Walichu Caves (Cuevas Galicho)
El Calafate, Santa Cruz, Z9405
Despite its position at “The End of the World,” Patagonia has been inhabited by humans for more than 12,000 years. Just outside of El Calafate, the Walichu Caves (Cuervos Galicho) pay testament to the primitive humans that dwelled here—the cave walls are embellished with drawings depicting daily life in the region, including scenes of hunting, foraging, and art.
The basics
Since they were discovered in 1877, the Walichu Caves have been a top draw for history and archaeology buffs. But it’s not just their historical significance that’s impressive—their position on the shores of the glimmering Lake Argentina is a bonus highlight. The caves are often featured on sightseeing tours of El Calafate, which typically combine them with time on the lake shores and El Calafate Historical Interpretation Center, where you can take a deep dive into the region’s wildlife and geology.
Things to know before you go
Despite being called caves, the outdoor structures are outside. El Calafate (and in Patagonia in general) is chilly year-round, so wrap up warm and wear sturdy shoes, as loose gravel can make the interior slippery.
A couple of stalls sell refreshments and warm drinks, but they accept cash over cards.
Put aside around 30 minutes to explore the caves and the attached visitor center, featuring artifacts from ancient history.
How to get there
The caves are just outside of the tiny town of El Calafate. By car, it’s a 20-minute drive via the RP11 road. No public transport services the caves, so you’ll need to either take a taxi or visit as part of a city tour (a convenient option that generally includes hotel pickup and drop-off).
When to get there
The caves and visitor center are generally open from morning until evening year-round. However, opening hours are subject to change, particularly during the low season from June through September, so it’s always worth checking in advance. The best time to visit the region of Patagonia is from November through January when skies are generally clear and the notorious winds have calmed.
Where to find other archaeological sites in Patagonia
If the Walichu Caves have whet your appetite for archeology, add the Cuevos de los Manos (The Hand Caves) to your itinerary. They’re located around eight hours north of El Calafate and are hailed as Patagonia’s premier archeological site—they are UNESCO-listed, after all. The caves feature hand prints and depictions of local fauna and are said to date back thousands of years.
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