Rio Gallegos Travel Guide

Discover the culture, natural attractions, hiking and biking routes, food, and more in Rio Gallegos, Patagonia.


Rio Gallegos is a city located in the southern part of Argentina’s Patagonia region. The city offers tourists a unique combination of culture, history, and natural beauty. In this travel guide, we’ll take you on a tour of Rio Gallegos’ top attractions, share hiking and biking routes, recommend the best things to do, and suggest where to eat, drink, and stay. We’ll also give you insider tips on local customs, safety, health, and how to get here and get around.

Introduction to Rio Gallegos

Rio Gallegos is a bustling city with a population of over 100,000 people. The city was founded in the 1800s and played a significant role in Patagonia’s sheep farming industry. Today, Rio Gallegos is a regional capital and an entryway to other parts of Patagonia, including El Calafate, Torres del Paine, and Ushuaia. The city is situated on the shores of the Rio Gallegos estuary and is surrounded by vast plains and rugged peaks.

List of Places to Visit in Rio Gallegos

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

Rio Gallegos is home to several museums and historical places that showcase the city’s rich history and culture. For example:

  • The Museo Virginia Choquintel: This museum displays archaeological finds, Patagonian flora and fauna, and ethnic textiles. The Virginia Choquintel museum is a must-visit for those interested in the local culture and history.
  • The Casa de Gobierno: The government house is one of Rio Gallegos’ most iconic buildings and serves as the seat of the regional government. The energy of this historical location is one of a kind.
  • The Monument to the Malvinas: This monument serves as a tribute to the Argentine soldiers who lost their lives during the Falklands War. The monument is a peace offering that many people come to see while in Rio Gallegos.

Natural Attractions of Rio Gallegos: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

There are plenty of natural attractions in Rio Gallegos that are sure to impress visitors. Here are a few recommendations:

  • The Estancia La Mimosa: A beautiful ranch located just outside the city. You can take a tour of the sheep farm and enjoy a traditional Argentinean barbecue. Horseback riding, hiking, and antique vehicle rides are also available.
  • The Laguna Azul: Laguna Azul is a stunning area that is great for picnics and taking pictures with the great peaks of the Andes mountains as the backdrop. It is also a popular resting spot for those hiking on the Ruta 40.
  • The Rio Gallegos Estuary: A large natural inlet that is home to a variety of bird species, including flamingos and black-necked swans. Duck hunting is also allowed in the region and can be an experience for some visitors.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Rio Gallegos

Rio Gallegos has more to offer than just historical places and natural attractions. The city is also home to several impressive hiking and biking trails. Here are some recommendations:

  • The Ruta 40: This route is the longest road in Argentina and runs parallel to the Andes mountains. The route is suitable for experienced mountain bikers and hikers, and you can explore the stunning mountainscape and visit numerous nearby villages.
  • The Bosque Petrificado La Leona: This forest is located about 90km from Rio Gallegos and features a hike among trees that are more than 100 million years old. This hiking route is great for people interested in seeing unique geographic areas and stopping to take photos.
  • The Laguna del Rincón: This saline lake is situated about 30 km from Rio Gallegos and is a popular hiking destination. The blue-green lake water is shallow and salty, and it’s perfect for a refreshing swim.

Best Things to Do in Rio Gallegos: Activities and Tours

The city has plenty of things to do for those interested in experiencing more than just natural locations and museums. Here are a few recommendations:

  • The Riverside Walkway: The Rio Gallegos waterfront walkway is a great place to leisurely walk or bike and soak up the city’s fantastic scenery. There are many historical buildings and options for food as you make your way down the walkway.
  • The Artisan Market: In the center of the city, you can find the local artisan market, where you can get handmade crafts and jewelry from local artisans.
  • The Cerro Cóndor: Cerro Cóndor is a 700-meter-high mountain that offers an awe-inspiring vista of the city and surrounding area. However, it is best to hire a four-wheel drive vehicle or an organized tour to take you up the mountain as it is difficult to navigate.

Week-Long Itinerary for Rio Gallegos

If you’re planning to spend a week in Rio Gallegos, here is an itinerary you can follow:

Day 1: Check-in to your hotel or hostel in the city center. Go for a walk around the town to get a feel for the location and eat at one of the local restaurants.

Day 2: Visit the Museo Virginia Choquintel and Casa de Gobierno. After lunch, take a stroll down to the waterfront walkway to see some of the historical buildings.

Day 3: Take tour outside the city to visit Estancia La Mimosa, where you can experience a traditional Argentinean barbecue and ranch life.

Day 4: Head out on the Ruta 40 to see the mountainscape and visit the nearby villages.

Day 5: Explore outdoor locations near the city, such as the Laguna Azul.

Day 6: Hire a vehicle or a tour guide to visit Cerro Cóndor and experience the unbelievable vista from the highest point near the city.

Day 7: Head to the artisan market and finish your day with a nice meal at a local restaurant before departing from the city.

