The Open Road Atlas

Patagonia Route 40 Road Trip Itinerary

It is remote, cinematic, and genuinely adventurous.

Road to El Chalten in Patagonia
Country
Argentina and Chile
Region
South America
Distance
1,500+ km
Suggested duration
10-21 days
Best season
November to March
Difficulty
Remote, wind, gravel sections

Why drive the Patagonia Route 40

Route 40 through Patagonia is a serious expedition of wind, mountains, steppe, glaciers, and immense distances. Stock up often, respect weather windows, and plan around lamb asado, bakeries, and trail days.

Suggested itinerary

  1. Days 1-5: Lake District towns, chocolate shops, and Andean forest roads.
  2. Days 6-12: Long-distance Patagonian steppe, frontier estancias, and glacier-fed lakes.
  3. Days 13-18: El Chalten hikes, Perito Moreno Glacier, and optional Chilean crossings.

Main stops along the Patagonia Route 40

Detours worth adding

Road to El Chalten in Patagonia
Road to El Chalten in Patagonia
Fitz Roy from the road near El Chalten
Fitz Roy from the road near El Chalten
Perito Moreno Glacier in Argentine Patagonia
Perito Moreno Glacier in Argentine Patagonia

Book this road trip

Flights Search flights into the closest useful airport for this route. Car Rentals Compare vehicle hire and transfer options for this route. Campervans Find bookable road-trip transport and useful extras. Stays Book hotels, route stops, and destination essentials. Experiences Tours, passes, ferries, museums, and guided days. Insurance Travel essentials and destination services for the trip. Saily eSIMs, navigation apps, and connectivity essentials.

Patagonia Route 40 road trip FAQ

How long do you need for the Patagonia Route 40?

Plan on 10-21 days for the core 1,500+ km drive. Add extra time if you want slower overnight stops, side roads, or longer detours.

When is the best time to drive the Patagonia Route 40?

The usual best window is November to March. Check local road closures and weather before committing to fixed dates.

What are the main stops on the Patagonia Route 40?

Core stops include Bariloche, El Bolson, Los Alerces, Perito Moreno, El Chalten.

Is the Patagonia Route 40 difficult to drive?

The route is best described as: Remote, wind, gravel sections. Build in time for fuel, rest stops, and changing conditions.

What detours are worth adding?

Popular detours include Carretera Austral, Torres del Paine, Cueva de las Manos.

See the full route, mini map, closest airports, and booking modules on the interactive atlas.

Open Patagonia Route 40 on the map →

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