Mabra Suites leads with a 9.8/10 location score and a 9.6/10 for cleanliness, right on main street. For an apartment edge, Soño Lugar scores 9.8/10 overall with Wi-Fi at a perfect 10.0. Both put you near Perito Moreno’s gateway.
Calafate’s hotel scene splits between social hostels and high-scoring apartments. This guide cuts through the 20 strongest properties based on real guest data.
Why Trust This Guide
I analyzed 20 properties—hostels, apartments, villas, and hotels—against 13,300+ verified guest reviews, selecting only those with an 8.9/10 average guest score across categories like cleanliness, location, and value.
🎯 Quick Picks: Skip to What You Need
- Best stay near Avenida del Libertador: #7 Mabra Suites→ Rates
- Top apartment for peace & quiet: #19 Los pumas→ Rates
- Perfect for pet owners: #13 arroyo de las piedras→ Rates
#20 Departamentos Turísticos MD→ Rates - Budget-friendly with bonus breakfast: #1 Calafate Hostel→ Rates
- Highest overall guest score: #18 Soño Lugar→ Rates
- Perfect Wi-Fi for digital nomads: #10 Hostel House 64Bigüa→ Rates
#12 My Sweet Home Calafate→ Rates
Editor’s Note on Booking: We use smart routing to find you the best available rates. Clicking our availability buttons checks live pricing across trusted platforms to ensure you secure your stay.
Quick Compare: Top Places To Stay
| Property | Rating | Book |
|---|---|---|
| 1. Calafate Hostel | (6050+ Reviews) |
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| 2. Matices Hostel Terminal | (1500+ Reviews) |
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| 3. Hostel Elal | (800+ Reviews) |
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| 4. Hostel Danny | (700+ Reviews) |
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| 5. Hotel y Cabañas Las Marías | (600+ Reviews) |
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| 6. La Comarca Azul | (450+ Reviews) |
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| 7. Mabra Suites | (400+ Reviews) |
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| 8. Aguilar House Hostel B&B | (350+ Reviews) |
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| 9. Matices Hostel Centro | (300+ Reviews) |
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| 10. Hostel House 64Bigüa | (250+ Reviews) |
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| 11. Vidorra Calafate | (200+ Reviews) |
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| 12. My Sweet Home Calafate | (200+ Reviews) |
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| 13. arroyo de las piedras | (150+ Reviews) |
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| 14. Cabañas Aluen | (150+ Reviews) |
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| 15. THE BLUE | (150+ Reviews) |
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| 16. Departamentos Centro El Calafate | (150+ Reviews) |
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| 17. El Calafate Apart | (150+ Reviews) |
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| 18. Soño Lugar | (100+ Reviews) |
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| 19. Los pumas | (100+ Reviews) |
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| 20. Departamentos Turísticos MD | (100+ Reviews) |
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Detailed Reviews: Top Calafate Hotels & Apartments Ranked
1. Calafate Hostel






The Vibe
Calafate Hostel runs like a well-oiled machine on Gobernador Moyano, steps from the main strip. With over 6,000 reviews and a staff score of 9.2, the front desk handles check-ins and tour bookings with serious speed. The private rooms sit in a quieter back section, so you get hostel social without the 24/7 buzz.
What You Actually Get
Rooms are simple but come with heating and garden-view options. A fully equipped common kitchen means you can cook after glacier hikes. The continental breakfast is basic but included—eggs, toast, coffee to fuel a Perito Moreno morning. Location is the big draw: a 9.5 score puts you 3 minutes from restaurants and the main avenida. Wi-Fi runs at 8.6, fine for messaging and trip planning but don’t expect video-call speeds. Unlike many hostels, this one accepts groups but applies extra policies for bookings over 4 rooms. Free airport shuttle info is available at reception.
Choose this if: you want budget-friendly private rooms with 24-hour reception in Calafate’s walkable downtown.
2. Matices Hostel Terminal






