The Patagonian Train, one of Argentina’s greatest tourism icons, is back in operation, offering a range of fascinating tours that connect the stunning landscapes of the Andes Mountain Range to the vastness of the Patagonian Steppes. Traveling through the vast and breathtaking regions of the Río Negro province, this tourist service is one of the most exciting ways to explore the wild and unique nature of Patagonia. Tourists who board this train have the opportunity to connect with the heart of Argentina on a journey filled with history, culture, and breathtaking views.
Among the most sought-after tours is the route between Bariloche and Viedma, one of the Patagonian Train’s most iconic journeys. Bariloche, located at the foot of the Andes, is a world-renowned destination known for its alpine landscapes, ski resorts, and crystal-clear lakes. This city, one of Argentina’s main tourist hubs, serves as the starting point for an unforgettable trip toward Viedma, the capital of the Río Negro province.
The journey from Bariloche to Viedma traverses the province from east to west, offering passengers a unique view of the diverse landscapes that Patagonia has to offer. Along the way, passengers can spot the Andes Mountains, with their imposing peaks, and the calm waters of various lakes that dot the region. The train passes through picturesque villages, small rivers, and vast areas of forests and green fields, providing an immersive experience in the untouched nature of the area. This route offers an authentic experience, making passengers feel as though they are part of the magnificent Patagonian landscape.
Additionally, tourists can enjoy the changing landscapes as they transition from snow-covered mountains to the Patagonian Steppes, a region of vast dry plains and strong winds. Throughout the journey, there are several stops where passengers can take photos and enjoy the scenery.
One of the most fascinating options of the Patagonian Train is the night trip from San Antonio Oeste to Bariloche. Departing at 7:00 PM from the city of San Antonio Oeste, located on Argentina’s Atlantic coast, the train heads toward Bariloche. This trip offers a completely different perspective of Patagonia, as traveling at night allows passengers to experience the mystical and peaceful atmosphere of the region, illuminated only by the stars and the soft light of the train’s lamps.
During the journey, passengers can admire the vastness of the Patagonian desert under the night sky, with constellations visible in one of the clearest and purest skies in the world. The experience is a true immersion in the serenity and untouched beauty of the region, with a touch of mystery and romance provided by the night.
Another popular trip on the Patagonian Train is the route to Los Juncos, a small stop located in the heart of the Patagonian Steppes. This tour lasts about 50 minutes and takes tourists from Bariloche Station to the Perito Moreno station, located in Los Juncos, an area known for its stunning and contrasting landscapes.
The experience at Los Juncos gives passengers the opportunity to observe the contrast between the imposing Andes Mountains and the vast, arid landscapes of the Patagonian Steppes. This visual contrast between snow-capped peaks and the desert, with its shrub fields and dry soil, is one of the main attractions of the journey.
Upon arrival at the Perito Moreno station, tourists are welcomed with a typical Argentine dinner at the famous Casa de Té, where they can sample a range of traditional local dishes such as empanadas, milanesas, and homemade pies, accompanied by quality Patagonian wines. The dinner is followed by a folkloric Argentine performance, with typical dances and music, allowing tourists to experience the culture and traditions of the region in an engaging and lively manner. After the show, passengers return to Bariloche, feeling as though they’ve embarked on a true cultural and gastronomic journey through Patagonia.
The Patagonian Train tours operate regularly on Fridays and Saturdays, with departures at 7:00 PM and returns at 11:00 PM. Prices vary depending on the type of car chosen. For children aged 4 to 12, tickets cost 81,000 Argentine pesos, while adults who are not residents of Río Negro province pay 110,000 Argentine pesos. Reservations can easily be made through the official Patagonian Train website, which also offers detailed information about each type of tour and available options to customize the journey.
In addition to the described options, the Tren Patagónico company also offers a unique experience on a steam train more than 100 years old: the famous La Trochita, also known as El Viejo Expreso Patagónico. Located in the city of Ingeniero Jacobacci, about 200 km from Bariloche, this train is a true historical relic, transporting passengers back in time to Patagonia’s past.
The La Trochita trip departs from Ingeniero Jacobacci and travels 15 km to the town of Empalmes 648, on a journey lasting 1 hour and 55 minutes. During the ride, passengers can enjoy the region’s landscapes on an authentic steam train, with a nostalgic charm that harks back to old times. The journey is an immersive experience, where passengers can hear the characteristic sound of the train whistle and the clatter of wheels on the tracks, as steam billows from the locomotives, creating a unique and unforgettable atmosphere.
The price for the La Trochita trip is 36,000 Argentine pesos for an adult, not including transportation to Ingeniero Jacobacci Station or the optional lunch. For history and train travel enthusiasts, this is an unmissable experience, providing a glimpse into Patagonia’s past, a region that, despite the passage of time, retains its unique and untouched essence.
The Patagonian Train is not just a train ride, but a true immersion into the landscapes, cultures, and traditions of Argentine Patagonia. Whether exploring the mountains of the Andes, crossing the vast Patagonian Steppes, or experiencing the history of La Trochita, each trip offers something special, taking tourists to one of the most fascinating and remote destinations in the world. For those seeking a unique and authentic experience, the Patagonian Train is undoubtedly one of the best ways to explore this magical and unexplored region.
