The Eight Best Road Trips to Take in Argentina

Alpine, jungle, and coastal landscapes are some of the options for car tourism in Argentina. There's nothing better than hopping in, pressing play on your favorite playlist, and letting yourself be carried away by the diverse and captivating scenery along the roads.

It's impossible to talk about road trips in Argentina without mentioning the iconic Route 40, a stretch of more than 5,200 kilometers that crosses the country from north to south and is the greatest witness to the diversity of landscapes the territory offers. Adventurers from all over the world have it on their bucket lists, and for good reason.

North, south, bodies of water, waterfalls, deserts, vineyards, national parks, the sea. Choosing just one destination is impossible, but to make it easier, here is a selection of the best road trips to take in Argentina. Routes can be combined, and why not drive across the entire country?

Route of the Seven Lakes, Neuquén

The Route of the Seven Lakes consists of 110 kilometers of Patagonian forests, lakes, and snow-capped peaks, passing through typical southern Argentine villages. Route 40 is painted in shades of green, blue, and white, offering a unique experience that passes through two National Parks: Nahuel Huapi and Lanín.

This emblematic road is a haven for families, groups of friends, couples, and anyone looking to connect with the heart of Patagonia. The journey is designed for travelers to immerse themselves in magical places, from San Martín de los Andes to Villa La Angostura. Its major highlights provide breathtaking scenery and an unmatched connection with nature.

The famous seven lakes that give the circuit its name are: Lake Lácar, Lake Machónico, Lake Villarino, Lake Falkner, Lake Escondido, Lake Espejo, and Lake Correntoso. In some areas, camping is allowed, letting visitors spend the night by the water. To complete the adventure, visit cities like Villa La Angostura, Bariloche, San Martín de los Andes, and the stunning Villa Traful, destinations that also offer incredible ski slopes to enjoy in winter, between July and August. Additionally, there are accommodations of all kinds, from luxury hotels to cabins and glamping sites.

When to go? Ideally from December to March, the perfect months to enjoy the summer heat.

How many days? Patagonia deserves at least 15 days to admire its wonders without rushing.

Argentine North: Tucumán, Salta, and Jujuy

Another impressive stretch along Route 40. This time, the wheels roll over colorful national treasures in the provinces of Tucumán, Salta—nicknamed "La Linda" (The Beautiful)—and Jujuy. Vineyards, mountains, salt flats, valleys, gastronomy, and a road trip that has it all.

There are two main routes covering must-see attractions: Route 40 and Route 9. From San Miguel de Tucumán, the city where Argentina declared independence, the journey heads north toward Salta's capital. In "La Linda," visitors are encouraged to try the best Salteñan empanadas while strolling through a city filled with history. A three-hour drive leads to Jujuy, where the earth-toned landscape begins along Route 9.

First, the town of Purmamarca—just off Route 52, which later reconnects with Route 40—is home to the Hill of Seven Colors and features a center brimming with local crafts. 66 km away, the Salinas Grandes provide stunning white landscapes with blue reflections, in a tour that engages all the senses. Back on Route 9, the town of Maimará adds to the colorful scenery with its Painter's Palette, while Tilcara offers a charming village experience and a visit to the Pucará, a fortress with breathtaking mountain views.

Further north is Humahuaca, host to one of Argentina's most famous festivals: Carnival. This town is the starting point to visit another Jujuy gem: the Hornocal Mountain Range, also known as the Hill of Fourteen Colors. To round out the small-town experience, a visit to Iruya is a must to immerse in northern culture and collect more unforgettable photos.

As if that weren’t enough, this road trip also includes a wine route. Because being in Argentina and not tasting its wine is almost unforgivable. Salta dazzles with its star grape, Torrontés. The top wine tourism spots are Cafayate, San Carlos, Cachi, Molinos, and La Viña.

When to go? The best times are autumn and spring (May, June, October, and November) since summer can get extremely hot.

How many days? 10 days to visit the highlights, do the wine route, and take time to enjoy the landscapes.

Argentine Coast: Entre Ríos, Corrientes, and Misiones

A journey that crosses subtropical forests, National Parks, estuaries, and unique biodiversity. The star attraction? Iguazú Falls, in Misiones, considered one of the seven natural wonders of the world.

The driving stops along the Argentine coast span three provinces: Entre Ríos, Corrientes, and Misiones, mainly along National Route 14. Entre Ríos is ideal for starting the trip with a dose of thermal relaxation. The cities of Colón, Federación, and Villa Elisa are renowned for their hot springs. Also noteworthy is the Gualeguaychú Carnival, one of the most important in Argentina. And don't miss El Palmar National Park, which protects the unique yatay palm groves.

