Original post
Bonjour à tous, qui a fait la route qui va de mendoza à el calafate en voiture de loc en février mars car je dois y aller à cette période et j'aimerais connaitre l'état des routes, merci
Ruta 40 de Mendoza à El Calafate
by Didierbuffin
This discussion is in French, the community’s main language.
Comme personne ne t'a répondu, nous pouvons peut-être te donner quelques infos.
Il faudrait savoir ce que tu désires, aller de Mendoza à El Calafate ou prendre la route 40 sur ce trajet.
Dans l'hypothèse où le but de ton voyage est de suivre la mythique route 40, il te faut prendre en compte que cette route a beaucoup changé ces dernières années pour des raisons économiques et touristiques, tu peux t'éloigner de l'originale à certains endroits de plus de 100 km.( nous avons fait un message à ce sujet le 12 janvier 2014, tracé de la route 40)
Nous avions pris cette route il y a quelques années, elle n'etait pratiquement pas asphaltée.
Nous l 'avons reprise en 2007, elle était asphaltée entre El Calafate et Tres Lagos, puis tu ne retrouvais la route asphaltée
qu''au niveau de Rio Mayo ( mais qui n'etait pas à cette epoque la route 40, oui, c'est très compliqué.)
Après elle est pratiquement asphaltée partout sauf une petite partie ( elle etait en travaux en janvier dernier)entre Villa la Angostura et San Martin de los Andes ( ce qui correspond au nouveau tracé, mais qui merite le détour parce qu'il traverse la région des lacs).
Au nord de Zapala, nous ne pouvons pas te donner d'infos car nous ne l'avons pas pris recemment.
En février mars tu ne devrais normalement pas avoir de problèmes sur les parties en ripio.
amicalement
Merci pour ta réponse, en effet on va faire la ruta 40 de mendoza à calafate, bon pour le ripio on en a déjà fait dans le nord ouest donc on connait;par contre une autre question:la distance entre les stations service?
Pour répondre à ta question sur les pompes à essence, en 2007 nous etions descendus par la 3 et remonté par la 40 depuis El Calafate jusqu'à Zapala.
Il y avait bien sur de l'essence à El Calafate, El Chalten, ensuite la 1 ere pompe à essence sur la 40 se trouvait à Tres Lagos, puis bajo Caracoles.
( Maintenant la 40 passe par Gobernador Gregores qui est une ville assez importante .)
Après Bajo Caracoles, une autre pompe à la petite ville de Perito Moreno.
Il doit y en avoir une à Rio Mayo, mais nous ne nous rappellons plus. Comme nous puisons tout cela dans nos souvenirs et pas sur internet comme beaucoup de messages sur les forums, nous esperons ne pas faire d'erreur)
Ensuite à Esquel, puis regulierement sur la route jusqu'à Zapala.(Bariloche, Villa la Angostura, San Martin de los Andes, Junin de los Andes, ces dernieres villes correspondent à la toute nouvelle 40).
De toute façon nous n'avons jamais eu de problème pour trouver de l'essence, le tout est de ne jamais oublier de faire le
plein lorsque l'on voit une pompe même si l'on a pas fait beaucoup de. km.
A partir d'El Bolson au sud de la province de rio negro, l'essence est beaucoup moins chère, ( environ 0,50€ au change parallele) Pour te donner une idée, nous avons parcouru plus de 500 km avec le plein d'essence d'une chevrolet corsa.
Nous restons à ta disposition,
amicalement.
Juste une précision, lorsque nous avons le choix, nous préférons la cie YPF pour faire le plein car c'est généralement la moins chère et de plus, ils ont une très bonne connexion internet gratuite dans leur cafétéria.
Le prix que nous avions indiqué de 0,50 € ( 7,14 pesos) était pour du super et non du premium, le super etant le carburant que nous utilisons dans nos voitures de location.
Amicalement
ok, merci pour toutes ces infos, mais apparemment il n'y a pas de pénurie de carburant au sud, contrairement à ce qui nous est arrivé l'an dernier dans le nord ouest
Lors de notre dernier séjour en patagonie cette année, il n'y avait aucun problème, mais tout peut changer rapidement dans ce pays, surtout les grèves ou le blocage des routes ( nous avions connu celà en 2008 lorsque les agriculteurs bloquaient les routes pour affamer Buenos Aires.)
Bon voyage
nous avions connu celà en 2008 lorsque les agriculteurs bloquaient les routes pour affamer Buenos Aires.
