Perito Moreno (Town)
Perito Moreno (Town) is a vital service stop on Argentina's legendary Ruta 40, offering essential fuel and supplies for Patagonian road trippers. This strategic hub is the primary gateway to the ancient Cueva de las Manos and provides a necessary break for travelers exploring vast Patagonian landscapes, distinct from the famous Perito Moreno Glacier.
Nestled in the heart of Argentina's Santa Cruz province, Perito Moreno (Town) serves as a crucial waypoint for adventurers traversing the legendary Ruta 40. Often confused with the famous Perito Moreno Glacier, which lies nearly 500 kilometers to the south, this unassuming Patagonian town is a different entity entirely. It's not a destination for grand sights, but rather an indispensable service point where weary travelers can refuel their vehicles and bodies before continuing their journey through the vast, windswept steppe.
For anyone embarking on a Patagonian road trip, especially those driving long stretches between El Chaltén/El Calafate and Esquel, Perito Moreno offers a vital opportunity to stock up on groceries, access basic mechanical services, and find a comfortable bed for the night. More importantly, it acts as the closest urban center and primary gateway to the UNESCO World Heritage site of Cueva de las Manos (Cave of the Hands), making it a strategic base for a day trip to witness ancient rock art. Its proximity to Los Antiguos also makes it a key link for those venturing towards Lago Buenos Aires and the Chilean border.
Complete Guide to Perito Moreno (Town)
Everything you need to plan your trip
Trip Planning
Activities & Adventures
Food, Wildlife & Photography
Top Things to See & Do
Ruta 40 Essential Service Stop
adventurePerito Moreno town is a non-negotiable fuel and supply stop on Argentina's iconic Ruta 40. Ensure your tank is full and grab any necessities here before tackling long, remote stretches of road.
Gateway to Cueva de las Manos
cultureThis town is the primary access point for visiting the incredible Cueva de las Manos, a UNESCO World Heritage site featuring ancient cave paintings. Plan your day trip from here to witness these remarkable prehistoric artworks.
Connection to Los Antiguos
adventurePerito Moreno is a short drive from Los Antiguos and Lago Buenos Aires (General Carrera Lake), making it a convenient stopover when traveling to or from this beautiful lake region and the Chilean border.
Patagonian Steppe Vistas
natureWhile the town itself is modest, the surrounding Patagonian steppe offers unique, expansive views. Appreciate the rugged beauty and vastness of this unique biome, often dotted with guanacos and rheas.
Laguna de los Juncos
wildlifeA small, accessible lagoon near town, Laguna de los Juncos offers opportunities for birdwatching. Keep an eye out for diverse Patagonian birdlife, especially during migratory seasons.
Local Gastronomy
gastronomyExperience authentic Patagonian roadside fare at the local eateries. Enjoy hearty stews, traditional 'asado' (barbecue), and homemade pastries, perfect for refueling after a long drive.
Best Time to Visit
summer
December - February
Mild to warm days, strong winds are common. Average temperatures 15-25°C.
Peak season
Book accommodation well in advance, especially if you plan a Cueva de las Manos visit. Carry layers for the wind.
autumn
March - May
Cooler temperatures, often crisp and clear days. Fall foliage can be seen in nearby valleys. Temperatures 5-15°C.
Moderate crowds
A beautiful time for Cueva de las Manos with fewer visitors. Check road conditions as winter approaches.
winter
June - August
Cold, windy, and often snowy. Many services may be limited. Temperatures -5 to 5°C.
Low crowds
Absolutely essential to check road conditions (Ruta 40 and access to Cueva de las Manos) and ensure your vehicle is winter-ready. Many attractions may be closed.
spring
September - November
Gradually warming, with increasing daylight. Still windy, but nature begins to reawaken. Temperatures 5-18°C.
Low crowds
A good time for birdwatching at Laguna de los Juncos. Services will be gradually opening up for the peak season.
Getting There
| From | Method | Duration | Cost | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| El Chaltén / El Calafate | car | 8-10 hours | Varies (fuel) | A very long drive on Ruta 40, essential to fuel up in Tres Lagos or Gobernador Gregores before Perito Moreno (Town). Roads are mostly paved, but expect long, remote stretches. |
| Los Antiguos | car | 1.5 hours | Varies (fuel) | A straightforward drive on well-maintained provincial roads. Ideal for combining a visit to Lago Buenos Aires with Cueva de las Manos. |
| Comodoro Rivadavia | car | 6-7 hours | Varies (fuel) | Mostly paved roads (Ruta 40/Ruta 22). It's a key inland connection from the Patagonian coast, a long but manageable drive. |
| Esquel / Bariloche | car | 10-14 hours | Varies (fuel) | This is a significant drive along Ruta 40, often involving gravel (ripio) sections, especially south of Esquel. Allow ample time and be prepared for remote conditions. |
Where to Stay
Hostería / Basic Hotel
$60-120/night/night
Comfortable, warm rooms perfect for a night's rest after a long day of driving. Many offer simple breakfast options.
