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HomeRoad TripsSouth AmericaArgentinaRuta 40
Ruta 40

Ruta 40 Road Trip

La Quiaca - Coranzuli - La Poma - Cafayate - San Blas de los Sauces - Huaco - San Juan - Mendoza - Malargüe - Chos Malal - Zapala - San Martín de los Andes - Bariloche - Epuyen - Tecka - Facundo - Perito Moreno - Gobernador Gregores - La Leona - Estancia Tapi Aike - El Turbio - Río Gallegos

Expect on your itinerary

Landscape Landscape
Benefit-stress ratio Benefit-stress ratio
Road conditions Road conditions
Security Security
Wildlife Wildlife
Urban life Urban life
Culture Culture
Historical sites Historical sites
Ruta 40 Road Trip ACTIVATE MAP Stages21 km4,917 h/stage4.4

Best months to drive

I II III IV V VI
VII VIII IX X XI XII

Road Trip Costs

How much does it cost to go on a Ruta 40 Road Trip in Argentina?

Economy
Low budget options by car rental, accommodation and catering. In- and Out-bound travel expenses are not included.
rent & more 1,512EUR drive & more 663EUR sleep & more 792EUR eat & more 1,152EUR Total (est. for 2 prs.) 2,607EUR Total (est. for 2 prs.) incl. rented car 4,119EUR
Standard
Mid budget options by car rental, accommodation and catering. In- and Out-bound travel expenses are not included.
rent & more 3,240EUR drive & more 888EUR sleep & more 2,376EUR eat & more 1,728EUR Total (est. for 2 prs.) 4,992EUR Total (est. for 2 prs.) incl. rented car 8,232EUR
Premium
High budget options by car rental, accommodation and catering. In- and Out-bound travel expenses are not included.
rent & more 4,752EUR drive & more 1,200EUR sleep & more 4,752EUR eat & more 2,304EUR Total (est. for 2 prs.) 8,256EUR Total (est. for 2 prs.) incl. rented car 13,008EUR
Camper
On the road in RV, overnight at camp grounds with self-catering. In- and Out-bound travel expenses are not included.
rent & more 5,400EUR drive & more 1,325EUR sleep & more 1,320EUR eat & more 1,152EUR Total (est. for 2 prs.) 3,797EUR Total (est. for 2 prs.) incl. rented car 9,197EUR
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Ruta 40 Road Trip Itinerary

The Ruta 40 Road Trip is an unforgettable journey through some of the most beautiful towns and landscapes of Argentina. Starting in La Quiaca and ending in Río Gallegos, the 4917 km route takes you through Coranzuli, Cafayate, Huaco, Mendoza, and Chos Malal. All along the way, you can expect to be mesmerized by the breathtaking countryside, from the sweeping vistas of the Andes Mountains to the vineyards of Mendoza. The best time of year to take this trip is from October to April, when the weather is pleasant and the roads are in good condition. This road trip is perfect for anyone looking for a memorable adventure. With a moderate budget, you can experience the beauty of Argentina and create memories that will last a lifetime. Whether you’re an experienced driver or just starting out, the Ruta 40 Road Trip is sure to provide an unforgettable experience.
number of days 24 number of days
route length 4,917 km route length
budget fair budget
good for explorer good for
traffic direction on the right traffic direction
accident level fair accident level

START La Quiaca

Distance 4,917 km Driving time 93.1 h Pace: modest 1,278.4 kWh Airports SLA
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La Quiaca is a small town in Argentina, situated at the border of Bolivia, and is the perfect starting point for the "Ruta 40 Road Trip". It is a small, yet vibrant town and a great place to get a feel of the local culture. One of the most interesting sights to visit in La Quiaca is the Estancia La Chiquitosa, an old farm with a colonial-style house, where visitors can get a glimpse into the life of the local gauchos. La Quiaca also has a beautiful Plaza de Armas, where visitors can find some of the best restaurants and bars in town. The closest international airport to La Quiaca is Teniente Luis Candelaria International Airport (IGR), located in the nearby city of Iguazu. Car rental services are available at the airport, allowing visitors to easily explore the area and start their "Ruta 40 Road Trip". For those looking for a unique journey, the "Ruta 40 Road Trip" is the perfect way to explore the beauty of Argentina. Starting from La Quiaca, visitors can experience the stunning landscapes and vibrant culture of this amazing country.

