Choosing the right hotel in El Chalten
- Come back to a bit of luxury at an upmarket spa hotel
- Cosy B&Bs to suit a budget can be found in the centre
- El Chalten is perfectly located and well stocked with bars and restaurants, but if you are looking for seclusion, there are wilderness lodges and estancias close by
- One of the best-located lodges in Patagonia is just 2 hours north of town.
Accommodation Types
Something special
Aguas Arriba
A lakeside lodge deep in the heart of Patagonia with views of mount Fitz Roy, overlooking a hanging glacier and only accessible by boat, or a day hike. Aguas Arriba is a wonderful base for off the beaten track hiking, fishing or simply relaxing. The hosts are friendly and with just 6 rooms it has a cosy atmosphere. Our number one recommendation in the El Chalten/Fitz Roy area.
Upmarket
Destino Sur
The hard work of the staff at Destino Sur is recognised each year by it's customers. A very clean and comfortable hotel with modern, alpine-styled rooms, it's a big hit with travellers looking for a lovely place to come home to each night.
Chalten Suites
The Chalten Suites is situated on the main street in town and has everything you'd need close by. It has a higher standard and level of comfort than most in town, with spacious rooms and friendly staff. A perfect base if you are staying in El Chalten for more than a couple of days.
Boutique
Senderos
The staff are highly knowledgable and super friendly making the Senderos our favourite boutique hotel in El Chalten. The rooms are on the cosy side but clever storage areas and neat bathrooms make this a great little haven for hiking. On a clear day you'll be able to see the classic mountain line from your room and you are just a stone's throw from the bus station. Our customers rave about the breakfast buffet with mounds of cake, fruit, cereals and more.
Kaulem
This 4 bedroom boutique hotel, with views of Fitz Roy from your room and breakfast table, feels like a home away from home. It is ideal for a small group of 6-8 people with a cosy sitting room and floor to ceiling glass so you really feel a connection with the mountains, even when indoors. They also serve a mean breakfast that will turbo power you into the hills.
No Frills
Nothofagus
Just a 10 minute walk from the bus station, you'll be made to feel right at home by the accommodating owners of this Swiss chalet styled B&B. Already good value for a clean and cheerful stay, you can stretch your money even further by choosing one of their rooms that shares a bathroom between two.
Hosteria El Paraiso
This hosteria has a cosy and welcoming feel with a small bar. The rooms are basic and simply decorated. It is located close to the bars, restaurants and other amenities. The views of Mount Fitzroy on a clear day are simply breathtaking.
Estancias
Estancias carry huge cultural significance in Patagonia. Historically, families would have survived on these working cattle farms, with gauchos roaming great distances across the mountains by horse. Most estancias no longer operate as farms but still sit proudly on the land out in the wilderness, and have retained their rustic charm whilst opening their doors to guests. Undoubtedly the best place to get a true taste of Patagonian culture, and to immerse yourself in the vast landscapes.
Swoop Says
FAQs about hotels in El Chalten
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I'd like something more remote, is an estancia right for me?
For those who are on self drive trips or would like to experience some local culture there are a number of estancias close to El Chalten. These are great places to try horse riding, see some traditional Patagonian life and stay in some rugged corners of Los Glaciares.
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Can I camp in the Fitz Roy range?
There are basic campsites in the hills near El Chalten, often with no facilities except a long drop toilet. On a multi-day trek you'll find two types of campsite: free public campsites, and sites run by tour operators, where there will be a permanent mess tent and leave the tents pitched throughout the season.
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Are there any mountain huts/refugios that I can stay in near Los Glaciares?
Although there are refugios marked on many maps of Los Glaciares, these are mostly just emergency shelters, simple metal lean-tos without facilities. There is only one refugio with dorms and meals available, Refugio del Fraile in the Electrico Valley, which is included on the 3 day classic Chalten trek.
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Where is best to stay for fishing opportunities?
Estancia Cristina, Estancia Helsingfor and Estancia El Condor all make great bases for fishing.
Harriet says
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I've spent over 500 days trekking in the Andes, Himalaya Caucasus and Alps, but El Chalten trumps everywhere for day hiking. No other town can you walk out the door of your hotel, onto the trailhead and be sat next to a glacier and a mile high granite spire to eat your lunch.
Harriet Pike Trekking, Mountaineering & Cycling Specialist
Top trips in El Chalten
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El Chalten Hotels: How can we help you?
If you’re looking to arrange somewhere to stay in El Chalten, we can help you in one of two ways:
As part of a multi-day activity trip
We can help you plan and arrange a multi-day activity trip, such as a hiking, kayaking or horse-riding trip, to fit in with the rest of your plans. We’ll help you arrange the logistics of the trip too, such as how you’ll get to and from the trip departure point and where you’ll stay before and afterwards. Ask about arranging a multi-day activity trip.
As part of a tailor-made itinerary
With 15 years' experience in Patagonia, we’re experts at creating bespoke itineraries. We'll work with you to design a 2-3 week - or longer - holiday based on your exact requirements, from hiking trips to flights, bus trips, transfers and, of course, your accommodation. Find out more about Tailor-made trips.
Ready to plan your Patagonia adventure?
Whatever your budget, group size, length of stay, preferred activity or appetite for adventure, we can help.