The Vibe
Matices Hostel Terminal is exactly what the name promises—a solid option across from El Calafate’s bus station, which matters when you’re bouncing to El Chaltén or Puerto Natales. The 8.8 location score reflects the transit hub convenience. Basic breakfast is included, and the shared kitchen handles simple meals.
What You Actually Get
Free private parking is a real plus for drivers—not every Calafate budget spot gives you that. The garden is small but usable for a quiet coffee. The property runs cash-only (no card payments on-site), so bring ARS or USD cash for extras. The front desk is open until 11:30 PM, but they’ve confirmed late-night check-ins for guests arriving at midnight. Wi-Fi scores a 7.7, which feels slower than the town average—streaming might buffer. Unlike #1, this spot is more practical than cozy, built for travelers with tight bus connections.
Choose this if: you have early-morning buses or a rental car and need secure, free parking.
3. Hostel Elal






The Vibe
Hostel Elal runs like a small community hub on José Pantin. The shared lounge and kitchen are social without being rowdy, and the resident cats are a quirky plus. Staff score 9.1—they actively help book bus tickets and glacier tours. Location hits 9.1, putting you a short walk from the main commercial streets.
What You Actually Get
Dorms and private rooms come with heating, clean bedding, and basic furniture. The property offers free private parking with 5 guaranteed spots plus 3 overflow spaces. Laundry service is available for a small extra cost. Cash-only policy applies, so stash some Argentine pesos. The Wi-Fi scores 8.4, decent for a hostel at this tier. Kitchen use is free and has solid basics. Unlike Matices Terminal, this one has a cozier, more personal feel—staff remember faces.
Choose this if: you want a social hostel with free parking and a staff that goes the extra mile.
4. Hostel Danny






The Vibe
Hostel Danny scores a 9.7 on location and a staggering 9.8 on staff service—the best one-two punch on this list below $50 a night. It’s on Gobernador Gregores, feet from the main restaurants and shops. Breakfast is a hearty continental spread (available for an extra $2, but many reviewers say it’s worth skipping the common kitchen). All rooms come with private bathrooms, which is rare at this price point.
What You Actually Get
Private rooms are clean and quiet, with microwaves in most. Wi-Fi hits 9.6—one of the fastest among budget properties. The airport shuttle can be arranged at reception for a reasonable fee. No washing machine on-site, but nearby laundromats work same-day. Check-in runs until midnight, and the 24-hour desk can handle late arrivals. Unlike Calafate Hostel (#1), Danny’s private bathrooms mean you don’t share facilities.
Choose this if: you prioritize location above all—this is one of the most central stays in all of Calafate.
5. Hotel y Cabañas Las Marías






The Vibe
Hotel y Cabañas Las Marías blends a friendly B&B feel with cabin-style rooms. Staff score 9.7—owner Lucas gets personal shout-outs from guests for helping with logistics. The garden and barbecue area make for relaxed pre-dinner evenings. The very good breakfast included in the rate saves you a scramble in the morning.
What You Actually Get
Both standard hotel rooms and self-catering cabins are available. Cabins come with kitchenettes for longer stays. Free private parking is on-site, and the garden has views that stretch to the hills. Wi-Fi runs at 8.6—reliable for browsing but not lightning-fast. The property accepts payments in Argentine pesos at the official exchange rate. Morrison’s Restaurant, less than 100 meters away, is heavily recommended in the reviews for good Patagonian lamb.
Choose this if: you’re a family or small group wanting cabin privacy with a solid breakfast included.
6. La Comarca Azul






The Vibe
This 4-star villa property in a quiet residential pocket gives a cabin-like feel with inner courtyard views. Value scores 9.4—guests consistently say the size and amenities punch above the rate. BBQ facilities and a garden are available for use. It’s superb for a group or family wanting space to spread out.
What You Actually Get
The villas come with full kitchens, living areas, and private terraces. Free private parking is included, and the neighborhood is quiet for sleeping. Check-in is between 3 PM and 6 PM, but the host can arrange later arrivals if you communicate in advance. Wi-Fi scores 9.5, strong enough for remote work. Unlike hotel setups, you get total privacy with no shared common areas.
Choose this if: you want a full-villa experience with outdoor space and don’t mind driving 5 minutes downtown.
7. Mabra Suites






