El Calafate is a small town and there are some buses for local and long-distance transportation. The bus station is located on Julio A. Roca and can be reached via the stairs up from the main street, Avenida del Libertador.

There are a few taxis around town, many can be found outside the bus station. Taxis can be ordered over the phone by your hotel or at a restaurant.

If you are staying in town and visiting the popular attractions nearby then a car is not necessary as many tour operators provide transportation. If you plan to explore the surrounding area then a car may be a good idea, it's a 30-minute drive from the airport to the center of town. There are a few rental car agencies in town.

There are quite a few unique opportunities to take a boat ride in El Calafate to see the spectacular glaciers. Many of the popular day tours in the region offer visitors a boat ride to disembark at Base Spegazzini and other locations. There are boat tours to visit five glaciers in one day including Upsala, Spegazzini, Perito Moreno, Heim, and Seco glaciers.

There are some options for cycling in El Calafate with rental opportunities found along the main street to explore the town. Cycling along the scenic shores of Lake Nimez and the surrounding area is a pleasant ride with some of the most magnificent views.

El Calafate is a walkable town, the main part of town is easily navigable on foot with many of the main attractions including shopping, dining, accommodation, and entertainment. El Calafate is also considered the National Trekking Capital.