In Corrientes, the main attraction is the Iberá Wetlands, one of the largest freshwater wetlands on the planet. You can take boat rides, go on photo safaris, go on guided hikes, and spot wildlife such as capybaras, swamp deer, and endemic birds.

In Misiones, in addition to Iguazu Falls, we recommend visiting destinations such as Oberá, Aristóbulo del Valle, and the Moconá Falls. You can also visit the Jesuit Reductions, declared a World Heritage Site by UNESCO, and the Salto Encantado Provincial Park.

When to go? Between March and June, or in spring (September to November).

How many days? Approximately 10 days to enjoy each region at your leisure.

Atlantic Coast: Pinamar, Mar del Plata, and Necochea

Argentina is characterized by its endless variety of landscapes, so the sea and beach factor couldn't be missed, especially when the technical stops involve gastronomy, forests, sand dunes, cliffs, and wide beaches. Travelers can take Route 2 and enjoy the Atlantic Coast.

Main Destinations

• Pinamar: This is the first stop from Buenos Aires, combining sea and forest in an exclusive setting. Ideal for families and groups of friends.
• Cariló: Just a few minutes from Pinamar, this is one of the province's most charming forests, with sandy streets, houses hidden among pine trees, and an outstanding gastronomic offering.
• Mar del Plata: The country's most important seaside resort city. It offers beaches, a port, nightlife, theaters, and an excellent culinary offering.
• Chapadmalal: On the road to Necochea, it offers tranquility and cliffs.
• Necochea: Long, less crowded beaches with options for water sports or relaxation.

When to go? January and February are peak season; December and March offer quieter, more pleasant weather.

How many days? 7 to 10 days for a leisurely visit.

Wine Route in Mendoza

If there’s one thing that identifies Argentina, it’s the quality of its wines. Route 40 takes center stage once again in a province like Mendoza, with a clear goal: to create incredible wine varietals that attract international palates.

The quintessential wine journey is lived in Mendoza, recognized among the 10 Great Wine Capitals of the world. Producing 78% of the country’s wine, it’s perfect for car tourism—from its vineyards to its must-see landscapes and outdoor activities.

Wine regions

• City of Mendoza and surrounding areas: a good base to explore old wineries in Maipú, Guaymallén, Luján de Cuyo, Godoy Cruz, and Las Heras.
• Eastern Mendoza: via Route 7, visitors can access productive areas like Rivadavia, San Martín, Junín, and Santa Rosa.
• Mountainous West: toward the Cacheuta Hot Springs, Potrerillos (ideal for adventure sports), and Uspallata.
• Uco Valley: icon of Argentina’s premium wine. Here you’ll find Zuccardi Valle de Uco, chosen as the best winery in the world by The World’s Best Vineyards (2019 and 2020). Salentein is also located here, ranked among the global top 25.
• San Rafael: in the south, is another standout wine region, near the Atuel Canyon—one of Mendoza’s most impressive landscapes.

National Grape Harvest Festival

Held between February and March, it was recognized by National Geographic as the second most important harvest festival in the world. It includes shows, parades, and departmental harvest events that culminate in a central show with the election of the queen.

When to go? Spring (September–December) and harvest season (February–April).

How many days? From 10 to 15 days to explore the province thoroughly and enjoy its wine culture.

Los Glaciares National Park: El Chaltén and Calafate, Santa Cruz

El Chaltén is the national trekking capital, with trails of varying difficulty that lead to natural wonders crowned by lagoons, snow-capped peaks, and waterfalls. The routes range from minutes to hours or even days, so you have to be ready to wear out your sneakers. But beyond the impressive hikes, exploring this town and its surroundings by car perfectly complements the adventure.

Must-do trails in El Chaltén

• Laguna de los Tres: for the classic postcard view of Mount Fitz Roy, standing at 3,359 meters.
• Laguna Capri: a more accessible hike with excellent views.
• Loma del Pliegue Tumbado: to see Fitz Roy from a different perspective.
• Laguna Torre: another unmissable hike that ends facing Mount Torre.

Three and a half hours from El Chaltén, following a stretch of Route 40 and skirting Lake Viedma and Lake Argentino, you’ll arrive in El Calafate—land of glaciers. The city has solid tourist infrastructure, restaurants, and excursions into Los Glaciares National Park.

