Cheap Hotels in El Calafate

Free cancellation options if plans change
Unlock travel rewards with One Key
Save more with Member Prices

Check prices for these dates

Tonight
Sep 5 - Sep 6
Tomorrow
Sep 6 - Sep 7
This weekend
Sep 5 - Sep 7
Next weekend
Sep 12 - Sep 14

Cheap Hotels in El Calafate

Hosteria Rukahue
Front of property - evening/night

Hosteria Rukahue

2.5 star property
9.6 out of 10, Exceptional, (86)
$41 nightly
The price is $41
Sep 12 - Sep 13
Hosteria Rukahue
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.

Top neighborhoods in El Calafate

El Calafate Centro

El Calafate Centro buzzes as the gateway to Patagonia's famous glaciers. The main street, Avenida del Libertador, showcases colorful shops selling wool sweaters, outdoor gear, and carved gaucho figures. Visitors can explore unique attractions like the Gnome Village, Argentinian Museum of Toys, and the Casino while planning their glacier adventures. The bus terminal connects travelers to the breathtaking Perito Moreno Glacier in Los Glaciares National Park. Restaurants throughout the area serve regional specialties like Patagonian lamb and calafate berry desserts. The neighborhood is highly walkable with hotels and hostels catering to every budget. Most visitors use the terminal's frequent bus service to reach the glaciers, though taxis are readily available for trips around town.

Perito Moreno Glacier, Patagonia, Argentina - Panoramic View

Macrozona Lago Argentino

Macrozona Lago Argentino serves up front-row glacier views that'll make your Instagram followers hate you a little bit. The turquoise waters of Lake Argentino stretch toward snow-capped peaks while lakeside trails lead to perfect spots for watching massive ice chunks crash into the water. Bird lovers can spot flamingos at Laguna Nimez, and adventure seekers can book ice-trekking tours right from the main strip. Patagonian steakhouses and lamb restaurants line the streets, with most places staying open late during summer months. Hotels and lodges feature huge windows framing those killer lake views. While public transit is limited, tour shuttles zip visitors between glaciers and town, making car rental optional for this slice of Patagonian paradise.

Panoramic view of the gigantic Perito Moreno glacier, its tongue and lagoon in Patagonia in golden Autumn, Argentina

Macrozona Bahía Redonda y Primeros Faldeos

Macrozona Bahía Redonda y Primeros Faldeos gives you front-row seats to the stunning turquoise waters of Lago Argentino. The shoreline paths invite you to spot wild flamingos while the first foothills of Patagonia rise behind you. It's a peaceful escape from downtown El Calafate where bird calls and gentle waves replace city noise. The neighborhood offers boutique guesthouses and vacation rentals with killer lake views instead of tourist crowds. Getting around means walking quiet residential streets or taking a quick taxi ride to downtown restaurants and shops. Perfect for nature lovers who want to experience real Patagonian life.

panoramic view of el chalten town and fitz roy peak at background, argentina

Cerro Calafate

Cerro Calafate sits on a hillside above El Calafate's bustling center, offering a slice of authentic Argentine residential life. The quiet streets give you a breather from tourist crowds while serving up stunning views of Patagonian landscapes. Modest homes with metal roofs and small gardens create a charming backdrop for travelers seeking the real deal. Getting around requires some legwork thanks to steep terrain and limited public transit. Most visitors rely on taxis to reach downtown restaurants and shops. Family-run guesthouses and B&Bs provide budget-friendly options with that homey touch you won't find in commercial hotels.

Top landmarks in El Calafate

Avenue del Libertador
El Calafate featuring landscape views and a lake or waterhole

Avenue del Libertador

After visiting Avenue del Libertador, make a plan to see the other sights and activities in El Calafate. While you're in the area, stroll along the lakeside.

See properties in Avenue del Libertador
Gnome Village

Gnome Village

If you want to give your credit card some exercise, head out to Gnome Village in El Calafate Centro.

