Patagonian Desert, Patagonia Travel Guide

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Discover the untamed beauty of the Patagonian Desert: a cold desert with unique wildlife, stunning landscapes, and rich history.

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Patagonian Desert

Spanning over 673,000 square kilometers, the Patagonian Desert is Argentina's largest and the world's eighth-largest desert. Characterized by its arid climate, strong winds, and unique wildlife, it offers a captivating experience for adventurers and nature enthusiasts.

A brief summary to Patagonian Desert

Río Negro Province, AR

From Eve

Know before you go

Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring Patagonian Desert.

Bring plenty of water and sunscreen, as the desert can be extremely hot and dry during the day.
Pack layered clothing to prepare for the temperature drop in the evenings.
Consider visiting during the early morning or late afternoon for the best light for photography.
Respect the local wildlife and maintain a safe distance when observing animals.
Check for any local regulations or requirements before hiking or exploring remote areas.

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Explore Patagonian Desert on the Map

A handpicked selection of must-see spots near Patagonian Desert, mapped for you.

Getting There

Car

To reach the Patagonian Desert by car, a good starting point is the town of Perito Moreno in Central Patagonia. From there, take Route 43 south towards Los Antiguos. After approximately 120 km, you'll reach the junction with Route 40. Turn left onto Route 40 and continue south for about 200 km. As you approach the Río Negro Province, watch for signs directing you to the Patagonian Desert. Keep in mind that the desert area spans a large region, so explore various access points depending on your interests.
Public Transport

To reach the Patagonian Desert by public transport, you can take a bus from the nearby town of Perito Moreno. Bus services are available that head south on Route 40 towards Esquel. Confirm schedules and routes with local bus companies such as 'Via Bariloche' or 'Andesmar'. Book your ticket in advance, especially during peak tourist seasons. The journey may take several hours, and upon arriving at the nearest bus stop, arrange for a taxi or local transport to take you into the desert area, as public transportation directly into the desert is limited. A bus ticket from Perito Moreno to Esquel typically costs around AR$2,000-AR$4,000.
Taxi/Rideshare

Once you are in a nearby town such as Los Antiguos or Perito Moreno, you might consider hiring a taxi or using a rideshare service to reach specific areas within the Patagonian Desert. Ensure that you agree on a fare beforehand, as some drivers might not use a meter. This option provides flexibility and allows you to access more remote locations within the desert. A taxi or rideshare from Los Antiguos to a specific point in the desert might cost around AR$1,500-AR$3,000, depending on the distance.

Discover more about Patagonian Desert

The Patagonian Desert, also known as the Patagonian Steppe, is a vast, semi-arid region primarily located in Argentina, with parts extending into Chile. It's a land of dramatic contrasts, where rugged landscapes meet expansive skies, and unique wildlife roams freely. Unlike typical hot deserts, the Patagonian Desert is classified as a cold desert, with average temperatures rarely exceeding 12°C.The desert's formation is largely due to the rain shadow effect created by the Andes Mountains, which block moisture from the Pacific Ocean. This results in an arid climate with sparse vegetation, mainly consisting of hardy shrubs and grasses. Despite the harsh conditions, the Patagonian Desert is home to a diverse array of flora and fauna, including guanacos, pumas, rheas, and various bird species.The region has a rich history, inhabited by hunter-gatherers since pre-Hispanic times. In the 19th century, Argentine, Welsh, and other European peoples migrated to the area, transforming it from a conflictive borderland into an integral part of Argentina. Today, the Patagonian Desert offers a variety of attractions for tourists, including the Cueva de las Manos (Cave of Hands) with ancient rock art, the Petrified Forests, and the stunning landscapes of the Patagonian Steppe.While exploring the Patagonian Desert, visitors can engage in activities such as hiking, wildlife watching, and stargazing. The clear night skies, far removed from urban light pollution, provide excellent opportunities for observing the stars. The region's indigenous communities also offer cultural experiences, allowing travelers to immerse themselves in the traditions and history of the land. However, it's important to be mindful of the environment and respect the local wildlife to ensure the preservation of this unique and fragile ecosystem.