Route 40 From South To North: From El Calafate To Bariloche

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Route 40 From South To North: From El Calafate To Bariloche

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Transfer

Are you eager to discover Argentine Patagonia in a unique way?

With this selection of bus tickets, you can journey along the iconic Route 40, linking some of the country's most breathtaking landscapes: glaciers, mountains, the Patagonian steppe, and Andean lakes, while visiting extraordinary destinations such as El Chaltén and Los Antiguos before reaching Bariloche.

This tour is crafted for independent travelers aiming to explore Patagonia at their own rhythm, allowing them to mix various bus segments and choose the duration of their stay at each destination.

The itinerary includes the following segments:

El Calafate → El Chaltén
El Chaltén → Los Antiguos
Los Antiguos → Bariloche

Throughout the expedition, you will traverse expansive Patagonian vistas, quaint mountain villages, and seldom-explored stretches of Route 40, one of South America's most renowned roads.

About this transfer

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A Flexible Way to Discover Patagonia

This bus combination is perfect for travelers eager to explore Patagonia at their own pace, linking iconic spots and hidden gems via the historic Route 40.
You can tailor your journey based on your preferences, spending more time in each city and savoring the journey itself.

El Calafate to El Chaltén

The adventure kicks off in El Calafate, the gateway to the renowned Perito Moreno Glacier and a must-visit in Argentine Patagonia.

From here, you'll head to El Chaltén, celebrated as the National Capital of Trekking. Nestled among Mount Fitz Roy and Mount Torre, this quaint mountain village offers stunning trails, natural viewpoints, and the perfect setting for those in pursuit of adventure and nature.

From El Chaltén to Los Antiguos

Route 40 stretches north through the expansive Patagonian steppe, featuring landscapes of plateaus, rivers, and endless horizons.

The journey's next destination is Los Antiguos, a serene town on the banks of Lake Buenos Aires, renowned for its natural beauty and cherry orchards. This area is ideal for exploring a less touristy side of Patagonia, with opportunities for outdoor activities, hiking, and scenic excursions.

You can linger in Los Antiguos for as long as you wish before proceeding with your travels. If standard tour packages aren't your style and you're keen to explore a lesser-known facet of Patagonia, Los Antiguos is your destination! For tours and packages in Los Antiguos, click here.

From Los Antiguos to Bariloche

The final leg bridges the Patagonian steppe with the Andean region of northern Patagonia.

As you journey towards Bariloche, the scenery begins to shift: forests, lakes, and mountains emerge, announcing your arrival at Nahuel Huapi National Park.

Eventually, you'll reach San Carlos de Bariloche, a premier tourist destination in Argentina, famed for its crystal-clear lakes, ski resorts, chocolates, and mountain adventures.

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What's included?

Includes

*Transport

Not included

*Food and drinks *Accommodation and excursions in any of the destinations

Frequently Asked Questions

The journey along the legendary Route 40 from south to north typically lasts between 6 and 8 days, covering approximately 1,300–1,600 km of Patagonian landscapes. The itinerary, subject to weather and operational conditions, generally includes departure from El Calafate, passing through El Chaltén (Fitz Roy massif), Andean lake viewpoints, ranches, plateaus and canyons, a visit to the Cueva de las Manos archaeological site in the Pinturas River Canyon, stops in Los Antiguos (Lake Buenos Aires) and towns such as Esquel and El Bolsón, before ending in San Carlos de Bariloche. The route combines sections of paved and gravel roads, with photo stops, short hikes, and free time in Patagonian towns.

The Route 40 tour package typically includes ground transportation in a comfortable tourist vehicle (minibus/van), a bilingual Spanish/English guide specializing in Patagonia, accommodation in selected inns or hotels, daily breakfast and some meals as per the itinerary, guided tours and entrance fees to indicated attractions, as well as assistance during the excursion. It usually does not include flights, meals not specified, optional excursions (e.g., boat trips or technical trekking), beverages, or tips. The recommended luggage allowance is one suitcase and one carry-on bag per passenger. The tour typically begins with hotel pick-up in El Calafate and ends at a centrally located hotel in San Carlos de Bariloche. Travel insurance is highly recommended.

The best time for this tour in Argentine Patagonia is spring and summer (October to April), when there are long days, greater stability, and full tourist services. In summer, temperatures typically range from 8°C to 22°C, with Patagonian winds and high UV radiation. Autumn (March–May) offers spectacular colors and fewer visitors, but colder nights. In winter, some sections of Route 40 may have snow, ice, or partial closures, which can affect operations. It is always recommended to travel with layered clothing, a raincoat, sun protection, and flexibility, as the weather in the steppe and the mountains can change rapidly.

The trip is of low to moderate difficulty, suitable for nature lovers, photographers, and families with good mobility. It includes sections on roads and short walks to viewpoints or points of interest. Recommended: layered clothing (thermal base layer, fleece, and waterproof/windproof jacket), trekking boots with good grip, hat, gloves, UV sunglasses, sunscreen, reusable water bottle, optional trekking poles, personal first-aid kit, and camera. Bring energy snacks and cash for expenses in rural areas. Carry identification (ID/passport) and travel insurance. On windy or gravel days, closed-toe shoes and a sturdy jacket significantly improve the tour experience.

Tour package prices vary depending on the season, accommodation category, availability, and optional extras. During peak season (summer and holidays), it is advisable to book 60–90 days in advance. A 20–30% deposit is usually required to confirm your booking, with the balance due before departure. Cancellation policies typically allow for changes or partial refunds up to a certain period (e.g., 15–30 days), and penalties may apply closer to the departure date. In the event of adverse weather or road closures, the operator may adjust the itinerary, prioritizing safety and offering alternatives or rescheduling. Payments are accepted by card/bank transfer, and an invoice will be issued. Limited availability.

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