Tolls in Argentina

How does the toll system work in Argentina?

In Argentina, the toll system is widely used for road and highway maintenance. Unlike some countries where tolls are only paid on specific sections, Argentina has a significant number of toll plazas distributed along the main national routes and roads, especially near large cities.

Payment Types

Most toll booths in Argentina accept:

• Money (Argentine pesos) : This is still the most common method of payment, but it's always good to have small bills on hand, as some places don't accept cards or large denominations of cash.

  
  

• Debit and Credit Cards : Some toll plazas on major highways accept cards, but don't count on it at all of them. The system may be unstable or the machine may be out of service.

  
  

• TAG device (TelePASE) : This is the equivalent of our automatic payment system. It allows you to pass through toll lanes without stopping, automatically debiting the amount from your account. Ideal for those who are going on a long trip and want to avoid queues.

  
  

Important Tip : If you are renting a car, check if the vehicle already has the TelePASE device installed. This can speed up your trip and avoid the hassle of having to handle cash at each toll plaza.

Tolls on the route from Colón to Buenos Aires

If you're going to travel the stretch connecting Colón to Buenos Aires , be prepared to pass through several toll plazas. This route is quite busy and has good roads, but the toll costs can be a surprise for those unfamiliar with it.

Main Tolls on the Route:

Gualeguaychú Toll : This is the first toll after leaving Colón on RN 14. It's an important toll plaza as it's on one of the main routes for those coming from Uruguay. The cost varies between $500 and $800 Argentine pesos, depending on the type of vehicle.

Ceibas Toll : Following RN 12, you will find this toll plaza before entering the province of Buenos Aires. The price is similar, between $500 and $800 pesos.

Zárate - Brazo Largo Toll : This toll plaza is located on RN 12, shortly before crossing the famous Zárate-Brazo Largo bridge, one of the most iconic points on the route. Tolls here tend to be slightly higher due to bridge maintenance, potentially reaching $1000 pesos.

Campana Toll : As you approach Buenos Aires, you will pass through the Campana toll. This is one of the last tolls before entering the metropolitan area of the capital and costs approximately 800 Argentine pesos.

Note : Prices may vary, especially during peak season. Be prepared to pay a little more if you are traveling in the summer or on holidays.

Below is the amount I paid at one of the toll booths on Route 14 heading towards Buenos Aires.

The amount paid in Argentine pesos, which on the date of travel (06/08/2024) was around R$5.00.

Useful Tips to Avoid Problems

1. Have Argentine Pesos in Cash : Although some places accept cards, there are several squares where payment is exclusively in cash. Always have Argentine pesos available, as they do not accept other currencies.

   
   

2. Use TelePASE : If you have a vehicle equipped with the device, use it. TelePASE lanes tend to have shorter lines and are faster. Additionally, some toll plazas offer discounts for those who use the system.

   
   

3. Check Road Conditions Before Setting Off : Argentine roads, especially major highways like RN 14 and RN 12, are well-maintained, but it's worth checking road conditions before starting your trip. You can do this on the Dirección Nacional de Vialidad website or use up-to-date map apps.

   
   

4. Pay attention to the prices : Toll prices can change frequently, mainly due to inflation in Argentina. Increases are usually annual, but adjustments may occur in shorter periods.

   
   
   
   

Other Toll Roads in Argentina

In addition to the stretch from Colón to Buenos Aires, there are other important sections with tolls that may impact your itinerary planning:

• Buenos Aires to Córdoba (RN 9) : One of the most popular and busiest routes, especially for tourists wishing to explore the central region of Argentina.

• Buenos Aires to Mar del Plata (RN 2) : This route is very popular during the summer, taking tourists to the famous beach of Mar del Plata. There are several toll plazas along the road, with prices ranging from $800 to $1200 pesos.