Estancias in El Calafate

Estancia Nibepo Aike is a rural lodge located inside Los Glaciares National Park, on the southern arm of Lago Argentino, just a short distance from El Calafate. With over a hundred years of history and three generations of the same family running the property, this accommodation in Patagonia offers an authentic rural tourism experience with full board, outdoor activities, and regional cuisine, all in a setting of complete tranquility at the foot of the Andes Mountains. The lodge features 10 rooms in a traditional Patagonian farmhouse, fully equipped for guest comfort. Its small scale ensures personalized attention and an intimate atmosphere that sets it apart from other accommodation options in El Calafate. The recommended stay is 2 to 4 nights, enough time to make the most of the available programs and truly disconnect from everyday life. Guests can choose between two full-board accommodation programs: • Nibepo Clásico: includes all estancia activities such as horseback riding, hiking, cycling, and rural demonstrations, with the freedom to explore independently. • Nibepo Plus: designed for guests who prefer a more guided experience, with superior rooms and a dedicated guide for all activities. Estancia Nibepo Aike is the only estancia within Los Glaciares National Park with active livestock farming, making it common to see gauchos on horseback herding cattle and sheep across the land. Highlights among the available activities include horseback rides to the Hidden Glaciers, trekking through the Baguales area, sheep shearing and milking demonstrations, and boat excursions operated by Glaciar Sur to Perito Moreno Glacier and to the Grande, Cubo, and Dickson glaciers. A Day on the Ranch program is also available, including a traditional Patagonian lamb barbecue, making it an ideal complement to a glacier visit for day-trippers. The lodge welcomes day visitors through its Day on the Ranch program, a perfect option for those exploring the Patagonia region who want to experience authentic rural life without an overnight stay.