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How to Get to Lago Posadas

Reaching Lago Posadas, a hidden gem nestled deep in the heart of the Patagonian steppe, is an adventure in itself. This remote village, surrounded by stunning turquoise lakes and dramatic mountains, requires a journey that rewards intrepid travelers with unparalleled natural beauty and a true sense of exploration away from the well-trodden paths. Prepare for spectacular vistas and a serene escape.

7 min readUpdated for 2025–2026 Season
PatagoniaHub
By PatagoniaHub Travel Team|Verified local expertsLast updated: Apr 29, 2026
Full guide to Lago Posadas →

Lago Posadas, officially known as Hipólito Yrigoyen, is a small, picturesque village in the heart of Argentina's Santa Cruz province, offering unparalleled access to the stunning Lago Posadas and Lago Pueyrredón, known for their vibrant blue hues and dramatic Andean backdrops. Getting to this secluded paradise is an integral part of the Patagonian experience, demanding careful planning due to its remote location. The journey, often involving long drives on gravel roads or connecting flights to smaller regional airports, is richly rewarded by pristine landscapes, authentic local culture, and incredible outdoor activities like world-class fly fishing, hiking, and exploring the ancient Cueva de las Manos nearby. While challenging, the path to Lago Posadas is an unforgettable part of your Patagonian adventure, promising tranquility, breathtaking scenery, and a true sense of untouched wilderness.

Nearest Airports

Comodoro Rivadavia International Airport

CRD550 km

This is the largest and most practical airport for travelers flying into the region from Buenos Aires or other major Argentine cities. From CRD, you'll need to rent a car or take a long-distance bus to reach Lago Posadas.

El Calafate International Airport

FTE600 km

A major hub for Patagonian tourism, FTE is a popular choice for international visitors. While further south, it offers excellent connections. A car rental from El Calafate allows for a scenic drive north along Ruta 40.

Perito Moreno Airport

PMQ90 km

This small regional airport is the closest to Lago Posadas, but receives very limited flights, typically only from larger regional airports like Comodoro Rivadavia or occasionally El Calafate, and often not year-round. Check schedules carefully.

By Flight

Flying to Patagonia is the quickest way to cover the vast distances of Argentina. For Lago Posadas, your primary options are flying into Comodoro Rivadavia (CRD) or El Calafate (FTE), then continuing your journey by rental car or bus. Direct flights to Perito Moreno (PMQ) are rare and seasonal.

Airlines

Aerolíneas ArgentinasFlybondiJetSMART

Flight Tips

  • Book domestic flights well in advance, especially during peak season (December-February), as seats fill up quickly.
  • Consider multi-city flights if you plan to explore other parts of Patagonia, flying into one airport and out of another.
  • Check baggage allowances carefully, as budget airlines often have stricter limits and charge for checked bags.
  • Always factor in at least a day for travel once you land, as the drive or bus journey to Lago Posadas is substantial.

By Car

Driving is by far the most recommended way to reach Lago Posadas, offering unparalleled freedom to explore the stunning Patagonian landscapes at your own pace. The iconic Ruta 40 (National Route 40) is your main artery through this remote region. Be prepared for long stretches of gravel roads (ripio) and limited services.

Main Driving Routes

FromRouteDistanceDurationRoad Condition
El CalafateRuta Nacional 40 North600 km8-9 hoursMostly paved for the first half, with significant stretches of gravel (ripio) further north. Conditions can vary with weather.
Comodoro RivadaviaRuta Provincial 26 West to Ruta Nacional 40 South550 km7-8 hoursInitially paved on Ruta 26, then a mix of paved and long sections of ripio on Ruta 40. Expect some rough patches.
Los AntiguosRuta Provincial 41 West to Ruta Nacional 40 South150 km2-3 hoursRuta 41 is almost entirely gravel (ripio), known for its remote beauty. Ruta 40 will also have ripio sections. A high-clearance vehicle is recommended.

Driving Tips

  • Rent a sturdy vehicle, preferably a 4x4 or a high-clearance SUV, as many roads are gravel (ripio).
  • Carry extra fuel, a spare tire (or two!), and essential tools, as gas stations and repair shops are scarce.
  • Download offline maps (e.g., Google Maps, Maps.me) as cell signal is unreliable in many areas.
  • Always inform your accommodation of your expected arrival time, especially if driving long distances.
  • Watch out for guanacos, choiques (Patagonian rheas), and other wildlife on the roads.

By Bus

Bus travel to Lago Posadas is possible but often involves multiple connections and significantly longer travel times compared to driving. Most long-distance buses will take you to Perito Moreno town, from where you'll need to arrange onward transport to Lago Posadas.

Bus Companies

Chaltén TravelAndesmarCata InternacionalTransportes Sportman (regional)

Bus Tips

  • Check bus schedules meticulously, as services to smaller towns like Perito Moreno are less frequent, especially off-season.
  • Be prepared for long journeys; buses often make numerous stops, and travel times can be extended by road conditions.
  • It's highly advisable to pre-book your bus tickets online, particularly during the high season (December-February).
  • From Perito Moreno town, you may need to arrange a taxi or private transfer to Lago Posadas, as local bus services are extremely limited or non-existent.

From Major Cities

CityBest MethodTravel TimeCost
El CalafateRental Car8-9 hoursVaries (car rental + fuel) - typically $100-150 USD/day for car, plus fuel
Comodoro RivadaviaRental Car7-8 hoursVaries (car rental + fuel) - typically $100-150 USD/day for car, plus fuel
BarilocheFlight + Rental Car1.5-2 hour flight + 7-8 hour driveVaries (flight + car rental + fuel) - typically $150-300 USD for flight, plus car costs

Local Transport

Once you arrive in Lago Posadas, the village itself is small enough to explore on foot. However, to truly experience the surrounding natural wonders like Lago Pueyrredón, the stunning Mirador del Valle, or the Cueva de las Manos, a vehicle is essential. There is no public transportation, and limited local tour operators might offer excursions, but a rental car provides the utmost flexibility.

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