the calafate flower
by willy_wonka
the town of el calafate gets its name from the flower, the calafate (berberis buxifolia). this flower is small and yellow in color, and has dark blue berries in season. the flower is very common throughout patagonia, you will find it anywhere where you walk off the 'beaten path'.
not only does the flower provide the name for this charming town, but it also provides with yummy eating opportunities! we had to try the calafate icecream, simply divine! jams and other conserves are also made from this flower.
do try the calafate icecream, it is awesome. it can be found in the many gelati shops along the main drag of town (calafate - home of seemingly endless icecream and outdoor trekking shops!)
Warm clothing
by oceania26
Regardless of time of year, it does get cold here especially when the sun disappears and the wind starts up. It's a good idea to bring a wind and water proof jacket, hat and gloves. Sunblock - the sun is strong here too!
Getting to see what you came here for
by TheWanderingCamel
Patagonia - the word conjures up images of travel to the ends of the earth, and for many, many travellers is a dream destination. The big attraction in El Calafate's corner of the vast province is, undoubtedly, the glaciers, with Perito Merino at the top of the list.
Whether your plans for the glaciers include rugged and strenuous activities or you're content to make your visit a more passive form of sight-seeing, there are any number of agencies who will be more than happy to take your bookings. You can do as we did and arrange most of your visit beforehand - try to leave yourself a little time to fit in some more ad hoc activities though as you will find there is more on offer than you perhaps anticipated.
We had booked both our glacier excursions along with our hotel through Ripio Turismo. They in turn used local agents Tiempo Libre, who were excellent. They were punctual and efficient, and their courier was very pleasant, making suggestions and providing information for alternative activities but not the least bit pushy. I have no doubt the vast majority of other agents are just as satisfactory but always appreciate a personal recommendation myself so am happy to hand this one on.
Brazo Rico (Perito Moreno)
by Veghel
The Preito Moreno glacier separates the Brazo Rico from the Brazo Sur. For an explanation about the wonderful natural phenomenon, see my tip called "Brazo Sur (Perito Moreno)".
Beautiful balconies have been made right opposite of the ice dam that separates the two lakes. There is also a parking place and a restaurant (which I did not visit).
I think most people stay here for 45 minues to 2 hours, depending on how interested they are and what the weather is like.
Chocolatier
by oceania26
There's several chocolatiers along the main street in town...you can smell this amazing aroma when you pass by. You can get all sorts of freshly made chocolates...you can even see them making it. It's not particularly cheap but it tastes wonderful...can make good presents and snacks.
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im wet!
Rochopper penguin sighting at Penguin Island
Calafate and noto
Definitely recommended