En 2008 les agriculteurs bloquaient les routes pour s'opposer à la hausse de 7 à 9% de rétentions souhaitée par le gouvernement... et non pour "affamer Buenos Aires". Pour que les gens comprennent, il faut savoir qu'en Argentine que si un agriculteur exporte pour 100 000 dollars de marchandise, l'Etat garde pour lui 28 % (pour le blé) ou 35% (pour le soja) de la somme destinée au vendeur... soit 28 000 ou 35 000 dollars, critères fixés par Nestor Kirchner en 2007. Un an plus tard, sa femme devenue présidente décide d'augmenter ces rétentions pour les amener jusqu'à 44%... d'où la colère des agriculteurs qui ne sont pas d'accord pour abandonner 44 000 dollars sur les 100 000 payés par le client. Et pour que ce soit encore plus clair... cette rétention n'est pas la seule taxe payée par l'agriculteur qui comme tout autre entreprise en Argentine paye ensuite jusqu'à 35% d'impôts sur ses revenus... soit 35% sur ce qui lui reste après les rétentions.
En 2008 les agriculteurs bloquaient les routes pour s'opposer à la hausse de 7 à 9% de rétentions souhaitée par le gouvernement... et non pour "affamer Buenos Aires". Pour que les gens comprennent, il faut savoir qu'en Argentine que si un agriculteur exporte pour 100 000 dollars de marchandise, l'Etat garde pour lui 28 % (pour le blé) ou 35% (pour le soja) de la somme destinée au vendeur... soit 28 000 ou 35 000 dollars, critères fixés par Nestor Kirchner en 2007. Un an plus tard, sa femme devenue présidente décide d'augmenter ces rétentions pour les amener jusqu'à 44%... d'où la colère des agriculteurs qui ne sont pas d'accord pour abandonner 44 000 dollars sur les 100 000 payés par le client. Et pour que ce soit encore plus clair... cette rétention n'est pas la seule taxe payée par l'agriculteur qui comme tout autre entreprise en Argentine paye ensuite jusqu'à 35% d'impôts sur ses revenus... soit 35% sur ce qui lui reste après les rétentions.
On ne voyage pas pour chercher son destin mais pour fuir l’endroit d’où on est parti. (Miguel de Unamuno)
L'homme est un dieu quand il rêve, et un mendiant quand il réfléchit (Friedrich Holderlin)
C'etait bien pour affamer Buenos Aires que les agriculteurs bloquaient les camions ( et laissaient passer les voitures particulieres) sur toutes les routes d'accès à Buenos Aires, pour manifester contre les taxes que leur imposait le gouvernement.
Nous avions eté pris dans les embouteillages en remontant du sud de la province de Buenos Aires.
Les télevisions, les journaux ne parlaient que de celà et les pancartes dans les carrefours expliquaient bien leurs motivations.
Nos souvenirs sont très précis sur ces manifestations.
houla du calme tout le monde🙂, j'ai demandé des infos sur la route 40;pas sur la politique du pays
houla du calme tout le monde🙂, j'ai demandé des infos sur la route 40;pas sur la politique du pays
Vous avez raison... on est sur un forum de voyages. Je voulais juste rétablir la vérité car les agriculteurs argentins n'ont jamais voulu "affamer Buenos Aires"... D'ailleurs les blocages se faisaient partout dans le pays et pas seulement sur les routes allant à Buenos Aires... mais n’épiloguons pas la-dessus. 😉
Vous avez raison... on est sur un forum de voyages. Je voulais juste rétablir la vérité car les agriculteurs argentins n'ont jamais voulu "affamer Buenos Aires"... D'ailleurs les blocages se faisaient partout dans le pays et pas seulement sur les routes allant à Buenos Aires... mais n’épiloguons pas la-dessus. 😉
On ne voyage pas pour chercher son destin mais pour fuir l’endroit d’où on est parti. (Miguel de Unamuno)
L'homme est un dieu quand il rêve, et un mendiant quand il réfléchit (Friedrich Holderlin)
Bonjour à tous,
Je viens de terminer un aller et retour Bariloche - El calafate en ce début de mois de janvier 2016. La route 40 ne pose aucun problème à une voiture de location "normale".
Toutefois : - Il y a 10 km de piste temporaire au nord de rio mayo - Il y a 72km de piste en graviers au sud de la ville de perito moreno, on peut rouler entre 30 et 70 selon les portions et le trafic. J'ai eu en plus de gros engins de terrassement qui poussaient les graviers. - Il y a quelques méchant nids de poule, rares, mais fichtrement gros. - Il y a un vent à faire s'envoler les portes de voiture ;-) Attention à la fatigue.
Pour le reste ça se fait bien, il faut penser à remplir son réservoir dès que possible (CB acceptées) et à réserver son logement si on arrive un peu tard (CB presque jamais possible).