Food and Drink Scene of Rio Gallegos

Argentine cuisine is famous all over the world, and Rio Gallegos is no exception. Here are some must-try dishes and local beverages to sample in Rio Gallegos:

Must-Try Dishes

  • Asado: Argentine barbecue is a must-have experience at least once while you’re in the country. Visit one of the many grills around town for an unforgettable meal.
  • Patagonian Lamb: Patagonia is known for its succulent lamb and is a popular dish in the region.
  • Pastries: There are a variety of local bakeries that sell delicious pastries and desserts.

Local Beverages

  • Malbec: This red wine is Argentina’s most famous wine and is a must-try while visiting the country.
  • Mate: A traditional Argentinian beverage made by soaking yerba mate leaves in hot water.

Where to Stay in Rio Gallegos: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

There are accommodations for every budget available in Rio Gallegos. Here are some of our recommendations:

  • Hotel Santa Cruz: A budget-friendly option that provides comfortable lodging and excellent customer service.
  • Hotel Patagonia: A mid-range hotel that offers excellent hospitality and comfortable rooms at affordable prices.
  • Hotel Comodoro Rivadavia: A top-end hotel that offers well-appointed rooms, top-notch amenities, and excellent cuisine.

What to Buy in Rio Gallegos: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Rio Gallegos has a wide variety of souvenirs to pick up before leaving, including:

  • Woolen Goods: Patagonia is known for its super-soft wool and makes perfect wearable memorabilia to carry with you, such as scarves, hats, and socks.
  • Leather Products: Argentinean leather craftsmen are amongst the best in the world, and Rio Gallegos is a great place to find handmade leather products, such as jackets and belts.
  • Regional Crafts: You can find a wide range of regional crafts like pottery, textiles, and jewelry at local markets.

Local Culture and Customs of Rio Gallegos

The people in Rio Gallegos are friendly and hospitable. Visitors are greeted with warmth and are often invited to join locals in cultural celebrations. People tend to dress conservatively, and it is essential to be mindful of this when deciding on what clothing to wear.

Best Time to Visit Rio Gallegos

The best time to visit Rio Gallegos is in the summer months, from December to February, when the weather is mild, and outdoor activities are more enjoyable. In contrast, it’s best to avoid traveling to Rio Gallegos in July and August when it is the rainy season and considerably quieter.

Do’s and Don’ts of Rio Gallegos

Do:

  • Greet people with a smile and be polite.
  • Wear modest clothing that covers your shoulders and knees.
  • Try the local food and wine.
  • Learn a few Spanish phrases before your trip.

Don’t:

  • Drink water from the tap as it is not always healthy.
  • Take photographs of people without their permission.
  • Touch or interfere with wildlife in natural parks.
  • Show up late for tours or activities without notifying your coordinator.

Safety and Health

Safety in Rio Gallegos

Rio Gallegos is a relatively safe city, and visitors can feel secure walking around, even at night. However, it is advisable to keep an eye on your possessions and avoid carrying expensive items when traveling through less touristy locations.

Health in Rio Gallegos

It’s advisable to drink bottled water to stay healthy while traveling in Rio Gallegos. Consult a doctor or a travel clinic before visiting Patagonia to avoid any travel-related illnesses. Take common-sense precautions like carrying insect repellent if you are visiting more rural locations.

Getting to Rio Gallegos: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Rio Gallegos

The best way to get to Rio Gallegos by air is through the Rio Gallegos International Airport (RGL). The airport is serviced by six flights from Buenos Aires daily, by the largest airlines in Argentina, such as Aerolineas Argentinas and LATAM. 6

Bus Stations Near Rio Gallegos

It’s possible to take a bus to Rio Gallegos as it is well connected with other major cities in Argentina. Visitors can take a long-distance bus to the Rio Gallegos Bus Terminal, where further transportation is provided.

Other Options

It is possible to drive to Rio Gallegos, but you have to be cautious of the road conditions and the fact that the journey may be long, especially if you are coming from Buenos Aires or Santiago.

How to Get Around in Rio Gallegos

Visitors can get around in Rio Gallegos through public transportation such as local buses or taxis. Car rental is also available, but it’s essential to pay attention to road conditions and be mindful of pedestrians.

Where to Go Next from Rio Gallegos: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

There are plenty of destinations near Rio Gallegos that visitors may enjoy visiting, such as El Calafate, South America’s glaciers’ house. Visitors can also cross the border into Chile and visit Torres del Paine national park. Tierra del Fuego is nearby and provides an opportunity to visit the southernmost parts of the world.

Conclusion

Rio Gallegos is an excellent location for anyone interested in natural beauty, history, and culture. With many natural locations, exquisite cuisine, and lots of outdoors activities available, Rio Gallegos offers tourists a great experience. To fully experience this location, try to learn more about the culture, take tours to its historical places, and visit the natural wonders around it.

Old locomotive at Museo Ferroviario Old locomotive at Museo Ferroviario