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How to Get to Junín de los Andes

Nestled in the heart of the Patagonian Andes, Junín de los Andes serves as a tranquil gateway to stunning natural landscapes, revered sacred sites, and exceptional fly-fishing opportunities. Getting here requires a blend of planning and an adventurous spirit, promising incredible scenery along the way.

7 min readUpdated for 2025–2026 Season
PatagoniaHub
By PatagoniaHub Travel Team|Verified local expertsLast updated: Apr 29, 2026
Full guide to Junín de los Andes →

Junín de los Andes, a charming town in the Neuquén province of Argentina, is renowned for its spiritual significance, pristine lakes, and rivers, making it a prime destination for outdoor enthusiasts and those seeking cultural enrichment. As the 'Spiritual Capital of Patagonia,' it offers a unique blend of Mapuche heritage and Christian tradition, alongside world-class trout fishing. Whether you're flying into a nearby airport and continuing by road, or embarking on an epic Patagonian road trip, reaching Junín de los Andes is an integral part of the adventure, revealing the diverse beauty of this rugged region.

Nearest Airports

Aviador Carlos Campos Airport (Chapelco)

CPC50 km south

Located near San Martín de los Andes, this is the closest airport to Junín de los Andes, offering domestic flights primarily from Buenos Aires. It's the most convenient option for air travelers.

Teniente Luis Candelaria International Airport (Bariloche)

BRC260 km south

A larger, more frequented airport in Patagonia, Bariloche offers more flight options, including some international connections and more frequent domestic flights. The drive from Bariloche to Junín de los Andes is incredibly scenic.

Presidente Perón International Airport (Neuquén)

NQN400 km east

Neuquén is the capital of the province and has a well-connected airport with numerous domestic flights. While further, it can sometimes offer more competitive fares, requiring a longer bus or car journey.

By Flight

Flying is the quickest way to reach the vicinity of Junín de los Andes, especially from Buenos Aires. The most direct approach involves flying to Chapelco Airport (CPC), followed by a short transfer. Alternatively, flying to Bariloche (BRC) or Neuquén (NQN) provides more flight flexibility but involves longer onward travel by road.

Airlines

Aerolíneas ArgentinasFlybondiJetSMART

Flight Tips

  • Book flights to Chapelco (CPC) well in advance, especially during peak season (summer and winter), as seats are limited and fares can rise.
  • Consider flying into Bariloche (BRC) for more frequent flight options and potentially lower fares, then renting a car or taking a bus for the scenic journey north.
  • Always check luggage restrictions for domestic flights, particularly with low-cost carriers like Flybondi and JetSMART.
  • Be prepared for potential flight delays or cancellations, especially during adverse weather conditions in the mountainous region.

By Car

Driving to Junín de los Andes offers unparalleled freedom to explore the stunning Patagonian landscapes at your own pace. The region boasts incredibly scenic routes, making the journey an integral part of your adventure. Renting a car is highly recommended for flexibility and accessing remote attractions.

Main Driving Routes

FromRouteDistanceDurationRoad Condition
San Martín de los AndesRuta Nacional 40 / Ruta Provincial 234 (Seven Lakes Route)40 km45-60 minutesMostly paved, well-maintained. The Ruta 234 section (part of the Seven Lakes Route) is fully paved and incredibly scenic.
BarilocheRuta Nacional 40260 km3-4 hoursEntirely paved and generally in good condition. Offers stunning views as you head north through the Patagonian steppe and alongside lakes.
NeuquénRuta Nacional 22 then Ruta Nacional 40400 km4.5-5.5 hoursFully paved and well-maintained. The initial section on Ruta 22 is a major highway, transitioning to the more scenic Ruta 40.
Villa La AngosturaRuta Nacional 40 / Ruta Provincial 234 (Seven Lakes Route)120 km1.5-2 hoursFully paved and extremely scenic, part of the famous Ruta de los Siete Lagos. A highlight of any Patagonian road trip.

Driving Tips

  • Always ensure your rental car is properly fueled, especially before heading into more remote areas, as gas stations can be scarce outside major towns.
  • Check tire pressure and fluid levels before long drives. Patagonian roads, even paved ones, can be challenging.
  • Be aware of wildlife (guanacos, ñandúes, cattle) on the roads, especially at dawn and dusk.
  • Carry physical maps or download offline maps, as cell phone signal can be unreliable in many parts of Patagonia.
  • Driving during winter months (June-September) may require snow chains and studded tires due to ice and snow, especially on mountain passes.

By Bus

Bus travel in Argentina is a popular and comfortable way to cover long distances, with high-quality services connecting major cities to Junín de los Andes. Buses are often equipped with 'semi-cama' (reclining seats) or 'cama' (fully reclining beds), making overnight journeys quite pleasant.

Bus Companies

Vía BarilocheAlbusAndesmarCoitram

Bus Tips

  • Purchase bus tickets in advance, particularly for popular routes and during peak travel seasons, either online or at bus terminals (terminales de ómnibus).
  • Opt for 'semi-cama' or 'cama' seats for added comfort on longer journeys, often including meals and blankets.
  • Be aware that bus journeys can be long, so bring snacks, water, entertainment, and a neck pillow.
  • The main bus terminal in Junín de los Andes is centrally located, making onward travel to your accommodation straightforward via taxi or a short walk.

From Major Cities

CityBest MethodTravel TimeCost
Buenos AiresFlight to Chapelco (CPC) + Transfer, or Flight to Bariloche (BRC) + Car/BusApproximately 2 hours flight + 1 hour transfer (CPC) or 3-4 hours car/bus (BRC); Overnight bus (18-20 hours)Flight: Moderate to High; Bus: Moderate
BarilocheCar Rental or Bus3-4 hours by car; 4-5 hours by busCar: Moderate (incl. rental); Bus: Low to Moderate
NeuquénCar Rental or Bus4.5-5.5 hours by car; 6-7 hours by busCar: Moderate (incl. rental); Bus: Low to Moderate

Local Transport

Once in Junín de los Andes, getting around the town itself can be done on foot. For exploring the surrounding attractions like Huechulafquen Lake, the Lanín National Park, or the numerous fly-fishing spots, taxis (remises) are available. However, due to the dispersed nature of these natural wonders and the lack of extensive public transport, renting a car is by far the most practical and recommended option.

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