Yapuka profiter du paysage !
Edd
Je viens de terminer un aller et retour Bariloche - El calafate en ce début de mois de janvier 2016. La route 40 ne pose aucun problème à une voiture de location "normale".
Toutefois : - Il y a 10 km de piste temporaire au nord de rio mayo - Il y a 72km de piste en graviers au sud de la ville de perito moreno, on peut rouler entre 30 et 70 selon les portions et le trafic. J'ai eu en plus de gros engins de terrassement qui poussaient les graviers. - Il y a quelques méchant nids de poule, rares, mais fichtrement gros. - Il y a un vent à faire s'envoler les portes de voiture ;-) Attention à la fatigue.
Pour le reste ça se fait bien, il faut penser à remplir son réservoir dès que possible (CB acceptées) et à réserver son logement si on arrive un peu tard (CB presque jamais possible).
Yapuka profiter du paysage !
Edd
Hola todos
Puisque personne ne t a fèlicitè depuis 2014 pour rètablir la vèritè et t'inscrire en contre sur le n'importe quoi.....affamer Buenos Aires....On aura tout lu.... je me permet donc de te remercier et devte féliciter...Ça fait du bien de te lire.😉
bonjour Kalchaqui
Etais-tu sur la route en 2008 lorsque les agriculteurs bloquaient les camions se dirigeant vers Buenos Aires ? Avec des slogans sur les banderoles bien explicites sur leurs intentions : affamons Buenos Aires.( en riposte aux décisions du gouvernement de l'époque) Etais - tu à Buenos Aires à ce moment là lorsque les magasins commencaient à manquer de tout. Etais tu à l'aeroport, au Duty free où les rayons étaient vides , on ne pouvait même pas acheter de cigarettes. Nous, nous y étions et pouvons en témoigner. Mais ces faits datent un peu, si la mémoire te fais défaut, jettes donc un coup d'oeil sur les archives de l'époque. Ton intervention dans cette discussion semble bien inutile si ce n'est n'est pour chercher la polémique.
Etais-tu sur la route en 2008 lorsque les agriculteurs bloquaient les camions se dirigeant vers Buenos Aires ? Avec des slogans sur les banderoles bien explicites sur leurs intentions : affamons Buenos Aires.( en riposte aux décisions du gouvernement de l'époque) Etais - tu à Buenos Aires à ce moment là lorsque les magasins commencaient à manquer de tout. Etais tu à l'aeroport, au Duty free où les rayons étaient vides , on ne pouvait même pas acheter de cigarettes. Nous, nous y étions et pouvons en témoigner. Mais ces faits datent un peu, si la mémoire te fais défaut, jettes donc un coup d'oeil sur les archives de l'époque. Ton intervention dans cette discussion semble bien inutile si ce n'est n'est pour chercher la polémique.
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Here’s what I had in mind:
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What do you think? Thanks,
8 nights in a van in the Lake District and the start of the Carretera Austral (up to the Chaitén area). We’re set to arrive in Puerto Montt around 2:00 PM. We don’t want to go too far south since we’re planning to explore the heart of Patagonia (Chile and Argentina) with the kids when they’re older. The idea is to spend 3 nights discovering the lakes (up to Cochamó) and 3 nights in Pumalín Park. I’ve also added two transition nights. 7 nights in the Atacama to experience another side of Chile (San Pedro), taking a domestic flight from Puerto Montt to Calama in the early afternoon. We’ll depart for France in the early evening from Santiago.
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IMPORTANT NOTICE for those planning to take a bus to another city, state, or destination from Salvador!
Starting January 20, 2026, the intercity bus station Rodoviária is changing its address! The Rodoviária is leaving the Iguatemi area and will now be located in ÁGUAS CLARAS (about twenty kilometers from downtown Salvador).
A brand-new station (the most modern in Brazil) has just been set up there, accessible by car/taxi/Uber/metro. Allow for much more transfer time (especially during rush hours), so leave early if you're heading to Chapada Diamantina or other Brazilian cities by bus.
Remember, there are also private transfers (even French-speaking ones) that can take you directly from your hotel in Salvador to your hotel in Chapada. Sure, it’ll be more expensive, but you’ll save on transfer time and comfort.
Tropical greetings from Salvador,
@ivanbahiaguide
Loyal member of the French-Speaking Brazil Forums for over 15 years already 😊 🇧🇷
Starting January 20, 2026, the intercity bus station Rodoviária is changing its address! The Rodoviária is leaving the Iguatemi area and will now be located in ÁGUAS CLARAS (about twenty kilometers from downtown Salvador).
