How to Get to Los Antiguos
Los Antiguos, a tranquil Patagonian gem nestled on the shores of Lago Buenos Aires, is renowned for its sweet cherry production and serves as a strategic gateway to the spectacular Ruta 40 and the Marble Caves. Getting here involves embracing the vast distances characteristic of Patagonia, a journey often best experienced with the unparalleled freedom of your own vehicle to explore its unique landscapes.
Reaching Los Antiguos, a picturesque town in Argentina's Santa Cruz province, is an adventure in itself, emblematic of Patagonian travel. Situated at the crossroads of scenic landscapes and rich culture, its remote location ensures a journey filled with breathtaking vistas and unforgettable experiences. Whether you choose to fly into a regional airport and continue by ground, embark on a long-distance bus trip across the steppe, or undertake an epic road journey along legendary routes like Ruta 40, meticulous planning is key to an unforgettable arrival in this enchanting cherry capital. Embrace the distances, as the journey through Patagonia is as rewarding as the destination itself.
Nearest Airports
Perito Moreno Airport
The closest airport to Los Antiguos, approximately an hour's drive south. It's a small regional airport with limited flight options, primarily served by LADE, making connections less frequent.
Comodoro Rivadavia International Airport
A major regional hub offering more frequent connections from Buenos Aires and other Argentine cities. From CRD, Los Antiguos is a substantial 7-8 hour drive or bus journey.
Chile Chico Aerodrome
Located just across the border in Chile, this is a very small aerodrome primarily serving local Chilean flights. While physically close, international border crossing formalities are required.
By Flight
Flying is the quickest way to cover the vast distances to Patagonia, but it's important to note that you will always require subsequent ground transport (car or bus) to reach Los Antiguos from the nearest significant airports. Internal flights in Argentina typically originate from Buenos Aires.
Airlines
Flight Tips
- Book domestic flights well in advance, especially during peak season (October-April) as seats can be limited.
- Most flights connect through Buenos Aires (Aeroparque Jorge Newbery - AEP) for regional destinations.
- Factor in significant ground travel time from Comodoro Rivadavia (CRD) to Los Antiguos (7-8 hours minimum).
By Car
Driving to Los Antiguos is arguably the most rewarding and authentic Patagonian experience, offering unparalleled freedom to explore the region's vast and diverse landscapes at your own pace. A rental car is highly recommended for accessing remote attractions and fully appreciating the scenic routes.
Main Driving Routes
| From | Route | Distance | Duration | Road Condition |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Comodoro Rivadavia (CRD) | RN3 South, RP26 West, RP43 North | 550 km | 7-8 hours | Mostly paved, though some sections of RP26 and RP43 can have gravel patches or be less maintained, particularly after winter. Strong winds are common. |
| El Calafate / El Chaltén | Ruta Nacional 40 North | 700-800 km | 9-11 hours | This iconic route is predominantly paved, but expect significant gravel sections (ripio), especially between Tres Lagos and Perito Moreno. Services are sparse, so plan fuel stops carefully. |
| Bariloche | Ruta Nacional 40 South | 1200 km | 15-18 hours (typically split over 2 days) | A truly epic journey along one of Argentina's most famous roads. Mostly paved, with occasional gravel stretches. Services become more infrequent as you head south; fuel up whenever possible. |
| Chile Chico (Chile) | Paso Jeinimeni / Los Antiguos Border Crossing | 5 km | 15-30 minutes (including border formalities) | Paved on both sides of the border. Ensure you have all necessary vehicle and personal documents for international travel. |
Driving Tips
- Always carry extra fuel, water, and snacks, as services can be few and far between on Patagonian routes.
- Be prepared for varied road conditions, including gravel (ripio) sections, especially on Ruta 40. Drive slowly on ripio and maintain a safe distance from other vehicles.
- Patagonian winds can be extremely strong; exercise caution, especially when driving a larger vehicle.
- Ensure your vehicle has a well-inflated spare tire and the necessary tools for changing it. Cell signal is often absent in remote areas.
By Bus
Bus travel is a popular and often comfortable way to navigate the long distances in Patagonia. Most long-distance services offer 'semi-cama' (partially reclining) or 'cama' (fully reclining) seats, making overnight journeys more bearable.
Bus Companies
Bus Tips
- Journeys can be very long (e.g., 24+ hours from Buenos Aires, 7-8 hours from Comodoro Rivadavia), so plan accordingly and bring entertainment.
- Book tickets in advance, especially during the high season (December to March), as popular routes can sell out.
- Dress in layers and bring a blanket or pillow for added comfort during overnight trips. Buses typically make stops for meals and restrooms.
