Camping in Perito Moreno Town
Perito Moreno town, a key Ruta 40 junction in Santa Cruz province, serves as a vital resupply hub for car campers exploring Cueva de las Manos, Lago Buenos Aires, and the vast Patagonian steppe. Camp at this crossroads between glaciers and rock art.
4 min readUpdated for 2025–2026 SeasonNot to be confused with the famous glacier, Perito Moreno town is a small but strategically important settlement on Ruta 40 in Santa Cruz province. For car campers, it serves as a critical supply and rest point on one of the most remote stretches of the legendary highway. The town sits at the junction of routes leading to Cueva de las Manos (UNESCO rock art), Los Antiguos (on Lago Buenos Aires), and the long empty stretches of Ruta 40 heading south toward El Chaltén and El Calafate. While not a destination in itself, Perito Moreno offers reliable fuel, food supplies, ATMs, and comfortable campgrounds — luxuries that shouldn't be taken for granted in this remote region. Smart car campers use it as a base for day trips and resupply.
Campsites
Camping Municipal Perito Moreno
PaidWell-maintained municipal campground with full services. An essential rest stop for Ruta 40 travelers. Sheltered sites with tree cover.
Camping Lago Buenos Aires Norte
FreeBasic free camping area on the northern approach to Lago Buenos Aires, about 30 km west of town. Wide lake views and windswept steppe setting.
Camping Estancia La Oriental
PaidAn estancia camping experience on a working sheep ranch outside town. Authentic Patagonian ranch life with optional lamb asado and horseback rides.
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Before you hit the trail: Perito Moreno Town
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Planning
Best Time to Visit
Best Time to Visit Perito Moreno (Town) 2026 — Month-by-Month Guide
How to Get There
How to Get to Perito Moreno (Town) 2026 — Flights, Driving & Transport
Budget Guide
Perito Moreno (Town) on a Budget 2026 — Costs, Tips & Money-Saving Guide
Seasonal Guide
Autumn in Perito Moreno Town 2026 — Weather, Activities & Tips
Seasonal Guide
Spring in Perito Moreno Town 2026 — Weather, Activities & Tips
Seasonal Guide
Summer in Perito Moreno Town 2026 — Weather, Activities & Tips
Seasonal Guide
Winter in Perito Moreno Town 2026 — Weather, Activities & Tips
Travel Tips
Essential Travel Tips for Perito Moreno (Town) (2026)
Where to Stay
Where to Stay in Perito Moreno (Town) (2026) — Neighborhoods & Hotels
Weather & Climate
Perito Moreno (Town) Weather Guide (2026) — Monthly Climate, Temperatures & Best Time
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Day Trips
Best Day Trips from Perito Moreno (Town) 2026 — Distances & Driving Guide
Hidden Gems
Hidden Gems in Perito Moreno (Town) (2026) — Secret Spots & Local Tips
Family Guide
Family Travel Guide to Perito Moreno (Town) (2026) — Kid-Friendly Tips
Hiking Trails
Hiking Trails in Perito Moreno (Town) (2026) — Best Hikes, Difficulty & Maps
Culture & Nature
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Frequently Asked Questions
Is this the same as Perito Moreno Glacier?
No! The town of Perito Moreno in Santa Cruz province is about 600 km north of the glacier. Both are named after the famous Argentine explorer Francisco Moreno. This causes frequent confusion.
Should I get fuel here?
Absolutely yes. Fill your tank completely and top off jerry cans. The next fuel south on Ruta 40 is either Bajo Caracoles (limited, unreliable) or Gobernador Gregores (260 km south).
Can I do a day trip to Cueva de las Manos from here?
Yes, it's a long day trip of about 163 km each way on gravel roads. Start early and carry extra fuel and water. Consider camping at the cave for a better experience.
Are the ATMs reliable?
They work but can run out of cash, especially on weekends and holidays. Withdraw money earlier in the week and carry cash reserves for the remote Ruta 40 stretches where cards are useless.
How is the road south on Ruta 40?
Increasingly paved but significant gravel stretches remain between here and Tres Lagos. Check conditions locally and drive during daylight hours. Windblown dust can reduce visibility.