Argentina is a big country with long distances between some of the major attractions. I could only find one long-distance train, the Patagonia Train between Bariloche and Viedma. I found it impossible to book outside of Argentina and when we got there the train was sold out.
The buses were easy to book. We often bought our tickets just a couple of days ahead. I loved that you could select your own seat. Most buses where double decker and if you bought tickets early you could get a top front seat with plenty of leg room and amazing views.
Many buses had only three seats across, two on one side and one on the other side of the aisle. This is perfect for the solo traveler who doesn’t like to sit next to a stranger.
On this overnight bus there were curtains to pull across the window and across the aisle. I liked being in my own little space when sleeping at night.
Often twenty plus hours in length, these were not short bus journeys. At least one meal was usually provided, and it was always acceptable food. However, if you have dietary concerns make sure you bring all the food and drinks you will need for a trip of this duration. Sometimes water or even coffee was provided but nothing on buses is guaranteed, and supplies do run out.
These buses did not have rest stops where you could get off the bus and buy food or drinks. They traveled with two drivers who switched off driving while the other one slept. The buses did stop along the way to drop off and pick up passengers, but the stops were short and for that purpose only.
Bus journeys are an experience, and they allow you to see the countryside as well as towns and cities along the route. Although more expensive, we did take a couple of flights as well. Check the options and prices of both when you have a tentative itinerary in mind. There might be only one fight a day to your desired destination and backtracking through Buenos Aires to change planes may be required.
Below I have listed our route through Argentina. We did not go down to the southern tip which requires a lot more time due to distance, as well as limited buses and planes. Instead we spent more time in the Salta and surrounding area which I totally loved.
Puerto Montt, Chile Bus to Bariloche, Argentina
Bariloche, Argentina Bus Overnight to Trelew, Bus to Puerto Madryn
Puerto Madryn, Argentina Bus to Trelew, Flight to Buenos Aires
Buenos Aires, Argentina Bus Overnight to Iguazu Falls
Iguazu Falls, Argentina Flight to Salta
Salta, Argentina Private vehicle tour north & south of Salta
Salta, Argentina Flight to Mendoza, Argentina
Mendoza, Argentina Day Bus to Santiago and on to Valparaiso, Chile
Argentina is a country where lots of research ahead of time will help you plan the best route to your must-see points of interest. Traveling without a plan may be difficult if you don’t have lots of time to wait for the next plane or bus out of a location.
The places we saw in Argentina were all spectacular, so I highly recommend a visit even if it means taking some long bus rides.
Check out some of my other posts for more pictures and information.
Amazing Sights in Chile & Argentina
Iguazu Falls, Amazing & Beautiful!