The Vibe
Mabra Suites hits the sweet spot of modern, clean, and central. With a 9.8 location score, it’s smack in the middle of Avenida del Libertador’s restaurant and shopping strip. The 9.6 cleanliness and 9.7 comfort scores mean it feels new—because it is. The excellent breakfast (included) goes beyond bread and jam to eggs, meats, and fresh pastries.
What You Actually Get
Rooms feature garden views, elevator access (rare in Calafate), and upper-floor options. Wi-Fi hits 9.5—reliable for work. No private parking, but free street parking is available nearby. The hotel doesn’t allow bachelor/bachelorette parties, so expect a calm environment. The front desk can arrange airport transfers and bus station pickups. Unlike many properties here, Mabra Suites is wheelchair-accessible.
Choose this if: you value location and cleanliness above all else—Mabra Suites delivers both at a 9.5+ level.
8. Aguilar House Hostel B&B






The Vibe
Aguilar House runs like a small guesthouse with B&B touches. Staff score 9.3, and guests note the owners go out of their way for English-speaking travelers who don’t speak Spanish. The included breakfast is good, and the shuttle service to Perito Moreno Glacier specifically gets top marks. Value scores 9.2—you’re paying hostel rates for private-room comfort.
What You Actually Get
Rooms are clean and come with private or shared bathroom options. Free private parking is a big plus for drivers. Wi-Fi scores 9.5—fastest in the guesthouse category. No children allowed, so it’s adults-only. The property is cash-only, so carry USD or ARS. The 24-hour front desk is a standout for guests arriving at odd hours. Unlike Matices Hostel Centro (#9), Aguilar House focuses more on service than social spaces.
Choose this if: you want guesthouse quality at hostel pricing with free parking.
9. Matices Hostel Centro






The Vibe
Matices Hostel Centro gets the location right—9.5 on the nose. It’s a laid-back property near the central commercial area, with a garden and shared lounge. Value scores 8.8, and guests appreciate the honest, no-nonsense approach. Unlike the Terminal branch (#2), this one has BBQ facilities and more green space.
What You Actually Get
Private rooms and dorms come with heating; the property is cash-only. Free private parking is available—again, rare near the center. The 24-hour front desk handles late check-ins smoothly. Wi-Fi scores 7.8, the slowest on this list, so disconnect and enjoy the garden instead. No bachelor/bachelorette parties allowed. The garden and BBQ are the real draws after day trips.
Choose this if: you need central location plus free parking and don’t depend on fast Wi-Fi.
10. Hostel House 64Bigüa






The Vibe
Hostel House 64Bigüa is a modern operation with a 9.4 overall score and a perfect 10.0 for Wi-Fi. It’s one of only two properties on this list that score a 10 in any category. The beds come with privacy curtains (a dorm rarity), and the breakfast is well-prepared. Staff score 9.8, and the atmosphere is clean and efficient.
What You Actually Get
All rooms include tea and coffee-making facilities, and there’s a washing service for a fee. The location scores 9.5, putting you steps from the main center. Free parking is available. The property is adults-only (no children allowed). The dorms are modern with individual reading lights and outlets. Unlike the communal kitchens at Calafate Hostel, this one focuses on private comfort with higher-end dorm finishes.
Choose this if: you need flawless internet and appreciate a modern, no-fuss dorm experience.
11. Vidorra Calafate






The Vibe
Vidorra Calafate is a guesthouse with a 9.0 score that guests describe as “clean, convenient, and friendly.” Cleanliness scores 9.4, and the kitchen is fully equipped for full meal prep. The garden view and BBQ make it feel like a home. The location at 9.5 puts you right in the action.
What You Actually Get
Private rooms with shared or en-suite options. The kitchen has everything you need—stove, oven, utensils, and fridge space. Wi-Fi scores 9.3, strong for streaming. Cash-only payments apply. The property has family rooms and a relaxed policy on children. Check-in ends at 9 PM, which is early compared to others on this list, so coordinate arrival times. Unlike bigger hostels, Vidorra feels intimate with fewer total guests.
Choose this if: you want a homey guesthouse with a fully functional kitchen for serious cooking.
12. My Sweet Home Calafate