1 La Quiaca - Coranzuli

Distance 258 km Driving time 10.6 h Pace: slow 59.4 kWh View map Itinerary
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Are you ready for a road trip from La Quiaca, Argentina to Coranzuli? This 258 km route will take you fewer than 11 hours to complete, and it’s one of the most exciting stages of your tour! To start, visit the beautiful Plaza 9 de Julio in La Quiaca, where you can take a break and admire the stunning colonial architecture. Then, make sure to visit the archaeological sites of Yavi. Here, you will find several pre-Hispanic remains, including the La Punta fortress and the Pucara de Tilcara. On your way to Coranzuli, you will find several interesting places, such as the beautiful Salinas Grandes, the largest salt flats in Argentina. Here, you can take a break and admire the stunning landscape. You will also find the Abra Pampa, a spectacular canyon located in the Andes Mountains. Finally, you will arrive in Coranzuli, where you can explore the archaeological remains of the Inca Empire. Make sure to visit the Inca ruins of El Toro, where you can learn about the ancient cultures of the region. For more information on attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, please check the “Itinerary” of this stage. Enjoy your road trip!

2 Coranzuli - La Poma

Distance 281 km Driving time 10.3 h Pace: slow 64.6 kWh View map Itinerary
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Embark on an unforgettable road trip from Coranzuli, Argentina to La Poma! This 281km journey, spanning fewer than 11 hours, will take you through some of the most spectacular landscapes in South America. Your first stop should be the beautiful Coranzuli, a small town with a rich history. Here, you can explore the many cultural attractions, such as the old church and the local museum. Or, take a stroll through the town's cobblestone streets, surrounded by colonial-era buildings. Continue your journey to La Poma, passing through picturesque villages and stunning mountain ranges. Make sure to stop off at San Antonio de los Cobres, where you can admire the incredible views of the Salar de Arizaro. Finally, you'll arrive in La Poma. Here, you can explore the many attractions in the area, including the local wineries, the ruins of the old fort, and the nearby hot springs. For more information about attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, please check the Itinerary of this stage. Enjoy your trip!

3 La Poma - Cafayate

Distance 216 km Driving time 7.2 h Pace: slow 49.7 kWh View map Itinerary
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Embark on an incredible road trip from La Poma to Cafayate! This 216 km journey will take you less than 8 hours, so you can enjoy the stunning landscapes and attractions in the area. Start your journey in La Poma, a small city located in the province of Salta. Here, you will find the ruins of the old Jesuit Mission of San José, which is now a museum. You can also visit the Nuestra Señora de la Merced Church, a beautiful building that dates back to the 19th century. Continue your journey to Cafayate, a small city located in the Calchaquí Valleys. Here you will find many attractions, such as the Quebrada de las Conchas, a stunning canyon with amazing rock formations, and the El Anfiteatro, a natural amphitheater. You can also visit the famous wineries in the area, where you can taste the best wines in the country. We recommend that you plan your journey in advance and check out the "Itinerary" of this stage for more information about attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route. Enjoy your road trip and have a great time!

4 Cafayate - San Blas de los Sauces

Distance 349 km Driving time 7.5 h Pace: modest 90.6 kWh View map Itinerary
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Are you looking for an unforgettable road trip? Cafayate to San Blas de los Sauces is the perfect stage for a road trip. This 349km journey takes fewer than 8 hours and it is full of amazing attractions. Starting in Cafayate, you will find the Quebrada de las Conchas, a stunning landscape of eroded red rocks and canyons. Here you can take a tour of the most beautiful areas, and also visit the nearby wine cellars to taste the excellent wines of the region. Continuing south, you will reach Amaicha del Valle, a small village located in the heart of the Calchaquíes Valleys. Here you can admire the colonial architecture and visit the ruins of the ancient Quilmes civilization. Finally, you will arrive in San Blas de los Sauces, a small town located in the middle of the Calchaquíes Valleys. Here you will find the "Casa de la Cultura", a museum dedicated to the history and culture of the region, and the "Puerto de las Nubes" viewpoint, where you can admire the spectacular landscape of the mountains. This is just a glimpse of what you can find in this amazing stage of the road trip. For more information regarding attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, please check the "Itinerary" of this stage. Enjoy your trip!

