi on chaltén travel.

Yes, you will be able to enjoy a WiFi connection on Chaltén Travel buses! Chat with friends and family, check your social media and emails but keep in mind that streaming is limited so we recommend downloading your favorite movies and shows before your trip.

Are there power outlets or USB plugs on Chaltén Travel?

No, there aren't any power outlets or USB plugs on Chaltén Travel. If available, we recommend bringing a battery pack to keep your devices charged during longer bus rides. You can also bring a good book to pass the time during your trip.

Does Chaltén Travel have a toilet on board?

Yes, Chaltén Travel has a toilet on board. The toilet is located at the back of the bus or near the middle. Remember to bring hand sanitizer with you, as most buses do not have running water.

Does Chaltén Travel offer meals or snacks during the bus trip?

Yes, you will be able to enjoy food and drinks when traveling with Chaltén Travel. When selecting your Chaltén Travel departure on Busbud, you will be able to see if you will get snacks or a full meal.

Do you have to print your Chaltén Travel bus ticket?

No, you don't need a printed ticket when traveling with Chaltén Travel. Simply show your ticket on your phone along with a valid photo ID to board the bus. You will receive your e-ticket by email when booking on Busbud.

Does Chaltén Travel allow pets on board or in the hold of the bus?

Only Certified Service animals are allowed on Chaltén Travel buses. Unfortunately, it is impossible to travel with a pet on the bus or in the hold of the bus with Chaltén Travel.

What are the amenities on Chaltén Travel buses?

When taking the bus with Chaltén Travel, you will be able to enjoy Air conditioning, Standard seat, , , Lie-flat Seat or Bed, Hot Meal, , , Toilet, , Wifi, XL Seat. Chaltén Travel offers a best-in-class experience to all travelers so you're sure to have a pleasant bus trip.

Why choose Busbud?

The best way to book bus and train tickets.

Busbud is a bus and train search tool - we include Chaltén Travel routes, schedules and prices in our searches along with many other train and bus companies. You can compare prices, amenities and times by searching for a route. If you find a suitable trip, you can go ahead and get your Chaltén Travel ticket from us. Note that train tickets sell out, Chaltén Travel and other operators generally charge a lot more for last-minute tickets or for tickets bought in person.

Chaltén Travel Popular Routes, Destinations and Stations

Top chaltén travel bus lines.

• El Calafate to El Chaltén $31
• El Chaltén to El Calafate $31
• El Calafate to Perito Moreno $90
• El Chaltén to Los Antiguos $97
• El Calafate to Los Antiguos $97
• Los Antiguos to El Chaltén $97
• Perito Moreno to El Calafate $91
• Los Antiguos to El Calafate $97
• Los Antiguos to Perito Moreno $10
• Perito Moreno to Los Antiguos $10

Top Chaltén Travel Destinations

• Chaltén Travel to El Calafate
• Chaltén Travel El Chaltén
• Chaltén Travel to Los Antiguos
• Chaltén Travel Perito Moreno

Top Chaltén Travel Stations and Locations

• Terminal de Ómnibus de El Calafate
• Terminal de Omnibus El Chalten
• Terminal Los Antiguos

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Plan Your Trip to El Chalten: Best of El Chalten Tourism

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‘The Greatest Hits’: Save your time

A time-travel romance falls victim to generic characters and clunky dialogue.

You know how a pop song from a moment in your past can bring that moment back to life in colors, smells, memories and emotions? “The Greatest Hits” takes that idea and literalizes it right into the ground.

The film is one of those romantic fantasies that enlists time travel as the primary obstacle keeping two people from getting together. Make that one of the obstacles; the others in “The Greatest Hits” are the heroine’s growing collection of vinyl records and her habit of wearing noise-canceling headphones wherever she goes. The course of true love never did run smooth.

Harriet (Lucy Boynton) is mourning the loss of her boyfriend Max (David Corenswet) in a car crash that also delivered a bonk to her noggin that allows her to whoosh back in time — but only when she hears a song that triggers a moment the couple had together. Thus the headphones; otherwise, the tunes streaming from supermarket speakers and other people’s car radios would have her constantly yo-yoing back and forth between then and now. The records she’s obsessively collecting are an effort to find the one song that might give her a chance to alter events and keep Max alive.

