Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
RN40 parallels the Andes from north of Bariloche to the border with Chile near Puerto
Natales, then cuts east to the Atlantic Coast. Highlights include the Perito Moreno and
Los Glaciares national parks, the rock art of Cueva de los Manos and remote
estancias
.
This section picks up RN40 in Esquel, from where it continues paved until south of
Gobernador Costa, where it turns to gravel. From there on down, gravel is interspersed
with paved sections, mainly near population centers. At the time of writing, the last
130km before El Chaltén, the 120km further to El Calafate and 130km beyond it were
paved.
THE EPIC RUTA NACIONAL 40
Patagonia's RN40 is the quintessential road trip. But it's not for rushing - the
weather can be wily and the gravel loose. It can seem to go on forever. But it is also
magical, when after rattling along for hours, the interminable flat line of steppe
bursts open with views of glacial peaks and gem-colored lakes. As it is paved, travel
here is becoming easier. But long distances between gas stations and windy, un-
paved sections still offer ample challenges.
Be Prepared
Travel with necessary repair equipment. If renting a car, carry two full-sized
neumáticos(spare tires), check that the headlights work and that suspension, tires
and brakes are in good shape. The gravel can puncture gas tanks, so have extra
fuel on hand, as well as oil and generous supplies of food and water. Gas is subsid-
ized in Patagonia, so fill up at each opportunity. Cell phones have no coverage out-
side of towns, so drivers must be self-sufficient.
Road Rules
The law requires seatbelts and headlights during daylight hours. Respect speed
limits: 65km/h to 80km/h is a safe maximum speed. Sheep alwayshave the right
of way. Guanacos and ñandús are other potential hazards. Slow down, give them
space and watch out for unsigned guardaganados(cattle guards).
Take the Backseat
Several travel agencies coordinate two- to five-day minivan transport along RN40
from El Calafate to Bariloche, via El Chaltén, Perito Moreno and Los Antiguos. Ser-
vice follows fair weather, from mid-October/November to early April, depending on
demand and road conditions. Pricier guided tours stretch the trip over four or five
days.
If you're really up for a road trip, contact Ruta 40 (
Click here
)
. The small, multi-
lingual outfitter takes travelers on 10-day journeys on RN40 from Bariloche to El
