Driving to Patagonia is more than just a road trip—it’s an unforgettable journey through some of South America’s most dramatic landscapes. From Argentina’s legendary Ruta 40 to Chile’s scenic Carretera Austral, this guide will help you plan a safe, smooth, and enriching experience on the road.

Why drive to Patagonia?

Whether you’re craving the freedom to explore hidden trails, want to stop in remote villages, or simply enjoy panoramic views from your car window, driving in Patagonia offers unmatched flexibility and depth. It’s ideal for travelers who value autonomy, enjoy nature, and seek authentic cultural encounters along the way. Before hitting the road, get a clear picture of your expenses with this detailed guide on how much a trip to Patagonia really costs.

Planning your route: Where to start and how to go

Most travelers start their Patagonian drive from Buenos Aires, Bariloche, El Calafate, or Santiago de Chile. Each starting point has unique pros:

• Buenos Aires: Offers long-haul immersion with changing landscapes, from pampas to peaks.

• Bariloche: A northern gateway with paved roads and easier access to lakes and forests.

• El Calafate: Ideal for a shorter but intense drive to Southern Patagonia highlights.

• Santiago: Gateway to Chilean Patagonia via the Carretera Austral or through Argentina.

The best time of year for a Patagonian road trip

The best months to drive through Patagonia are from December to March. During this period, roads are more accessible, and weather is relatively stable. Shoulder seasons (October-November and April) offer quieter routes but higher chances of wind and unpredictable conditions. Discover Patagonia and more with this 15-day Argentina adventure for explorers.

Comparative table of main routes and destinations

Destination	Route access	Distance from airport	Road condition	4×4 needed	Best season
Bariloche	RN 40	15 km (BRC)	Asphalt	No	Oct – Apr
El Chaltén	RN 40 + RP 23	220 km (FTE)	Good, partly gravel	Recommended	Nov – Mar
Perito Moreno Glacier	RP 11	80 km (FTE)	Asphalt	No	All year
Torres del Paine	Y-290 / Y-150	150 km (PUQ)	Mixed, gravel	Yes	Nov – Mar
Ushuaia	RN 3	5 km (USH)	Asphalt	No	Dec – Mar
Puerto Madryn	RN 3	10 km (PMY)	Asphalt	No	Sep – Dec (whales)

Notes: RN = National Route (Argentina), RP = Provincial Route, Y = Chilean Route.

Renting a car in Patagonia: What to know

• Rental prices: Range from $60 to $150 USD per day for sedans or small SUVs. 4×4 vehicles start at $120 USD/day.

• One-way rentals: Available between major cities (e.g., Bariloche to El Calafate) with a drop-off fee.

• Requirements:

  • Valid driver’s license from your home country.

  • Passport and credit card for deposit.

  • Some companies may require an International Driving Permit.

• Insurance: Always opt for full coverage due to gravel roads and weather unpredictability.

• Fuel: Available in most towns, but distances can be long—fill up whenever possible.

• Accommodation: Find out where to stay in El Chaltén for every travel style.

Driving regulations and road safety

• Speed limits: Typically 100 km/h on highways, 60 km/h in towns.

• Driving side: Right-hand side in both Argentina and Chile.

• Documents:

  • Passport

  • Rental contract

  • Vehicle insurance

  • Valid license / IDP if required

• Border crossings:

  • Allowed with prior permission from the rental company.

  • Carry additional insurance (SOAPEX in Chile).

• Road checks: Police checkpoints are common; always stop and present documentation.

• Fines: Payable at authorized banks; avoid paying on the spot.

Driving Patagonia: Scenic routes you can’t miss

Patagonia is vast and rich in contrasts. These are some of the most scenic routes to consider:

• Ruta 40 (Argentina): One of the longest and most famous routes in the world, it stretches from the northern border to the southern tip. Along the Patagonian section, expect to pass turquoise lakes, endless steppe, and towering peaks.

• Carretera Austral (Chile): A paradise for slow travelers, this gravel route winds through lush temperate rainforests, fjords, and glaciers. It’s less crowded and incredibly scenic.

• Ruta 3 (Argentina): Ideal for a coastal approach to Patagonia, especially if you’re heading toward Puerto Madryn or Ushuaia.

• Route Y-290 to Torres del Paine: Though partially unpaved, this drive offers unforgettable views of jagged peaks and teal-colored lakes.

  Be ready for gravel (ripio), strong winds, and jaw-dropping scenery.

Getting the most out of your drive to Patagonia

• Time your drives: Drive early in the day to take advantage of daylight and reduce wind exposure.

• Pack smart: Weather changes quickly. Bring layers, sunscreen, and wind protection.

• Stay connected: Internet and cell signal can be weak in remote areas. Download maps offline and consider a local SIM.

• Fuel management: Fill your tank at every opportunity. Some stretches go over 200 km without a gas station.

• Travel slowly: Not just for safety—you’ll want to stop constantly for photos and short hikes.

Suggested road trip itinerary (10-14 days)

Day 1-3: Bariloche – Circuito Chico, Villa La Angostura
Day 4-5: Drive south on Ruta 40 to Esquel or Perito Moreno town
Day 6-7: Enter Chile via Futaleufú or Chile Chico to explore Carretera Austral
Day 8-10: Cross back to Argentina towards El Chaltén – trekking and scenic drives
Day 11-12: El Calafate and Perito Moreno Glacier
Day 13-14: Option to extend to Torres del Paine or return to Bariloche/FTE for flights

Cultural highlights and local interactions

One of the most rewarding parts of driving through Patagonia is the opportunity to connect with the people and traditions that define this unique region. Along the route, travelers can stop at estancias—traditional sheep-farming ranches—where homemade lunches and age-old customs provide an authentic glimpse into rural life. Artisan markets in towns like El Bolsón and Trevelin are perfect for picking up handwoven wool garments, local cheeses, or preserves. Conversations with Patagonian gauchos or village locals often lead to hidden recommendations for lakes, trails, and lookout points. The regional cuisine also plays a key role: savoring a Patagonian lamb asado, sampling smoked trout, or tasting wild berries in season enriches both body and soul. If your timing is right, small-town festivals offer folkloric dances, music, and craft beer that showcase local pride. Even if you don’t speak fluent Spanish, you’ll find that bilingual signage and the warmth of Patagonians make interactions easy and memorable. These moments transform your journey into more than just a scenic drive—they deepen your understanding and appreciation of Patagonia’s living culture.

These moments make your journey more than a visual experience—they root your adventure in the culture of the land.

Ready, steady, Patagonia: Your adventure starts now

A road trip through Patagonia is one of the most rewarding ways to experience this extraordinary region. Whether you’re chasing glaciers, mountains, wildlife, or solitude, driving gives you the freedom to shape your own adventure.

And if you’re looking for a worry-free, tailor-made driving experience, traveling with a specialized agency like Argentina Pura ensures expert planning, reliable logistics, and deep local knowledge at every turn.

Now it’s time to hit the road—Patagonia is waiting!