El Chalten
Search the best hotels in El Chalten
About El Chalten
Close to the Chilean border, El Chalten, whose name literally translates as ‘Smoking Mountain’, sits in the middle of the Los Glaciares National Park. This peaceful mountainous village is particularly popular with climbers, hikers and all who appreciate great scenery, and it's for good reason that it's known as the hiking capital of Argentina. Barely 400 people live here year round, and it's only been part of Argentina since the mid 1980s. Consequently the available beds for visitors are limited, and in many cases the hotels and hostels are quite basic. However, there are still a couple of quite special places to stay in and around El Chalten (see below), and we’ve selected the best places both in the village itself, and in the national park. They all provide great bases for exploring the this spectacular area.
Although there are a few restaurants, bars, supermarkets and shops in town, it's very much a jumping off point for hiking and exploring the ice fields and glaciers, and there are quite a few hiking gear suppliers, both for purchase and rent.
It's also no great surprise that, in this glacial region, the weather can be challenging! For the best weather with more sunlight and less rain, aim to visit between October and March. In October you'll hit the beginning of Spring, while the incredible colours of Fall appear from mid-March. However remember that this is a busy little place, so if you want to guarantee a bed in one of the best places to stay in El Chalten during peak season, you'll need to book well ahead.
The best places to stay in El Chalten
For a remote luxury lodge
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A half hour north of El Chalten, at the foot of Mt Fitzroy, Explora El Chalten is a spectacular property with stunning views of the Marconi Glacier. Rooms are beautifully designed for maximising views of their surroundings, and the hotel offers great food and a spoiling spa, as well as local guides and expeditions to lead you into the wilderness. Rates are all inclusive here, and at the top of the range.
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Further north up the same road, about an hour's drive from El Chalten and next to a stunning glacial lake called Rio Canadon de los Toros, Aguas Arriba Lodge is the height of secluded luxury. Beautiful alpine architecture and warming food make this the pick of the bunch.
For a chic stay in the village
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Don Los Cerros Boutique Hotel is a comfortable and quiet spot in the village with traditional decoration and a great spa in which to soothe tired legs after a day out hiking. Large windows throughout the hotel give great views of the surrounding mountains.
Budget family friendly hotels
- Hostería Kaulem is an excellent little Patagonian boutique set back from the main street but only a few minutes walk to all the restaurants and the start of all the main hikes in the area. Clean, comfortable rooms at good rates, and very family friendly.
- If you have a bit more to spend (but are still looking for good value), check out the Hotel Lunajuim. They offer decent regional cuisine and colourfully decorated rooms with eclectic artworks. There are triple rooms for families.
For Hikers
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Hosteria Senderos is a popular stop-over for hikers about to set off. It boasts large and well appointed rooms, big breakfasts and a great vibe. Like the two hotels above, it also has family friendly split level suites..
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If you feel like spending a bit more, and appreciate more in the way of facilities, the Destino Sur is one of the best places to stay in El Chalten itself. The rooms are fairly simple but clean, many with great views of Fitzroy mountain. It's close to the centre, handy for restaurants, and near to the start of the hiking trails. Best of all, they have a pool and small spa with hot tub and steam room — nice after a long hike.
For an apartment or villa
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If you've decided that a self catering property would be more suitable for your holiday, then we recommend you visit our online booking partner Booking.com where they have a wide selection for all tastes and budgets.
Travel Information
- The nearest airport is El Calafate airport (some 215km to the south), which is served by all major Argentinian airports.
- Best time to visit — It is undoubtedly best to visit El Chalten during its summer months (December to March) when not only is the weather warmer, but the days are longer. However don't expect hot days — they peak at around 16°C and the nights will be chilly.
- For car hire enquiries, we recommend you check out our online partner Rentalcars.
Still not sure?
- Widen the net to include our El Calafate recommendations,
- or search further afield and look at the whole of Santa Cruz Province
- Alternatively, contact a friendly guru for advice.
Weather
Monthly Weather in El Chalten
Best Hotels in El Chalten
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Hostería Kaulem El Chalten (Santa Cruz) 5 rooms from €94
Active Holiday - Set within a beautiful national park there are plenty of activities local to the hotel, including cycling to hikingLocal exploring - The hotel is perfectly located for exploring in Chalten, both in terms of natural wonders and the local townBack to Nature - Retreat to nature at this hotel, set in verdant gardens against the backdrop of the Patagonian mountainsKayaking - Do a kayaking excursion on the Las Vueltas river; ask your hosts for local boat hireThis 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. See More
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Lunajuim El Chalten (Patagonia) 24 rooms from €122
Local exploring - Located within easy walking distance of amenities and attractions, this hotel is a great base for local exploringFamilies - Book a triple room for a family stay; the hotel is happy to provide cots for younger childrenCity Style - With simple, bright interiors, this hotel has lots of local Patagonian styleGreat walks - Explore the Los Glaciares National Park on a long walk; ask at the hotel for recommended routesRecommended by - FodorsThis 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. See More
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Hosteria Senderos El Chalten (Santa Cruz) 21 rooms from €153
Active Holiday - Set at the foot of Mount Fitz Roy, this hotel is perfectly located for a hiking or cycling holidayFamilies - With split-level suites available that can accommodate children, this hotel is good for familiesBack to Nature - Located within a breathtaking national park, this hotel makes a great retreat to natureKayaking - Explore the famous seven lakes of Patagonia with a kayaking trip; enquire with the hotel for recommended providersThis 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. See More
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Hostería El Pilar El Chalten 10 rooms from €162
Back to Nature - Set within the breathtaking grounds of the Los Glacieres National Park, this hotel is a great nature retreatRomantic Break - Couples love this intimate hotel and the cosy, romantic suites; unwind by the fire after a day out walkingActive Holiday - With a unique location close to the Fitz Roy, this hotel is perfect for a walking holidaySights nearby - Walk down to the Río Blanco, a beautiful river that runs close to the hotelThis 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. See More
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Destino Sur El Chalten (Santa Cruz) 36 rooms from €184
Back to Nature - Set in the breathtaking landscape of the Argentinian Patagonia, this hotel makes a fantastic retreat to natureActive Holiday - With Cerro Fitz Roy close by, there are lots of activities to keep guests entertained for an outdoors holidayFamilies - With larger rooms available to accommodate children, this hotel is great for familiesGreat walks - The hotel lies on a number of marked walking routes; walking is a great way to explore the Patagonia's natural wondersThis 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. See More
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Don Los Cerros Boutique Hotel El Chalten (El Chaltén) 44 rooms from €214
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 dishesFull of characterRecommended by - I EscapeA 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. See More
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Explora El Chaltén El Chalten 17 rooms from €1025
Outstanding location - Located in the Southern Ice Fields of Patagonia, the planet’s second-largest freshwater reserveBack to Nature - Total peace and tranquility in a remote location, surrounded by magnificent scenerySpa - A spoiling spa with outdoor hot tubs with views to die forViews - Glorious mounatin views from every angleA 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. See More