How to Get from El Calafate Airport to the City Center (2026)
Comandante Armando Tola Airport (FTE) is located 23 km from El Calafate city center, about 20 minutes by road. There is no regular public transport, so you will need a private transfer, taxi, shuttle, or car rental.
Transfer with Calafate Tours
Duration: 20–25 min | Capacity: up to 8 passengers (van)
We organize transfers from the airport to El Calafate city center and to any hotel in the area. Contact us via WhatsApp, we coordinate with your flight schedule, and we'll be waiting for you at the airport exit with a sign with your name.
Advantages
- We wait for you with a sign at the airport exit
- We coordinate with your actual flight schedule
- Comfortable vehicles with luggage space
- Door-to-door service to any hotel
- If your flight is delayed, just let us know
Disadvantages
- Requires prior booking via WhatsApp
Contact us at least 48 hours in advance, especially during high season (December–February).
Taxi
Duration: 20–25 min | Capacity: up to 4 passengers + luggage
There is an official taxi stand at the airport exit. You don't need to book.
Advantages
- Immediate availability, 24/7
- Door-to-door — they drop you off at your hotel
- Accept cash and card
Disadvantages
- More expensive per person if you're traveling alone
- There might be a queue when international flights arrive
Confirm the fare before getting in. If you're traveling alone, there are usually other passengers at the airport exit willing to share a taxi and split the cost.
Bus / Shuttle
Duration: 30–40 min (makes several stops) | Capacity: 15–20 passengers
Shared shuttles depart coordinated with flight schedules, generally 30 minutes after each arrival. You buy the ticket at the counter inside the airport.
Advantages
- The most economical option
- You don't need to book — you buy the ticket at the airport
- They drop you off near your hotel
Disadvantages
- Makes several stops, so the journey is longer
- Can get full during high season
- Less space for large luggage
Buy your ticket at the counter inside the airport, not outside. Fares are official, and you avoid intermediaries. If your hotel is on Avenida Libertador (the main street), the shuttle will drop you very close.
Car Rental
Duration: 20 min | Capacity: depends on vehicle
If you plan to do excursions on your own or go to El Chaltén, there are rental offices inside the airport (Hertz, Avis, Localiza, Alamo).
Advantages
- Total freedom of movement
- You can go to El Chaltén whenever you want
- Useful if you're traveling with family or a group
Disadvantages
- High cost including rental, fuel, and insurance
- Parking in the city center can be difficult
- Gravel roads require experience
- Most excursions already include transportation
It's only worthwhile if you plan several days of independent tours. To get from the airport to the hotel and go on organized tours, you don't need it.
Comparativa Rápida
Opciones de traslado desde el aeropuerto FTE
- Tiempo:20 min
- Reserva:Reserva previa
- Frec.:A medida
- Tiempo:40 min
- Reserva:En mostrador
- Frec.:Post-vuelo
- Tiempo:20 min
- Reserva:Fila de espera
- Frec.:Inmediata
- Tiempo:20 min
- Reserva:Reserva previa
- Frec.:Tu ritmo
Schedules and Frequencies
- Calafate Tours Transfer: 24/7 with prior booking via WhatsApp.
- Taxis: 24/7, always available at the airport.
- Shuttles: Depart 30–45 minutes after each flight. Last service ~10:00 PM.
- Car Rentals: Offices open according to flight schedules, some 24/7.
Payment Methods
- Calafate Tours Transfer: Cash or bank transfer. We coordinate when booking.
- Taxis: Cash (Argentine pesos) or debit/credit card. Important: some taxis may apply surcharges for card use.
- Shuttles: Preferably cash, some accept cards.
- Rental: Credit card mandatory (security deposit).
Bring Argentine pesos in cash. Although many accept cards, cash is faster, avoids problems with terminals lacking signal, and avoids card surcharges.
Frequently Asked Questions
The most common questions about transfers from El Calafate airport.
Transfer Tips
- Carry cash — Have Argentine pesos on hand for the transfer and tips.
- Confirm the address — Have your hotel's exact address written down or on your phone.
- Download offline maps — Google Maps works without internet if you download the map beforehand.
- Save useful numbers — Your hotel's phone number and the transfer company's.
- Check the weather — Keep warm clothing handy; it can be cold even in summer. More details in our El Calafate clothing and weather guide.
Useful Apps
- Google Maps — To verify you're going in the right direction.
- WhatsApp — To contact transfer companies.
- XE Currency — To convert prices to your currency.
Have you arrived? Start planning
Once in the city center, start with our 3-day itinerary in El Calafate. And if you haven't decided when to travel yet, check out the best time to visit El Calafate.