5 San Blas de los Sauces - Huaco

Distance 341 km Driving time 6.4 h Pace: modest 88.6 kWh View map Itinerary
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Start your amazing road trip in San Blas de los Sauces, Argentina! This is one of the stages of a larger tour, and it will take you on a journey of 341 km, lasting less than 7 hours. On the way, you will discover some of the most interesting places in this part of the country. First, you will pass through the small town of Los Toldos, where you can visit the historic church, the main square and the old train station. Then, you will reach the town of Las Lajas, where you can explore the beautiful colonial architecture and the nearby nature reserves. Continue your journey to the town of Chacabuco, where you can visit the old fort, the local museum and the beautiful lake. From there, you can take a detour to the town of La Cumbre, where you can admire the stunning views of the surrounding mountains. Finally, you will reach the end of this stage in Huaco. Here, you can explore the old colonial streets and the nearby nature reserves. For more information about attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, please check the "Itinerary" of this stage. Enjoy your journey!

6 Huaco - San Juan

Distance 184 km Driving time 2.6 h Pace: fast 55.1 kWh View map Itinerary
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Are you ready for an amazing road trip from Huaco to San Juan? This 184 km journey will take you less than 3 hours and will offer you an incredible experience. Start your journey in Huaco, taking the time to appreciate its historical sites and its beautiful landscapes. On your way to San Juan, you will drive through breathtaking views and you will have the opportunity to visit some of the most interesting places. First, you will pass through the city of San Luis, where you can visit the Casa de Gobierno and the Municipal Palace. Then, you will come across the city of Villa Mercedes, where you can admire the colonial architecture of the historical center. After that, you will arrive in San Juan, where you can explore the historical sites and monuments and visit the Cathedral of San Juan Bautista. You can also take the time to enjoy the delicious gastronomy of the region and explore the beautiful nature of the area. For more information about the attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, please refer to the "Itinerary" of this stage. So, what are you waiting for? Hop in your car and start your amazing road trip from Huaco to San Juan!

7 San Juan - Mendoza

Distance 166 km Driving time 2.2 h Pace: fast 49.9 kWh View map Itinerary
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Welcome to the San Juan to Mendoza road trip, an amazing journey of 166 km that will take you less than 3 hours to complete. Start your journey in San Juan, the homeland of the Tulum Valley, and pay a visit to the archaeological site of La Huerta, where you can admire the ancient Inca walls and enjoy the breathtaking views of the Andes. Then, continue to the historical city of San Juan, where you can explore the old churches and the remains of the colonial architecture. Next, take a short drive to the city of Mendoza, where you can find some of the most spectacular landscapes of the Andes. Visit the Park of the Glaciers, where you can admire the stunning views of the mountains and the snow-covered peaks. You can also explore the beautiful vineyards of the Luján de Cuyo region and taste some of the best wines in the world. Finally, enjoy the breathtaking views of the Aconcagua mountain, the highest peak in the Americas. This is one of the most beautiful stages of your journey, and you can find more information about attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants and campsites in the Itinerary of this stage. So make sure you don't miss out on this amazing road trip!

8 Mendoza - Malargüe

Distance 329 km Driving time 4.2 h Pace: fast 98.8 kWh View map Itinerary
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Are you ready for a thrilling road trip from Mendoza to Malargüe? This 329 km journey will take you less than 5 hours to complete, and you'll get to experience some of the most beautiful places in Argentina. Start your trip in Mendoza, where you can visit the General San Martín Park, a beautiful green oasis in the middle of the city. Then, head to the Andes Mountains to experience the stunning views of the Valle de Uco. Continue your journey to the small town of Tunuyán, where you can visit the Tunuyán River and the Tunuyán Museum. Afterwards, make sure to stop by the picturesque town of San Carlos, where you can admire its colonial architecture. Finally, arrive in Malargüe, the capital of the province of the same name. Here, you can visit the Malargüe Museum, the Municipal Palace, and the Piedra del Indio, a large rock formation. For more information about attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, please check the Itinerary of this stage. Enjoy your road trip!

9 Malargüe - Chos Malal

Distance 218 km Driving time 3.4 h Pace: fast 65.3 kWh View map Itinerary
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Are you ready for an amazing road trip experience? Starting in Malargüe, Argentina, you will be driving for about 218 km until you reach Chos Malal. It is a short drive, taking you fewer than 4 hours to complete. On the way, you can take in the amazing sights of the Patagonian countryside. There are also some historical sites you should pay attention to. In Malargüe, you can visit the Plaza de Armas and the Iglesia Nuestra Señora de los Dolores. In Chos Malal, you can explore the Plaza de Armas and the Iglesia San Francisco de Asís. This is only one stage of a larger tour, and more information regarding attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route is available in the "Itinerary" of this stage. So get ready to hit the road and enjoy your amazing road trip experience!

