All Seasonal Guides

Spring in Ruta 40

Spring is the season of awakening on Ruta 40, Argentina's legendary highway. Wildflowers line the road, guanacos graze the steppe with newborn calves, and the Andes gleam with snow as this epic self-drive route opens for a new season of Patagonian adventure.

Spring on Ruta 40, from September through November, offers the quintessential Patagonian road trip experience as Argentina's most iconic highway awakens from winter. Stretching over 5,000km from the Bolivian border to Cabo Vírgenes at the Strait of Magellan, Ruta 40 runs parallel to the Andes and through the heart of Patagonia, connecting the Lake District, the steppe, glaciers, and the deep south in one legendary route.

The Patagonian sections of Ruta 40 — roughly from Bariloche south to El Calafate and beyond — are the most famous and dramatic. Spring transforms these stretches progressively: the northern Lake District sections burst into wildflower bloom by October, while the southern steppe takes longer to warm, with guanacos bearing spring calves on the endless grasslands and condors riding the thermals above the Andes.

For self-drive travelers, spring on Ruta 40 is a compelling proposition. The road is less trafficked than in summer, accommodation along the route is more available and affordable, and the constantly changing light creates a photographer's paradise. However, spring also requires more preparation than summer — some fuel stations may have limited hours, weather can be unpredictable, and the southern sections still experience cold and wind. Flexibility, preparation, and a sense of adventure are the essential companions for a spring Ruta 40 journey.

Weather Overview

Avg High

12°C

Avg Low

1°C

Precipitation

Varies dramatically by section. The Lake District receives more rain, while the central steppe is dry. Southern sections are dry but very windy.

Wind

Strong throughout, intensifying southward. The steppe sections between El Chaltén and El Calafate are particularly wind-exposed.

Daylight

Increasing from about 10.5-11 hours in September to 14-16 hours by late November (varies by latitude).

Spring weather on Ruta 40 varies enormously over its length. The northern Lake District section (Bariloche to San Martín) is mild and green with spring rain. The central steppe sections (Esquel to Los Antiguos) are dry and windy. The southern sections (El Calafate area) are cold and wind-dominated. Throughout, temperatures are cool with wide daily ranges. Be prepared for every kind of weather on a multi-day journey.

Activities

Available Activities

Epic Self-Drive Road Trip

The core Ruta 40 experience — driving through ever-changing Patagonian landscapes from lakes and forests to open steppe and mountain views. Spring offers the journey with fewer vehicles and golden light.

Seven Lakes Route (Northern Section)

The paved section between Bariloche and San Martín de los Andes passes seven stunning glacial lakes, all framed by wildflowers and snow-capped peaks in spring.

Wildlife Spotting

Guanacos, rheas (ñandú), foxes, armadillos, and condors are commonly seen along the steppe sections. Spring brings newborn guanaco calves (chulengos).

National Park Access

Ruta 40 provides access to Los Alerces, Perito Moreno, Los Glaciares, and other national parks. Spring visits mean uncrowded trails and viewpoints.

Cueva de las Manos

This UNESCO World Heritage Site with 9,000-year-old hand paintings is accessible from Ruta 40 near Perito Moreno. The access road is typically passable in spring.

Small Town Culture

Stop in Ruta 40 towns like El Bolsón, Gobernador Gregores, and Perito Moreno for authentic Patagonian culture, local food, and warm hospitality.

Not Available This Season

Some unpaved southern sections may be challenging in early springA few remote fuel stations may have limited hoursSome roadside services and restaurants may be closed for the season

Accommodation

Options range widely — from comfortable hotels in larger towns (Bariloche, El Bolsón, El Calafate) to basic hostels and cabins in smaller settlements. Spring pricing is lower along the route, and availability is excellent. However, some very remote sections (e.g., between Perito Moreno and Tres Lagos) have limited options, so plan ahead for those stretches.

Crowds & Tourism

Spring Ruta 40 is a driver's dream — you may go hours without seeing another vehicle on the steppe sections. Towns along the route are uncrowded, and the sense of solitary adventure is part of the appeal. The northern Lake District sections see more traffic but nothing like summer volumes.