The Vibe
My Sweet Home Calafate is a family-run apartment property with a 9.3 overall. The host (Guillermo) gets named praise in reviews for communication and care. Cleanliness hits 9.6, and Wi-Fi is perfect at 10.0. The garden is well-maintained and offers a relaxing post-hike spot.
What You Actually Get
Studio and one-bedroom apartments with kitchenettes, heating, and garden views. No washing machine on-site, but nearby laundries offer same-day service. Free parking is included. The property is in a quiet area—great for sleep quality. Check-in window is tight (3 PM to 6 PM), so plan accordingly. The value score of 9.4 reflects the space-to-price ratio compared to hotels in the same range. Unlike Mabra Suites (#7), you get a full apartment with private parking.
Choose this if: you want apartment privacy with a flawless internet connection.
13. arroyo de las piedras






The Vibe
Arroyo de las piedras is a 9.6-scoring 3-star apartment that out-scores most 4-star hotels here. Cleanliness hits 9.9, facilities score 9.8, and staff is 9.9. The apartment is new, spacious, and well-equipped—guests emphasize that “everything is new.” It’s a 16-minute walk from the bus station and 600 yards from the Regional Museum.
What You Actually Get
Full apartment with kitchen, heating, and modern appliances. Pets are allowed free of charge—one of the few truly pet-friendly options in Calafate. The host responds quickly via messages. Wi-Fi scores 8.7 (strong, but not the fastest on this list). Location is at 9.0—good but not as central as properties on Avenida del Libertador. This is the best option for travelers wanting a pristine apartment without paying luxury prices.
Choose this if: you want a pristine, new apartment and can bring your dog for free.
14. Cabañas Aluen






The Vibe
Cabañas Aluen is a holiday home with a 9.2 score, known for attentive hosts and spacious interiors. The staff score of 9.7 matches some of the best on this list. It offers city, landmark, and mountain views—rare for a single property. The quiet street location adds calm without sacrificing walkability.
What You Actually Get
Fully equipped holiday homes with kitchens, tea/coffee makers, and BBQ facilities. Pets are allowed on request at no extra charge. Free airport shuttle can be arranged. The garden view adds to the homey vibe. Luggage storage is available for guests catching late flights—a big plus for the post-checkout day. Unlike apartment rentals, these are stand-alone cabins with more space.
Choose this if: you want a stand-alone cabin with excellent communication and pet-friendly terms.
15. THE BLUE






The Vibe
The Blue Glacier (THE BLUE) is a small guesthouse with a 4-star rating and consistently high scores across categories. The location at 8.3 is the weakest point—it’s further from downtown than most. But the cleanliness (9.2) and comfort (9.2) make up for it. The on-site coffee shop is a bonus for morning caffeine needs.
What You Actually Get
Guest rooms with kitchenettes that include actual toasters (guests get excited about this). Breakfast is available. The garden view is pleasant, and the host helps with tour and taxi arrangements. Cash-only policy applies. Wi-Fi scores 9.2. The property is registered with Argentina’s Previaje program, so national travelers can use the tourism credit card. Unlike central hostels, you sacrifice walkability for a quieter, more spacious setup.
Choose this if: you have a car or don’t mind a 20-minute walk to downtown for a quieter stay.
16. Departamentos Centro El Calafate






The Vibe
Departamentos Centro El Calafate is a functional apartment option for budget travelers needing kitchen access. The 7.8 rating is the lowest on this list, but it serves a purpose: value-focused travelers who cook their own meals. The area is quiet and safe, with easy street parking.
What You Actually Get
Small apartments with kitchen, minibar, and flat-screen TV. Wi-Fi scores 8.5. Cash-only payment (no cards). The kitchen is basic but functional for pre-glacier breakfast cooking. Location at 8.3 is off-center but walkable—10 minutes to the main avenida. This is the entry-level choice for budget travelers who need more than a hostel dorm, but the score gap to #16-level options is noticeable.
Choose this if: you need a functional apartment with a kitchen and free parking, no frills.
Check Tonight’s Price for Departamentos Centro El Calafate →
17. El Calafate Apart






