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How to Get to Ruta 40 (Patagonia Section)

Embark on the ultimate Patagonian adventure by navigating Argentina's legendary Ruta 40. This iconic highway stretches across vast landscapes, connecting remote towns and breathtaking national parks. Discover the best ways to reach and explore this epic route, ensuring an unforgettable journey through the heart of Patagonia's wild beauty.

7 min readUpdated for 2025–2026 Season
PatagoniaHub
By PatagoniaHub Travel Team|Verified local expertsLast updated: Apr 29, 2026
Full guide to Ruta 40 (Patagonia Section) →

Ruta 40, Argentina's longest and most famous highway, offers an unparalleled journey through the rugged and magnificent landscapes of Patagonia. This guide focuses specifically on the Patagonian section, a route that winds through provinces like Neuquén, Río Negro, Chubut, and Santa Cruz. Travelers can expect everything from vast steppes and dramatic mountain ranges to pristine lakes and glaciers. Reaching this remote part of the world requires careful planning, whether you choose to fly into one of the key Patagonian airports and rent a car, or embark on a multi-day bus journey. While flights offer speed, the true spirit of Ruta 40 is best experienced with the freedom of a private vehicle, allowing you to immerse yourself fully in its raw beauty and discover hidden gems at your own pace.

Nearest Airports

Comandante Armando Tola International Airport (El Calafate)

FTE0 km (directly on Ruta 40 access)

The primary gateway to Southern Patagonia, located near the city of El Calafate, offering direct access to the southern stretches of Ruta 40 and nearby attractions like Perito Moreno Glacier and El Chaltén.

San Carlos de Bariloche Airport (International)

BRC20 km (to Ruta 40)

Serving the Northern Patagonian Lake District, this airport is an excellent starting point for exploring the northern sections of Ruta 40, particularly routes through Neuquén and Río Negro provinces.

Malvinas Argentinas International Airport (Ushuaia)

USH900 km (to closest Ruta 40 point)

While not directly on Ruta 40, Ushuaia is the 'End of the World' and a popular starting or ending point for a larger Patagonian itinerary. From here, travelers typically connect to Ruta 3 and then Ruta 40 via Río Gallegos.

By Flight

Flying is the quickest way to reach Patagonia's key access points for Ruta 40. The main airports for the Patagonian section are El Calafate (FTE) and Bariloche (BRC). Flights generally originate from Buenos Aires, making for a long but efficient travel day.

Airlines

Aerolíneas ArgentinasFlybondiJetSMART

Flight Tips

  • Book domestic flights well in advance, especially during peak season (December-February), as prices can escalate rapidly.
  • Consider multi-city flights if you plan to start in one Patagonian city and depart from another (e.g., flying into Bariloche and out of El Calafate).
  • Check luggage allowances for budget airlines like Flybondi and JetSMART, as checked bags often incur extra fees.

By Car

Traveling Ruta 40 by car is the quintessential Patagonian experience, offering unparalleled freedom to explore at your own pace. The highway itself is a mix of paved and gravel sections, particularly in the more remote southern parts, demanding careful driving and preparation.

Main Driving Routes

FromRouteDistanceDurationRoad Condition
El CalafateRuta 40215 km (to El Chaltén via RP23)3 hours (without stops)Mostly paved on Ruta 40, then paved on RP23 to El Chaltén. Good condition overall.
BarilocheRuta 40450 km (to Esquel)6-7 hoursMostly paved and well-maintained in the northern Patagonian sections. Some secondary roads may be gravel.
Perito Moreno (town)Ruta 40475 km (to El Chaltén)6-7 hoursThis section can include significant gravel stretches, especially south of Perito Moreno towards Gobernador Gregores. Expect varying conditions.
Río GallegosRuta 3 connecting to Ruta 40250 km (to El Calafate via Ruta 40)3 hoursRuta 3 is paved, Ruta 40 to El Calafate is also paved and in good condition.

Driving Tips

  • Always carry spare fuel, especially on long stretches in Santa Cruz where service stations are few and far between.
  • Be prepared for gravel (ripio) sections, which require slower speeds and careful handling. A 4x4 is not essential but can provide more comfort.
  • Check road conditions (estado de rutas) locally or online before setting out, as weather can rapidly change routes.
  • Carry plenty of water, snacks, and warm clothing, as conditions can be unpredictable and services sparse.

By Bus

Bus travel is a popular and economical way to traverse Patagonia, connecting major towns and cities along or near Ruta 40. While slower than driving yourself, it offers a chance to relax and enjoy the scenery without the stress of navigation.

Bus Companies

Chalten TravelCal TurAndesmarDon OttoVia Bariloche

Bus Tips

  • Long-distance buses in Argentina are generally comfortable, often offering semi-cama (semi-bed) or cama (full-bed) seats.
  • Book tickets in advance, especially for popular routes and during high season.
  • Bring snacks, water, and entertainment, as journeys can be very long.
  • Be aware of potential delays, especially during adverse weather conditions.

From Major Cities

CityBest MethodTravel TimeCost
Buenos AiresFlight to El Calafate (FTE) or Bariloche (BRC), then rent a car3-4 hour flight + driving timeFlights from $80-$300 USD (one way), car rental varies
Santiago, ChileFlight to El Calafate (FTE) or Bariloche (BRC) via Buenos Aires, or overland driving7-10+ hours (flight with connection), 30+ hours (driving)Flights from $200-$500 USD (return), driving costs include fuel, potentially border fees
UshuaiaBus to Río Gallegos, then connect to El Calafate/Ruta 40 or fly to El Calafate10-12 hours by bus to El Calafate (with transfers), 1.5 hour flightBus $50-$80 USD, Flight $100-$250 USD

Local Transport

Once you arrive at a gateway town like El Calafate or Bariloche, local transport options are limited outside of taxis or tour buses for specific excursions. For exploring Ruta 40 itself, particularly its more remote and scenic stretches, a rental car is virtually essential. In towns like El Chaltén, everything is walkable, but to reach trailheads or other attractions outside town, you'll need a vehicle or shared transfers.

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