Nestled in the breathtaking Patagonian region of Argentina, Trevelin is a hidden gem that attracts travelers seeking both natural beauty and a taste of adventure. This quaint town, known for its Welsh heritage, picturesque landscapes, and proximity to some of Patagonia’s most spectacular outdoor destinations, is a must-visit for those with a sense of wanderlust.
However, getting to Trevelin requires a bit of effort and adventure in itself. Fortunately, whether you’re flying in from a major city or embarking on an epic road trip through rugged Patagonia, there are several scenic and adventurous routes to reach this captivating destination. Here’s a comprehensive guide to help you find the best ways to reach Trevelin, for the bold and the daring traveler.
1. Flying to Trevelin: The Easiest Way to Begin Your Adventure
While Trevelin doesn’t have its own airport, the nearest commercial airport is in Esquel, just 24 kilometers away from the town. This is by far the easiest route for most travelers flying into Patagonia.
Getting to Esquel:
- From Buenos Aires:
There are daily flights from Aeroparque Jorge Newbery (Buenos Aires) to Esquel Airport (ESQ). The flight takes approximately 2 hours and 15 minutes, making it a convenient option for travelers coming from Argentina’s capital. Once you land in Esquel, you can easily get a taxi, shuttle, or rent a car to drive the 24 km to Trevelin. The scenic drive takes around 30 minutes and offers incredible views of the surrounding valleys and mountains. - From Bariloche:
For those coming from San Carlos de Bariloche, a popular gateway to Patagonia, there are domestic flights to Esquel, typically taking around 1 hour. Bariloche itself is well connected to major cities like Buenos Aires and Mendoza, so this is an excellent starting point for those traveling through Patagonia.
From Esquel Airport to Trevelin:
- By Car:
Renting a car at Esquel Airport is one of the best options, as it gives you flexibility to explore the surrounding areas at your own pace. The route to Trevelin is straightforward and well-paved, making it ideal for a scenic drive through Patagonia’s vast landscapes. Along the way, you’ll pass forests, rivers, and fields, with views of the Andes mountains in the distance. - Public Transport:
If you prefer not to drive, there are buses that run regularly from Esquel to Trevelin, typically taking 30 minutes to an hour. The bus journey is comfortable and offers a local experience of Patagonia.
2. Overland Adventure: Driving Through Patagonia’s Rugged Beauty
For the truly adventurous, driving to Trevelin is one of the best ways to explore the Patagonian wilderness at your own pace. A road trip through Patagonia is not just about getting from point A to point B it’s about immersing yourself in some of the most awe-inspiring landscapes on the planet.
From Bariloche to Trevelin: The Scenic Route
If you’re coming from Bariloche, one of the most iconic destinations in Patagonia, prepare yourself for a scenic road trip that offers unforgettable views of mountains, lakes, and valleys.
- Route:
The drive from Bariloche to Trevelin takes about 3 to 4 hours. The most common route is along Ruta Nacional 40 (National Route 40), which is one of Argentina’s most famous roads and stretches across the length of the country. This stretch of the road takes you through lush forests, past the sparkling Lake Nahuel Huapi, and through open Patagonian plains. Along the way, you’ll find several small towns and picturesque stops that are perfect for exploring, such as Villa La Angostura and El Bolsón. - Highlights:
Make sure to stop at Los Alerces National Park on your way to Trevelin. Known for its ancient alerce trees, the park offers some of the most spectacular views in the region and is a great place to stretch your legs. You can hike, fish, or simply relax by the lake before continuing your journey.
From El Calafate to Trevelin: Crossing Patagonia’s Wild Heart
For those coming from the southern parts of Patagonia, such as El Calafate (the gateway to the stunning Perito Moreno Glacier), the drive to Trevelin is a longer but immensely rewarding journey. The total drive takes around 8 to 10 hours, depending on the route, but it’s worth it for the stunning scenery and remote wilderness you’ll pass through.
- Route:
From El Calafate, head north on Ruta 40, passing through the Santa Cruz Province and into Chubut Province. You’ll drive through the Patagonian steppe, a vast and stark landscape where the land meets the sky in endless horizons. Along the way, you’ll pass small towns like Perito Moreno and Tehuelches, offering a true sense of the remote and rugged beauty of southern Patagonia. - Highlights:
While the drive is long, it offers amazing photographic opportunities, particularly if you’re interested in capturing the stark, otherworldly beauty of Patagonia’s steppe. There are also opportunities to stop at lesser-known landmarks like the Cueva de las Manos (Cave of the Hands), famous for its ancient rock art.
3. Bus Travel: Comfortable and Cost-Effective
For those who want to enjoy the Patagonian scenery without the hassle of driving, buses are a great option to reach Trevelin. Argentine bus companies offer comfortable, long-distance travel with various amenities, making it a practical and affordable way to get around.
- From Buenos Aires to Trevelin:
If you’re coming from Buenos Aires, buses operate regularly from the main terminal, Terminal de Ómnibus de Retiro, to Esquel. The journey takes about 20 to 24 hours, depending on the route. Once you arrive in Esquel, you can take a local bus or taxi to Trevelin. - From Bariloche to Trevelin:
A shorter journey by bus is from Bariloche, which takes about 3 hours. Buses leave regularly from the Bariloche Bus Terminal and offer a comfortable ride through Patagonia’s rugged landscape.
While bus travel is slower than flying or driving yourself, it’s an excellent opportunity to relax and watch the spectacular scenery unfold as you make your way through Patagonia.
4. Cycling Through Patagonia: For the Boldest of Adventurers
For the most intrepid travelers, cycling to Trevelin offers a truly immersive experience of Patagonia. The region is known for its rugged, wild beauty, and what better way to explore it than by bike?
While it’s a challenging ride, Ruta 40 offers cyclists a route through Patagonia’s most iconic landscapes. Expect long stretches of road with few services along the way, so planning and preparation are key. However, the experience of cycling through such stunning surroundings, from snow-capped mountains to wind-swept plains, is a once-in-a-lifetime adventure for those who are up for it.
Conclusion: Your Journey Awaits
Trevelin, with its rich history, stunning natural landscapes, and abundance of outdoor activities, is truly worth the effort to get there. Whether you’re flying in, taking a scenic road trip, hopping on a bus, or even cycling through the wild heart of Patagonia, the journey to Trevelin is as much an adventure as the destination itself.
So, pack your bags, buckle up, and prepare for an unforgettable journey to one of Patagonia’s best-kept secrets. Trevelin awaits—an explorer’s paradise in the heart of southern Argentina!
Trevelin 