Argentina’s territory holds an incredible biodiversity. It’s possible to explore several different types of landscapes that offer each visitor a unique experience. Patagonia may be the greatest example of this. The small town of El Calafate attracts visitors from all over the world by its situation at the beginning of this incredible biome at the southern extreme of the American continent.
Historically, the region was very important in the development of modern biology. Famous scientist Charles Darwin was profoundly influenced by the region of Patagonia when developing his evolutionist theory in “On the Origin of Species” (1859). This is due to the geological and glacial studies undertaken by him during his expedition to the region.
What is most interesting is that this patrimony of biodiversity is available for visitation. The place that most attracts visitors is Los Glaciares National Park, situated at 80km from El Calafate. There we find over 350 huge glaciers that were fundamental for Darwin’s discoveries, and that offer tourists an awesome view.
The glaciers can be explored in three different ways: by water, on boats; on land, through seven walkways; and by trekking on the ice, which is the most complete of all. With different levels of difficulty, all of them have their unique points of viewing the glaciers, and can be undertaken on different days.
All of these tours can be scheduled in El Calafate’s tourist agencies. The local commerce is concentrated in the center of the town, including some good restaurants for dining and relaxing.
El Calafate also offers excellent hotel options, ranging from practical hotels in the center of the town to beautiful accommodations in the countryside, with views of the mountains that surround the region.
The tour through Argentinean Patagonia offers visitors history, biological diversity, and countless dazzling landscapes. It is, without the shadow of a doubt, one of the most interesting destinations in South America.
