Roadtripping Argentina’s Route 40

22 February 2026

If you've ever dreamed of a road trip that feels like an epic adventure, Argentina’s Route 40—or Ruta 40—should be at the top of your list. This legendary highway stretches for over 5,000 kilometers (3,100 miles), running parallel to the towering Andes Mountains, cutting through some of the most breathtaking landscapes on Earth. From arid deserts and high-altitude plateaus to lush vineyards and glacial valleys, Route 40 offers an incredible mix of terrains, cultures, and experiences.

Ready to hit the road? Buckle up as we take you on an unforgettable journey through one of the world’s most awe-inspiring road trips!

🚗 What Makes Route 40 So Special?

Unlike your regular road trip, Route 40 isn’t just a highway—it’s a journey through Argentina’s soul. It’s one of the longest roads in the world, starting in the northern province of Jujuy and stretching all the way to Santa Cruz in the south.

This highway unites 11 provinces, crosses 236 bridges, and winds through more than 20 national parks. It also takes you through ancient indigenous lands, vibrant cities, remote villages, and some of the most spectacular landscapes on the planet.

Think of it as Argentina’s answer to Route 66, but wilder, grander, and packed with more natural wonders than you can count.

🏜️ Northern Argentina: A Desert Dream

Jujuy & The Quebrada de Humahuaca

If you're starting your journey in the north, Jujuy province is your gateway. Get ready for dramatic cliffs, multicolored mountains, and charming Andean towns. The Quebrada de Humahuaca—a UNESCO World Heritage Site—is one of the most visually striking landscapes you'll see. The Cerro de los Siete Colores (Hill of Seven Colors) in Purmamarca is a must-visit.

And don’t rush through Tilcara without stopping at Pucará de Tilcara, an ancient pre-Inca fortress offering panoramic views of the surrounding valley.

Salta: The Land of Vineyards & High Deserts

As you continue south, the province of Salta welcomes you with stunning colonial architecture and some of the best empanadas in Argentina. Take a break in Cafayate, a charming town known for its wineries and the famous Torrontés white wine.

The road leading to Cafayate, through the Quebrada de las Conchas, is filled with bizarre rock formations—keep an eye out for The Amphitheater and The Devil’s Throat, two natural wonders shaped by wind and rain over millions of years.

🏔️ The Central Region: Mountains, Lakes, and Adventure

San Juan & Mendoza: Wine and the High Andes

Heading further south, San Juan and Mendoza are paradise for wine lovers. Mendoza, in particular, is one of the great wine capitals of the world, home to iconic Malbec vineyards set against the backdrop of the towering Andes Mountains.

If you're feeling adventurous, take a detour to Aconcagua National Park, where you’ll find Mount Aconcagua—the highest peak in the Western Hemisphere. Even if you're not an experienced climber, the trekking routes in the park offer jaw-dropping views.

La Rioja & The Moonlike Landscapes of Talampaya

Want to feel like you're on another planet? Route 40 takes you straight to Talampaya National Park in La Rioja, where towering red rock cliffs create one of Argentina’s most surreal landscapes. Nearby, the Valley of the Moon (Ischigualasto Provincial Park) is filled with strange rock formations and dinosaur fossils dating back hundreds of millions of years.

🌲 The Magical Lakes District

Bariloche: Argentina’s Alpine Paradise

Further south, Route 40 enters Patagonia—where the scenery turns from arid deserts to lush forests, deep blue lakes, and snow-capped peaks. San Carlos de Bariloche, sitting on the shores of Lake Nahuel Huapi, looks like something out of a Swiss postcard.

Bariloche is an outdoor lover’s dream. Whether you love hiking, kayaking, or chocolate tasting (yes, this town is famous for its chocolate shops!), there’s something for everyone.

The Seven Lakes Route: Patagonia’s Best Drive

One of the most famous stretches of Route 40 is the Ruta de los Siete Lagos (Seven Lakes Route), connecting Bariloche with San Martín de los Andes. This short but spectacular drive takes you past crystal-clear lakes, towering mountains, and dense forests—it’s like driving through a real-life painting.

Plan for multiple stops along the way. Each lake—Lácar, Machónico, Falkner, Villarino, Escondido, Correntoso, and Nahuel Huapi—has its own unique beauty.

❄️ Southern Patagonia: Into the Wild

El Chaltén: Hiking Capital of Argentina

As you continue south, the landscapes become increasingly dramatic. Welcome to El Chaltén, Argentina’s trekking capital. If you love hiking, this is your paradise. The trails leading to Mount Fitz Roy and Laguna de los Tres offer some of the most stunning mountain views in the world.

El Calafate & The Perito Moreno Glacier

A little further down Route 40, you’ll reach El Calafate, home to the legendary Perito Moreno Glacier. Unlike most glaciers, this one is still advancing, meaning you'll get to witness massive chunks of ice crashing into the water. It’s one of the most spectacular natural shows on Earth.

The End of the Road: Tierra del Fuego

Though Route 40 technically ends in Santa Cruz, no road trip in Argentina is complete without venturing further south to Tierra del Fuego, the "End of the World." If you have the time, make your way to Ushuaia, the southernmost city on Earth. From here, you can even hop on a boat to Antarctica!

🛣️ Essential Tips for Roadtripping Route 40

Best Time to Go

- The ideal months for a Route 40 road trip are October to April (spring to early autumn in Argentina). Winters can be brutal, especially in Patagonia.

What to Pack

- All-season clothing – You’ll experience everything from hot deserts to freezing mountain passes.
- Spare fuel – Some sections have long distances between gas stations.
- Camping gear – If you love wild camping, Route 40 has plenty of opportunities.

Drive With Caution

- Some stretches are paved, but others are gravel roads—drive carefully, especially after rain.

🎉 Final Thoughts

Route 40 isn’t just a road; it’s an experience of a lifetime. It’s where you’ll see the wildest landscapes, meet the friendliest locals, and feel the true essence of Argentina. Whether you're sipping wine in Mendoza, hiking in El Chaltén, or staring in awe at the Perito Moreno Glacier, every mile of this journey brings a new adventure.

So, if you're looking for a road trip that challenges, inspires, and leaves you speechless, there’s no better route than Argentina’s Route 40. Pack your bags, start your engine, and get ready for the ride of a lifetime!