From Major Cities
| City | Best Method | Travel Time | Cost |
|---|---|---|---|
| Buenos Aires | Flight to Comodoro Rivadavia (CRD) + rental car or bus | ~2.5 hour flight + 7-8 hour drive/bus | Medium to High (depending on flight deals and car rental) |
| Comodoro Rivadavia | Rental car or long-distance bus | 7-8 hours | Medium (car rental) to Low (bus) |
| Bariloche | Rental car (highly recommended) or long-distance bus | 15-18 hours (often overnight or split over two days by car) | High (car rental with fuel) to Medium (bus) |
| El Calafate | Rental car (essential for Ruta 40 exploration) or long-distance bus | 9-11 hours | High (car rental with fuel) to Medium (bus) |
Local Transport
Once in Los Antiguos, the town center itself is compact and easily walkable, allowing you to explore its cherry farms and lakeside promenade on foot. However, for excursions to nearby attractions such as the renowned Cueva de las Manos, the Petrified Forests, or deeper exploration of Lago Buenos Aires's stunning shores, a car is virtually essential. Taxis and 'remises' (private, pre-booked cabs) are available in town but can become costly for longer day trips. Given the vast distances and scattered points of interest, self-driving remains the most practical option for experiencing the region fully.
Car Rental Advice
Renting a car is by far the most recommended and rewarding way to experience Los Antiguos and its surrounding natural wonders. Patagonia is a region defined by its immense distances, rugged beauty, and scattered points of interest, where public transport simply cannot offer the flexibility to discover hidden gems like the ancient Cueva de las Manos, remote estancias, or the stunning views along the unpaved sections of Ruta 40. A rental car grants you the ultimate freedom to set your own pace, stop for breathtaking photos whenever inspiration strikes, and access attractions off the main routes, ensuring a truly immersive, independent, and unforgettable Patagonian adventure tailored to your desires.
Book Your Car RentalExplore More
Discover more guides and resources for this destination
Destination Guide
Planning
Frequently Asked Questions
What's the best airport to fly into for Los Antiguos?
The closest airport is Perito Moreno (PMQ), but it has very limited flights. Comodoro Rivadavia (CRD) offers more frequent connections from Buenos Aires, requiring a subsequent 7-8 hour drive or bus ride to Los Antiguos.
Do I need a 4x4 vehicle to reach Los Antiguos?
While a 4x4 isn't strictly necessary for the main routes, a vehicle with good ground clearance is highly recommended. This is especially true if you plan to explore off the main paved roads or encounter the significant gravel sections (ripio) often found on Ruta 40. Regular sedans can manage most paved routes, but with greater caution on unpaved stretches.
Are the roads to Los Antiguos all paved?
No. While major sections, particularly coming from Comodoro Rivadavia, are paved, you will almost certainly encounter significant gravel (ripio) sections. This is common on Ruta 40, especially if approaching from the south (El Calafate/El Chaltén) or when exploring regional routes. Always be prepared for changing road conditions.
How long does it take to drive from Buenos Aires to Los Antiguos?
Driving directly from Buenos Aires to Los Antiguos is an extremely long journey, covering approximately 2,000 km and requiring at least 24 hours of non-stop driving, meaning it typically takes 2-3 days. It is generally advised to fly to a regional airport (like Comodoro Rivadavia) and then rent a car or take a bus.
Is it easy to cross the border from Chile Chico to Los Antiguos?
Yes, the border crossing at Paso Jeinimeni/Los Antiguos is generally straightforward and quick, often taking 15-30 minutes depending on queues. Ensure you have all necessary vehicle and personal documentation for international travel (ID, vehicle registration, insurance, border crossing permit from your rental company).
What should I be aware of when driving in Patagonia?
Beyond varied road conditions and potential gravel sections, be prepared for strong Patagonian winds, long distances between fuel stations (always fill up when you can), and limited to no cell phone signal in remote areas. Always carry extra fuel, water, food, and a well-inflated spare tire with the tools to change it.
Can I get by with public transport only in Los Antiguos and its surroundings?
While long-distance buses connect Los Antiguos with major Patagonian cities, local public transport within Los Antiguos and to surrounding attractions (like Cueva de las Manos or scenic viewpoints) is very limited. A rental car provides significantly more freedom, flexibility, and access to the region's scattered highlights, making it the preferred option for exploration.
What's the best time of year to visit Los Antiguos for ease of travel?
The warmer months, from October to April, offer the best road conditions, milder weather, and longer daylight hours, making travel easier and more enjoyable. The cherry harvest season (typically December-January) is a particularly popular time to visit, though it can also mean higher prices and more crowded conditions.