Route 9 Scenic Drive

Ruta Nacional 9

The dramatic highway connecting El Chaltén and El Calafate, offering some of Argentina's most scenic driving through mountain passes and wide Patagonian steppes. The route provides numerous pullouts and views showcasing the region's geological features.

Things to do

• Laguna de los Tres Picos viewpoint — A pullout along Route 9 offering views of three distinctive peaks reflected in glacial meltwater lakes, accessible by short walk from the highway.
• Piedra del Fraile scenic stop — A historic estancia landmark visible from Route 9 that marks a junction point in the landscape and offers photo opportunities of Patagonian steppe.
• Mirador de los Glaciares — A designated pullout along the route providing panoramic views toward the Fitz Roy massif and surrounding mountain ranges.
• Laguna Torre trailhead visit — Located off Route 9 near El Chaltén, this accessible hike leads to views of Cerro Torre and its surrounding peaks with glacial lake reflections.
• Perito Moreno Glacier viewpoint drive — The final scenic stretch of Route 9 descends toward El Calafate with multiple pullouts showcasing vast Patagonian landscapes before reaching the glacier access.
• Estancia María Behety stop — A historic working ranch visible from Route 9 representing traditional Patagonian sheep farming and guanaco herding culture.

Food to try

• Cordero Patagónico (Patagonian lamb) — Slow-cooked lamb from regional estancias, tender and flavorful from grass-fed herds grazing the Patagonian steppe, served in restaurants along the route.
• Empanadas de carne — Local beef-filled pastries made with regional beef, available at small cafés and service stops along Route 9 between El Chaltén and El Calafate.
• Trucha a la parrilla (grilled trout) — Fresh-caught Patagonian river trout grilled over wood fires, a staple in lodges and restaurants accessible from Route 9 near El Chaltén.
• Pan casero (homemade bread) — Rustic sourdough and whole-grain breads baked daily in small estancias and roadside stops, often served warm with butter and local preserves.
• Choripán — Grilled chorizo sausage in crusty bread with chimichurri, sold at service stations and small vendors along the route for quick roadside meals.

Local customs & good to know

• Plan for variable mountain weather — Conditions on Route 9 change rapidly with altitude and season; carry layers and check forecasts as snow and wind can affect driving even in summer months.
• Respect estancia property and wildlife — The route passes through private ranching land where guanacos and other Patagonian wildlife roam; stay on marked pullouts and do not approach animals.
• Fill fuel tanks in towns — Service stations are sparse between El Chaltén and El Calafate; always refuel in either town before driving the 220 km route to avoid running empty.
• Drive defensively in wind — Route 9 crosses exposed Patagonian steppe where sudden gusts can affect vehicle control, especially for campers and trucks; reduce speed during windy conditions.