Does any of this make sense? Of course not. Time-travel romantic fantasy movies never make sense, and when they’re done right, that’s the source of their idiot charm. 2006’s “The Lake House,” which involves Keanu Reeves, Sandra Bullock and a magic mailbox, is a personal gold standard in this regard.

Complicating matters is that Harriet has met a cute guy at a grief counseling support group — that sentence alone announces we’re in Los Angeles — and is hesitant to open up and tell him about the whole trying-to-change-the-flow-of-history thing. David, who has lost both parents to either separate illnesses or just plain carelessness, is played by Justin H. Min, a likable actor who was the sensitive android of the little-seen “After Yang” (2022), a movie that you would be strongly advised to watch instead of this one.

What would it take to make “The Greatest Hits” work? For one thing, a music-rights budget that allowed for songs an average filmgoer might recognize, rather than tracks from the back 40 of Spotify or a disco remix of Roxy Music’s “To Turn You On.” For another, a script that avoids dialogue clunkers like “There’s a reason that in some languages, the word for love and the word for suffering is the same.” (I Googled it — didn’t find any.) Shopworn supporting stereotypes like the heroine’s sassy gay Black friend (Austin Crute) don’t help.

The prime offender, though, is writer-director Ned Benson’s inability to create three-dimensional characters, or even believable two-dimensional ones. Harriet is apparently a record producer, but we only know that from one dated reference to Alan Parsons and a brief scene of her telling singer Nelly Furtado to “add a little more compression on the drums”; otherwise, she’s an attractive blank space that Boynton strains too hard to fill in. The dead boyfriend, Max, is even more generic — a genial himbo with all the flavor of a catalogue model.

Benson made a stir with his debut, a three-film project called “The Disappearance of Eleanor Rigby” (2014) that looked at a relationship from his, her and their points of view. His belated follow-up, by contrast, has barely enough personality for one. But he gets points for including the dreadful Kars4Kids jingle as one of the audio jogs that sends Harriet tumbling back in time — for a brief moment, the rest of “The Greatest Hits” seems much less irritating in comparison.

PG-13. Streaming on Hulu. Drug use, strong language and suggestive material. 94 minutes.

Ty Burr is the author of the movie recommendation newsletter Ty Burr’s Watch List at tyburrswatchlist.com .

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Travel: Prehistoric drawings can be seen in Ohio at Leo Petroglyphs

Humans have always been eager to leave a creative mark on the world, tangible evidence of an artist’s thoughts or actions that might educate, entertain – or perhaps bewilder – current and future generations.

Humans hadn’t even made it to the Americas when the earliest-known cave paintings were created more than 40,000 years ago in what is now Indonesia.

But, millennia later, prehistoric Americans did make their mark. Ohio has several sites where early artists or scribes left enduring evidence of their creativity.

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The state’s most well-known group of petroglyphs – prehistoric stone carvings – is probably Leo Petroglyphs and Nature Preserve in Jackson County, about 75 miles southeast of Columbus. (The site gets its name from the nearby village of Leo, not from one of the prehistoric artists.)

A large slab of relatively soft sandstone served as a canvas for the artists, who probably belonged to the Fort Ancient culture, a people who also may have created Ohio’s Serpent Mound (not to mention the earthworks for whom the culture is named).

Among the carvings are figures that seem to represent people, human footprints, birds and other animals, and a few enigmatic symbols.

Whether or not the carvings were meant to represent specific ideas, instructions or just the creative musings of the carvers is still a matter of speculation.

Erosion of the carvings dates their creation to around 1,000 years ago. Today, the carvings are protected by a modern shelter house that also provides a roof for visiting picnickers.

The nature preserve at Leo Petroglyphs protects about 20 acres, including a gorge where stone outcroppings contain other stone carvings.

A ½-mile trail makes a loop around the gorge, beginning and ending at the shelter house.

The wooded hike takes about 30 minutes and provides a glimpse of the kind of landscape that might have inspired those early artists along their way to and from the petroglyph stone.

Another well-known and easily visited example of early Ohio petroglyphs is at Inscription Rock on Kelleys Island in Lake Erie.

The rock, on the south shore of the island near the Kelleys Island Ferry landing, was partially buried when discovered by early settlers in 1833.

