drive the ruta 40

Stretching a staggering 5,224km (3,107 miles), Ruta 40 in Argentina is one of the longest and most spectacular roads in the world. It starts at Cabo Vírgenes on the ocean, and winds north through eleven provinces, past twenty national parks and across 24 major rivers, before reaching the altiplano. Although sections can be busy, notably around Bariloche, Mendoza and San Juan, most of the Ruta 40, also known as La Cuarenta, runs through Argentina’s magnificent open spaces, seldom more than 100km from the majestic peaks of the Andes. Those for whom this is a bucket list destination are drawn to the road’s rugged mystique.

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By far the best way to experience this exceptional journey is to hire a car. The road is paved most of its length, except in the south where it passes through sparsely populated regions consisting of stretches of more than two hundred kilometres that are completely empty. With sections of notoriously poor surfaces, hairpin bends, and endless straight portions, it is considered one of the world’s most epic drives.

Starting in the south, Ruta 40 meanders through the remote plains of Patagonia, flanked to the west by the magnificent peaks of the Andes mountains. Winding north, it passes pristine lakes and bustling cities before reaching the high point at Abra del Acay, which at 5061m is the highest point on a national road in the world. It finally ends in the town of La Quiaca, on the border between Argentina and Bolivia.

You can plan an entire trip to Argentina around the Ruta 40, experiencing all this exceptional country has to offer over ten days to two weeks. It’s a true showcase of Argentina’s stunningly diverse landscape. One of the most spectacular views along the way is the Fitzroy and Cerro Torres ranges, which appear as you get within range of El Chalten in southern Patagonia. You will also experience historical wonders such as Cueva de las Manos, which contains cave art dating back some 13,000 years, Los Glaciares National Park, and the Calchaquí Valleys in the north. You can tour spectacular lakes and homestay in vast estancia’s, hike up to glaciers and try world class wines. Travelling the Ruta 40 is truly an adventure that dreams are made of.

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