Camping
$10-20/night/night
For budget travelers or those with their own gear, camping is available and offers a chance to experience the Patagonian night sky.
Apartment Rental
$70-150/night/night
Ideal for families or groups needing more space and self-catering facilities before continuing their Ruta 40 adventure.
Driving Tips
- 1Always fill your tank completely in Perito Moreno town. Distances to the next reliable fuel station on Ruta 40 can be hundreds of kilometers, especially heading south or north.
- 2Be prepared for sections of unpaved gravel road (ripio) on Ruta 40, particularly towards the south or the access road to Cueva de las Manos. Drive slowly and carefully.
- 3Strong Patagonian crosswinds are common and can make driving challenging, especially for larger vehicles. Keep both hands on the wheel and reduce speed.
- 4Watch out for wildlife, especially guanacos and rheas, which frequently cross the road, particularly at dawn and dusk. Collisions can be severe.
- 5Carry spare tires, a basic toolkit, and extra water. Roadside assistance is extremely limited in the vast, remote areas surrounding Perito Moreno.
- 6Check with locals or the tourist office about current road conditions, especially after heavy rains or snow, as routes can become impassable.
Local Tips
- 1When asking for directions or services, always specify 'Perito Moreno, el pueblo' (the town) to differentiate it from the famous Perito Moreno Glacier, which is hundreds of kilometers away.
- 2Don't expect gourmet dining; embrace the hearty, no-frills Patagonian comfort food at local 'comedores' or 'parrilladas'. They're perfect for road-weary travelers.
- 3Before heading to Cueva de las Manos, inquire at the local tourist office or your accommodation about the current state of the gravel access road (Ruta Provincial 41).
- 4Stock up on snacks, water, and anything specific you might need here. This is one of the last reliable large towns for significant distances on Ruta 40 in either direction.
- 5If you're interested in local history beyond the Cueva de las Manos, visit the small municipal museum in town to learn about the region's pioneers and natural history.
Rent a Car for This Trip
Always fill your tank completely in Perito Moreno town. Distances to the next reliable fuel station on Ruta 40 can be hundreds of kilometers, especially heading south or north.
Rent a Car for This TripFrequently Asked Questions
Is Perito Moreno (Town) the same as the Perito Moreno Glacier?
No, absolutely not. Perito Moreno (Town) is a small Patagonian town located in Santa Cruz province, Argentina. The famous Perito Moreno Glacier is approximately 500 km south, near El Calafate. Many travelers confuse the two due to the shared name.
What is the main reason to visit Perito Moreno (Town)?
The town's primary purpose for travelers is its strategic location as an essential service stop on Ruta 40, offering fuel, accommodation, and supplies. It is also the main gateway for visiting the UNESCO World Heritage site, Cueva de las Manos (Cave of the Hands).
How do I get to Cueva de las Manos from Perito Moreno (Town)?
Cueva de las Manos is about 120 km from Perito Moreno (Town). You drive south on Ruta 40 for about 40 km, then turn east onto Ruta Provincial 41 (a gravel road) for approximately 80 km. The drive takes about 1.5 to 2 hours each way, depending on road conditions.
Are there good places to eat in Perito Moreno (Town)?
The town offers several local eateries, 'comedores' and 'parrilladas,' serving hearty Patagonian fare. While not fine dining, you'll find satisfying meals perfect for refueling, often featuring local lamb and beef.
What are the road conditions like around Perito Moreno (Town)?
Ruta 40 north and south of town can have long stretches of gravel (ripio), particularly towards the south. The access road to Cueva de las Manos (Ruta Provincial 41) is entirely gravel. Always drive cautiously, especially due to strong winds and potential wildlife.
Can I find all necessary services (fuel, mechanics, ATMs) in Perito Moreno (Town)?
Yes, Perito Moreno (Town) is one of the most reliable places to find essential services for hundreds of kilometers on Ruta 40. You'll find fuel stations, basic mechanics, a supermarket, and ATMs. It's highly recommended to use these services here.
Is it worth staying overnight in Perito Moreno (Town)?
For most Ruta 40 road trippers or those planning an early start to Cueva de las Manos, an overnight stay is highly recommended. It breaks up long driving days and allows for a relaxed visit to the cave paintings.