More: 7 small Ohio towns and villages perfect for your next day trip

The site is probably not as old as the Leo Petroglyphs, dating from perhaps 800 years ago.

Although Inscription Rock is also protected by a modern shelter, the rock has been so eroded that it’s hard to clearly see the carvings today. But an informational display at the site includes a depiction of the stone from a drawing made in 1850, showing more strange and enigmatic figures, animals and symbols that should provide a satisfying puzzle for any aspiring amateur archeological cryptographers.

Visitors to Kelleys Island should also be sure to visit Glacial Grooves Geological Preserve , an example of Mother Nature’s own artistry, carved by massive boulders dragged by glaciers during the last Ice Age.

Travelers who find themselves fascinated by ancient rock carvings should consider a trip to the American West, where several large sites display a vast array of petroglyphs covering a vast span of history.

One of the most popular and accessible destinations is Petroglyphs National Monument , just a few miles outside downtown Albuquerque, New Mexico, where visitors can see one of the largest petroglyph sites in North America.

Short trails lead visitors past designs, both strange and familiar, carved into volcanic rocks strewn about like cyclopian Legos.

The carvings at the national monument are probably a bit younger than the Ohio sites and are credited to both Native Americans and early Spanish settlers from between 400 to 700 years ago.

Steve Stephens is a freelance travel writer and photographer. Email him at  [email protected] .

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I Packed So Many Cute Outfits for Spring Break, but Ended Up Wearing This Amazon Swim Cover-up 9 Days in a Row

And it's only $20.

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Travel + Leisure / Madison Woiten

Forget checking the mail or going on a grocery run. The first thing that I do when I get home from traveling is throw all of the clothes in my suitcase in the washer. But two weeks ago, when I returned from a nine-day vacation in Nicaragua , I unpacked my beloved rose gold Calpak carry-on — only to find that most of its contents were already clean. Did my luggage enjoy a visit from the elusive laundry fairies during transit? Unlikely. The real reason that I didn’t need to do an entire load was that I'd spent most of the trip wearing the same sexy little number .

In 2020, I bought the Wander Agio Beach Cover-up , which was trending at Amazon at the time. I loved it so much that I wanted it in another color for my Central American sojourn, where I’d be beach hopping at Rancho Santana and socializing poolside at Verdad Nicaragua . Unfortunately, it was (and still is) unavailable. But, I was able to find something similar just in time: the Harhay Crochet Swimsuit  Cover-Up . If you appreciate affordability and comfort, and don’t mind fielding questions from other travelers about where you got it, it’s one of the best swimsuit cover-ups out there. 

Harhay Crochet Swimsuit Cover-up

Yes, it’s 100 percent polyester. But this $20 top-seller doesn’t look cheap. It could easily pass as a $200 hand-crocheted piece that you’d expect to find in a chic boutique. On that note, the only thing I don’t like about this cover-up is that it’s hand-wash-only (to prevent stretching and snagging). Still, dirt and sand shake off of it easily, so you get plenty of wear time in between washes. In Nicaragua, I wore it all day, rinsed it off in the shower (and in the hotel sink), hung it up to dry on my balcony, and by the next morning, it was always good to go.

Katie Jackson

Although I got this cover-up in black, I never overheated — even on 90-degree Fahrenheit days — because of its lightweight, breathable crochet fabric. Yet, at the same time, it provided enough coverage that I didn’t get sun-burned or feel too exposed; you can also wear shorts and a tank underneath the cover-up (think: like a poncho or kimono) if you're headed to lunch, drinks, or going on a stroll. And unlike the stiff rope hammock souvenirs that I shopped for, it’s super soft. That was probably the number one reason why I always reached for it during my trip. Of course, I was also a fan of how flattering it looked. Shout out to the designer who somehow managed to create something equal parts casual, comfortable, and cute. 

The Harhay Crochet Swimsuit Cover-up currently comes in 31 colors, including some fun multi-color options that are perfect for beach getaways. It’s also available in several different patterns and styles; some even have decorative laces on the neckline . The drawstring side tassels, however, are what make this one-size-fits-all piece work well for so many different body types. I love to go with the flowy look, but when I want to highlight my hourglass waist, I just tighten the tassels. I’m 5-foot, 5 inches with a slim build, and about 115 pounds. However, I read rave reviews from shoppers of all sizes. Hence, why this cover-up has more than 17,400 five-star ratings (and was bought more than 1,000 times in the last month, according to Amazon). 

