The Cost of a Trip Between Buenos Aires and San Miguel de Tucumán: Exploring the Different Routes
Planning a trip from Buenos Aires, Ciudad Autónoma de Buenos Aires, to San Miguel de Tucumán, Tucumán, can be an exciting and thrilling experience. Whether you're going for business or pleasure, there are a few things to keep in mind when calculating the costs of your trip. One of the most significant factors to consider is the mode of transportation and the route you take. In this article, we will explore the different routes between Buenos Aires and San Miguel de Tucumán, detailing the cost of each, and recommending the best route.
Route Options
By Car
If you're planning on driving from Buenos Aires to Tucumán, you have two options: the RN9, which takes you directly through the Pampas and northwards through Rosario and Córdoba, or the RN8, which passes through the Mesopotamian region of Argentina. The distance between Buenos Aires and Tucumán via RN9 is approximately 1,170 km and will take you about 15 hours of driving. In contrast, the distance via RN8 is significantly more at about 1,430 km. However, it can potentially take less time, depending on traffic conditions and the quality of the highway.
By Bus
If you're not up for the long drive, you can opt to take a bus from Buenos Aires to Tucumán. There are several companies that offer this service, including FlechaBus, Andesmar, and Chevallier. Depending on the time of day, the trip can take anywhere between 14-22 hours and can cost between 1,188 ARS and 2,500 ARS, depending on the company and the type of seat you choose. The buses are generally quite comfortable, with varying degrees of amenities, including air conditioning, snacks, and meals.
By Plane
Finally, if time is of the essence, you can take a flight from Buenos Aires to Tucumán. There are several airlines operating the route, including Aerolíneas Argentinas, LATAM, and FlyBondi. Flights generally take around 2 hours and can cost anywhere from 3,300 ARS to 7,000 ARS depending on the airline and how far in advance you book.
Which Route Option Is the Most Cost-Effective?
Now that we've outlined the cost and duration of each route option, which one is the most cost-effective? It really depends on a few factors.
If you're traveling alone, driving your own car is likely the most affordable option, especially if you're splitting the cost of gas with friends or family. The cost of gas will vary depending on the fuel efficiency of your vehicle, as well as the current gas prices, so it's important to calculate the estimated cost of gas for your specific car before embarking on your trip. At the time of writing, the average gas price in Argentina is around 98 ARS per liter, and it's been estimated that it will take approximately 90 liters of gas to drive from Buenos Aires to Tucumán, which would mean a total cost of 8,820 ARS for a round trip.
Buses can be a cost-effective option, particularly if you're traveling with others or purchase your tickets well in advance. Fares can be quite affordable, with some companies offering one-way tickets for as little as 1,188 ARS. Keep in mind that the most comfortable seats and amenities, like air conditioning and snacks, will cost more.
If you're short on time, flying is the best option. Flights are not only the quickest but also quite affordable, especially if you book in advance. Depending on the airline, you can purchase one-way tickets for as little as 3,300 ARS.
Recommendations
Overall, the best route option depends on your specific needs and preferences. If you're traveling with multiple people, driving your own car can be the most cost-effective option. However, if time is of the essence, taking a flight can save you a lot of hassle and get you to Tucumán much quicker. As we mentioned earlier, buses can also be a good option, especially if you're on a budget and don't mind spending more time on the road.
Conclusion
In summary, there are several options to choose from when traveling between Buenos Aires and Tucumán. Driving your own car is the most cost-effective, but can be tiring and time-consuming. Buses can be quite affordable, but take longer than flying. Flights are the quickest but can be more expensive, especially if you don't book in advance. Whatever option you choose, make sure to calculate the costs and travel time beforehand to ensure that you make the most of your trip. Safe travels!