Hostel Review: Hospedaje Lautaro, El Calafate, Argentina

El Calafate is filled with hostel options, many claiming to be the best. However, Hospedaje Lautaro is known by many as the actual top-rated hostel in the area. After staying there for myself, I now know why. Atmosphere The hostel is actually an old home that was renovated into a hostel and B&B. It has four private rooms (one twin, one double, one triple, and one quadruple), as well as a guesthouse with three rooms and a shared bathroom. Because the hostel is so clean and spacious, you will have no problem making yourself right at home. Moreover, the owners treat you just like family. In fact, as soon as I walked in I was cheerfully greeted by their daughter, a young, playful toddler, which really made the accommodation feel cozy and homey. A charming backyard adds to the ambiance and is the perfect spot to relax with a good book. Location Located three blocks away from the downtown area, you’re in the perfect location to explore top Argentina attractions, adventures, shopping, and nightlife on foot. It’s also within walking distance to the grocery store, an artisan market, the bus terminal, many travel agencies, and the beautiful Intendencia Parque Nacional Los Glaciares. Staff The owners, Belen and Dario, are amazing people who will tell you everything you need to know about the city. They do everything possible to ensure a perfect stay for their guests. For example, before I went to bed each night they would ask me what time I would like breakfast served. They were also very knowledgeable about tourism in the area, and always made time to answer questions and give tips. Socialize A common room. lounge, dining room, and outdoor garden make for great spaces to start conversations with fellow travelers. Moreover, a self-catering kitchen not only helps you save money, but meet other travelers and cook meals together. I loved how clean and organized the kitchen and dining room were, making it a more appealing place to hangout in. Rooms My twin room was extremely cozy and clean. Not only did it contain two comfortable beds, but also a desk, dressers, artwork, and an ensuite bathroom — towel and soap included. Water temperature and pressure were also outstanding, something every backpacker who has spent weeks on the road can appreciate. Free Perks  As a budget traveler, free perks are important to me when choosing a hostel. First of all, there is free tea and coffee all day, which is a necessity in El Calafate, the land of active adventure. Moreover, luggage storage, linens, 24-hour hot showers, and a towel are included. The best part, however, is the delicious free breakfast each morning with coffee, tea, juice, milk, cereal, breads, pastries, muffins, cookies and homemade yogurt and jam from fruits in their backyard. Overall Impression I highly recommend staying at Hospedaje Lautaro when visiting El Calafate. I can’t think of one single thing I didn’t love about it. From the customer service to the price of the room to the ambiance, this accommodation really helped me to enjoy my stay in El Calafate. This post was made possible thanks to Hostelbookers