A brand-new station (the most modern in Brazil) has just been set up there, accessible by car/taxi/Uber/metro. Allow for much more transfer time (especially during rush hours), so leave early if you're heading to Chapada Diamantina or other Brazilian cities by bus.
Remember, there are also private transfers (even French-speaking ones) that can take you directly from your hotel in Salvador to your hotel in Chapada. Sure, it’ll be more expensive, but you’ll save on transfer time and comfort.
Tropical greetings from Salvador,
@ivanbahiaguide
Loyal member of the French-Speaking Brazil Forums for over 15 years already 😊 🇧🇷
Hello,
We’re thinking of spending 1 month in Chile, maybe doing a loop?
From 12/23 to 01/22.
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Thanks
Hi everyone,
We're planning a trip to southern Chile in November. Here's our tentative itinerary:
Day 1: Arrival in Santiago, then a flight the next day to Balmaceda where we'll pick up a rental car to reach Coyhaique.
Day 3: Walk in the Coyhaique National Reserve, then continue to Puerto Chacabuco. Return to Coyhaique for the second night.
Day 4: Drive to Villa Cerro Castillo for a hike in the national park. Continue to Puerto Tranquilo and stay there for 3 nights.
Day 5: Boat tour on Laguna San Rafael.
Day 6: Day trip to Monte San Valentin Glacier.
Day 7: Excursion to the Marble Chapels, then drive to Puerto Guadal. We'll stay there for 3 nights.
Day 8: Walk along Lago Carrera and return to Puerto Guadal.
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Day 12: Drive to Caleta Tortel. We'll stay there for 2 nights.
Day 13: Cruise in the Rio Baker delta.
Day 14: Return to Cochrane.
Day 15: Return to Balmaceda in two stages.
Day 16: Continue the return journey.
Day 17: Return the rental car and head back to Santiago.
After this, we're also planning to explore northern Santiago. I'll post about that part once I have a clearer idea of the route.
What do you think of this itinerary? Is it doable in 17 days? Thanks in advance for your tips and recommendations. martine
After this, we're also planning to explore northern Santiago. I'll post about that part once I have a clearer idea of the route.
What do you think of this itinerary? Is it doable in 17 days? Thanks in advance for your tips and recommendations. martine
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Hi everyone,
We're planning a trip to Chile to visit the Atacama Desert and then head toward Putre, Lauca, Salar de Surire, etc.
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Hi, I'm looking for a local agency in Uyuni to do the trip and tours from Uyuni to San Pedro de Atacama. Thanks for sharing your experience!
Hi there,
Could you recommend any car rental agencies in Calama and Punta Arenas? Best regards,
Could you recommend any car rental agencies in Calama and Punta Arenas? Best regards,
Hi everyone, French travelers in Chile—what credit cards do you use for your various car rentals in the country? I’m traveling in September and was planning to switch my regular debit card (a VISA PREMIER in deferred debit mode) for the deposit guarantee.
My rentals are with Figal in Punta Arenas, Econautos in Arica, and Chilean Rent a Car in Temuco, and all of them want the deposit on a credit card. For me, deferred debit *should* work, but I’ve read comments saying the opposite.
How’s it actually working on the ground with these rental companies right now? Will a deferred debit card work, or not at all?
In France, banks don’t issue credit cards, right—or am I mistaken?
Thanks for your help!
My rentals are with Figal in Punta Arenas, Econautos in Arica, and Chilean Rent a Car in Temuco, and all of them want the deposit on a credit card. For me, deferred debit *should* work, but I’ve read comments saying the opposite.
How’s it actually working on the ground with these rental companies right now? Will a deferred debit card work, or not at all?
In France, banks don’t issue credit cards, right—or am I mistaken?
Thanks for your help!
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Hi,
We’re heading to Buenos Aires for 3 days in November and would like to do a guided tour of a few neighborhoods. There are "free" tours, but none in French. Does anyone have a guide to recommend so we can really get to know the city beyond just the architecture?
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The goal is to do this tour independently (no agency) over 2 days. Thanks for any tips you might have!
Then in Llachon, you can take a boat to Amantani (45 min). Same question—where do you check for frequency and schedule? After that, from Amantani, boats go to Taquile and then Uros. Do you have enough time to visit the islands between two boats? Frequency and schedule?
The goal is to do this tour independently (no agency) over 2 days. Thanks for any tips you might have!
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I just got back from a trip to Bolivia and wow—what a wake-up call. It’s not the easiest country, but it’s absolutely stunning.