It was called "absolutely flattering" by a 5-foot, 2 inch shopper , who shared that they have a "big chest and hips." Chiming in, another shopper , who is 5-foot, 6 inches and 215 pounds, said that they were “so glad I ordered this cover-up" and that they will "live in this during the cruise we are going on in December.”

Taking a cue from my style book, a third traveler raved that it was "very soft and comfortable" to wear this cover-up with shorts on their trip to Jamaica, and another shopper highlighted that their "favorite part is that the back is slightly longer than the front, so I was able to wear it around the condo during our vacation without shorts or anything else because I felt adequately covered." 

Currently, I’m traveling around Cairns, Australia. My checked luggage didn’t make it — I blame the tight connection in Brisbane — but I’m not complaining because, as I learned from my last trip, I packed this cover-up in my carry-on. From breakfast in bougie Palm Cove, to a sunset cruise on the Great Barrier Reef (and all the day’s activities in between), it’s all I need. 

That said, you don’t have to travel all the way to Nicaragua or Tropical North Queensland to appreciate the Harhay Crochet Swimsuit Cover-up . Even if you’re just going to the nearest beach for a three-day weekend, it’s well worth it. And if you’re not sure about the look, but you love the price, keep scrolling to check out some other popular bathing suit cover-ups all Amazon, all under $50. 

More Swim Cover-ups at Amazon:

Anrabess crochet swimsuit cover-up, blooming jelly drawstring beach dress shirt, ekouaer bell-sleeve swimsuit cover-up, avidlove v-neck swimsuit cover-up dress, bsubseach tie-dye open-front swimsuit cover-up.

At the time of publishing, the price started at $20. 

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‘The Greatest Hits’ Review: Yes, She Could Turn Back Time.

A high-concept movie about music and grief lacks follow through.

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By Alissa Wilkinson

“The Greatest Hits” literalizes the familiar heartache: You’re driving down the road, radio blaring at full tilt. Suddenly that song comes on, the one that reminds you of your ex, or of a time that was joyous but now is a sadness-tinged memory. Plunged back into that head space, you feel as though you’ve traveled through time. And the longing it prompts can be unbearable.

This is where Harriet (Lucy Boynton) finds herself, except instead of feeling as if she’s moving through time, she is truly hurtling through the fourth dimension. Since having lost her boyfriend, Max (David Corenswet), in a tragic accident, any song Harriet hears attached to memories of him catapults her, quite literally, back to the moment in their relationship when that song was playing. When she leaves the house, she wears noise-canceling headphones to protect against unexpected time travel provoked by radios and errant Spotify shuffles.

At home, though, she spends her nights trying to slip backward. Harriet has become obsessed with trying to return to a moment where she can set the world straight and ensure that Max won’t die, which means, even two years after his death, that she is still “hiding out in her grief,” as another character puts it. In the midst of this, at her grief support group, Harriet meets a nice guy named David (Justin H. Min), who’s dealing with loss of his own.

Ned Benson, who wrote and directed “The Greatest Hits,” has explored this territory before. His previous work, “The Disappearance of Eleanor Rigby,” was a trilogy, made up of two films that explored a couple’s grief-stricken, tumultuous relationship from each of their individual perspectives, and a third that combined them. (As the title suggests, music was part of the story, too.) That film felt personal, and so does this one. It earnestly evokes the way grief mires us in memory, making us feel as if our personal timelines are slip-sliding and looping, eternally arrested in the past. Moving forward seems impossible.

But “The Greatest Hits” lacks the imagination of “Eleanor Rigby” and, at times, seems like it might be in the wrong genre. It’s easy to imagine a rom-com version of this movie, since the elements are all there — the hip location (mostly the Silver Lake and Los Feliz neighborhoods of Los Angeles), the meet-cute, the queer best friend (a mainstay of the genre , for better or worse), the crates of vinyl records, the pining, the hot guys, even the chemistry. But this movie lacks the lightness and humor of a rom-com, which might balance out all the dreary moments and make it feel more watchable. The version that exists feels more suited for lovelorn teens just off their first breakup than adults moving through profound loss and sorrow, more acquainted with the ways life can’t just stop when tragedy strikes.

