Where to Stay in Patagonia
Complete accommodation guide for the three Patagonian cities: Bariloche, El Calafate and Ushuaia. From lakeside hostels to exclusive glacier lodges.
Last updated: April 2026
Argentine Patagonia is not one destination: it is three very different cities separated by hundreds of kilometres, each with its own landscape, climate and accommodation options. Bariloche in the lake district, El Calafate as the gateway to the glaciers, and Ushuaia at the end of the world. All three are connected by air (there are no practical overland routes between them) and each deserves at least 2-3 nights.
Patagonia is the most expensive region in Argentina for accommodation, but still offers exceptional value compared to similar destinations in Europe or North America. A lakeside hotel in Bariloche that would cost USD 300 in the real Switzerland can be found here for USD 80-120. And the nature surrounding every hotel is simply incomparable.
Bariloche
Centro Civico: Most convenient without a car. Hostels USD 15-25, 3-star hotels USD 60-120, boutique hotels USD 150-250. The Kilometres (km 1-18): Best lakeside cabins, from USD 80. Requires a car. Cerro Catedral: Slope-side for skiers, USD 100-200. Llao Llao: Most exclusive, cabins from USD 150, Hotel Llao Llao from USD 500.
El Calafate
Avenida Libertador: Most practical, everything walkable. Hostels USD 15-20, 3-star hotels USD 70-120, boutique USD 150-250. Upper area: Lake views, USD 150-300.
Ushuaia
Town centre (San Martin): Walking distance to port and restaurants. Hostels USD 20-30, 3-star hotels USD 80-150. Martial area: Mountain views, boutique lodges USD 150-300.
Which is the best area to stay in Bariloche?
The Centro Civico is the best option for most visitors: restaurants, chocolate shops, tours and transport are all within walking distance, at accessible prices. For luxury and scenery, the Llao Llao area on the Circuito Chico is spectacular but requires a car. For skiers, Cerro Catedral has slope-side hotels ideal in winter.
How much does a hotel in El Calafate cost?
Hotels in El Calafate range from USD 30-40/night for hostels and basic centre hotels, to USD 80-150 for 3-4 star hotels. Lodges with Lago Argentino views cost USD 150-400/night. In high season (December-February) prices can rise 30-50%, so book ahead.
Do I need to book well in advance in Patagonia?
Yes, especially in high season (December-March for summer and July-August for skiing). The best-rated hotels in Bariloche, Calafate and Ushuaia fill up 2-3 months in advance. In low season (April-June and September-November) there is more availability and better prices, though some excursions may not operate.
Should I stay in El Chalten or El Calafate?
They are complementary destinations. El Calafate is the base for the Perito Moreno Glacier and has more tourist infrastructure. El Chalten is the trekking capital, ideal for hikers wanting the Fitz Roy and Torre trails. Best to combine both: 2 nights in Calafate + 2-3 nights in El Chalten.
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