Find cheap flights to El Calafate from £451

Find cheap flights to El Calafate from £451

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Find deals from Columbus to El Calafate

Find one-way and return tickets at the lowest prices, whether last-minute or planned in advance.

3 stops
Fri, Jun 5
Columbus LCKEl Calafate FTE

from £451
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3 stops
Fri, Jun 5
Columbus CMHEl Calafate FTE

from £457
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3 stops
Mon, Jun 8
Columbus CMHEl Calafate FTE

from £458
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3 stops
Thu, Jun 4
Columbus CMHEl Calafate FTE

from £458
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3 stops
Sun, Jun 7
Columbus LCKEl Calafate FTE

from £485
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3 stops
Sun, Jun 7
Columbus CMHEl Calafate FTE

from £490
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Find deals from Columbus to El Calafate

Find one-way and return tickets at the lowest prices, whether last-minute or planned in advance.

3 stops
Fri, Jun 5 – Fri, Jun 12
Columbus LCKEl Calafate FTE

from £1,026
Find deal
3 stops
Fri, Jun 5 – Fri, Jun 12
Columbus CMHEl Calafate FTE

from £1,032
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3 stops
Fri, Jun 5 – Wed, Jun 10
Columbus LCKEl Calafate FTE

from £1,051
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3 stops
Fri, Jun 5 – Wed, Jun 10
Columbus CMHEl Calafate FTE

from £1,056
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3 stops
Thu, Jun 4 – Wed, Jun 10
Columbus CMHEl Calafate FTE

from £1,057
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3 stops
Sun, Jun 7 – Fri, Jun 12
Columbus LCKEl Calafate FTE

from £1,060
Find deal

Cheapest time to fly from Columbus to El Calafate

One-way

Fri, May 8 - Fri, May 15£809
Sat, May 16 - Sat, May 23£740
Sun, May 24 - Sun, May 31£558
Mon, Jun 1 - Sun, Jun 7£621
Mon, Jun 8 - Mon, Jun 15£594
Tue, Jun 16 - Tue, Jun 23£632
Wed, Jun 24 - Tue, Jun 30£750
Wed, Jul 1 - Tue, Jul 7£765
Wed, Jul 8 - Wed, Jul 15£822
Thu, Jul 16 - Thu, Jul 23£1,072
Fri, Jul 24 - Fri, Jul 31£1,215

Round-trip

Fri, May 8 - Fri, May 15£1,624
Sat, May 16 - Sat, May 23£1,379
Sun, May 24 - Sun, May 31£1,198
Mon, Jun 1 - Sun, Jun 7£1,163
Mon, Jun 8 - Mon, Jun 15£1,193
Tue, Jun 16 - Tue, Jun 23£1,236
Wed, Jun 24 - Tue, Jun 30£1,234
Wed, Jul 1 - Tue, Jul 7£1,324
Wed, Jul 8 - Wed, Jul 15£1,382
Thu, Jul 16 - Thu, Jul 23£1,599
Fri, Jul 24 - Fri, Jul 31£1,711

Getting from El Calafate airport to the city center

El Calafate is served by Comandante Armando Tola International Airport (FTE), located 23 km east of the city center. As the gateway to Los Glaciares National Park and the famous Perito Moreno Glacier, this Patagonian destination offers several airport transfers to city center options. Transport choices include airport shuttle buses, taxis, remises (private car services), and rental cars. Journey times typically range from 20 to 30 minutes depending on traffic and weather conditions, which can be variable in this southern region of Argentina.

Notes:

  • Prices in ARS (Argentine Pesos); table created in 2025 and subject to change.
  • Due to currency fluctuations in Argentina, USD equivalents are approximate and may vary.
  • Many hotels in El Calafate offer complimentary or paid airport transfers; confirm when booking.
  • Shuttle buses typically wait outside the arrivals terminal and depart when full or on schedule.
  • We recommend checking official transport websites for your travel planning.

Updated: December 2025

When is the best time to visit El Calafate

El Calafate's best time depends on your priorities: summer brings peak glacier conditions but crowds, winter offers dramatic solitude and 40% savings, while spring and autumn balance weather, costs, and access to Patagonia's iconic trails.

High season
December - February
  • Prices: Peak rates for flights and hotels; book 3-4 months ahead for better deals, especially avoiding Christmas and New Year weeks.
  • Weather: Warmest period with 4–20 °C, long daylight hours (up to 17 hours), and 6–8 rainy days monthly—ideal glacier viewing conditions.
  • Events: Prime Perito Moreno Glacier trekking season, ice-hiking expeditions, and New Year festivities draw international visitors to Patagonia's crown jewel.
Low season
May - August
  • Prices: Cheapest flights and accommodation—up to 40% less than summer peak; mid-week departures in June offer the best value.
  • Weather: Patagonian winter brings -5 to 5 °C, short daylight (9 hours), and 4–6 snowy days monthly—dramatic glacier landscapes with fewer tourists.
  • Events: Prime winter photography season at Perito Moreno, ice bar openings, and occasional southern lights sightings draw adventure seekers to the frozen south.
Shoulder season
March - April, September - November
  • Prices: Moderate rates with flights 20-30% cheaper than peak summer; book November departures 6-8 weeks ahead for spring glacier access without crowds.
  • Weather: Transitional conditions with 0–15 °C, increasing daylight in spring (14 hours by November), and 5–7 rainy days monthly—crisp air perfect for glacier photography.
  • Events: Glacier trekking season launches in September, autumn foliage peaks in April around Lago Argentino, and spring wildlife watching draws nature photographers to less-crowded trails.

