About Santa Cruz Province

Santa Cruz Province is in Patagonia in the southern part of Argentina. Famed for its mountains, glaciers, and outdoor activities such as hiking, canoeing and climbing, it boasts spectacular scenery, with over 800 identified peaks. To the south of the province is the World Heritage Los Glaciares National Park, with its awe inspiring glaciers and ice fields.

Bordering Chubut Province to the north, and Chile to the west and south, with an Atlantic coast on its east, Santa Cruz is the second-largest province of Argentina, and the least densely populated. It's home to an indigenous people called the Tehuelches, who retained independence until the late 19th century.

Santa Cruz Province also has some of Argentina's most spectacular hotels and luxury lodges - for example in El Calafate, El Chalten and along the shores of the beautiful Lago Argentino. Others are quite remote but well worth the effort to get there. Below, we have rounded up the best of these great places to stay in Santa Cruz Province.

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The best hotels in Santa Cruz Province

Blanca Patagonia

El Calafate (Santa Cruz)

This hotel offers boutique accommodation in Santa Cruz, Argentina. Guests can choose rooms in the inn or a private cabin; rooms are traditionally dressed and have exposed wooden beams and cosy, carpeted floors. Book a luxury suite for a private hot tub. Dine at the chic restaurant; a charming hotel.

  • Back to Nature - Located in the breathtaking natural landscape of the Argentinian Patagonia, this hotel makes a great retreat to nature
  • Hideaway - Hideout in a private cabin at this boutique hotel; there is a restaurant and spa on-site, so there's no need to leave
  • Local exploring - This hotel makes a great base for exploring Lake Argentina and the surrounding area
  • Sights nearby - Organize an excursion to the Isla Solitaria or lonesome island; the deserted island offers beautiful natural landscapes
from AU$108 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees
Hostería Kaulem

El Chalten (Santa Cruz)

This boutique hotel is located in El Chaltén, Argentina. Rooms are cosy and inviting, with wooden floors and homely soft furnishings; book a private apartment for self-catering facilities. Browse the hotel art gallery before a drink at the bar; a great base for exploring the beautiful national park.

  • Active Holiday - Set within a beautiful national park there are plenty of activities local to the hotel, including cycling to hiking
  • Local exploring - The hotel is perfectly located for exploring in Chalten, both in terms of natural wonders and the local town
  • Back to Nature - Retreat to nature at this hotel, set in verdant gardens against the backdrop of the Patagonian mountains
  • Kayaking - Do a kayaking excursion on the Las Vueltas river; ask your hosts for local boat hire
from AU$162 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees
Hotel Kau Yatun

El Calafate

A stunning rural property framed by a picturesque pine forests. Quaint rooms are light and airy with cream hues and floral motifs. Sample hearty regional dishes in the atmospheric restaurant and drink local wines in the bar. A charming base from which to explore the region.

  • Active Holiday - Set in the Patagonian steppe, the perfect terrain for outdoor pursuits.
  • Sights nearby - Marvel at the outstanding terrain of the glaciers of Parque Nacional Los Glaciares.
  • Outstanding location - Framed by pine forests at the top of the town.
  • Full of character - Tradionally styled rooms
from AU$185 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees
Posada los Alamos

El Calafate (El Calafate, )

A beautiful building of brick dark quebracho wood boasting a fully-equipped spa, swimming pool, two bars and a restaurant offering a range of local and international gourmet meals. Rooms are cosy and uniquely decorated and come with a minibar and impressive views of El Calafate or Lake Argentino.

  • Business meetings - Large conference rooms and banquetting facilities make this venue ideal for a corporate event with a difference
  • Families - Hotel Posada is welcoming to families with large rooms and babysitting services
  • Spa breaks - Relax in the spa after a day spent hiking in the gorgeous surrounds
  • Sights nearby - El Calafate is a traditional Argentine town with museums, cafes and bars to explore
from AU$192 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees
Esplendor El Calafate

El Calafate (El Calafate)

An elegant hotel overlooking the turquoise, glacial waters of Lake Argentino. The interiors echo the raw natural beauty found beyond the numerous windows- think fur lined chairs, hardwood floors and antler chandeliers. Feast on Patagonian dishes, heavy on meats and rich red wines. A sumptuous treat.

  • Active Holiday - This is the ideal place for an active getaway with hiking, skiing, mountain biking, fishing and many more besides
  • Back to Nature - Take a hike to the famed Perito Moreno glacier, or wander the shores of the beautful lake Argentino
  • Total relaxation - Feel all your cares and woes slip away as your are massaged and pampered in the spa
  • Great walks - There is something for all abilites from an afternoon stroll to a week long hike throguh the mountains
from AU$252 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees
Lunajuim

El Chalten (Patagonia)

This charming guesthouse is located in El Chaltén, part of the Argentine Patagonia. Rooms are inviting and homely, with comfortable beds, quality linens and eclectic artwork; book a triple room for a family stay. Sample regional cuisine at the restaurant before drinks at the bar; a welcoming hotel.

