Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
Ruca Mahuida
GOURMET $$$
$$$
(Lionel Terray 55; mains AR$90-135; 7-11pm)
Smoked trout, squash soufflé and salmon ra-
violi are a welcome departure from typical fare at this stone house with sheepskin
benches. Though we wish it were more consistent, it has gotten some rave reviews.
Drinking
La Chocolatería
CAFE
(Lago del Desierto 105; chocolate & coffee drinks AR$30-50; Nov-Mar)
This irresistible
chocolate factory tells the story of local climbing legends on the walls. It makes for an
intimate evening out, with options ranging from spirit-spiked hot cocoa to wine and fon-
due.
Shopping
Viento Oeste
BOOKS
( 493200; Av San Martín 898)
Sells books, maps and souvenirs and rents a wide range of
camping equipment, as do several other sundries shops around town.
Information
Technologically speaking, El Chaltén is a study in contrasts: there's no cell phone recep-
tion and one ATM (located in the bus terminal), but you're likely to pick up a good wi-fi
signal in your hotel room and you won't have any problem finding a long-distance call
center or gas station. Euros and US dollars are widely accepted but credit cards are not,
though some restaurants accept them. If you're coming from El Calafate, just take out the
cash you'll need there and skip the possible complications in El Chaltén. Surf
www.elchalten.com
for a good overview of the town.
Chaltén Travel
( 493092;
www.chaltentravel.com
;
cnr Av MM De Güemes & Lago del Desierto)
Books airline tickets and bus travel on RN40.
Municipal Tourist Office
( 493370; comfomelchalten@yahoo.com.ar; Terminal de Omnibus;
10am-10pm)
Friendly and extremely helpful, with lodging lists and good information
on town and tours. English is spoken.
