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

Transfer

Are you ready to experience Argentine Patagonia like never before?

With these bus ticket options, you can journey along the iconic Route 40, which links some of Argentina's most breathtaking scenery: from glaciers and mountains to the Patagonian steppe and Andean lakes. Along the way, you'll pass through unique spots such as El Chaltén and Los Antiguos, finally reaching Bariloche.

This adventure caters to independent explorers eager to uncover Patagonia at their own rhythm, merging various bus journeys and choosing the duration of stay at each location.

The itinerary includes these segments:

  • El Calafate → El Chaltén
  • El Chaltén → Los Antiguos
  • Los Antiguos → Bariloche
As you traverse the route, you'll encounter expansive Patagonian vistas, quaint mountain villages, and rarely-visited stretches of Route 40, one of South America's most renowned highways.

About this transfer

An Adaptable Way to Discover Patagonia

This bus combination is perfect for travelers eager to explore Patagonia on their terms. It connects renowned destinations with hidden gems along the historic Route 40. You can craft your itinerary based on your preferences, allowing you to linger longer in each city and savor the journey as a part of the adventure.

Journey from El Calafate to El Chaltén

Your adventure begins in El Calafate, the gateway to the renowned Perito Moreno Glacier and one of the most frequented spots in Argentine Patagonia.

From here, you’ll make your way to El Chaltén, celebrated as the National Capital of Trekking. Nestled between Mount Fitz Roy and Mount Torre, this quaint mountain village offers breathtaking trails, natural viewpoints, and an ideal setting for those in search of adventure and a deep connection with nature.

From El Chaltén to Los Antiguos

Continuing north via Route 40, you'll traverse the vast Patagonian steppe, a landscape marked by plateaus, rivers, and boundless horizons.

The journey's next stop is Los Antiguos, a serene town set on the shores of Lake Buenos Aires, famed for its stunning natural landscapes and cherry production. This area is ideal for those wishing to uncover a less touristy aspect of Patagonia and indulge in outdoor activities, hiking, and scenic excursions.

You can extend your stay in Los Antiguos for as long as you desire before moving on. If standard tour packages don't appeal to you and you're eager to visit a lesser-known part of Patagonia, Los Antiguos is the perfect destination! For tours and packages in Los Antiguos, click here.

From Los Antiguos to Bariloche

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

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

Ultimately, you'll reach San Carlos de Bariloche, a premier tourist destination in Argentina, known for its pristine lakes, ski resorts, chocolates, and mountain excursions.

What's included?

Includes

*Transport

Not included

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

Frequently Asked Questions

The tour along National Route 40 connects El Calafate with San Carlos de Bariloche through Patagonian landscapes of steppe, lakes, and mountains. The exact duration varies depending on the departure point and the chosen package, typically spread over several days with overnight stays in Patagonian towns. The itinerary combines scenic stretches, viewpoints, photo stops, and optional easy hikes. Travel is by tourist transport with a tour guide who provides historical, geographical, and cultural context. The usual starting point is El Calafate and the ending point is Bariloche; sometimes the route is reversed. Request the daily program for details on distances, schedules, and experiences.

This Route 40 tour package typically includes ground transportation throughout the trip, a professional bilingual guide, accommodations in select hotels with breakfast, and on-the-go assistance. Depending on the price, lunches, guided tours, and activities may be added. Flights, dinners at your leisure, beverages, gratuities, travel insurance, and entrance fees to parks or attractions not specified in the itinerary are generally not included. Baggage allowance and hotel category vary by option. Please review the "What's Included/Not Included" details of the tour to confirm amenities, available upgrades, and any additional charges for single rooms or extra services.

The best time to travel from El Calafate to Bariloche via Route 40 is from spring to autumn (approximately September to April), with longer daylight hours and milder weather. In Patagonia, the weather is changeable: strong winds, wide temperature variations, and the possibility of rain or snow outside of peak season. Summer is a busy time for tourists, so it's advisable to book in advance. In winter, ice or partial road closures are possible, and the itinerary may need to be adjusted for safety reasons. Pack layers of clothing, a waterproof jacket, and sun protection year-round. Check the forecast closer to your travel date.

This tour is designed for general tourism and families; most of the journey is by comfortable vehicle on the road. The level of physical exertion is low, with short, optional walks to viewpoints. To enjoy your trip through Patagonia, we recommend packing light: hiking or walking shoes with good traction, a windproof and waterproof jacket, a fleece or warm layer, a hat, gloves in colder months, sunglasses, sunscreen, a reusable water bottle, and snacks. Personal medications and documents are included. Those with reduced mobility should notify us when booking so that assistance can be coordinated and stops adjusted according to the tour operator's availability.

To secure your spot on this Route 40 trip, it's advisable to book in advance, especially during peak season. A deposit is usually required to confirm your reservation, and the balance is due before departure via authorized payment methods (credit card or bank transfer). Change and cancellation policies vary depending on how far in advance you book; penalties may apply for non-refundable services from hotels and local providers. We recommend purchasing travel insurance that covers medical assistance and cancellation due to force majeure. If itinerary adjustments are necessary due to weather or road conditions, passenger safety is our priority, and you will be notified promptly.

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