The National Route 40, often referred to as the “mother of all routes,” is one of the most emblematic roads in Argentina.
This corridor spans approximately 5200 kilometers from Cabo Vírgenes in Santa Cruz to the border with Bolivia in La Quiaca, Jujuy, crossing a diversity of ecosystems and cultures along its route.
Change of route on Route 40 to kick off the summer season
To kick off the summer season, provincial and national authorities have decided to modify the route so that part of the southern stretch passes through Los Alerces National Park.
The change aims to promote tourism in the region, highlighting the beauty of the natural environments surrounding the route. The news of the addition of a new stretch also entails the modernization of the route’s infrastructure, with new signage and services at various points along the route.
Thus, the new path of National Route 40, renamed as “Touristic Route 40”, enters from north to south from the town of Cholila (currently Provincial Route No. 71) through Los Alerces National Park, traversing it as a main route. The path continues to the town of Trevelin and then replaces RN 259, reaching Esquel.
This route crosses areas of incomparable beauty, as Los Alerces National Park is a true natural gem that attracts nature lovers and adventurers alike.
Los Alerces National Park: natural heritage
Declared a World Heritage Site and natural site by UNESCO, Los Alerces National Park is the main attraction of the new Touristic Route 40. It covers more than 2000 km² and houses some of the oldest trees on the planet, with specimens over 2500 years old.
Among its landscape are the Rivadavia, Verde, Menéndez, and Futalaufquen lakes, surrounded by mountains, forests, and diverse wildlife including species such as the huemul, a deer exclusive to Argentina and Chile, and the Andean condor, the largest bird in the world.
In addition to offering stunning views and lush nature, within Los Alerces National Park, recreational activities such as hiking, kayaking, and bird watching can be enjoyed.
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