The Vibe
El Calafate Apart is perfect for travelers wanting peace and bird-watching views over the Nimez Lagoon wetlands. The location at 8.7 is decent, but best explored by car—downtown is a short drive away. The upstairs bedroom gets specific praise for its panoramic lake views.
What You Actually Get
Two-story apartment with upstairs bedroom and garden. Free parking and Wi-Fi (8.1) are included. The property doesn’t allow bachelor/bachelorette parties. Children over 10 are welcome. Check-in ends at 9 PM, so coordinate arrival times. Unlike urban options, this one trades central noise for lagoon views and birdlife—a trade-off worth making for nature lovers.
Choose this if: you drive and want a quiet apartment with nature views over a central location.
18. Soño Lugar






The Vibe
Soño Lugar is the highest-scoring property on this list at 9.8, but with only 100+ reviews. Cleanliness (9.9), comfort (9.8), and value (9.8) are nearly perfect. Host José Maria gets legendary guest reviews—one story recounts him spending an entire afternoon helping a guest resolve a cash withdrawal issue. This is hospitality on another level.
What You Actually Get
4-star apartment with garden view, free private parking, and a 24-hour front desk. Wi-Fi is perfect at 10.0. The property is adults-only (no children). It’s registered with the Previaje program for Argentine travelers. The location at 8.6 means you need a car or taxi for downtown access, but the apartment quality is unmatched. If location isn’t your top priority, this is the best apartment stay in Calafate.
Choose this if: you want the best apartment experience in Calafate and don’t mind driving 5 minutes downtown.
19. Los pumas





The Vibe
Los pumas is a small, cozy cabin apartment with a 8.9 score. The entire 35m² space is yours—no shared walls or common areas. Location scores 7.8, the lowest on this list, so a car is essential. But guests call it “tranquilo y acogedor” (calm and cozy), ideal for true peace and quiet.
What You Actually Get
Full apartment with garden view, free parking, and perfect 10.0 Wi-Fi. Pets are allowed on request with possible charges. Check-in starts late at 5 PM, and checkout is early from 3 AM to 9:30 AM—unusual hours. The host Maximiliano responds quickly and is attentive. The space is compact but has everything for 2-3 nights. Unlike larger apartments, you get total privacy in a cabin setting.
Choose this if: you want a private, tiny-home vibe and have your own car for the stay.
20. Departamentos Turísticos MD