  • Local exploring - Located within easy walking distance of amenities and attractions, this hotel is a great base for local exploring
  • Families - Book a triple room for a family stay; the hotel is happy to provide cots for younger children
  • City Style - With simple, bright interiors, this hotel has lots of local Patagonian style
  • Great walks - Explore the Los Glaciares National Park on a long walk; ask at the hotel for recommended routes
from AU$209 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees
Hotel Kosten Aike

El Calafate (El Calafate)

An Alpine inspired hotel sitting just outside the town of Calafate. The traditional interiors offer comfort and class, and the welcoming staff will make you feel right at home. Enjoy typical Argentine food in the restaurant and pampering treatments in the spa. A great option for all the family.

  • Groups - The hotel can accomadate large groups and has facilities on site to cater for large parties and events
  • Families - A fun spot for all the family - with hot tubs and sauna, ping pong and billiards and plenty more
  • Sights nearby - The Upsala Glacier is a short drive from the property and is a spectacular sight to behold
  • Great walks - This is superb countryside for those keen on getting out and about.
from AU$271 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees
La Cantera

El Calafate (El Calafate)

A stunning boutique hotel offering unbeatable views of the Patagonian landscape with floor-to-ceiling windows in the cosy bar and private balconies with every room. The on-site restaurant serves fine Argentinian cuisine in a rustic traditional mountain lodge setting.

  • Groups - Guests can choose to hire a wooden cabin with two spacious rooms, dining room and kitchen - ideal for small groups
  • Active Holiday - Discover outstanding glaciers and the lakes Argentino and Roca- perfect for trekking and climbing
  • Views - The hotel has a wonderful terrace with views over the lake - a great spot for sunrises and sunsets
  • Boutique - Just 18 rooms, each done up cosily and in style.
from AU$237 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees
Los Ponchos

El Calafate

This boutique hotel occupies a heritage property in El Calafate, part of the Argentine Patagonia. Choose from rooms, apartments or a private lodge with cosy, inviting interiors in a neutral palette; book the lodge for family-sized living space. Request a lunch-box for day trips; a charming hotel.

  • Local exploring - With a central location in El Calafate, this hotel is a great base for local exploing in Santa Cruz
  • Romantic Break - Couples love the cosy rooms at this hotel; book the Mansard Suite for great views
  • Families - Book the independent lodge for family-sized living space and a charming garden
  • Birdwatching - Go birdwatching at Laguna Nimez, an important site that is frequented by many local bird species
from AU$246 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees
Hosteria Senderos

El Chalten (Santa Cruz)

This hotel is nestled at the foot of Fitz Roy Mountain in the Los Glaciares National Park. Rooms feature wooden floors, comfortable beds and crisp linens; book a suite for split-level living, great for families. Dine at the restaurant or have drinks at the wine bar; a charming, quiet nature getaway.

  • Active Holiday - Set at the foot of Mount Fitz Roy, this hotel is perfectly located for a hiking or cycling holiday
  • Families - With split-level suites available that can accommodate children, this hotel is good for families
  • Back to Nature - Located within a breathtaking national park, this hotel makes a great retreat to nature
  • Kayaking - Explore the famous seven lakes of Patagonia with a kayaking trip; enquire with the hotel for recommended providers
from AU$262 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees
Hostería El Pilar

El Chalten

This charming hostería is located within the Los Glaciares National Park, 20 minutes outside of El Chaltén. Guestrooms are simple and elegant, with wooden floors, heritage furniture and mountain views. Unwind by the wood-burning fire after a day's trek to the Fitz Roy; an authentic country retreat.

  • Back to Nature - Set within the breathtaking grounds of the Los Glacieres National Park, this hotel is a great nature retreat
  • Romantic Break - Couples love this intimate hotel and the cosy, romantic suites; unwind by the fire after a day out walking
  • Active Holiday - With a unique location close to the Fitz Roy, this hotel is perfect for a walking holiday
  • Sights nearby - Walk down to the Río Blanco, a beautiful river that runs close to the hotel
from AU$277 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees
Design Suites Calafate

El Calafate

Built of wood and stone, this stylish Patagonian hotel offers amazing views of Lago Argentino just outside Calafate. Guestrooms feature soft carpets, cosy throws and chic design pieces; book the junior suite for a private spa bath, and have dinner at the restó bar before a sauna and swim.

  • Back to Nature - Offering beautiful views of Lago Argentino and the surrounding landscape, this hotel makes a unique back-to-nature retreat
  • Local exploring - This hotel is perfectly placed for local exploring in the Argentine Patagonia; book local tours through the hotel
  • Romantic Break - Couples love the cosy hotel interiors and chic spa; book a luxury suite for a private hot tub
  • Sights nearby - Take a trip to the Isla Solitaria, an island in the middle of the Argentine Lake which is home to a quiet provincial church
from AU$371 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees
Destino Sur

El Chalten (Santa Cruz)

This hotel is set in Chaltén, in the Argentine Patagonia. Rooms have wooden floors, homely, cotton linens and artisanal goodies in the snack bar; book a premium room for extra living space. Book into the hotel spa or use the hot tub before drinks by the fireplace. A charming, back-to-nature retreat.

