Nativo Experience Tour – El Calafate 4x4 & Cave Meal
Explore Lake Argentino by 4x4, discover Tehuelche history, and enjoy a cave meal with stunning views.
Briefing
The Nativo Experience Tour is a unique 4x4 adventure along the shores of Lake Argentino, available in two departure times: 11:00 AM and 6:00 PM. Whether you're arriving in El Calafate that morning or have an afternoon departure, you can easily fit this 3-hour experience into your itinerary.
Guided by an expert, you’ll journey through time, uncovering the history of early explorers and the Tehuelche culture. Along the way, you’ll visit a cave adorned with ancient paintings, where you’ll enjoy a delicious Patagonian meal in a truly breathtaking setting.
Ready to explore? 🤓 Here are all the details:
Tour details
Included
- Bilingual driver-guide (Spanish/English)
- Roundtrip transportation from El Calafate
- 4X4 tour
- Entrance to the Archaeological Zone
- Lunch or dinner with beverage and dessert (vegetarian option available)
Not included
- Other meals
Important information
✅ Two departure times:
- Morning: Pick up between 11:00 AM and 12:00 PM.
- Afternoon: Pick-up between 6:00 PM and 8:00 PM
📅 Confirmation of the schedule:
The exact departure time of your tour will be confirmed by WhatsApp the day before, starting at 6:00 PM
👨👩👧👦 Suitable for all ages
Cancellation policy
Free cancellation!
If you cancel at least 9 days before the tour starts, you will receive 100% of the amount paid. After this time, or in case of no-show, no refunds will be given.
Tour itinerary
Native Experience Tour
Duration: 3 hours
Pick up in El Calafate
The Nativo Experience tour begins with pick-up from your accommodation in El Calafate at your chosen time:
- Morning shift: Between 11:00 a.m. and 12:00 p.m.
- Afternoon shift: Between 6:00 p.m. and 8:00 p.m.
Hop into a 4x4 and get ready for an unforgettable adventure through the Patagonian steppe.
This tour is perfect if you're arriving in El Calafate that day or if you have a flight or transportation scheduled for the afternoon.
Lake Argentino
Upon reaching the shores of Lake Argentino, your guide will share fascinating insights about the lake’s formation and the diverse native flora and fauna that call this area home.
Punta Bonita Cliff
Next, you'll ascend to Punta Bonita Cliff, where you'll be rewarded with a breathtaking panoramic view of El Calafate, Lake Argentino, and the majestic Andes Mountains.
Punta Walicho Archaeological Zone
Next, you'll descend to the coast and step into the world of the region’s native inhabitants at an archaeological site that preserves ancient cave paintings.
As you walk through the area, your guide will interpret the meaning behind these fascinating rock art representations and explain the techniques used to create them.
These ancient cultures left their mark on the stone, and today, their legacy invites you to uncover their history.
Lunch or Dinner in a Cave
To conclude this unique adventure, you'll experience the highlight of the day: a delicious lunch or dinner inside a cave, depending on your selected departure time.
This natural setting offers an unmatched gastronomic experience, where you’ll savor traditional Patagonian dishes made with fresh, local ingredients. The cave’s distinctive atmosphere, combined with the rich flavors, makes for an unforgettable moment that will stay with you long after your journey.
Return to El Calafate
After your meal, you'll hop back into the 4x4 for the return trip to your accommodation in El Calafate. Expect to arrive approximately three hours after the tour begins.
What to bring to Nativo Experience – El Calafate 4x4 & Cave Meal tour
The weather in El Calafate can be cold and changeable, so it is important to be well prepared to enjoy the experience to the fullest. During the 4x4 tour along the shore of Lake Argentino, you will be outdoors at some points, and the visit to the cave can also be cool. Here are our recommendations:
Warm clothes (essential)
- Windbreaker and waterproof jacket
- Thermal or warm clothing in layers
- Gloves, hat and scarf
Comfortable footwear
- Sneakers or trekking boots with good support
Useful accessories
- Sunglasses and sunscreen (the sun's reflection on the lake can be intense)
- Water bottle to keep you hydrated
- Camera or cell phone with enough battery to capture the scenery
With these recommendations, you'll be ready to enjoy this unique adventure in El Calafate - see you on the tour! 😊
Where does the tour Nativo Experience – El Calafate 4x4 & Cave Meal start
🚌 Pick up and return:
The tour starts with pick up at your accommodation in El Calafate, according to the selected schedule. Remember to tell us the name of your accommodation when booking. For convenience, the tour ends at the same place, 3 hours later.
✈️ Plan your entire trip:
Be sure to arrange your transfer to or from El Calafate Airport before or after the tour:
📍 How to get to El Calafate?
Check our complete guide and discover all the routes and transportation options to get to this amazing destination.
Questions & Answers
Will I be picked up at my accommodation in El Calafate for the 4x4 tour?
Yes, the tour includes pick-up and drop-off at accommodations with reception in central El Calafate. If you are staying at a place without reception (such as an Airbnb), we will provide a nearby meeting point for you to join the tour.
What does the Nativo Experience Tour consist of?
The Nativo Experience Tour is a 4x4 adventure along the shores of Lake Argentino, blending nature, history, and local cuisine. You’ll explore an archaeological site with ancient cave paintings, take in stunning panoramic views, and end the experience with a memorable lunch or dinner inside a cave.
How long does the Nativo Experience Tour last, and what are the schedules?
The tour lasts approximately 3 hours and offers two departure options:
- Morning shift: Pick-up between 11:00 AM and 12:00 PM
- Afternoon shift: Pick-up between 6:00 PM and 8:00 PM
The exact pick-up time will be confirmed via WhatsApp the day before, starting at 6:00 PM.
Is hiking experience or good physical condition required for the Nativo Experience Tour?
No, the tour is suitable for all ages and does not require hiking experience. The walk through the archaeological site is short and easy.
What clothing and equipment should I bring?
We recommend wearing warm clothing year-round, as temperatures can be low, especially in the afternoon. Comfortable, closed-toe shoes are also essential for the walk through the archaeological site.
What is included in the Nativo Experience cave meal?
Depending on the selected departure time, you will enjoy either lunch or dinner inside a natural cave with breathtaking views. The meal features traditional Patagonian dishes made with fresh, regional ingredients.
Can I do the Nativo Experience Tour on the same day I arrive in El Calafate or before my flight?
Yes. If you arrive in El Calafate in the morning, you can book the afternoon shift. If you have a flight or transportation in the afternoon, you can choose the morning shift. We recommend allowing extra time to ensure a smooth connection.
Can children or seniors participate in the Nativo Experience Tour?
Yes, the tour is suitable for all ages. However, please note that there is a short walk on natural terrain.
Nativo Experience – El Calafate 4x4 & Cave Meal tour reviews with Howlanders
Other tours that might interest you from Argentina
- (3 reviews)El Calafate, Argentina1 daySpanish and EnglishFree cancellation!
- El Calafate, Argentina1 daySpanish and EnglishFree cancellation!
- (1 reviews)El Calafate, Argentina1 dayEnglish and SpanishFree cancellation!
- (6 reviews)El Calafate, Argentina1 daySpanish and EnglishFree cancellation!
Other travelers also booked
- RECOMMENDED 🥇(91 reviews)El Calafate, Argentina1 dayEnglish and SpanishFree cancellation!
- (62 reviews)El Calafate, Argentina1 daySpanish and EnglishFree cancellation!
- (21 reviews)El Calafate, Argentina1 daySpanish and EnglishFree cancellation!
- (1 reviews)El Calafate, Argentina1 daySpanish and EnglishFree cancellation!
