The best road cycling routes in Argentina

Argentina offers a wide variety of road cycling routes. There are over 70 routes available, catering to different skill levels, from easy urban loops to challenging mountain ascents. The komoot community has explored more than 1000 road cycling tours across the country.

For those seeking an easier ride, Argentina provides several accessible options. An excellent choice is the Nordelta Circuit – Puente Eva Perón loop from Rincón de Milberg, which is 22.8 km long with minimal elevation gain. Urban green spaces also offer gentle routes, such as the El Rosedal (Rose Garden) – Carlos Tejedor Monument loop from San Isidro C, an easy 37.3 km ride.

Argentina's diverse landscapes offer breathtaking sights. In Patagonia, you can cycle past stunning lakes like Capri Lagoon and Esmeralda Lagoon, or explore areas near Tierra del Fuego National Park. The Northwest features unique geological formations like the multihued mountains of Quebrada de Humahuaca and the vast Salinas Grandes. Mendoza offers rides through picturesque vineyards with the majestic Andes as a backdrop.

Absolutely. Argentina is home to 17 difficult road cycling routes, many featuring significant elevation changes. The Camino del Cuadrado – El Embudo loop from Tristán Narvaja is a challenging 116.6 km route with over 1400 meters of ascent. In Patagonia, routes like the Trail through the forest – Parking Area loop from Monte Olivia offer nearly 1000 meters of climbing over 72.7 km, providing a significant physical test.

Due to Argentina's vast size and diverse climates, the best time varies by region. Generally, spring (September to November) and autumn (March to May) offer pleasant temperatures for most areas. Patagonia is best explored in its summer (December to February) to avoid harsh winds and cold, while the high-altitude passes in the Northwest are more accessible during warmer months, though temperatures can still vary significantly.

The road cycling experience in Argentina is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.8 stars from over 64 reviews. Cyclists frequently praise the stunning and varied landscapes, from the serene Patagonian lakes and challenging Andean foothills to the unique northern canyons. The network offers options for different ability levels, ensuring there's something for everyone.

Many routes in Argentina provide spectacular viewpoints. The Seven Lakes Route in Patagonia, for instance, offers continuous scenic vistas of forests and crystal-clear lakes. The Viewpoint of Lake Machónico – San Martín de los Andes loop from San Martín de los Andes is a difficult 60.3 km route specifically designed to showcase stunning lake views. High-altitude passes in the Northwest, such as Lipan Pass, also provide panoramic views of the multihued mountains and salt flats.

Yes, many road cycling routes in Argentina are designed as loops, offering a convenient way to start and end your ride at the same point. Examples include the Palermo Green Bridge – El Rosedal (Rose Garden) loop from Doctor Albert Schweitzer in Buenos Aires and the Ruca Malen Wooden Bridge – Lake Correntoso Viewpoint loop from Villa La Angostura in Patagonia.

For families, it's best to choose routes with less traffic and gentler terrain. Urban parks, such as those found in Buenos Aires, offer safe and easy loops. The vineyard regions of Mendoza also provide scenic, relatively flat routes through picturesque landscapes, with many wineries being bike-friendly. Look for routes marked as 'easy' in the guide for the most family-friendly options.

Argentina is famous for epic long-distance routes. The iconic Ruta 40, stretching over 5,000 km, offers a diverse and challenging journey alongside the Andes. While not entirely paved, sections provide incredible road cycling opportunities. Another renowned route is the Seven Lakes Route (Ruta de los Siete Lagos) in Patagonia, a scenic, mostly paved stretch between San Carlos de Bariloche and San Martín de los Andes, perfect for multi-day tours.

Argentina's Patagonian region is particularly rich in lake-side cycling opportunities. The Seven Lakes Route is a prime example, winding through stunning forests and crystal-clear lakes. Routes like the Lácar Lake – San Martín de los Andes loop from San Martín de los Andes offer extensive cycling along beautiful lake shores, providing serene views and refreshing air.

Yes, especially in Northwest Argentina. The Quebrada de Humahuaca, a UNESCO World Heritage site, is famous for its multihued mountains and narrow valleys, offering a unique cycling experience through stunning canyons. You can also explore areas near Quebrada de San Lorenzo or the red-rock canyons of the Calchaquíes Valleys for dramatic scenery.