Ruta Provincial 39 – Patagonia Steppe Circuit
Endless steppe and petrified forests in wild Patagonia
RP-39 cuts a lonely line across Santa Cruz Province’s seemingly endless steppe, connecting the fossil-rich badlands near Koluel Kaike with the remote estancias of the interior plateau. This is quintessential Patagonia – endless horizons broken only by volcanic mesas, massive guanaco herds, and the occasional weathered gaucho outpost. The route passes through Monumento Natural Bosques Petrificados, where 150-million-year-old petrified forests emerge from the desert like ancient sculptures.
Moderate difficulty with excellent gravel surfaces, but the remoteness and notorious Patagonian winds make this no casual drive. Any high-clearance vehicle will handle the surface, but crosswinds can flip roof-top loads and snap awnings. Fuel up in Calafate – next services are 400+ kilometers away. Best March through November when winds are slightly less vicious. Wild camping everywhere, but bring serious wind protection. This is the Patagonia of legends: vast, unforgiving, and absolutely unforgettable.
Trail Specs
| Difficulty | Moderate |
|---|---|
| Trail Type | Overland Route |
| Surface | Gravel |
| Features | Camping, Historic, Remote, Scenic |
| Length (miles) | 186 mi / 299.3 km |
| Duration | 2-3 days |
| Max elevation (ft) | 1640 ft |
| Best season | March-November |
| Minimum vehicle | High-clearance 2WD |
| Nearest town | El Calafate, Santa Cruz |
| Land manager | Santa Cruz Provincial Government |
| Permit required | No |
| Cell service | None |
| Water crossings | Yes |
| Dispersed camping | Yes |
| Start coordinates | |
| End coordinates | |
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Location
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