If you’ve ever dreamed of taking a road trip that feels like driving through an entire continent, Argentina’s Ruta 40 (Route 40) is where that dream becomes real. Imagine starting your journey in the north, where bright-colored hills shine under the Andean sun, and ending in the far south, where glaciers groan as they crash into turquoise lakes. Along the way, you’ll taste wine in Mendoza’s vineyards, meet friendly locals in sleepy Andean towns, and drive through wild Patagonia where the wind tells its own story.
Stretching over 5,000 kilometers from north to south, this legendary highway traces the spine of the Andes, winding past salt flats, vineyards, glaciers, deserts, and rainbow-colored mountains. It’s not just a road—it’s an adventure that captures the heart and soul of Argentina.
In 2025, Ruta 40 is set to be one of the hottest travel routes as more travelers look for authentic, off-the-beaten-path experiences. Whether you’re planning a short trip through Patagonia or the full north-to-south expedition, here’s your ultimate guide.
Top Highlights of Ruta 40
Every bend on Ruta 40 feels like a new chapter. One moment you’re sipping Malbec in Mendoza, the next you’re staring at an endless salt flat in Jujuy or trekking past glaciers in Patagonia. Here are some of the highlights you can’t afford to miss:
- Los Glaciares National Park – Home to the world-famous Perito Moreno Glacier near El Calafate, where massive ice walls crash into turquoise waters.
- Mendoza’s Wine Country – Imagine long drives through vineyards at the foot of the Andes, with a glass of Argentina’s best Malbec waiting at the end.
- Salinas Grandes (Salt Flats) – A dazzling, mirror-like landscape where the horizon disappears, perfect for photography.
- Cueva de las Manos – Step back 9,000 years with prehistoric hand paintings on Patagonian rock walls.
- Bariloche & The Lake District – Think alpine scenery, Swiss-style chocolate shops, and kayaking on crystal-clear lakes.
- Quebrada de Humahuaca – A UNESCO site where colorful hills and indigenous traditions tell stories older than Argentina itself.
Practical Travel Tips for Ruta 40
A road trip along Ruta 40 isn’t just about deciding where to go—it’s about being ready for the challenges and surprises of the journey. This legendary highway can feel like a smooth, scenic drive in one moment and a remote, rugged track the next. Preparation is key to enjoying the adventure without stress. Here’s everything you need to know before you hit the road.
🗓️ Best Time to Visit
The beauty of Ruta 40 is that it changes with the seasons. Depending on when you go, your trip will feel completely different:
- Summer (Dec–Feb): Long sunny days, perfect for exploring Patagonia’s lakes, glaciers, and hiking trails. But it’s also the busiest season, so expect more tourists and higher hotel prices.
- Spring (Oct–Nov) & Autumn (Mar–Apr): These shoulder months are often the sweet spot. The weather is still pleasant, but the crowds are thinner, making the journey more peaceful and authentic.
- Winter (Jun–Aug): A magical time in the north—think salt flats under clear skies and cozy evenings in Andean towns. But Patagonia can be harsh in winter, with snow and icy winds closing parts of the route.
👉 If your dream is Patagonia, aim for November to March. If you prefer culture and color in the north, May to September is just right.
⛽ Driving & Fuel
One of the golden rules of Ruta 40 is simple: never let your tank drop too low. In some parts of Patagonia, gas stations are few and far between, sometimes hundreds of kilometers apart. Carry a spare fuel can if possible, and always top up when you can—even if your gauge says you’re half full.
Road conditions vary too. In cities and popular regions, the road is paved and smooth. But in remote areas, you’ll face gravel, potholes, and steep mountain passes. If you’re not used to long drives, plan shorter stretches each day.
🚙 Car Rental & Driving Style
To really experience Ruta 40, you’ll need your own wheels. While a standard car can handle much of the paved route, a 4×4 is highly recommended if you’re going off into less-developed areas or southern Patagonia.
Driving here isn’t like zipping down highways in Europe or the US—it’s about patience and awareness. Expect to share the road with wandering llamas, guanacos, or even the occasional gaucho on horseback.
🛏️ Where to Stay
Part of Ruta 40’s charm is the variety of stays along the way. You could be in a boutique wine hotel one night and a rustic ranch the next. Some popular options include:
- Boutique hotels in Mendoza and Bariloche – stylish, comfortable, and perfect for foodies and wine lovers.
