Driving through Patagonia is one of the great road trip adventures of the world. Ruta Nacional 40, Argentina's longest highway at 5,224 km, traverses the region from north to south with landscapes ranging from Andean forests to infinite steppe, turquoise lakes and ancient glaciers.
Ruta 40: the Patagonian section
The Patagonian section of Ruta 40 between Bariloche and El Calafate is the most iconic and challenging. Approximately 1,600 km crossing the Patagonian steppe at its most extreme: landscapes of otherworldly immensity, very few towns, almost no services and wind that can shake your vehicle.
Main sections
- Bariloche to El Bolson: 130 km, paved. Lakes and forests. 2 hours.
- El Bolson to Esquel: 190 km, paved. Andean region. 2.5 hours.
- Esquel to Gobernador Costa: 280 km, gravel. Pure steppe, no services. 5-6 hours.
- Gobernador Costa to Perito Moreno (town): 380 km, gravel/partial paving. 6-7 hours.
- Perito Moreno to Bajo Caracoles: 130 km, gravel. Most desolate section. 3 hours.
- Bajo Caracoles to Gobernador Gregores: 300 km, gravel. Cueva de las Manos nearby. 5-6 hours.
- Gobernador Gregores to El Calafate: 290 km, paved. 3.5 hours.
Route of the Seven Lakes
The Route of the Seven Lakes (Ruta 40 between Bariloche and San Martin de los Andes, 110 km) is Argentina's most famous scenic road. Fully paved and in excellent condition, it is ideal for driving, motorcycling or cycling. By car, the drive takes 3-4 hours without stops, but ideally dedicate a full day.
Car hire in Patagonia
- Compact car: USD 40-60/day. Sufficient for paved routes (Seven Lakes, Circuito Chico).
- SUV / Pickup: USD 70-120/day. Essential for Ruta 40 gravel sections.
- Gravel insurance: USD 10-20/day extra. Essential because basic insurance does not cover gravel road damage.
- Fuel: approximately USD 1.2-1.5 per litre. 20-30% more expensive than Buenos Aires.
Tips for driving in Patagonia
- Wind: can reach 100+ km/h. Drive with both hands on the wheel, reduce speed in gusts and take care when opening car doors.
- Gravel: do not exceed 60-80 km/h. Tyres wear quickly and loose stones can break the windscreen.
- Wildlife: guanacos, rheas and hares cross the road constantly. Extra caution at dawn and dusk.
- Light: plan to arrive at your destination before dark. Patagonian roads have no lighting.
- Roadside assistance: on many Ruta 40 stretches there is no mobile signal or assistance. Carry a good spare tyre, basic tools and drinking water.
