Argentina on the road, following the Ruta 40

Discover the splendour of Argentina's natural beauty with this journey of almost 5000 kilometers along Route 40.

You must have heard of the USA's famous Route 66 which crosses the country from Chicago to Santa Monica. You may even have heard about Asia's famous Banana Pancake Trail... But have you ever heard of Argentina's Route 40?

Route 40 is one of the longest and most beautiful roads in the world and it can be found in Argentina. Running from La Quiaca, on the border with Bolivia, it extends all the way to Cabo Virgenes, practically at the end of the world.

We have already explored the road to Patagonia, from Buenos Aires to Ushuaia, but that tour was much shorter than Route 40 which stretches for 4885 km. It's a long journey, but it's well worth it!

SOME ADVICE BEFORE GOING ON THE ROUTE 40

Facing Route 40 is definitely not the same as travelling along Route 66. The road is unpaved and goes on for miles without seeing a soul, in a desert-like landscape.

Route 40 is definitely not for anyone who lacks experience behind the wheel, so if you're a rookie, make sure you get in plenty of practice before leaving, as some of its sections are not very easy to cross.

You will have to be flexible and adaptable. You may struggle to find somewhere to stay and be forced to sleep in the car overnight instead of relaxing on a comfortable bed in a hostel.

Steel your nerves, grab your camera... and off you go!

THINGS NOT TO MISS ON ROUTE 40

Belén

Visiting Belén is a definitely a must when exploring Route 40, as this city is located virtually in the middle of nowhere - a place living outside of time.

Photo Credit: dreamers1.com

Cuesta de Miranda

One of the best spots is definitely the Cuesta de Miranda, where the road is curved and the mountains are intertwined. Those who love trekking and mountains will find this a perfect place to experiment with the different terrains here.

Volcán Maipo and Laguna del Diamante

While not exactly on Route 40, it would be a shame to miss the Volcán Maipo while passing by. Nestled in the Andes, this volcano is reflected in the Laguna del Diamante.

This lagoon is located in the province of Mendoza, and you can visit here after recharging your batteries in the Banana Hostel or another of the city's hostels.

Nahuel Huapi Park

Route 40 eventually enters the Nahuel Huapi Park - you won't be able to miss it, just keep going straight ahead!

The beauty of this places is disarming, and its inland lakes will make you fall in love with these unreal-appearing pristine landscapes.

Perito Moreno

Inside the Los Glaciares National Park you will find the enormous glacier Perito Moreno. This glacier is growing, but the ice melts and reforms, keeping its volume balanced.