10 Chos Malal - Zapala

Distance 217 km Driving time 3.0 h Pace: fast 65.2 kWh View map Itinerary
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Embark on an amazing road trip from Chos Malal to Zapala, a 217km journey that will take you less than 3 hours. Start your adventure in Chos Malal, a small town located in the middle of the Neuquén province, and enjoy the beautiful landscapes of the area. Don’t forget to visit the Piedra del Molino, a rock formation that looks like a millstone, and the nearby Laguna de los Patos. Continue your journey to Zapala, a small city located in the Patagonian steppe. Here you can visit the Monument to the Pehuenche, a tribute to the indigenous people of the region, and the Piedra del Indio, a natural rock formation that resembles a human face. This is just one of the stages of a larger tour, and more information regarding attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route is available in the "Itinerary" of this stage. So, what are you waiting for? Pack your bags and hit the road!

11 Zapala - San Martín de los Andes

Distance 242 km Driving time 3.3 h Pace: fast 72.6 kWh View map Itinerary
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Are you ready for an incredible road trip? Start in Zapala, Argentina and drive 242 km to San Martín de los Andes, Argentina in fewer than 4 hours. Along the way, you will be treated to breathtaking views of the Patagonian Andes, including the Lanín Volcano. Make sure to stop at the Copahue Hot Springs and take in the beauty of the Cerro Chapelco ski resort. If you're feeling adventurous, you can also hike the Lanín National Park and take a boat ride on the Traful Lake. For a more peaceful experience, visit the ancient Mapuche villages and explore the archaeological sites. Don't forget to take a break and enjoy the local cuisine at the quaint restaurants of San Martín de los Andes. As you drive through the stunning landscape, don't forget to take in the beauty of the snow-capped mountains, the lush forests and the crystal-clear lakes. For more information regarding attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, please consult the "Itinerary" of this stage. Have a safe and enjoyable journey!

12 San Martín de los Andes - Bariloche

Distance 203 km Driving time 4.0 h Pace: modest 52.9 kWh View map Itinerary
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Embark on an unforgettable road trip from San Martín de los Andes to Bariloche! This 203 km journey will take you less than 4 hours, so you can take your time to enjoy the stunning views of the Andes Mountains and the Nahuel Huapi National Park. Start your journey in San Martín de los Andes, a beautiful city full of colonial-style buildings, colorful streets, and great restaurants. Visit the main square, the San Martin de los Andes Cathedral, and the Municipal Museum of Fine Arts. As you drive, you will be surrounded by the majestic nature of the Andes. Make sure to take some pictures at the Arrayanes Forest, a unique place where you can find a special species of trees, and the Laguna de los Tres, a breathtaking glacial lake. Finally, you will reach Bariloche, a charming city located on the shores of Nahuel Huapi Lake. Here, you can explore the Cerro Campanario, a hill with an amazing lookout point, and the Cathedral of Our Lady of Nahuel Huapi. Remember that more information regarding attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route is available in the "Itinerary" of this stage. Have a great trip!

13 Bariloche - Epuyen

Distance 161 km Driving time 2.8 h Pace: modest 41.9 kWh View map Itinerary
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Are you ready for an unforgettable road trip? Start in Bariloche, Argentina and travel 161km south to the small town of Epuyen in the province of Chubut. On this journey, you will get to experience some of the most stunning scenery in Patagonia. Along the way, you will pass through the Nahuel Huapi National Park and admire the amazing landscapes of the Andes Mountains. You will also get to visit the historical sites of the Mapuche people. In Bariloche, you can explore the old town center, filled with charming buildings and colorful streets. Enjoy a stroll along the lakefront, take a boat tour to the Isla Victoria, or take a cable car to the top of Cerro Campanario for amazing views of the city. As you drive south, you will pass through the picturesque towns of El Bolsón and El Maitén. Be sure to take some time to stop and explore the local markets and try some of the delicious local food. When you arrive in Epuyen, you will be surrounded by the stunning beauty of the Patagonian steppe. Visit the local churches and learn about the history of the area. Don't forget to take a hike to the nearby waterfalls and admire the views of the surrounding mountains. For more information about attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, please check the "Itinerary" of this stage. So, what are you waiting for? Pack your bags and hit the road!

