In short
- The port is 47 to 50 kilometers from El Calafate.
- Drive via routes RP 11 and RP 8 in 45 minutes.
- Tour shuttles cost around 65,000 ARS per person.
In this article
Spegazzini Glacier is only accessible by boat across Lake Argentino. Every cruise departs from Puerto Punta Bandera. You must travel from El Calafate to the port before your tour begins. Visitors typically use a tour shuttle or drive a rental car.
How far is Puerto Punta Bandera from El Calafate?
The port is located 47 to 50 kilometers from the center of El Calafate.
The journey takes about 45 minutes in normal traffic. The road is fully paved and easy to navigate. Plan to leave your accommodation with plenty of time to meet your boat's boarding schedule.
How do I get to the port for the glacier cruise?
You can either drive a rental car or book a bus transfer through your tour operator.
Most local tour operators offer a shuttle service as a paid add-on to your boat ticket. If you have your own vehicle, driving is straightforward. There is no land access to the glacier itself, so reaching the port is mandatory.
What are the driving directions to Puerto Punta Bandera?
Drive west from El Calafate via Provincial Route 11 (RP 11) and Provincial Route 8 (RP 8).
Follow RP 11 out of the city toward Los Glaciares National Park. Turn onto RP 8, which leads directly to the port. The signs for Puerto Punta Bandera are clear along the route. The drive takes roughly 45 minutes.
Is there parking at Puerto Punta Bandera?
Yes, parking is available at the port for independent travelers.
If you choose to drive yourself, you can leave your car in the designated parking area. You will park, walk to the modern terminal, and board your catamaran for the 7 to 8-hour navigation.
How do bus transfers from El Calafate work?
Shuttle transfers pick you up at your hotel and drive you directly to the port.
The shuttle takes 45 minutes and costs approximately 65,000 ARS. You can book this service as an add-on alongside your boat ticket. Pickups usually start early, around 7:00 AM or 7:15 AM. You must wait for the guide at your hotel reception.
Do all hotels offer tour pickups?
No, shuttles only pick up from established hotels with a reception desk.
If you stay in an Airbnb or a temporary rental, the bus will not pick you up directly. Operators will assign you a nearby meeting point. You will need to walk or take a taxi to that designated hotel lobby.
Questions travellers ask
Can I take a public bus to Puerto Punta Bandera?
There is no regular public bus to the port. You must use a rental car or book a shuttle transfer through a local tour operator.
When do I need to be at the port?
Arrival times vary by tour. Many operators ask you to be at the port terminal by 8:30 AM. Always check your specific ticket for precise boarding times.
Do I pay the National Park fee at the port?
You must purchase a Los Glaciares National Park entrance ticket before your boat trip. The general day pass currently costs around 50,000 ARS for non-resident adults. You must show this receipt before boarding.
