Bariloche Esquel
Embark on an unforgettable 320 km road trip from Bariloche to Esquel via the iconic Ruta 40, connecting Argentina's Lake District to the gateway of Los Alerces National Park. Discover charming towns like El Bolsón and Lago Puelo, navigate scenic mountain roads, and experience the diverse Patagonian landscape on this essential self-drive adventure.
Updated for 2025–2026 Season
The drive from Bariloche to Esquel is a classic Patagonian road trip, offering a fascinating transition from the vibrant alpine scenery of northern Patagonia's Lake District to the more rugged, often wild landscapes of the south. Covering approximately 320 kilometers, this route largely follows the legendary Ruta Nacional 40, providing an ideal opportunity for independent travelers to explore at their own pace. You'll pass through charming towns, alongside pristine lakes, and experience both paved highways and sections of classic Patagonian gravel roads.
This journey is more than just a means to get from one point to another; it's an adventure into the heart of Patagonia. With the flexibility of a rental car, you can detour to explore hidden gems like Lago Puelo National Park, savor local craft beer in El Bolsón, or simply pull over for breathtaking photos whenever the mood strikes. Esquel, your destination, serves as a vital hub for accessing the magnificent Los Alerces National Park, making this drive a perfect prelude to further exploration.
Route Segments
| From | To | Distance | Duration | Road |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Bariloche | El Bolsón | 120 km | 1.5 hours | paved |
| El Bolsón | Cholila Valley Turnoff (Ruta 71) | 80 km | 1.5 hours | mixed |
| Cholila Valley Turnoff (Ruta 71) | Esquel | 120 km | 1.5 hours | mixed |
Scenic Stops
Mirador del Azul (near El Bolsón)
A fantastic viewpoint offering panoramic views of the Río Azul valley, El Bolsón, and the surrounding mountains. It's a short, easy detour from Ruta 40 before entering El Bolsón.
Stop duration: 15-20 minutes
Lago Puelo National Park (detour)
Just off Ruta 40, a short paved road leads to Lago Puelo. This beautiful national park features pristine turquoise waters, beaches, and short hiking trails. It's an ideal spot for a longer break, picnic, or simply enjoying the tranquil lake scenery.
Stop duration: 1-2 hours (minimum)
Epuyén Lake Viewpoint
As you pass through the town of Epuyén, keep an eye out for viewpoints offering stunning vistas of Lago Epuyén, known for its deep blue waters and surrounding green hills. A quick stop here provides a refreshing break.
Stop duration: 10-15 minutes
Fuel Stops
| Location | From Start | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| El Bolsón | 120 km from start | Several YPF and other gas stations available in El Bolsón. This is your last reliable fuel stop before Esquel, so ensure you top up here, especially if planning detours. Most accept credit cards but having some cash is advisable. |
Drive This Route
Browse Car RentalsRoad Conditions by Season
Summer (Dec - Mar)
Roads are generally in good condition, with paved sections providing smooth travel and gravel stretches typically dry and compacted. Winds can be strong, especially in open areas. Temperatures are mild to warm during the day.
Winter (Jun - Sep)
Expect snow and ice, particularly on mountain passes and unpaved sections. Ruta 40 can be temporarily closed due to heavy snowfall. Four-wheel drive and chains might be required. Daylight hours are short. Always check road conditions before departing.
Year-round Notes
Be aware that unpaved sections of Ruta 40 can become rough and washboarded, especially after heavy use or rain. Always drive defensively on gravel. Strong Patagonian winds are a year-round factor and can affect vehicle stability. Keep an eye out for wildlife, particularly guanacos and sheep, on rural road sections.
Vehicle Recommendation
Given the mixed road conditions with significant gravel sections, a high-clearance vehicle such as an SUV or a 4x4 is highly recommended for this route. While a standard sedan can manage, an SUV will provide greater comfort, better handling on unpaved roads, and increased confidence, particularly if you plan any detours into national parks or off the main highway.
Essential Driving Tips
- 1**Fuel Up in El Bolsón:** Do not pass El Bolsón without topping off your tank. Fuel stations are scarce between El Bolsón and Esquel.
- 2**Drive Carefully on Gravel:** Reduce your speed significantly on unpaved sections of Ruta 40. Loose gravel can cause skidding, and washboard surfaces can be unsettling. Maintain a safe distance from other vehicles to avoid stone chips.
- 3**Watch for Wildlife:** Guanacos, sheep, and other animals are common along the route. Drive cautiously, especially at dawn, dusk, and night.
- 4**Prepare for Changing Weather:** Patagonian weather is famously unpredictable. Pack layers, and be prepared for sun, wind, rain, and even sudden drops in temperature, regardless of the season.
- 5**Download Offline Maps:** Cell phone service can be sporadic outside of towns. Download offline maps (e.g., Google Maps, Maps.me) to ensure continuous navigation.
- 6**Carry a Spare Tire and Repair Kit:** Gravel roads increase the risk of punctures. Ensure your rental car has a good spare tire and the necessary tools for changing it.
- 7**Stay Hydrated and Bring Snacks:** While there are towns, stretches can be long without services. Carry water and snacks for your journey.
- 8**Respect Private Property:** If you pull over for photos, ensure you're not on private land or blocking traffic. Leave no trace.
Drive This Route
Get the right vehicle for these road conditions
Driving Distances from Bariloche
Plan your road trip with approximate driving times and distances to nearby Patagonia destinations.
| Destination | Distance | Driving Time | Road Type |
|---|---|---|---|
| El Bolson | 120 km | 1h 45m | Paved |
| Osorno | 280 km | 4h 30m | Paved |
| Esquel | 290 km | 3h 30m | Paved |
| Puerto Montt | 340 km | 5h | Paved |
| Trelew | 820 km | 9h 30m | Paved |
| Puerto Madryn | 870 km | 10h | Paved |
Driving Distances from Esquel
Plan your road trip with approximate driving times and distances to nearby Patagonia destinations.
| Destination | Distance | Driving Time | Road Type |
|---|---|---|---|
| El Bolson | 170 km | 2h 15m | Paved |
| Bariloche | 290 km | 3h 30m | Paved |
| Trelew | 570 km | 7h | Mixed |
| Osorno | 570 km | 7h 30m | Paved |
| Comodoro Rivadavia | 600 km | 7h 30m | Mixed |
| Puerto Madryn | 620 km | 7h 30m | Mixed |
Plan your drive: Bariloche
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