14 Epuyen - Tecka

Distance 194 km Driving time 2.4 h Pace: fast 58.2 kWh View map Itinerary
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Are you ready for a memorable road trip from Epuyen to Tecka? This 194 km journey will take you less than 3 hours, but it is one of the most beautiful stages of a larger tour. To make the most out of your journey, we suggest visiting some of the most interesting places in each location. In Epuyen, you can explore the stunning scenery of the Los Alerces National Park, with its impressive glaciers, ancient forests, and crystal-clear lakes. In Tecka, you can discover the fascinating culture of the Mapuche people and explore the archaeological sites of the region. You can also visit the picturesque Lake Puelo and the nearby town of Cholila, where you can find some great restaurants and accommodation options. For more information about attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, please check the "Itinerary" of this stage. Enjoy your road trip!

15 Tecka - Facundo

Distance 246 km Driving time 3.0 h Pace: fast 73.7 kWh View map Itinerary
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Are you ready for an unforgettable road trip experience? Tecka and Facundo, located 246 km apart, are two of the most interesting places to explore in Argentina. This stage of your tour will take you less than 3 hours to drive, so you will have plenty of time to explore and enjoy the attractions of both places. In Tecka, you will find the Tecka Provincial Park, a beautiful place where you can take a walk and admire the amazing scenery. You can also visit the El Pintado Museum, which houses a collection of archaeological artifacts from the region. When you reach Facundo, you will be able to explore the El Chocón Lake, a popular spot for fishing and camping. You can also visit the San Antonio de Areco Estancia, a beautiful ranch with a wide variety of activities. To get the most out of your road trip, make sure to check out the "Itinerary" of this stage. It includes more information about attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route. So, get ready to experience the best of Tecka and Facundo!

16 Facundo - Perito Moreno

Distance 198 km Driving time 2.5 h Pace: fast 59.3 kWh View map Itinerary
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Are you ready for an amazing road trip? Get your car and start your journey from Facundo, Argentina, to Perito Moreno. On the way, you can explore some of the most interesting places, such as the Salinas Grandes, the Valle de los Conventos, and the Quebrada de los Cuervos. The distance between Facundo and Perito Moreno is 198 km and the estimated driving time is fewer than 3 hours. The Salinas Grandes is a salt lake located in the province of La Rioja and it is a great place to take a break and take some incredible photos. The Valle de los Conventos is a valley with a unique landscape and a variety of colors. If you have time, you can explore the ruins of the old convent. The Quebrada de los Cuervos is a canyon formed by the erosion of the wind and rain over millions of years. It is an amazing place to observe the nature and take some pictures. This is one of the stages of a larger tour, and more information regarding attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route is available in the "Itinerary" of this stage. So, what are you waiting for? Get your car and start your road trip from Facundo to Perito Moreno!

17 Perito Moreno - Gobernador Gregores

Distance 356 km Driving time 3.9 h Pace: fast 106.7 kWh View map Itinerary
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Welcome road-trippers! Get ready for an amazing journey from Perito Moreno to Gobernador Gregores. This stage of your tour will take you through the gorgeous landscapes of Patagonia, with a total distance of 356km and a driving time of fewer than 4 hours. Your journey will start in Perito Moreno, where you can visit the majestic Perito Moreno Glacier, one of the world’s most impressive glaciers. Here you can take a boat trip to get up close to the glacier and experience its power and beauty. Then, you’ll head to El Chaltén, a small mountain village and the gateway to the Los Glaciares National Park. Here you can hike to the spectacular Fitz Roy and Cerro Torre Mountains, and explore the many lakes and forests of the area. Continuing your journey, you’ll reach the town of Gobernador Gregores. Here you can visit the local museum and learn about the history of the region, take a boat trip on the Santa Cruz River, and explore the many trails that lead to nearby lakes and forests. For more information regarding attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, please check the "Itinerary" of this stage. Enjoy your journey!