I started with Isla del Sol, perfect for easing into the altitude at a relaxed pace. Try to stay in the northern part of the island—it’s quieter and the views are insane. And the trout there? Unreal. Quick tip: bring cash in small bills; they almost never have change, and cards are rarely accepted.
Next up, La Paz. The city’s pretty wild, built in every direction. I did a few hikes in the area, including the famous Charquini Lagoon (the blue lake) at over 5,000 m—let’s just say I struggled 😅 but it was so beautiful it was totally worth it.
After that, I headed to Sajama. It’s cool, especially for the hot springs, and I stayed in Tomarapi. But honestly, if you’re short on time, you can skip it without too many regrets.
The highlight of the trip: the Salar. I did it starting from Tupiza, and I *highly* recommend going Tupiza → Uyuni. Way less crowded at the start and the landscapes are super varied. For the tour, I used SplitYourGuide to find a group, and it worked out great. Super handy for splitting costs and meeting people.
I wrapped up in Sucre—this city is gorgeous, all white, with such a chill vibe. And the salteñas + ice cream? Next level 😋
Bottom line: Bolivia’s a bit rough around the edges, sometimes exhausting (shoutout to the altitude), but it’s 1000% worth it.
If you’ve got questions or need tips, I’m happy to help! Martin
I just got back from a trip to Bolivia and wow—what a wake-up call. It’s not the easiest country, but it’s absolutely stunning.
I started with Isla del Sol, perfect for easing into the altitude at a relaxed pace. Try to stay in the northern part of the island—it’s quieter and the views are insane. And the trout there? Unreal. Quick tip: bring cash in small bills; they almost never have change, and cards are rarely accepted.
Next up, La Paz. The city’s pretty wild, built in every direction. I did a few hikes in the area, including the famous Charquini Lagoon (the blue lake) at over 5,000 m—let’s just say I struggled 😅 but it was so beautiful it was totally worth it.
After that, I headed to Sajama. It’s cool, especially for the hot springs, and I stayed in Tomarapi. But honestly, if you’re short on time, you can skip it without too many regrets.
The highlight of the trip: the Salar. I did it starting from Tupiza, and I *highly* recommend going Tupiza → Uyuni. Way less crowded at the start and the landscapes are super varied. For the tour, I used SplitYourGuide to find a group, and it worked out great. Super handy for splitting costs and meeting people.
I wrapped up in Sucre—this city is gorgeous, all white, with such a chill vibe. And the salteñas + ice cream? Next level 😋
Bottom line: Bolivia’s a bit rough around the edges, sometimes exhausting (shoutout to the altitude), but it’s 1000% worth it.
If you’ve got questions or need tips, I’m happy to help! Martin
hi,
I was planning to go to Réunion and stay in half-board accommodation with non-professionals, but it seems that’s not really the custom there—or maybe my budget isn’t big enough.
So, since I’ve already traveled around Ecuador and Peru, I’m now looking at Argentina, especially for its mountains (like the ones in Réunion that tempted me, even though—frustratingly—I could only admire them from below).
I plan to get around by bus and don’t know in advance where I’ll sleep, so I won’t book ahead. If I like a place, I might stay for several days.
I know that in Chile, it’s easy to find half-board accommodation, but what about in Argentina?
I’d like to stay with locals in half-board without it being a professional setup. I’m not sure if this is common practice there. It’s up to me to find someone willing to host me. What do you think? What would be a fair price (keeping in mind that 40 to 50 € is the max I can spend on accommodation, breakfast, and dinner)?
Looking forward to your feedback.
Best regards,
I was planning to go to Réunion and stay in half-board accommodation with non-professionals, but it seems that’s not really the custom there—or maybe my budget isn’t big enough.
So, since I’ve already traveled around Ecuador and Peru, I’m now looking at Argentina, especially for its mountains (like the ones in Réunion that tempted me, even though—frustratingly—I could only admire them from below).
I plan to get around by bus and don’t know in advance where I’ll sleep, so I won’t book ahead. If I like a place, I might stay for several days.
I know that in Chile, it’s easy to find half-board accommodation, but what about in Argentina?
I’d like to stay with locals in half-board without it being a professional setup. I’m not sure if this is common practice there. It’s up to me to find someone willing to host me. What do you think? What would be a fair price (keeping in mind that 40 to 50 € is the max I can spend on accommodation, breakfast, and dinner)?
Looking forward to your feedback.
Best regards,
Hi everyone,
We’re heading to Patagonia for three weeks in November, starting from Coyhaique in Chile.