El Calafate travel tips

Beyond the Glacier: The Allure of El Calafate

Nestled on the edge of the stunning Patagonia region, El Calafate is where nature's drama unfolds in grandiose ice and cobalt hues—a dream for any traveler seeking profound beauty. Known as the gateway to Los Glaciares National Park, the city offers a serene base from which to explore the awe-inspiring Perito Moreno Glacier. Kiwi travelers love booking cheap flights to El Calafate for its raw, untouched landscapes, where every winding path offers a new natural spectacle.

The crisp air, the majestic Andes in the backdrop, and the charm of this quaint town make it a bucket-list locale that beckons exploration.

From Tarmac to Glacier: Your First Day in El Calafate

Once your plane touches down at the small yet efficient Comandante Armando Tola International Airport, the town of El Calafate is just a quick drive away. Hit the ground running by visiting the Glaciarium, a stand-out glacier interpretation center that sets the stage for your adventures. Stroll along Avenida del Libertador, flanked by artisan shops and cozy cafes that infuse local charm.

For a more intimate experience, let your journey take you to the nearby Laguna Nimez Reserve, a peaceful bird sanctuary that promises a fantastic sunset behind the silhouette of the Andes. With Kiwi.com's flexible search options, you can ensure your flight arrives in time to catch these wonders.

Season to Save: When to Jet Off to El Calafate

Timing your trip can turn a great itinerary into an extraordinary one. The shoulder months of October and April offer a sweet spot—lower prices, fewer crowds, and still plenty of verdant Patagonia to explore. Book your flights to El Calafate 4–6 weeks in advance to snag the best deals, and set a Price Alert with Kiwi.com to catch those elusive savings.

Flights from major hubs such as Buenos Aires or Santiago de Chile often clock in under three hours, making it a convenient hop into a land of ice-carved valleys and breathtaking vistas.

Navigating El Calafate: Airports and Airlines

El Calafate is primarily served by the Comandante Armando Tola International Airport, just a 20-minute taxi ride from the town center. This airport connects you with a mix of budget-friendly airlines like Aerolineas Argentinas and LATAM Airlines, offering competitive fares that fit any travel budget.

Upon arrival, ample shuttle services and taxis are readily available to whisk you into town. For seamless booking and navigating potential disruptions, Kiwi's Kiwi Guarantee covers you with cancellation and re-routing protection, making the journey as relaxed as the destination promises to be.

Smart Travel Tips for Your El Calafate Adventure

  • Set a Price Alert: Use Kiwi.com to monitor fare drops and jump on the best deals.
  • Travel During Shoulder Seasons: Experience the beauty with fewer tourists and better prices.
  • Check Out Hidden Flight Routes: Engage in Travel Hacks for unique routes that might save you money.
  • Multi-City Exploration: Consider using Kiwi’s Nomad search tool for a comprehensive Patagonian tour.
  • Pack for All Weather: The Patagonian weather is famously unpredictable; layers are your best friend.

El Calafate awaits with landscapes that captivate and adventures that linger long after you’ve returned home. With Kiwi.com, your journey starts with a convenient click to some of nature’s greatest shows.

Weather in El Calafate

Average Weather

MonthAverage monthly max temperatureAverage monthly min temperature
January14°C7°C
February14°C7°C
March11°C5°C
April8°C3°C
May4°C0°C
June1°C-2°C
July1°C-3°C
August2°C-2°C
September4°C0°C
October8°C1°C
November10°C4°C
December12°C5°C
Hottest Month
14°C
January
Coldest month
-3°C
July
Sunny days
286
days per year
Snow days
19
days per year

14 day forecast

Sunday
10 May
90%
4°C0°C
17 May
5°C1°C
Monday
11 May
89%
5°C0°C
18 May
5°C2°C
Tuesday
12 May
3°C-2°C
19 May
6°C4°C
Wednesday
13 May
5°C-1°C
20 May
6°C3°C
Thursday
14 May
84%
5°C1°C
21 May
5°C3°C
Friday
15 May
5°C-1°C
22 May
6°C1°C
Saturday
16 May
4°C0°C
23 May
7°C2°C

Flight connections and travel options

Browse routes from top origins with quick connections

Airports in and near El Calafate

El Calafate’s main airport is the primary hub, with nearby airports offering additional options.

Frequently asked questions

Main airports in El Calafate, Santa Cruz, Argentina
Getting from the airport to El Calafate, Santa Cruz, Argentina
Best time to fly to El Calafate, Santa Cruz, Argentina
Things to do in El Calafate, Santa Cruz, Argentina
When to book your flight to El Calafate, Santa Cruz, Argentina
Ideal duration of stay in El Calafate, Santa Cruz, Argentina
Top tourist attractions in El Calafate, Santa Cruz, Argentina
Safety walking at night in El Calafate, Santa Cruz, Argentina
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