18 Gobernador Gregores - La Leona

Distance 231 km Driving time 4.0 h Pace: modest 60.2 kWh View map Itinerary
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Welcome to the road trip stage from Gobernador Gregores to La Leona! This is the easiest and most enjoyable stage of the entire trip, with a distance of 231 km and a driving time of fewer than 4 hours. We start in Gobernador Gregores, a small town in the Patagonian province of Santa Cruz, with a beautiful view of the Andes Mountains. Here you can visit the Monumental Plaza de Armas and the Gobernador Gregores Museum. The next stop is La Leona, a small village located in the Argentine Patagonia. Here you can explore the nearby nature reserve and enjoy the amazing view of the steppe. You can also visit the La Leona Chapel, which is a beautiful example of colonial architecture. The journey between Gobernador Gregores and La Leona is filled with breathtaking views of the Patagonian landscape. Along the way you will see the turquoise waters of the Chico River, the snow-capped peaks of the Andes Mountains, and the vast steppe of the Patagonian plains. For more information about attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, please check the "Itinerary" of this stage. Enjoy the trip!

19 La Leona - Estancia Tapi Aike

Distance 199 km Driving time 3.9 h Pace: modest 51.8 kWh View map Itinerary
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Welcome road-trippers! Get ready for a thrilling ride from La Leona to Estancia Tapi Aike! This 199 km long journey will take you less than 4 hours to complete. As you start your journey from La Leona, make sure to visit the La Leona Petrified Forest and the La Leona Lake. Both of these places will give you a unique experience of the local wildlife and scenery. As you continue your trip, you will reach the Estancia Tapi Aike. Here, you can explore the amazing landscapes and take a tour of the Estancia Tapi Aike Museum. You will also have the opportunity to visit the nearby Estancia Tapi Aike Natural Monument, where you can observe the local wildlife and plants. At the end of your trip, make sure to visit the Estancia Tapi Aike Nature Reserve. This reserve is home to a variety of plants and animals, and is a great place to relax and take in the beauty of the region. For more information on attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, check out the "Itinerary" of this stage. We hope you have an amazing experience on your road trip from La Leona to Estancia Tapi Aike!

20 Estancia Tapi Aike - El Turbio

Distance 95 km Driving time 1.6 h Pace: fast 28.6 kWh View map Itinerary
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Embark on a memorable road trip from Estancia Tapi Aike to El Turbio, a journey of 95 km that will take you less than 2 hours to complete. This stage is part of a larger tour, but you will have plenty of time to explore the attractions of both places. Start your journey in Estancia Tapi Aike, a small village located in the Patagonia region. Here you can enjoy the beautiful landscapes, take pictures of the majestic mountains, and explore the local wildlife. Don't forget to visit the local museum and the archaeological site, which will give you an insight into the history of the region. Continue your journey to El Turbio, a small town in the south of Argentina. Here you can explore the local markets and enjoy the local cuisine. Make sure to visit the nearby Cueva de las Manos, a UNESCO World Heritage Site where you can admire ancient rock paintings. For more information about attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, please see the "Itinerary" of this stage. Enjoy the journey!

21 El Turbio - Río Gallegos

Distance 233 km Driving time 4.4 h Pace: modest 60.6 kWh View map Itinerary
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Welcome, road-trippers! Get ready to experience a 233km journey from El Turbio to Río Gallegos, one of the most exciting stages of your tour. You will be able to enjoy the spectacular landscapes of Patagonia, drive through the marvelous forests of the region, and explore the unique culture of the local towns. The first stop of your journey will be El Turbio, a small town located in the middle of the Patagonian steppes. Here you will find the famous El Turbio Mine, the largest coal mine in South America, and the nearby El Turbio Lake, the perfect spot for a picnic. Your next stop will be the charming town of Las Heras. Here you can visit the Museum of Patagonian History, the Plaza de las Heras, a beautiful square surrounded by ancient buildings, and the nearby Laguna Blanca, a stunning lake with crystal-clear waters. The final stop of your trip will be Río Gallegos, a vibrant city located on the banks of the Gallegos River. Here you can explore the bustling city center, visit the picturesque Plaza San Martín, and admire the stunning views from the top of the Cerro de la Cruz. The entire journey will take you less than 5 hours, so make sure to take the time to appreciate the beauty of the Patagonian landscape. For more information regarding attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, please check the "Itinerary" of this stage. Enjoy your trip!