“The Greatest Hits” proceeds slowly and repetitively, which doesn’t have to be a problem: The gentleness of the pace and storytelling gives the cast space to breathe and react to each other, to build relationships that feel reasonably authentic. Similarly, the music choices (which are all over the map both in genre and era) are fun and fresh, lacking the on-the-nose quality that a film with more bang-on choices might have provoked. But as it goes on, the movie begins to feel mired in its own high-concept conceit without space to develop it further. Is there a reason the only music that triggers time travel for Harriet is connected to Max? Are there tunes that throw her back to times she prefers not to remember? Why is it important to recall that she used to be a music producer?

There’s an interesting film dancing around the edges of “The Greatest Hits,” but there’s both too much sentimentality and not enough thought, and that’s too bad. For audiences in search of a good cry, it may still do the job. But for those of us for whom the music-driven time travel experience is still metaphorical, it’s cold comfort, a fantasy with no hope of fulfillment.

The Greatest Hits Rated PG-13 for some language and innuendo, plus conversations about death and grief. Running time: 1 hour 34 minutes. Watch on Hulu.

Alissa Wilkinson is a Times movie critic. She’s been writing about movies since 2005. More about Alissa Wilkinson

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If 2024 is the year American voters will experience a sense of déjà vu at the ballot box, it’s also likely to go down as the year that fans of indie genre cinema will feel it at the box office. From Sundance to SXSW, a surprising number of films have had fun with the concept of time, whether in terms of history literally repeating itself ( Timestalker , Omni Loop , Desert Road ) or presenting new angles on the same set of events ( Little Death, It’s What’s Inside , and, to a certain degree, even the animated kids film 10 Lives ).

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As is the case with Benson and Moorhead’s own projects, Felker’s film comes with a whole unseen backstory that could probably sustain a feature-length prequel: a brother and sister — Joseph (Adam David Thompson) and Sidney (Riley Dandy) — arrange to meet at a remote diner after carrying out a robbery of some kind. They need to lay low for a couple of weeks, and Joseph has been given the use of a safe house. “What’s the backup?” Sidney asks. “There is no backup,” he replies.

The sound of police sirens brings their rendezvous to a premature end, and so the duo head off to what seems to be an abandoned house on the edge of the nearby woods. As the law closes in, Joseph sets into motion an elaborate ritual that involves setting the time to ten past two on a pair of grandfather clocks and making a cryptic call on a dial-phone. Instantly, they are sent back to some unspecified time, perhaps the 1990s if the VHS tapes and CDs are an indicator. All they have to do, says Joseph, is hang tight for 14 days.

Clearly, however, that’s not what’s in store, and when the two-week period is up, they find that access to the portal back has mysteriously been sabotaged. Instructed to go to “the mill,” they find a private chapel and a desiccated corpse, which Joseph identifies as the woman who supplied him with the keys to the safe house. A sinister message is carved on to the altar: “You are in the grip of the vise. Give in or join them.”

Anyone even remotely acquainted with Benson and Moorhead’s work will know that the plot is about to thicken in ways that will never be fully reconciled, and that loose ends are part of the rich fabric of films like 2017’s The Endless and its 2019 follow-up Synchronic . Genre-wise, it starts to border on the supernatural, too, as Sidney becomes obsessed with the provenance of the house and its previous occupants. But all the way through, Thompson and Dandy keep it grounded, even when “the vise” offers to strike a deal with them: there are strangers coming, and if Joseph and Sidney kill them, they will be returned to their own time.

There’s obviously quite a lot to unpack in all that, and casual consumers of popcorn sci-fi will probably be overwhelmed by the avalanche of ideas here, not just in the story line but quirky little details like a Dictaphone that travels between time zones. Fortune favors the prepared, however, and those willing to get swept up and carried along by its playful Moebius-strip logic will be richly rewarded.

Title: Things Will Be Different Director-screenwriter: Michael Felker Cast: Adam David Thompson, Riley Dandy, Chloe Skoczen, Justin Benson, Sarah Bolger Sales agent:  XYZ Running time:  1 hr 42 min

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