We won’t have a car, and I’m struggling to find information about transportation options for a few parts of the itinerary we’d like to do:
1) From Perito Moreno (the town, near Los Antiguos), we’d like to travel down Ruta 40 to visit Perito Moreno National Park and then cross into Chile via the Paso Roballos (at the latitude of Bajo Caracoles) to reach the road to Cochrane. Without a car, it seems we’ll need to use private agencies to get to the national park—do you have any recommendations or suggestions? Also, does anyone know if it’s possible to cross into Chile via Paso Roballos (from Bajo Caracoles) without a rental car? That is, without having to go all the way down to El Chaltén or back up toward Perito Moreno/Los Antiguos, etc.?
2) The second stretch that seems a bit tricky (though still easier, in theory) is from Caleta Tortel to Villa O’Higgins on the Chilean side. Do we have to go back through Cochrane, or are there ways to get directly from Tortel to Villa O’Higgins?
3) Finally, we’d like to hike into Argentina (El Chaltén) from O’Higgins. Any recommendations for this? Do we need to go through an agency? What’s the estimated duration of the trek?
As you’ve probably gathered, we want to visit some off-the-beaten-path spots but don’t have a car, so we’re looking for the best possible compromises.
Thanks so much in advance for all your suggestions! Thomas
1) From Perito Moreno (the town, near Los Antiguos), we’d like to travel down Ruta 40 to visit Perito Moreno National Park and then cross into Chile via the Paso Roballos (at the latitude of Bajo Caracoles) to reach the road to Cochrane. Without a car, it seems we’ll need to use private agencies to get to the national park—do you have any recommendations or suggestions? Also, does anyone know if it’s possible to cross into Chile via Paso Roballos (from Bajo Caracoles) without a rental car? That is, without having to go all the way down to El Chaltén or back up toward Perito Moreno/Los Antiguos, etc.?
2) The second stretch that seems a bit tricky (though still easier, in theory) is from Caleta Tortel to Villa O’Higgins on the Chilean side. Do we have to go back through Cochrane, or are there ways to get directly from Tortel to Villa O’Higgins?
3) Finally, we’d like to hike into Argentina (El Chaltén) from O’Higgins. Any recommendations for this? Do we need to go through an agency? What’s the estimated duration of the trek?
As you’ve probably gathered, we want to visit some off-the-beaten-path spots but don’t have a car, so we’re looking for the best possible compromises.
Thanks so much in advance for all your suggestions! Thomas
Hi,
we’re planning a round trip from San Pedro de Atacama, Chile, to Salta, Argentina, in two months. On the way there, we’ll take the northern route via Susques, Route 27, then 52. But for the return, we were thinking of taking the southern route via San Antonio de los Cobres, Route 51, then 23. Is it similar to the northern route in terms of road surface? How busy is it, and are there gas stations? Basically, should we be worried about doing it in an SUV that’s supposedly 4x4 but has regular road tires and no second spare wheel, obviously...
I’ve seen that we can stop over in San Antonio de los Cobres.
Thanks for your feedback.
Raf.
Hi,
we’ll be in Calama at the end of March 2026, and I’m looking for a reliable car rental there for a 7-day road trip to Salta, Argentina. But I’m struggling with the car rental agencies in Calama because the reviews can be scary. I saw Gyg, which has great ratings, but I’m a bit wary (5/5 from 59 reviews—either the guy’s amazing or it’s fake...), but I can’t find any recent reviews on VF in general.
For Punta Arenas, I booked with Dachelet and didn’t have any issues with email exchanges.
Thanks in advance.
Raf.
Hi everyone!
I’m planning the trip of my dreams for next November—Chile! I’d love to get your thoughts on my potential itinerary. I know it’s a big investment in terms of both time and money, so every bit of feedback, suggestion, or info helps immensely. Thank you in advance!!
1-Flight to Santiago
2-Explore Santiago
3-Explore Santiago
4-Bus from STG to Valpo (2h) + visit Valparaíso + night in Viña
5-Visit Valparaíso + bus back to STG (2h)
6-Flight to Calama + bus to San Pedro + explore and acclimate in San Pedro + car rental in the afternoon (+Chaxa?)
7-(Very early) Valle del Arcoíris + Laguna Cejar + Valle de la Luna
8-Laguna Miñiques & Miscanti + Salar de Talar + Laguna Tuyajto
9-Geysers El Tatio early in the morning + Cañón de Guatín + return car
10-Excursion to Salar de Uyuni
11-Excursion to Salar de Uyuni
12-Excursion to Salar de Uyuni
13-Excursion to Salar de Uyuni + return to San Pedro for the night
14-Bus to Calama + flight Calama-La Serena + explore La Serena
15-Excursion to Reserva Pingüino + bonus time (sunset at Playa Tongoy or elsewhere...)
