A land of incredible contrasts and stunning landscapes, Argentina is a country worth taking the time to explore, so what better way to do this than by taking to the road? Argentina road trips allow you to venture to every inch of the country and see so much more of it, all at a leisurely pace and in complete comfort. Argentina’s most iconic route is the 3,227 miles of highway known as ‘La Cuarenta’ or Route 40, stretching from the town of La Quiaca on the Bolivian border, along the backbone of the Andes, to Cabo Vírgenes in the southern corner of the country. Regarded as one of the most beautiful expanses of road in the world, the route takes you through breath-taking national parks, volcanic terrain and mesmerising salt flats. There are plenty of other options on our Argentina road trips and our travel experts can tailor your trip to tick off as much of your bucket-list as possible.
Start in Buenos Aires, nicknamed the ‘Paris of South America’ and so-called for the European influences present throughout the city. With its lively and dynamic atmosphere, wide boulevards and impressive architecture, you’ll see why the enigmatic Argentinian capital seduces so many travellers. Another point of similarity is the city’s excellent cuisine and superb wine, and your road trip can take you straight to the source in the Calchaquí Valleys, famed for its vineyards and wine-making. Stop over in the small town of Cafayate, where you can enjoy relaxing treatments at your hotel’s spa as a welcome treat after your day of driving. Once you’ve indulged in Argentinian asado (traditional barbecue), fine red wines and some well-deserved relaxation, it’s time to hit the road again.
Drive through the villages of Colalao del Valle and Tolombon, onto part of Route 40, until you reach the charming town of Cachi, known for its preserved colonial architecture and traditional adobe lodges. The journey across Los Cardones National Park will introduce you to the region’s wildlife, including guanacos (a camelid closely related to the llama), pumas and Andean condors (the largest flying land birds in the Western Hemisphere). Continue on to Argentinian Patagonia in the southernmost tip of the continent, and as you drive through the glacial wilderness of Los Glaciares National Park – passing the peaks of Perito Moreno Glacier and Monte Fitz Roy along the way – you’ll feel like you’ve reached the edge of the world.