Argentina, being a large country with an extensive coastline along the South Atlantic Ocean, has various types of ports for different needs. Here are the main types of ports in Argentina:
- Seaports: Seaports are crucial for maritime trade and passenger transportation. Argentina has several major seaports, including:
- Port of Buenos Aires: As the capital and largest city, Buenos Aires hosts the country’s most significant seaport, handling a substantial portion of Argentina’s imports and exports.
- Port of Bahía Blanca: Located in the province of Buenos Aires, Bahía Blanca is one of the country’s leading ports for agricultural and petrochemical exports.
- Port of Rosario: Situated along the Paraná River, Rosario is a vital seaport for agricultural exports, particularly grains and oilseeds.
- River Ports: Argentina’s extensive network of rivers, including the Paraná and Paraguay rivers, supports inland navigation and trade. River ports facilitate transportation within the country’s interior. Some key river ports include:
- Port of San Lorenzo: Located on the Paraná River near Rosario, San Lorenzo is an important river port for agricultural exports.
- Port of Santa Fe: Situated on the Paraná River in the city of Santa Fe, this port handles both river and maritime traffic.
- Oil and Gas Terminals: Argentina has specialized terminals for the export and import of petroleum products. These terminals are crucial for the country’s energy industry and international trade.
- Fishing Ports: Given Argentina’s rich marine resources, there are ports dedicated to fishing activities along the Atlantic coast. These ports support the fishing industry and seafood exports.
List of Largest Ports in Argentina
| Port Name | Type of Cargo Ships | Monthly Arrivals |
|---|---|---|
| Port of Buenos Aires | Container ships, Bulk carriers | 400 |
| Port of Bahía Blanca | Container ships, Bulk carriers | 200 |
| Port of Rosario | Container ships, Bulk carriers | 150 |
| Port of La Plata | Container ships, Bulk carriers | 100 |
| Port of San Lorenzo | Bulk carriers, Grain carriers | 80 |
| Port of San Nicolás | Bulk carriers, Grain carriers | 70 |
| Port of Quequén | Bulk carriers, Grain carriers | 60 |
| Port of Zarate-Campana | Container ships, Bulk carriers | 50 |
| Port of Puerto Deseado | Fishing vessels, Cargo ships | 40 |
| Port of Ushuaia | Container ships, Cruise ships | 30 |
| Port of Mar del Plata | Fishing vessels, Cargo ships | 30 |
| Port of Puerto Madryn | Container ships, Bulk carriers | 25 |
| Port of Comodoro Rivadavia | Oil tankers, Offshore support vessels | 20 |
| Port of Puerto San Julián | Fishing vessels, Cargo ships | 20 |
| Port of La Quiaca | Border crossing point | 10 |
Major Ports of Argentina
1. Port of Buenos Aires
Port of Buenos Aires is the largest and most important port in Argentina, handling the majority of the country’s container traffic. It serves as a critical hub for international trade and is a key player in the economic development of Argentina. The port’s infrastructure supports a wide range of cargo, including containers, general cargo, and bulk liquids. Its strategic location on the Río de la Plata makes it an essential gateway for the Mercosur trading bloc.
City Location: Buenos Aires
Latitude: -34.6118° S
Longitude: -58.3660° W
Nearby Cities:
| City | Distance (km) | Road Connection |
|---|---|---|
| La Plata | 60 | Autopista Buenos Aires-La Plata |
| Rosario | 300 | RN9 |
| Mar del Plata | 400 | RN2 |
| Pilar | 52 | RN8 |
| Luján | 68 | RN7 |
| Tigre | 33 | RP27 |
| San Isidro | 22 | RP23 |
Nearby Railway Stations:
- Retiro Station (3 km)
- Constitución Station (4 km)
- Once Station (5 km)
- Federico Lacroze Station (8 km)
- Belgrano Station (7 km)
2. Port of Rosario
Port of Rosario is located on the Paraná River and is crucial for the agricultural sector of Argentina, being the main export point for grain and soy products. It has extensive facilities for bulk cargo and is connected by waterway to major markets in Brazil, Paraguay, and Uruguay. The port’s location makes it an integral part of the Paraná-Paraguay Waterway, facilitating cargo movement to and from the interior of the continent.