16-Rent a car in Pisco Elqui & Vicuña + Observatory
17-Return car in La Serena + flight Santiago & Puerto Montt (4h)
18-Rent a 4x2 car + drive to Temuco (4h)
19-Reserva Nacional Malalcahuello + hike + night in Temuco
20-Parque Nacional Conguillío then drive and night in Pucón
21-Villarrica Volcano
22-Parque Huerquehue
23-Activities on-site
24-Drive to Valdivia + explore and night there
25-Drive to Puerto Varas (via Frutillar, etc.) + activities on-site
26-Salto Las Cascadas + Parque Nacional Vicente Pérez Rosales (Salto del Petrohué) + Canoeing/Rafting?
27-Drive to Parque Alerce Andino (round trip 3h) + hike Sendero Sargazo?
28-Drive to Castro + explore Chiloé and night in Castro
29-Explore Chiloé
30-Explore Chiloé + return to Puerto Varas
31-Drive to Cochamó (1h30) + drive to Hornopirén (2h30)
32-Ferry to Caleta Gonzalo + drive to Chaitén (1h20)
33-Parque Nacional Pumalín, night in Chaitén
34-Drive to Puyuhuapi + Sendero Ventisquero Yelcho?
35-Ventisquero Colgante + drive to Coyhaique
36-Drive to Villa Cerro Castillo
37-Hike Cerro Castillo
38-Drive to Puerto Río Tranquilo
39-Excursion to Glaciar Exploradores
40-Mármol Cathedral + lake activities
41-Drive to Cochrane
42-Parque Patagonia
43-Drive to Chile Chico
44-Ferry Chile Chico-Ibañez + drive to Coyhaique + drop off car
45-Flight to Punta Arenas (1h30) + explore the city
46-Rent a car + drive to Puerto Natales
47-Drive to Torres del Paine in the morning + hike to the base of the towers (return to Puerto Natales for the night)
48-Torres del Paine hike 2 (return to Puerto Natales for the night)
49-Torres del Paine hike 3 (return to Puerto Natales for the night)
50-Drive to Punta Arenas
51-Flight Punta Arenas-Santiago + flight Santiago-Buenos Aires (2h)
52-Explore Buenos Aires
53-Explore Buenos Aires
54-Explore Buenos Aires
55-Flight back to France
I’m planning the trip of my dreams for next November—Chile! I’d love to get your thoughts on my potential itinerary. I know it’s a big investment in terms of both time and money, so every bit of feedback, suggestion, or info helps immensely. Thank you in advance!!
1-Flight to Santiago
2-Explore Santiago
3-Explore Santiago
4-Bus from STG to Valpo (2h) + visit Valparaíso + night in Viña
5-Visit Valparaíso + bus back to STG (2h)
6-Flight to Calama + bus to San Pedro + explore and acclimate in San Pedro + car rental in the afternoon (+Chaxa?)
7-(Very early) Valle del Arcoíris + Laguna Cejar + Valle de la Luna
8-Laguna Miñiques & Miscanti + Salar de Talar + Laguna Tuyajto
9-Geysers El Tatio early in the morning + Cañón de Guatín + return car
10-Excursion to Salar de Uyuni
11-Excursion to Salar de Uyuni
12-Excursion to Salar de Uyuni
13-Excursion to Salar de Uyuni + return to San Pedro for the night
14-Bus to Calama + flight Calama-La Serena + explore La Serena
15-Excursion to Reserva Pingüino + bonus time (sunset at Playa Tongoy or elsewhere...)
16-Rent a car in Pisco Elqui & Vicuña + Observatory
17-Return car in La Serena + flight Santiago & Puerto Montt (4h)
18-Rent a 4x2 car + drive to Temuco (4h)
19-Reserva Nacional Malalcahuello + hike + night in Temuco
20-Parque Nacional Conguillío then drive and night in Pucón
21-Villarrica Volcano
22-Parque Huerquehue
23-Activities on-site
24-Drive to Valdivia + explore and night there
25-Drive to Puerto Varas (via Frutillar, etc.) + activities on-site
26-Salto Las Cascadas + Parque Nacional Vicente Pérez Rosales (Salto del Petrohué) + Canoeing/Rafting?
27-Drive to Parque Alerce Andino (round trip 3h) + hike Sendero Sargazo?
28-Drive to Castro + explore Chiloé and night in Castro
29-Explore Chiloé
30-Explore Chiloé + return to Puerto Varas
31-Drive to Cochamó (1h30) + drive to Hornopirén (2h30)
32-Ferry to Caleta Gonzalo + drive to Chaitén (1h20)
33-Parque Nacional Pumalín, night in Chaitén
34-Drive to Puyuhuapi + Sendero Ventisquero Yelcho?