Pricing

Shoulder season pricing applies at most stops. Accommodation, particularly in the Lake District section, is 30-50% below summer rates. Car rental from Bariloche, El Calafate, or other starting points is competitive. Budget for fuel, which is more expensive in remote areas, and carry cash as card acceptance is limited on the more isolated stretches.

Driving Conditions

Important for car rental travelers

Ruta 40 through Patagonia is a mix of paved and gravel (ripio) sections. The northern stretch (Bariloche to San Martín) is fully paved. Central sections have significant gravel stretches that require careful driving — maintain lower speeds, watch for loose stones, and be cautious when passing or being passed. Southern paved sections are good but wind is a major factor. A standard rental car can handle most of Ruta 40, but higher clearance and a strong vehicle are recommended for the central gravel sections. Always carry extra fuel, water, food, and a spare tire. Fill up at every gas station you encounter.

Packing Essentials

Windproof jacket and warm layers
Spare fuel container (essential for remote sections)
Extra water and non-perishable food
Spare tire and basic tools (verify rental car equipment)
Paper road map (cell signal is absent for long stretches)
Cash in small bills (many stops are cash-only)
Sunglasses and sunscreen
Camera with extra batteries and memory cards
Warm sleeping bag if camping
First aid kit
Binoculars for wildlife spotting
Tire pressure gauge (adjust for gravel sections)

Events & Festivals

Fishing Season Opening (November 1)

The opening of trout fishing season in rivers along the northern Ruta 40 draws anglers to towns like Junín de los Andes and San Martín de los Andes.

Día de la Tradición (November 10)

Towns along Ruta 40 celebrate gaucho heritage with horsemanship displays, folk music, asados, and cultural festivities.

Spring Wildlife Peak

October-November brings peak wildlife activity along the steppe sections, with guanaco calving season and migratory bird arrivals.

Pros & Cons

Pros

  • One of the world's great road trips with dramatically fewer vehicles in spring.
  • Wildflowers, snow-capped peaks, and spring wildlife enhance the journey.
  • Shoulder season pricing at accommodations and for car rental.
  • Access to national parks and UNESCO sites along the route.
  • Incredible solitude and sense of adventure on remote steppe sections.
  • Lengthening days provide more driving and exploration time.

Cons

  • Unpaved sections require careful driving and vehicle preparation.
  • Some fuel stations and services have limited spring hours.
  • Strong winds, especially in the south, can make driving tiring.
  • Remote sections have no cell signal, medical services, or roadside assistance.
  • Weather can be cold and unpredictable, requiring flexibility.
  • Early spring (September) may still see snow on some sections.

Explore by Car This Season

A rental car gives you the freedom to explore Patagonia at your own pace, no matter the season.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Is Ruta 40 fully paved?

No. While paving is progressing, significant gravel (ripio) sections remain, particularly between Esquel and Perito Moreno, and between Perito Moreno and Tres Lagos. These sections require careful driving at reduced speeds.

Do I need a 4x4 for Ruta 40?

Not necessarily, but a vehicle with higher clearance is strongly recommended for gravel sections. Many travelers complete Ruta 40 in standard cars, but a SUV or similar provides more comfort and safety on rough roads.

How many days do I need for Ruta 40 through Patagonia?

From Bariloche to El Calafate, plan at least 5-7 days to enjoy the journey with stops at key attractions. Rushing it misses the point — the road itself is the destination.

Is fuel available along Ruta 40?

Fuel is available in towns but stations can be 200-300km apart on remote sections. Always fill up when you can, carry a spare fuel container, and never pass a gas station with less than half a tank.

Can I drive Ruta 40 in September?

The northern sections (Lake District) are fine. Southern and higher-elevation sections may still have snow or ice in September. October-November offers the most reliable spring conditions throughout.

Is Ruta 40 safe?

Yes, with preparation. The main risks are mechanical issues on remote sections and extreme weather. Carry supplies, inform your accommodation of your route, and drive conservatively. Other Ruta 40 travelers are typically friendly and helpful.

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