Chile

Puerto Montt · Puerto Natales

One-Way OK

Argentina

Bariloche · El Calafate

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Ruta 40

Patagonia’s legendary spine road cuts through volcanic steppe, condor skies and the silence of a continent. Mendoza to Ushuaia — the overland route that defines South America.

“One road. Infinite Patagonia.”

Distance 1,800 km
Duration 10–14 Days
Drivetrain Distancia Total
1,800 km
Recomendado Recomendado
10–14 Days
Dificultad Dificultad
Argentina Classic
Mejor Vehículo Mejor Vehículo
SUV 4WD or Camper
Logística de viaje

WHAT YOU NEED
TO KNOW

The Ruta 40 rewards preparation and punishes complacency. Here's what our team knows from hundreds of supported expeditions.

Combustible — Extremadamente Escaso

  • Fill completely in Puerto Montt before departure
  • Stations: Chaitén (Km 240), Coyhaique (Km 770), Cochrane (Km 1,100)
  • Gaps can exceed 300 km — always carry 20L reserve
  • Many small stations are cash only — carry Chilean pesos

Ferry Crossings

  • Hornopirén → Caleta Gonzalo (4–5 hrs) — book in advance Dec–Feb
  • Puerto Ibáñez → Chile Chico (lake crossing, 2 hrs)
  • Villa O’Higgins → Candelario Mancilla (optional adventure leg)
  • Expect wait times — always allow buffer days in your itinerary

Condiciones de Ruta

  • Mostly unpaved — gravel, mud, river fords especially in the south
  • Sharp rocks cause frequent punctures — carry 2 full-size spares
  • Road closures common after heavy rain — check VIALIDAD Chile
  • River crossings: check depth before entering — flash floods occur

Clima Patagónico

  • Wind can reach 100+ km/h on exposed sections
  • Rain at any season — waterproof everything
  • Sun and storm can alternate within hours
  • Chile ↔ Argentina crossings: carry full border documentation