35-Ventisquero Colgante + drive to Coyhaique
36-Drive to Villa Cerro Castillo
37-Hike Cerro Castillo
38-Drive to Puerto Río Tranquilo
39-Excursion to Glaciar Exploradores
40-Mármol Cathedral + lake activities
41-Drive to Cochrane
42-Parque Patagonia
43-Drive to Chile Chico
44-Ferry Chile Chico-Ibañez + drive to Coyhaique + drop off car
45-Flight to Punta Arenas (1h30) + explore the city
46-Rent a car + drive to Puerto Natales
47-Drive to Torres del Paine in the morning + hike to the base of the towers (return to Puerto Natales for the night)
48-Torres del Paine hike 2 (return to Puerto Natales for the night)
49-Torres del Paine hike 3 (return to Puerto Natales for the night)
50-Drive to Punta Arenas
51-Flight Punta Arenas-Santiago + flight Santiago-Buenos Aires (2h)
52-Explore Buenos Aires
53-Explore Buenos Aires
54-Explore Buenos Aires
55-Flight back to France
Good evening,
We’d love to go in November to enjoy some beautiful beaches for about two weeks, preferably around Bahia, as November/December seems like a great time.
We’ve already traveled to Brazil several times and know the south of Rio as well as the region between São Luís and Fortaleza, and Chapada Diamantina...
What advice would you give us: the south with Itaparica, Morro de São Paulo, Boipeba, Barra Grande—or all four? Or maybe the north?
Thanks in advance for your help
Hi everyone, it’s been a while since I last posted!
First time in South America for me, my wife, and our 7-year-old son. I’ve put together this itinerary and would love to hear your thoughts:
Bogotá 28/07 – 30/07: Arrival. Which neighborhood and outings would you recommend? Flight to
2 Filandia 30/07 – 03/08: (255 €). Waterfalls and horseback riding, Cocora Valley, Hiking, Nearby villages. Flight to 3 Tayrona 03/08 – 07/08: Hotel La Casablanca
Hike with Tierra Nevada and the Kogui village (any feedback?). Return by inner tube for the little one. Short night hike. Second hike to La Piscina, etc., return by 🐎.
4 Cartagena 07/08 – 10/08: Air-conditioned bus. Staying in Getsemaní? Mangroves & the Castle, exploring the city.
5 Bogotá 10/08 – 12/08
Feel free to share your feedback! Have a great day!
Seb
First time in South America for me, my wife, and our 7-year-old son. I’ve put together this itinerary and would love to hear your thoughts:
Bogotá 28/07 – 30/07: Arrival. Which neighborhood and outings would you recommend? Flight to
2 Filandia 30/07 – 03/08: (255 €). Waterfalls and horseback riding, Cocora Valley, Hiking, Nearby villages. Flight to 3 Tayrona 03/08 – 07/08: Hotel La Casablanca
Hike with Tierra Nevada and the Kogui village (any feedback?). Return by inner tube for the little one. Short night hike. Second hike to La Piscina, etc., return by 🐎.
4 Cartagena 07/08 – 10/08: Air-conditioned bus. Staying in Getsemaní? Mangroves & the Castle, exploring the city.
5 Bogotá 10/08 – 12/08
Feel free to share your feedback! Have a great day!
Seb
Hi,
During an upcoming trip to Peru, we’ll have one day to explore around Arequipa (excluding Colca Canyon) with a car and driver.
We’ve got a few options:
- Toro Muerto petroglyphs and dinosaur footprints at Querulpa
- Ruta del Sillar and Quebrada de Culebrillas
What do you think? Any recommendations?
Thanks in advance! Larri
What do you think? Any recommendations?
Thanks in advance! Larri
We’re a group of 6 friends with an average age of 70, all mobile, and we’re planning a trip to Peru in September/October 2026. Below is an idea of what we’re looking for: a French-speaking guide, accommodation in 3-star hotels or homestays with comfort.
Duration: 16 to 20 days on-site.
Visit the main sites with immersion in the culture and way of life.
Which francophone agency in Peru would you recommend? Thanks
Hi there!
I’m putting together my itinerary for Brazil, looking for beautiful natural spots with wildlife, flora, and great hikes...
I’ve come across the Cananeia / Super Agui / Ilha do Mel region and the PETAR / Intervales / Alto Ribeira area.
Has anyone here been to these places? If so, do you have any recommendations for accommodations and activities?
Thanks in advance!
Best,
Olivier 🌍