Estancia Cristina: History, Day Visits, and Stays

Estancia Cristina is a fabulous place. It feels remote, since you can only arrive by boat after navigating the waters of Lago Argentino. It is special because of its landscape, its typical food, and the activities you can enjoy in this Patagonian ranch.

You can visit for a full day or stay overnight to immerse yourself in this unique setting. Below, find a brief history and what to expect for day visits and stays.

Estancia Cristina: a bit of history

Joseph and Jessie Masters ventured into the heart of Patagonia and turned a wild, remote location into their home through perseverance and pioneering spirit.

In the 1870s, rising industrialization in Europe and the United States increased demand for raw materials such as meat, leather, and wool. In 1884, the Argentine government promoted immigration to Patagonia with land leasing programs for sheep production, which included the province of Santa Cruz where Estancia Cristina is located.

In the early 1900s, Percival and Jessie Masters settled in Río Gallegos to learn livestock farming. Later, with their children Herbert and Cristina, they moved toward Lago Argentino to found their own ranch. In 1914, they established the Masters’ Estancia on the eastern shore of Lago Argentino, initially connected by a steamboat named “César”. The family expanded their sheep business over the years.

After their daughter Cristina passed away in 1924, the ranch was renamed Estancia Cristina in her honor. The creation of Los Glaciares National Park in 1937 prevented legal land ownership, yet the Masters family adapted and eventually embraced tourism. Scottish manager Janet Hermingston worked alongside Herbert Masters until his passing in 1984, later transforming the ranch into a lodge that welcomes visitors.

Today, Estancia Cristina honors that legacy and invites travelers to experience its history, culture, and landscapes. Now, let’s review what you can do there, whether you visit for a single day or stay overnight.

Visiting Estancia Cristina for a day

Estancia Cristina can be visited on a full day excursion from El Calafate, returning the same day. The program includes a boat navigation on Lago Argentino and activities at the estancia.

Full day tour to Estancia Cristina: Classic Option

Enjoy an amazing full day navigation visiting Estancia Cristina. Visit one of the best estancias in Argentina and Patagonia.

El Calafate

Join Estancia Cristina’s Wild Scapes expedition team. Cross Lago Argentino among icebergs and enjoy views of Glaciar Upsala from the only land-based lookout inside Los Glaciares National Park. Embrace a day in the Patagonian wilderness.

Departure and navigation

Morning departure from Puerto Bandera, located 47 km from El Calafate. If you add transfers, pick up occurs early in the morning. Upon arrival at the pier, you embark for a full day that begins with navigation on Lago Argentino.

During the crossing, expect sweeping views of glaciers and mountain ranges. Keep an eye out for wildlife. Upon arrival, you will explore the historic ranch and its surroundings.

Map of Estancia Cristina and surroundings

Different activity options are offered at the estancia. Availability may vary according to weather and operational conditions.

Full day tour to Estancia Cristina: Discovery Option

Enjoy a unique day trip in Estancia Cristina with panoramic views of the Upsala Glacier. One of the most amazing estancias in Argentina and Patagonia.

El Calafate

Staying at Estancia Cristina

If you choose to stay overnight, prepare for a memorable experience in a landscape where the weather changes often and Patagonia shows its full splendor. We recommend 2 to 3 nights to fully enjoy the setting.

How to get there

The journey starts in El Calafate with a land transfer to Puerto Punta Bandera. From there, the fleet offers daily departures and returns between the pier and Estancia Cristina, ensuring seamless access across Lago Argentino into Los Glaciares National Park.

Rooms

There are 20 accommodations across 5 Casas with the same design and comfort, arranged around the main lodge. The Casas are named Mountain, Steppe, Forest, River, and Family. Each Casa includes four private suites with large bow windows that frame the landscape.

Shared cozy living room and wooden floors in each Casa
Expansive views for a deep connection with the surroundings
Option to book an entire Casa, subject to request

Activities

Programs are organized according to weather conditions. Staff speaks English and Spanish, and will guide you through daily activities. You can also explore self-guided trails at your own pace.