The absolute star is the Perito Moreno Glacier, one of the few glaciers in the world that is still advancing. The country’s most famous walkway offers the best panoramic views of the 250 km² that make up the glacier. You can also book a boat ride on Lake Argentino or go ice trekking.

Other glaciers and activities

• Boat tours to the Upsala and Spegazzini glaciers.
• Glaciarium Museum, a center for interpreting Patagonian ice.
• Walks through the Patagonian steppe, photo safaris, and birdwatching.

When to go? The best time is from October to April, when temperatures are milder and access is easier.

How many days? At least 10 days to explore both destinations without rushing.

End of the World: Tierra del Fuego National Park

The adrenaline of traveling along the southernmost roads in Argentina is all you need to shift into gear and discover what Ushuaia, in Tierra del Fuego, has to offer. The city, with its iconic bay framed by snow-covered peaks, is the area’s most classic postcard—and one that steals more than a few sighs.

In addition to the downtown area with its Maritime Museum and Prison Museum—key to understanding the city’s history—the End of the World rewards travelers with lakes, cuisine, and a stunning National Park like Tierra del Fuego.

What to do in the region

National Route 3: allows you to explore the island with views of Lake Escondido and Lake Fagnano. Be sure to stop at Paso Garibaldi, an impressive natural lookout.

Tierra del Fuego National Park: located just 12 km from downtown Ushuaia, it offers trails through forests, waterfalls, and lagoons. It spans 63,000 protected hectares, ideal for trekking.

End of the World Train: a tourist ride that recalls the old prisoner train, with views of the park.

Boat ride through the Beagle Channel: to see Les Éclaireurs Lighthouse (also known as the End of the World Lighthouse), and spot Magellanic penguins, sea lions, and cormorants.

Local cuisine

It’s impossible to leave without trying:

• Fuegian king crab (recommended during fishing season, from June to September).
• Patagonian lamb.
• Trout from crystal-clear rivers.

When to go? The road trip is best from October to April, when the weather is milder and the days are longer.

How many days? At least 7 days to enjoy the park, the city, and its surroundings.

La Rioja and San Juan: Ischigualasto and Talampaya National Parks

Exploring the Ischigualasto (San Juan) and Talampaya (La Rioja) National Parks is the closest you can get to walking on the moon. Why? Because of the geological uniqueness of the land, formations, and colors. It’s no surprise they were declared UNESCO World Heritage Sites. Fossil traces from the Triassic Period of the Mesozoic Era were found in these areas.

Both parks sit next to each other and share many typical landscapes. A great midway point to explore them is Villa Unión, a city in La Rioja with solid tourist infrastructure. National Route 150 runs through both heritage sites.

Highlights

• Ischigualasto, San Juan (Valley of the Moon): a guided car tour is mandatory. The visit is done in a caravan through circuits that showcase formations like El Hongo, Cancha de Bochas, and El Submarino.
• Night tour: if the trip coincides with a full moon, outings under the stars are organized—an unmissable experience for photographers.
• Talampaya, La Rioja: the canyon, over 100 meters high, impresses with its scale and reddish color. There are excursions by van, bicycle, and even the chance to camp under one of the clearest skies in the world.

When to go? Spring and fall, since summer brings heavy rains and winter has very low temperatures.

How many days? 7 days to enjoy both parks and explore the area without rushing.

Key tips for road trips in Argentina

• Plan your route and distances carefully: Use apps like Google Maps or others specific to Argentine roads to avoid setbacks.
• Check road conditions through official websites like Vialidad Nacional, which provide information about closures, detours, and construction.
• Fill up your tank in key towns: In many stretches (especially in Patagonia or the north), there are long distances without gas stations.
• Respect speed limits and carry documentation: To drive in Argentina, foreigners can use their valid national driver’s license for up to 90 days. If the license is in a language other than Spanish, it's recommended to accompany it with an International Driving Permit (IDP). This permit is valid for one year or until the expiration of the national license. In Argentina, it is issued by the Automóvil Club Argentino (ACA).
• Download offline maps: In many areas, connection may be limited. Apps like Maps.me or Google Maps offline can be very helpful.
• Safety gear and warm clothing: It’s always a good idea to carry safety equipment and a first-aid kit, especially if you plan to camp or drive long stretches without services.

With these eight circuits, it’s clear that Argentina by car is an unmissable adventure. You can do the full route or choose your favorite destinations and plan your next trip: all you need is the desire to explore and a full tank.