  • Back to Nature - Set in the breathtaking landscape of the Argentinian Patagonia, this hotel makes a fantastic retreat to nature
  • Active Holiday - With Cerro Fitz Roy close by, there are lots of activities to keep guests entertained for an outdoors holiday
  • Families - With larger rooms available to accommodate children, this hotel is great for families
  • Great walks - The hotel lies on a number of marked walking routes; walking is a great way to explore the Patagonia's natural wonders
from AU$315 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees
Don Los Cerros Boutique Hotel

El Chalten (El Chaltén)

A charming boutique hotel framed by snow-capped mountains. Brightly decorated rooms are traditional in style. Glass doors lead onto private terraces to sit and enjoy the view. Based in Argentina's hiking country, spend days in the great outdoor, then relax in the spa. An adventurer's haven.

  • Views - Don Los Cerros Boutique hotel boasts stunning views of the surrounding valley and Fitzroy Mountain.
  • Active Holiday - From boat cruises to hiking there's plenty to do in the nearby surrounds.
  • Restaurant - Don Los Cerros Boutique Hotel's restaurant serves both traditional Patagonian and International dishes
  • Full of character
from AU$366 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees
Estancia Nibepo Aike

Santa Cruz Province

A traditional sheep farm turned cosy hotel. Find sash windows, parquet flooring, fireplaces and warm hues throughout. Regional dishes are served in the restaurant. The outstanding location makes this the ideal starting point for exploring the hidden glaciers by horse. An adventurers paradise.

  • Country Escape - Make the most of the Argentine rural experience in this charming converted farmhouse.
  • Full of character
  • Restaurant
  • Boutique
from AU$422 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees
Estancia Helsingfors

Santa Cruz Province (Parque Nacional Los Glaciares)

This luxury lodge is located in the Los Glaciares National Park in the Argentine Patagonia. Homely guestrooms feature wooden floors, plush linens and comfortable beds; book a family room to accommodate children. Relax by the fireplace after a day's trek to the Blue Lagoon; an inviting nature lodge.

  • Eco break - With a carefully considered sustainability policy you can enjoy this holiday knowing it won't cost the earth
  • Back to Nature - With a privileged location in the Argentine Patagonia, this hotel makes a unique nature retreat
  • Local exploring - Set within the Los Glaciares National Park, there is plenty to explore local to this hotel
  • Great walks - Explore the beautiful landscape of the national park on an easy stroll, with marked trails for all levels
from AU$1149 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees
Estancia Cristina

Santa Cruz Province (9405 Estancia Cristina)

A secluded lodge boasting epic views of the hanging glaciers and surrounding mountains. Large airy rooms feature bay windows, soft patterning and sink-into beds. Find gourmet regional cuisine accompanied by an excellent wine list. Spend days exploring the national park be it by foot or horse. Bliss.

  • Active Holiday - Find numerous outdoor pursuits in Los Glaciares National Park.
  • Fishing - Excellent conditions for salmon and rainbow trout fishing.
  • Traditional
  • Barefoot Luxury
from AU$1162 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees
Aguas Arriba Lodge

Santa Cruz Province (Lago del Desierto - Valle del Rio de las Vueltas )

A luxurious lodge in a spectacular secluded setting. Contemporary design throughout reflects the surrounding nature with plenty of pine and large glass walls allowing for different views from every room. The homely food is utterly delicious. The ideal spot to get back to nature.

  • Back to Nature - Situated in the Provincial Lago del Desierto reserve with woods, glaciers, lakes and mountains on your doorstep.
  • Active Holiday - Make the most of the numerous outdoor activities in the surrounding area.
  • All inclusive - Price quoted is per room and includes all meals (but not drinks).
  • Great walks - Head off into the wilderness and explore this rugged landscape.
from AU$1539 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees
Eolo

El Calafate (9405 El Calafate)

A remote luxury lodge with an outstanding location. Rooms are simply designed with emphasis given to the surrounding views, admired from enormous windows and terraces. Sample gourmet cuisine in the restaurant and unwind in the fabulous spa. Discover authentic Argentina in serious style.

  • Back to Nature - Situated in a magically remote Patagonian location, next to Argentina's largest lake with views stretching over the Andes.
  • Outstanding location - Plenty of glass afford incredible views over a wide landscape
  • Birdwatching - There are an exciting array of birds to be spotted in the area.
  • Restrictions on children - Children over 12 are welcome.
from AU$1691 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees
Explora El Chaltén

El Chalten

A spectacular property for those who love nature and trekking, with stunning views of the Electric Valley and the Marconi Glacier. Patagonian cuisine with local produce and a spoiling luxury spa greet the weary explorer. A rejuvenating stay for those seeking privacy and silence.

  • Outstanding location - Located in the Southern Ice Fields of Patagonia, the planet’s second-largest freshwater reserve
  • Back to Nature - Total peace and tranquility in a remote location, surrounded by magnificent scenery
  • Spa - A spoiling spa with outdoor hot tubs with views to die for
  • Views - Glorious mounatin views from every angle
from AU$1754 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees