Best Day Trips from Los Antiguos
Los Antiguos, often called the "National Capital of Cherry," is a charming oasis nestled on the shores of Lago Buenos Aires (Lago General Carrera on the Chilean side). This verdant valley, irrigated by the Los Antiguos River, offers a surprising contrast to the arid Patagonian steppe. It serves as an excellent base for exploring a region rich in natural beauty, ancient history, and cross-border adventures, making it an ideal starting point for unforgettable Patagonian day trips by car.
Perched on the northwestern edge of Santa Cruz province, Los Antiguos provides a strategic gateway to some of Patagonia's most captivating sights. Its mild microclimate supports lush fruit orchards, particularly cherries, which are a regional highlight. Beyond its agrarian charm, Los Antiguos is perfectly positioned for adventurers keen to discover the vast landscapes, glacial lakes, and ancient cultural sites that define this remote corner of Argentina and Chile. Renting a car is not just recommended, it's essential for unlocking the full potential of this area, allowing you the freedom to traverse the legendary Ruta 40, explore hidden gems, and cross into Chilean Patagonia at your own pace. Prepare for long drives, stunning vistas, and an authentic Patagonian experience.
Area Overview
Los Antiguos is strategically located in the northwestern part of Santa Cruz province, Argentina, right on the border with Chile. It sits on the southern shore of Lago Buenos Aires (Lago General Carrera in Chile). The main arterial road in the region is Ruta Nacional 40, running north-south, connecting Los Antiguos (via Ruta Provincial 43) to other Patagonian towns. To the west, the border crossing to Chile Chico provides access to the Aysén region of Chile. Roads in the area are a mix of paved sections (mainly Ruta 40, and the short stretch to Chile Chico) and extensive gravel roads (known as ripio), particularly for trips to Cueva de las Manos, Laguna Goelet, and the interior routes towards Paso Roballos. Always consult a physical map and check road conditions, especially after heavy rains or snow in winter. Google Maps is useful but can be unreliable for ripio road timings.
Day Trips
Cueva de las Manos (Cave of the Hands)
A UNESCO World Heritage site featuring ancient cave art, primarily stencil handprints, dating back 9,000 to 13,000 years. The journey itself is a classic Patagonian steppe experience, often on gravel roads. It's a profound cultural and historical site, offering a glimpse into prehistoric human life in Patagonia. The site is well-maintained with guided tours.
Chile Chico & Lago General Carrera (Chile)
A short drive across the border into Chile brings you to Chile Chico, a charming Chilean town on the southern shore of Lago General Carrera (known as Lago Buenos Aires on the Argentine side). The town offers stunning lake views, access to the waterfront, and a different cultural vibe. It's an excellent gateway for exploring the Chilean side of the lake, including the Jeinemeni National Reserve.
Perito Moreno (Town)
The town of Perito Moreno, not to be confused with the glacier, is a larger commercial hub in the region. It serves as a good place to refuel, restock supplies, and learn more about the local history and economy. It's located at the junction of Ruta Nacional 40 and Ruta Provincial 43, making it a strategic point for regional travel.
Laguna Goelet & Lake Posadas
This trip takes you south on Ruta 40, then west on Ruta Provincial 39, to discover the incredibly scenic area around Lake Posadas and Lake Pueyrredón. The highlight is Laguna Goelet, a small lagoon known for its vibrant turquoise waters, often contrasted by the deep blue of Lago Pueyrredón nearby. The "Istmo de los dos lagos" (Isthmus of the Two Lakes) viewpoint offers a spectacular panorama of the two lakes, separated by a narrow strip of land. Roads can be gravel.
Paso Roballos Scenic Drive (partial, from Argentina)
While the full Paso Roballos loop involves crossing into Chile and looping back, even driving a section of the RP41 from Los Antiguos (or RP43 south of Perito Moreno town) towards the border offers incredibly dramatic landscapes. You'll encounter stunning geological formations, vast valleys, and a true sense of Patagonian wilderness. This route is less traveled and provides an authentic off-the-beaten-path experience. The full loop usually requires an overnight stay.
Piedra Clavada
A unique geological formation, Piedra Clavada is a tall, slender rock spire standing impressively in the middle of a vast, flat landscape. It's a natural monument, often requiring a short hike from the nearest accessible road. The drive there offers classic steppe scenery, and the rock itself is a fascinating photo opportunity and a testament to natural erosion over millennia.
Best Season to Visit
The best season for day trips from Los Antiguos is generally from October to April. During these months, the weather is milder, days are longer, and most roads are fully accessible. Summer (December to February) offers the warmest temperatures and the longest daylight hours, ideal for extensive exploration, though it can also be the windiest. Spring (October-November) and Autumn (March-April) offer pleasant temperatures, fewer crowds, and stunning seasonal colors, especially around the lake areas. Winters (May to September) can be very cold, with snow and ice making some ripio roads impassable or extremely challenging, and shorter daylight hours.
Car Rental Advice
Exploring the vast and rugged landscapes around Los Antiguos absolutely necessitates renting a car. Public transportation is extremely limited, and many of the most spectacular destinations are simply unreachable without your own vehicle. A reliable 4x4 or at least a high-clearance vehicle is highly recommended, particularly if you plan to venture onto less-traveled ripio roads towards Cueva de las Manos, Laguna Goelet, or the more challenging routes near Paso Roballos. Ensure your rental agreement covers cross-border travel if you intend to visit Chile Chico or other Chilean destinations, as specific documentation and insurance are required, often incurring an extra fee from the rental company. Always carry spare tires, sufficient fuel (gas stations can be sparse), water, and emergency supplies. Embrace the freedom a rental car offers; it allows you to set your own pace, stop at countless scenic viewpoints, and truly immerse yourself in the Patagonian wilderness without being bound by tour schedules.
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Discover more guides and resources for this destination
Destination Guide
Planning
Best Time to Visit
Best Time to Visit Los Antiguos 2026 — Month-by-Month Guide
How to Get There
How to Get to Los Antiguos 2026 — Flights, Driving & Transport
Budget Guide
Los Antiguos on a Budget 2026 — Costs, Tips & Money-Saving Guide
Where to Stay
Where to Stay in Los Antiguos (2026) — Neighborhoods & Hotels
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a 4x4 vehicle for day trips from Los Antiguos?
While not strictly necessary for all trips (e.g., Chile Chico, Perito Moreno town), a high-clearance vehicle is strongly recommended, and a 4x4 is ideal if you plan to explore remote gravel roads like those leading to Cueva de las Manos, Laguna Goelet, or the Paso Roballos area. It provides greater comfort, safety, and capability on Patagonian ripio.
What kind of documentation do I need to cross the border into Chile Chico?
You will need a valid passport, your car's registration (from the rental company), and specific authorization from the rental company for international travel (Carta Verde/Green Card insurance and permission documents). Ensure all passengers have their passports ready. Border crossings can be slow, especially in peak season.
Are there gas stations outside of Los Antiguos and Perito Moreno town?
Gas stations are very scarce in this remote region. You will find them in Los Antiguos and Perito Moreno town. Always fill up your tank whenever you have the opportunity, especially before embarking on longer day trips on Ruta 40 or remote provincial routes.
How are the road conditions around Los Antiguos?
Roads are a mix. The main access roads like Ruta Provincial 43 to Los Antiguos and sections of Ruta Nacional 40 are paved. However, many important day trip routes, such as the road to Cueva de las Manos (RP41) and routes south to Lake Posadas (RP39), are gravel (ripio). These can be corrugated, dusty, or muddy depending on recent weather, requiring careful driving.
Is it safe to drive alone on these remote roads?
Generally, driving in Patagonia is safe. However, the roads are remote, and cell phone reception is often nonexistent. It's crucial to inform someone of your itinerary, carry emergency supplies (water, food, first-aid, extra fuel if possible), and ensure your vehicle is in good condition. Drive cautiously, especially on ripio.
Can I find guided tours for these day trips, or is self-driving the only option?
While some local agencies in Los Antiguos or Perito Moreno town may offer guided tours to popular spots like Cueva de las Manos, options are limited. Self-driving is by far the most flexible and comprehensive way to explore the region, allowing you to discover hidden gems and travel at your own pace, which is particularly beneficial in such a vast and varied landscape.
What should I pack for a day trip in Patagonia?
Layered clothing is essential, as weather can change rapidly. Include a windproof and waterproof jacket, warm layers, sturdy walking shoes, sunscreen, sunglasses, a hat, plenty of water, snacks, a fully charged phone, and a camera. For cross-border trips, don't forget your passport and car documents.