Three free routes to see the town on foot. Pick one for the time you have: your phone or watch counts the steps, and here's where to go.
150 minutes
The WHO recommends adults get at least 150 minutes of moderate activity a week. Walking counts.
Source: WHO7,000 steps
In a study of 2,110 middle-aged adults, taking about 7,000 steps a day or more was linked to lower mortality.
Source: JAMA Network Open, 2021Body and mind
According to the WHO, regular physical activity is linked to better mental health and sleep. And any amount is better than none.
Source: WHODistances are there and back. Steps are approximate, about 1,300 per kilometer: your watch shows your own.
The shortest and flattest, for anyone. It goes from the Anfiteatro del Bosque to the National Park office, then on to the Artisans' and Gnomes' walks. There are shops and places to stop for a drink along the way.
Save it for when you arrive tired from the trip, or for the afternoon after an excursion.
Leave the center and in about 35 minutes you reach the Calafate stream canyon, on a gentle climb. It's free and anyone can walk there: go as far as you like and come back.
Want to keep going? The long route reaches the Cascada del Desierto waterfall: almost 14 km, and it takes the whole day.
You'll see tours for sale, but you don't need to book anything for this walk.
The classic walk along Lago Argentino, almost all flat and paved, past Bahía Redonda and the El Calafate sign. In season you'll see flamingos and black-necked swans.
Also by bike: where the walking stretch ends, a cycle path continues for about 3.7 km, around 14 km in all, there and back. You can rent bikes in town.
Go early or at sunset, when it's at its best.
The wind can be strong: bring a windbreaker, even if the sun is out.
Sunscreen and a hat: the sun is strong even when it's cool.
Water and comfortable shoes, especially for the Cañadón.
