Getting from El Calafate to Torres del Paine is a common transfer between Argentina’s beautiful Patagonia landscape and Chile’s famous national park. The most popular route is by arriving in El Calafate and visiting Perito Moreno and the next day departing to Torres del Paine. Here I explain the best way to get from El Calafate to Torres del Paine.
The options to get from El Calafate to Torres del Paine
One of the most comfortable—but also one of the priciest—ways to reach Torres del Paine is by booking a private transfer. The main advantage is flexibility: you can schedule the transfer at the time that suits you best, and it goes directly from your hotel to your destination without any stops along the way.
Departures from El Calafate or Torres del Paine are usually scheduled between 7 AM and 9 AM. This timing ensures the driver has enough time to return to the country of departure and cross the border on schedule.
The price is generally calculated per vehicle, so it can become more economical if more people share the ride. A private transfer typically costs around 1000 USD (€860) per car for a one-way trip.
It is also possible to first go to Puerto Natales, which usually makes the transfer slightly cheaper while remaining very convenient.
Bus transfer to Puerto Natales (Torres del Paine)
If you are planning the overland journey from Argentina to Chile, there is a daily bus service between El Calafate and Puerto Natales. The ride takes around 5 hours and 30 minutes, including the border crossing. It is a comfortable and safe option that many travelers choose when heading towards Torres del Paine.
Once in Puerto Natales, you can continue the next day by bus to Laguna Amarga, the most common entry point to Torres del Paine National Park. From there, it is only a short 16-minute ride to the Welcome Center. Most hotels and campsites within the park also provide shuttle services from Laguna Amarga, which makes the transfer smooth and easy.
Expect to pay around 60 USD per person for the journey. Tickets can be booked online in advance or directly at the bus terminal, but I recommend securing them early during high season to avoid disappointment.
At the moment, there are no direct bus services from El Calafate to Laguna Amarga. This means you always have to make a stop in Puerto Natales, which is actually a nice opportunity to stock up on supplies, enjoy a good meal, and get the last bits of information at the visitor centers before heading into the park.
Rent a car to the national park
Do you want some more freedom to move around? Then renting a car is one of the best options for getting to the national park in Chile.
You can easily rent a car in El Calafate and drive around in Chile. However, there is something very important. If you start your car rental in El Calafate (Argentina) then the drop-off needs to be in Argentina too. That can be El Calafate, Ushuaia, or another city that you prefer as an end destination.
Border crossing permit
Also, don’t forget to ask for the border crossing permit. This is a permit for the car to cross the border with you. The car rental agency needs to provide this. Therefore, it’s important to say that you want to drive to Torres del Paine. They will ask for your passport to arrange the border crossing permit for Chile.
When to book the rental car?
There are many car rental agencies available in El Calafate. But be aware that during high season the cars are very popular to rent. Be on time to make your reservation. Two or three months before is fine.
Car rental agencies that I recommend
Hertz is one of the most popular car rentals in El Calafate. It was a good service and pick-up was available at El Calafate airport. Also, Avis and Budget are operating in El Calafate.
Try to negotiate a price in Argentinian peso. It will save some money.