  Río Gallegos

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Río Gallegos, located in the southernmost part of Argentina, is the perfect ending point for the famous "Ruta 40 Road Trip". The city offers a wide range of attractions, such as the Rio Gallegos River, the El Mirador Hill, and the Monumento a la Bandera, the largest flag monument in the world. The city is also home to some of the most beautiful beaches in the region, such as the Playa La Perla del Sur and the Playa de Las Gaviotas. In addition, visitors can explore the stunning landscapes of the Parque Nacional Monte León, where they can observe a variety of wildlife, including sea lions and dolphins. For those who prefer to explore the city on foot, there is a wide array of walking trails, such as the Camino de la Costa and the Sendero El Mirador. Additionally, visitors can take a guided tour of the city to learn more about its history and culture. For those traveling by car, Río Gallegos is easily accessible from the nearby cities of El Calafate and Ushuaia via the Ruta 40. The closest international airport is Río Gallegos International Airport (RGL), located just 20 km from the city center. Río Gallegos is an ideal destination for those looking to explore the beauty and culture of Southern Argentina. With its stunning landscapes, rich history, and a wide range of attractions, it is the perfect ending point to the legendary "Ruta 40 Road Trip".

Ruta 40 Road Trip at a glance

No doubt our Ruta 40 Road Trip will become a great inspiration for your future travels.
The tour we’ve suggested can be used as a foundation that can be recreated in its entirety or only partially and that can be enriched with interesting attractions of your choice.
If car travel is a means of travel that you prefer, there are a number of vital traffic regulations to follow and a list of things to be mindful of to make your road trip smooth and safe. These tips will surely become useful for tourists who opt for renting a vehicle or renting a camper in Argentina.
Sightseeing around Argentina in a vehicle requires you to be mindful of the local traffic regulations. Avoiding spirits is the best way to ensure full safety of your passengers. Remember that the legal alcohol limit is extremely low and is only 0.5‰. Exceeding the maximum permissible speed, which is 70km/h, inside the cities may result in a speeding fine. When travelling in undeveloped areas, you should stick to the maximum allowed speed of 110km/h. On highways, the allowed speed is 130km/h. Driving with your headlights on at daytime and equipping your car with a fire extinguisher and first aid kit heavily increase your safety.
One of the decisive factors when scheduling an itinerary is costs. The amount of money that you have to pay during the whole itinerary are dependent on the budget option that you are interested in. Check out the available budget possibilities.
In the budget option, you have to spend the maximum of 663 EUR on fuel to cover the planned 4,917km while travelling around Argentina. Economy accommodation options may cost you more or less 792 EUR. Food and restaurants in this option can cost roughly 1,152 EUR. Travellers will have to pay about 1,512 EUR if they are interested in the budget rental car option as well. Thus, going for car rental will increase the expenses of the road trip from more or less 2,607 EUR to about 4,119 EUR.
When it comes to the standard offer, you should be prepared to pay the maximum of 888 EUR on the fuel needed to cover the itinerary. If you are into standard accommodation options, you should keep in mind that the costs can amount up to more or less 2,376 EUR. The general cost of food and restaurants within this range is approximately 1,728 EUR. Travellers who want to cover the tour in a standard hire car should expect a cost of about 3,240 EUR. Summing up the standard offer, the estimated cost of the road trip will total about 8,232 EUR for drivers who would like to try vehicle rental and 4,992 EUR for those who are not interested in renting.
The highest level of comfort of the premium option will live up to the expectations of the most demanding tourists. When it comes to this offer, the estimated cost of the road trip will total more or less 13,008 EUR for holidayers who are considering car rental and 4,992 EUR for those who do not want to rent. Travellers who want to cover the tour in a premium rental vehicle should expect a cost of approximately 4,752 EUR. In the top standard option of the trip, you will pay about 1,200 EUR for fuel. Drivers should expect to pay roughly 2,304 EUR for restaurants and food and around 4,752 EUR for accommodation options if they opt for the highest standard of services.
Camper fans will be equally happy with [trip_name. For those who are interested in this transport option, you should expect the costs of around 5,400 EUR. You will spend around 1,325 EUR on fuel allowing to cover all stages of the road trip. Holidayers who opt for camper rental should expect to pay around 1,320 EUR for accommodation and about 1,152 EUR for expenses connected with food.
The Road Trip Costs section presents all the presented details in a simple way.
The part of Argentina mentioned in our road trip idea is great to be visited between October and April. If you like Ruta 40 Road Trip, check out other intriguing road trips that we offer on our website. The great variety of road trips will surely measure up to the expectations of the most demanding tourists.

Facts for safer driving in Argentina

drink drive limit drink drive limit 0.5
max speed urban max speed urban 70 km/h
max speed rural max speed rural 110 km/h
max speed highway max speed highway 130 km/h
headlights at daytime headlights at daytime on
fire extinguisher fire extinguisher no
tolls tolls no
seat belts seat belts yes

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