- Guesthouses in Andean towns – family-run, cozy, and full of local character.
- Estancias (ranches) – where you can ride horses, enjoy homemade meals, and experience gaucho traditions.
- Camping & hostels – for budget travelers or those wanting to connect with nature.
Tip: In high season (especially summer in Patagonia), book ahead. In offbeat places, don’t be surprised if the “hotel” is just a few rooms above a local shop—it’s all part of the adventure.
🍷 Food You Must Try
One of the joys of Ruta 40 is tasting Argentina’s flavors as they change from north to south:
- Asado (Argentine BBQ): The smoky, slow-grilled meat ritual you’ll find everywhere.
- Empanadas: Stuffed pastries that vary by province—beef in Salta, cheese in Mendoza, lamb in Patagonia.
- Patagonian lamb: Slow-roasted over open fire, tender and flavorful.
- Trout from the Lake District: Fresh and perfectly cooked.
- Malbec wine: Especially in Mendoza, where it pairs beautifully with mountain views.
- Mate tea: Not just a drink but a cultural experience, often shared with locals.
Food here isn’t just about eating—it’s about connection. Sharing a mate with a stranger at a fuel stop, or being invited for homemade empanadas in a village, often becomes the highlight of the trip.
Suggested Ruta 40 Itinerary (10 Days)
Don’t have a month to spare? No worries. Here’s a 10-day itinerary that gives you the best of Ruta 40’s landscapes and culture:
| Day | Route | What to Experience |
| Day 1 | Mendoza → San Rafael | Start with wine tours and the Andes backdrop |
| Day 2 | San Rafael → Malargüe | Explore volcanic landscapes & Caverna de las Brujas |
| Day 3 | Malargüe → Bariloche | Drive into the Lake District; taste Bariloche chocolate |
| Day 4 | Bariloche → Esquel | Visit Los Alerces National Park |
| Day 5 | Esquel → Perito Moreno Town | See prehistoric art at Cueva de las Manos |
| Day 6 | Perito Moreno → El Chaltén | Trek the Fitz Roy mountains |
| Day 7 | El Chaltén → El Calafate | Witness the Perito Moreno Glacier |
| Day 8 | El Calafate → Río Gallegos | Wildlife spotting along the way |
| Day 9 | Fly/drive to Salta | Colonial streets and local markets |
| Day 10 | Salta → Jujuy | Quebrada de Humahuaca’s rainbow mountains |
This mix of Patagonia and the north gives you a taste of Argentina’s contrasts.
The Full Ruta 40 Adventure
For true explorers, nothing beats the entire Ruta 40 journey, from La Quiaca in the north all the way to Cabo Vírgenes in the south. It’s a month-long odyssey that feels like crossing several countries in one.
- Northern Argentina (Jujuy & Salta): Vibrant markets, Andean culture, rainbow-colored hills, and salt flats.
- Central Argentina (Mendoza & La Rioja): Wine routes, high mountain passes, and desert canyons.
- Southern Patagonia (Chubut to Santa Cruz): Windswept plains, guanacos running wild, glaciers crashing into lakes, and penguins waddling along the coast.
Driving the full stretch is tough but unforgettable—it’s the kind of road trip you’ll tell stories about for the rest of your life.
Also Reads: Best Times to Visit the Golden Gate Bridge for Stunning Views
Conclusion
A road trip along Ruta 40 in 2025 isn’t just about reaching destinations—it’s about the journey itself. From sipping wine in Mendoza to trekking glaciers in Patagonia, every mile brings new surprises. Some stretches will test your patience with long drives and rough roads, but the rewards are endless landscapes and experiences you’ll never forget.
So pack your bags, rent that car, and set off on one of the greatest road adventures on Earth. Because on Ruta 40, the road itself is the story.
FAQs About Ruta 40 Road Trip
Q1. Do I need a 4×4?
Not for every stretch, but it makes life easier, especially in Patagonia and unpaved sections.
Q2. Is it safe to drive?
Yes, though remote areas require planning—carry extra water, fuel, and cash.
Q3. How many days do I need?
A short trip can be done in 7–10 days, while the full journey takes 30–40 days.
Q4. Can I drive it in winter?
Only the northern section is practical. Snow can make Patagonia impossible in winter.
Q5. What makes Ruta 40 special?
It’s one of the longest and most scenic roads in the world, where every region feels like a new country
