If the august mountains, glaciers, and mirror-smooth lakes of Patagonia aren't enough for you, try checking into one of the estancias (ranches) for a bit of "adventure tourism."

Cerro Frías arranges horseback riding, trekking, 4x4 backcountry excursions and mountain biking on Estancia Alice, located 25 kilometers (15 mi) from El Calafate. Office: Avenida del Libertado 1857. Tel: 49-2808, E-mail: info@cerrofrias.com, URL: www.cerrofrias.com.

Estancia Nibepo Aike, at the end of Ruta 15 near the park boundary, offers a day in the country with horseback riding, hiking, birdwatching and observing an operating sheep ranch. The outing ends with a traditional lamb barbecue served with fresh salads from the estancia’s gardens. Office: Av. del Libertador 1215, local 1A. Tel: 49-2797, E-mail: nibepo@speedy.com.ar, URL: www.nibepoaike.com.ar.

Estancia 25 de Mayo is located within the city. This ranch is open well into the fall, with a five-hour visit that includes hiking on the Sendero Arroyo, wine tasting at Mirador Arroyo, a folkloric show and dinner at Restaurant El Quincho. Open Tuesday, Thursday, Saturday, 5:30 p.m. Tel: 49-1059. Cost: $50 without drinks.

Location:
El Calafate, Argentina

Other Activity

Relative price: Budget

Travel Skills: None

Head into Parque Nacional Los Glaciares to boat to and trek Glaciar Perito Moreno and the other glaciers, fish at Lago Roca. Explore the ancient history of the region, at Cuevas del Waliche and Bosque Petrificado la Leona. In town, visit the museums or birdwatch at Reserva Laguna Nímez.

By Lorraine Caputo

Upon re-declaring her independence at age 29, Lorraine Caputo packed her trusty Rocinante (so her knapsack's called) and began traipsing throughout...

Created: 13 Jul 2009

Updated: 27 Aug 2009

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