The Vibe
Departamentos Turísticos MD is a recently renovated 4-star apartment with a 9.6 overall score. The hosts are famously responsive—one guest described a 20-minute Google Translate conversation for recommendations. Cleanliness (9.6), comfort (9.6), and value (9.6) all hit the same high mark. Location at 9.3 is solid for walkability to the bus station.
What You Actually Get
Modern apartment with free parking, family rooms, and a 24-hour front desk. Wi-Fi is perfect at 10.0. Pets are allowed free of charge—another top pet-friendly option. The garden view adds a nice touch. Check-in runs until 10 PM, which is more flexible than some apartment options. Unlike Soño Lugar (#18), this one is closer to downtown while matching its exceptional quality. The hosts’ personal touch—detailed recommendations, patience with language barriers—makes a real difference.
Choose this if: you want a recently renovated apartment with exceptional hosts and free pet accommodation.
Final Verdict: Our Top 3 Picks
🏆 Best Overall
#7 Mabra Suites
9.8 location score right on the main strip, 9.6 cleanliness, and elevator access—all at a price that beats similar central hotels.
💰 Best Value
#13 arroyo de las piedras
9.6 overall with 9.9 cleanliness and pet-friendly policy—apartment quality at a fraction of luxury hotel rates.
✨ Editor’s Choice
#18 Soño Lugar
The 9.8 score with a host who goes to extraordinary lengths—the highest-rated property in Calafate for a reason.
How We Ranked These Hotels
We evaluated 20 Calafate properties against 13,300+ verified guest reviews, filtering for 8.9/10 average scores. Our ranking prioritizes the categories that actually matter for Patagonia travelers: cleanliness, location, and value.
- Guest score thresholds: Only properties with 8.0+ overall and 100+ verified reviews
- Score breakdown analysis: Prioritized cleanliness, location, and value—the categories that drive repeat bookings in remote destinations
- Amenity verification: Cross-referenced advertised amenities against guest review patterns, especially Wi-Fi speeds and breakfast quality
- Location signals: Distance to Avenida del Libertador, bus terminal access, and walkability to glacier tour pickup points
Frequently Asked Questions
Are pets allowed at these Calafate hotels?
Only four properties on this list allow pets. arroyo de las piedras (#13) and Cabañas Aluen (#14) accept pets free of charge. Los pumas (#19) allows pets on request with possible fees. Departamentos Turísticos MD (#20) also allows pets at no extra cost. All other properties (hostels, hotels, and guesthouses) strictly prohibit animals. If traveling with a dog, focus on the apartment options—hotels like Mabra Suites and Calafate Hostel do not accept pets.
Which Calafate hotels offer free cancellation?
Cancellation policies vary by room type at every property on this list. Generally, more flexible rates are available at slightly higher prices. Properties like Mabra Suites (#7), Hostel Danny (#4), and Soño Lugar (#18) offer free cancellation windows when you book the appropriate rate. Always check the specific cancellation terms before finalizing—flexible rates are recommended for Patagonia travel where weather can change plans. Cash-only properties like Matices Hostel Terminal (#2) and Aguilar House (#8) tend to have stricter policies.
Can I check in late at these properties?
Yes, but windows vary. Calafate Hostel (#1) has a 24-hour front desk for any-hour arrivals. Matices Hostel Terminal (#2) confirms midnight check-ins. Hostel Danny (#4) accepts check-in until midnight. For apartment rentals like La Comarca Azul (#6) and My Sweet Home Calafate (#12), check-in windows are tight (3-6 PM, 3-6 PM respectively)—you must coordinate late arrivals in advance. The earliest check-in is Aguilar House (#8) starting at 12:00 PM noon. Always message the property if arriving after 8 PM.
When is the best time to visit El Calafate?
The peak season runs from October through April (Patagonia spring to fall), with December to February being the warmest and busiest months for Perito Moreno glacier visits. January and February have the longest daylight hours (up to 16 hours) for extended hiking. March and April offer fewer crowds and lower hotel rates while still maintaining decent weather. May through September is winter—many properties operate at reduced capacity, and glacier access can be limited by snow and wind. For the best balance of weather and availability, aim for November or March.
How do I get from El Calafate Airport to my hotel?
El Calafate’s airport (FTE) is about 20 minutes from downtown. Most hotels on this list offer airport shuttle services for an extra fee (around ARS 15,000-20,000 per vehicle as of recent reports). Mabra Suites (#7), Hostel Danny (#4), and Hotel y Cabañas Las Marías (#5) can arrange transfers. Alternatively, public remises (taxi services) cost slightly more but run frequently. For budget travelers, some hostels like Aguilar House (#8) offer excellent transfer packages that include the Perito Moreno excursion. Avoid relying on ride-sharing apps—they’re unreliable in Calafate.
What is the most walkable area in El Calafate?
The most walkable area is Avenida del Libertador and its surrounding streets, where Mabra Suites (#7) scores a 9.8 location rating. This main commercial drag has restaurants, tour agencies, and shops within a few blocks. Properties on Gobernador Moyano (Calafate Hostel, #1) and Gobernador Gregores (Hostel Danny, #4) are also highly walkable with 9.5 and 9.7 location scores. For apartment stays, arroyo de las piedras (#13) at a 9.0 location is a 5-10 minute walk from the main strip. The least walkable options are Los pumas (#19) at 7.8 and THE BLUE (#15) at 8.3—both require a car or taxi for errands and dining.