If you’ve got a layover in El Calafate, don’t let it go to waste sitting at ING. The city, in Argentina, is within easy reach — roughly 50 minutes by Shared Shuttles / Taxis. Whether you have four hours or twelve, here’s how to make your stopover count.
Pre-Departure Checklist
Stepping out of the airport during a layover takes a little preparation. Here’s what to keep in mind at ING:
First, verify that you can enter Argentina — visa requirements depend on your nationality and can change. Second, know your timing: the Shared Shuttles / Taxis takes about 50 minutes into El Calafate, so add that up for the round trip plus security buffer. Third, have your payment sorted — ARS is the currency here. Cards are widely accepted in most places, but carrying some ARS in cash is a good idea for smaller vendors.
The Best Way Into El Calafate from ING
You have two main options for getting from Lago Argentino Airport into town:
- Shared Shuttles / Taxis: About 50 minutes, affordable, and consistent. This is what we recommend for time-conscious travelers.
- Taxi or ride-share: Around 70 minutes in normal traffic. More comfortable for groups or heavy luggage, but pricier and less predictable.
Whichever you choose, keep the return journey in mind. Build in extra time — you do not want to be rushing through security.
Layover Budget Breakdown
Here’s a rough breakdown of what a quick trip into El Calafate might cost in USD:
- Transport (round trip): ~$11 USD
- A meal: ~$22 USD
- Miscellaneous: ~$10 USD
- Estimated total: ~$43 USD
If you’re only out for a few hours, you might not need much cash at all — many places accept contactless payments.
Luggage Storage at ING
Specific locker facilities at ING aren’t well-documented. We recommend checking Bounce before your trip to find a secure storage spot either near the airport or in El Calafate itself.
If you’re traveling carry-on only, you might be able to skip storage entirely and bring your bag along.
What’s Worth Seeing in El Calafate
With limited time, focus on what’s accessible. In El Calafate, two standouts are:
- Laguna Nimez Reserve — It’s a popular stop for visitors with limited time in El Calafate.
- El Calafate Historical Interpretation Centre — A quick visit here gives you a real sense of the area’s past.
Both are realistic options even if you only have a few hours to spare.
If you’d rather stay inside ING — maybe your layover is shorter than expected, or you just prefer to stay close to your gate — there are still ways to pass the time:
- Regional Souvenir Shops
- Airport Cafeteria Seating Area
Best Bites Near ING
Two dining recommendations if you’re heading into El Calafate: La Zaina and Mi Rancho. Both are accessible without a huge time commitment.
Staying at the airport? Look for ConfiterÃa del Aeropuerto or . Airport food may not be glamorous, but it’ll keep you fueled up for the next leg.
Need a Nap? Options at ING
Sometimes the best layover plan is no plan at all. If you need sleep at ING, scope out the quieter gate areas first. Noise-canceling headphones and an eye mask go a long way in a busy terminal.
Lounge access is another option if you want a real seat and maybe a shower. Check Priority Pass or ask at the information desk about day-use rates.
Staying Connected
Free WiFi is generally available at ING, which is handy for checking maps and transport schedules. For connectivity in El Calafate itself, an eSIM is the easiest route — services like Airalo offer data plans for Argentina that you can activate straight from your phone, no physical SIM swap needed.
Final Thoughts
A layover in El Calafate with time to spare is really an invitation to explore. El Calafate may not have been on your original itinerary, but sometimes those surprise stops become the best part of a trip.
Just remember: set an alarm, know your gate, and leave time for security. Everything else is an adventure.
Disclaimer: Visa rules, transport schedules, and prices change. Always verify details with official sources and your airline before leaving the airport.