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Explora El Calafate

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Set within a Patagonian estancia near the shores of Lake Argentino, approximately 30 km from the El Calafate, Explora El Calafate - opening in December 2026 - is destined to reveal a new dimension in travel to this part of southern Argentine Patagonia.

Surrounded by sweeping pampas and vast open landscapes, with very distant glimpses of Perito Moreno Glacier, the lodge will invite guests to immerse themselves in the solitude, scale, and grandeur of this remote region. Designed to blend seamlessly into the surrounding steppe, expansive windows frame ever-changing light and views of rolling plains and far-off mountains crowned with glaciers, creating a deep connection between interior spaces and the landscape beyond. In keeping with other Explora lodges, every detail will be designed to reflect Explora’s philosophy of simplicity, comfort, and immersion in nature.

Days will be shaped by exploration, with curated experiences leading guests through glacial valleys, hidden trails, and the diverse terrain of Patagonia’s steppe. You can expect to go beyond the conventional, fleeting day trips to the Perito Moreno glacier which most tourists do.

Evenings will bring a return to warmth and comfort, where guests gather over well-curated menus, share the day’s stories by the fire and unwind with a glass of wine. With just 20 guest rooms, Explora El Calafate is set to offer an intimate and elegant basecamp that celebrates both the spirit of adventure and the quiet pleasure of returning home.

What our clients say

Everything met with our expectations (and beyond) but If there was a real highlight it was probably the visit to Estancia Christina
RJ, Arundel Feb 2016
Impossible to choose a highlight - the variety made it great. the Falls were a highlight, plus Palermo Viejo in BA
KW, London Mar 2017
Patagonia and Buenos Aires were the stand out highlights although the whole trip was wonderful.
ED, London Mar 2018
Highlight?: Wildlife! Buenos Aires! Travelling Club! being at the end of the world, border crossing in and out of Chile - good fun.....
MK, Orkney Oct 2016
Most memorable experiences: "Perito Moreno glacier - my photos don't come near to conveying its magnificence! Bus over the Andes. More comfortable than a flight and the mountains are truly…
AW, Leeds Apr 2015
Most Memorable Moment?: Impossible to say, as each element was so different from the rest. La Bamba certainly will leave an enduring memory. Just the way to chill out after…
AD, London Mar 2016

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Our Expert's Opinion

Ben Line - Travel Expert

Ben fell in love with Latin America on a six month backpacking trip from Colombia to Mexico in 1995. Since then he has explored most of South America, including living in Peru for a year. He is now Head of Sales.

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Alex Walker - Travel Expert

A globetrotter since her childhood, Alex spent a year studying abroad in Guadalajara and has returned to Latin America countless times since then.
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During a career break, Rosie embarked on an unforgettable year-long backpacking trip across Latin America. Now back in the UK, she is excited to share her knowledge and experiences with others, helping them discover her favourite place in the world.
Paul Winrow-Giffin - Travel Expert

After graduating in Computer Science, Paul spent seven months travelling from Colombia to Argentina and came home hooked on Latin America.
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