See properties in Gnome Village

Frequently asked questions

How much is a cheap hotel in El Calafate?
You'll find 15 budget hotels to choose from in El Calafate. When you're searching for the best hotel deals, remember to sort your results by "Price: low to high" to find the cheapest El Calafate hotels.
  • Take a look at the lowest price per night
What area of El Calafate is the cheapest?
When you want a cheap place to stay in El Calafate, consider Macrozona Bahía Redonda y Primeros Faldeos and El Calafate Centro which often have budget-friendly hotels. Want to stay in another part of the city? Use our map feature to pinpoint low-cost hotels in the another area.
Are there any cheap hotels in El Calafate that offer free breakfast?
When you stay at a cheap hotel in El Calafate, you shouldn't have to miss a good meal to start your day. Red House Hostel serves up a free buffet breakfast. Folk Hostel also offers a complimentary buffet breakfast. Choose from other hotels in El Calafate that offer free breakfast by selecting our "Breakfast included" filter.
Are all taxes and fees included in the El Calafate hotel prices shown on Hotels.com?
Hotels.com provides upfront pricing so you can relax knowing you won't be met with surprise additional fees or taxes when you're ready to confirm your booking. From the time you start your search on Hotels.com, the price you see is what you pay. This makes it much easier to compare properties and secure our best deal for your next getaway.
What are the best cheap hotels in El Calafate?
For a cheap hotel in El Calafate with glowing reviews, consider Hosteria Rukahue, which features free breakfast, free WiFi and free parking. You can also look at America del Sur Hostel El Calafate or Schilling Patagonia Travellers - Hostel.
Can I stay in a hostel in El Calafate?
Hostels can be a less expensive alternative to El Calafate hotels, as you can stay in a shared dormitory. There are 11 hostels in El Calafate. America del Sur Hostel El Calafate offers free continental breakfast and free in-room WiFi. Schilling Patagonia Travellers - Hostel has free breakfast and free in-room WiFi. Hostel del Glaciar Pioneros is another low-cost option.
What are the best cheap things to do in El Calafate?
Sightseeing doesn't mean you have to blow the budget. For some things to do in El Calafate, enjoy the outdoors at Lake Argentino or Laguna Nimez. Don't forget to plan a visit to Avenue del Libertador.

Find out more about El Calafate

Find out more about El Calafate

Exploring El Calafate on a budget

El Calafate is a gateway to stunning natural beauty and offers several budget-friendly activities that travelers will love. First, the iconic Perito Moreno Glacier is a must-see; you can explore its breathtaking views without spending a fortune, especially if you opt for self-guided trails that provide spectacular vantage points. For nature lovers, the nearby Los Glaciares National Park offers free hiking trails that lead you through gorgeous landscapes filled with unique flora and fauna. Don’t miss the chance to stroll through El Calafate’s charming town center, where you can enjoy local artisan shops and affordable eateries serving traditional Argentine dishes like empanadas and asado. Additionally, the Laguna Nimez Nature Reserve is a fantastic spot for birdwatching and peaceful walks at little to no cost. Budget-conscious travelers will find that staying in the town center or near the lagoon allows for easy access to these attractions, and many affordable hotels provide a cozy atmosphere that enhances the overall experience of exploring this enchanting region.
Exploring El Calafate on a budget

How to find the best cheap hotels in El Calafate?

 

✅  There are lots of cheap hotels available in El Calafate in 2025. What's more, our rewards programOpens in a new window makes El Calafate hotels an even better choice for travelers on a budget. 

 

✅  Whether you're looking for a hostel, apart-hotel or Bed & Breakfast, there's something for every type of traveler in El Calafate on Hotels.com – use the helpful search filters to find some of the cheapest hotels in El Calafate for your budget-friendly stay. 

 

✅  You'll find lots of cheap hotels in El Calafate – with Hotels.com. With so many choices, we recommend you use the search filter for price limits to narrow down your options. 

 

✅  The best time of year for an affordable vacation to El Calafate is during low season. This is when fewer people visit and there is a wider range of cheap El Calafate hotels available.  

 

✅  There are plenty of things to see and do in El Calafate on a budget! From exploring the city's iconic landmarks and museums to enjoying the great outdoors and local parks, there is something for everyone in El Calafate. 

 

✅  If you're looking to travel to El Calafate on a budget, there are plenty of ways to save. One option is to consider booking your travel during off-peak times when prices for flights, hotels, and attractions may be lower. Another option is budget-friendly transportation, such as local public transportation like buses or trains. 

 

✅  To find the great budget hotels in El Calafate for families, use our "Family friendly" filter under the "Travel experience" header. This will filter for family-friendly accommodation essentials.  

 

*Prices and availability are subject to change. Additional terms may apply. 

 

Keep exploring

Keep exploring