Top 5 Locations Along Argentina's Route 40

Starting at Puna in the province of Jujuy and ending at the southernmost continental tip in Cape Virgenes, Argentina's Route 40 gives access to 20 nature reserves and national Parks, crosses 18 major rivers, connects 27 Andean Passes and is as high as 5000 meters above sea level. As you can imagine, this route will take you on a journey along some of the most amazing places in Argentina. If you are planning a tour in Argentina, here are the top 5 locations along Argentina's Route 40:

1. Perito Moreno Glacier - El Calafate

Attractions in El Calafate include the Perito Moreno Glacier and the Cueva de las Manos (Cave of the Hands) where you can see art that dates from 13,000 to 9,000 years ago. Experience the ancient estancias or traditional farms, where pioneers ventured and settled to raise cattle in late nineteenth century.

From El Calafate, Route 40 runs for 1325 kms, and follows the Andes towards the sea, ending in Cabo Virgenes.

2. El Bolson National Park – Chubut

Trekking is one of the ideal activities in El Bolson. 13 mountain huts await the explorer around El Bolson. There are walks for all levels and demands. Opt for a short and pleasant ride to Cerro Amigo, or a more vigorous hike to the Roca del Tiempo.

The road from Bariloche to El Bolson winds through endless curves amid steep forested valleys, snowy peaks and the beautiful lakes of the Nahuel Huapi National Park. Make sure you take some time to visit the striking Lago Escondido as well.

3. Neuquen – Bariloche

The main attractions in Bariloche include San Martin de los Andes where you can embark on the Seven Lakes circuit tour. This is the perfect opportunity to see the highlights of Bariloche. See the Nahuel Huapi National Park and look out on to the exciting views of the Seven Lake District that is dominated by volcanoes, snowy peaks, and  nature at its best.

Route 40 in this region runs for 684 km of paved road, from the Barrancas River to the Rio Limay- in the south of the province- where it touches Bariloche in the province of Rio Negro. These days this region is known to have some of the most beautiful natural locations in the country.

4. Mendoza Wine Region

Among the main attractions in Mendoza are the Atuel Canyon, surrounding the Atuel River. There you can discover the wonderful landscapes, ancient ruins and the beautiful dams of the Mendoza wine region.

In Mendoza, Route 40 runs for 638 km along the foot of the Andes. Two thirds of the route is paved, and the rest, in the south, is gravel. Mendoza is not only known for its scenery and natural resources, but for its wineries, famous around the world for the excellent quality of its vineyards.

If you are visiting, a wine tour in Mendoza is a must-do! Embark on a journey through one of the most prodigious wine production regions of the world! Taste your way through the most exclusive Argentinean wines from the picturesque vineyards at the foothills of the Andes.

5. Salta la linda

Route 40 runs through the heart of the Calchaquies Valley.  Activities in Salta include tours through the wineries of Cafayate, the national park of the Cactus, historic towns such as Cachi and Humahuaca where you will find yourself on an exciting trip back in time, and amongst the most unique landscapes in the world including the 7 color rock.

If you are visiting Salta don’t miss seeing the Abra Acay -  a carter located at an altitude of more than 5000 meters, and of course take a ride on the famous Train to the Clouds to San Antonio de los Cobres.

Here Route 40 runs for 367 kilometers, of which only 41 km have pavement. The rest is gravel – so if you’re visiting Salta through this route, make sure you equip yourself with a good 4x4 or rough terrain vehicle.

If you want to experience Argentina in a more unconventional way, Route 40 is definitely something to consider.  From nature reserves and breathtaking views to exquisite wineries, the options are endless.

For more information about Route 40, visit the official website, and for more tour suggestions along the way, why not see what's on offer at Argentina4u.com.