City Location: Rosario
Latitude: -32.9333° S
Longitude: -60.6500° W
Nearby Cities:
| City | Distance (km) | Road Connection |
|---|---|---|
| Buenos Aires | 300 | RN9 |
| Santa Fe | 170 | RN11 |
| Paraná | 175 | RN18 |
| Córdoba | 400 | RN9 |
| San Nicolás | 70 | RN9 |
| Rafaela | 240 | RN34 |
| Pergamino | 160 | RN8 |
Nearby Railway Stations:
- Rosario Norte Station (4 km)
- Rosario Sur Station (7 km)
- Fisherton Station (10 km)
- Baigorria Station (15 km)
- Granadero Baigorria Station (17 km)
3. Port of Mar del Plata
Port of Mar del Plata is known primarily for its fishing industry, being the largest fishing port in Argentina. It also supports cargo and passenger services, including a terminal for cruise ships. The port plays a vital role in the local economy, providing thousands of jobs and significant infrastructure for seafood processing and distribution.
City Location: Mar del Plata
Latitude: -38.0333° S
Longitude: -57.5333° W
Nearby Cities:
| City | Distance (km) | Road Connection |
|---|---|---|
| Buenos Aires | 400 | RN2 |
| Tandil | 180 | RN226 |
| Balcarce | 70 | RN226 |
| Miramar | 45 | RP11 |
| Necochea | 120 | RP88 |
| Bahía Blanca | 340 | RN3 |
| La Plata | 360 | RN2 |
Nearby Railway Stations:
- Mar del Plata Station (5 km)
- Camet Station (10 km)
- Batán Station (20 km)
- Vivoratá Station (45 km)
- Otamendi Station (50 km)
4. Port of Ushuaia
Port of Ushuaia is located at the southern tip of Argentina and is the primary gateway for Antarctic cruises. Its unique geographic position makes it an essential port for tourism, scientific research, and military logistics. The port also handles general cargo and supplies for the local population and industries in Tierra del Fuego.
City Location: Ushuaia
Latitude: -54.8000° S
Longitude: -68.3000° W
Nearby Cities:
| City | Distance (km) | Road Connection |
|---|---|---|
| Río Grande | 220 | RN3 |
| Tolhuin | 115 | RN3 |
| Puerto Williams (Chile) | 30 (by sea) | N/A |
| Punta Arenas (Chile) | 250 (by sea) | N/A |
| Puerto Natales (Chile) | 360 (by sea) | N/A |
| Stanley (Falkland Islands) | 800 (by sea) | N/A |
| El Calafate | 580 | RN3 and RN40 |
Nearby Railway Stations:
- No railway stations available in Ushuaia.
5. Port of Bahía Blanca
Port of Bahía Blanca is a major export hub for grains and petrochemicals, situated in the southwest of Buenos Aires province. It has specialized terminals for the handling of crude oil, liquid bulk cargoes, and dry bulk such as fertilizers and coal. Its deep-water channels allow the accommodation of large vessels, which is critical for the export-oriented industries of the region.
City Location: Bahía Blanca
Latitude: -38.7200° S
Longitude: -62.2700° W
Nearby Cities:
| City | Distance (km) | Road Connection |
|---|---|---|
| Buenos Aires | 640 | RN3 |
| Tres Arroyos | 180 | RN3 |
| Olavarría | 350 | RN226 |
| Mar del Plata | 340 | RN3 and RN228 |
| Santa Rosa | 520 | RN35 |
| Neuquén | 960 | RN22 |
| Viedma | 560 | RN3 |
Nearby Railway Stations:
- Bahía Blanca Station (6 km)
- Ingeniero White Station (12 km)
- Punta Alta Station (25 km)
- Cabildo Station (30 km)
- Médanos Station (80 km)
6. Port of Quequén
Port of Quequén, located near Necochea, is one of the major deep-sea ports of Argentina, mainly dealing with grain and oilseed exports. Its ability to handle Panamax vessels makes it particularly important for agricultural exports. The port’s operations are closely linked with the agricultural cycles of the region, and it has facilities to store a significant amount of grain.
City Location: Quequén
Latitude: -38.5545° S
Longitude: -58.7048° W
Nearby Cities:
| City | Distance (km) | Road Connection |
|---|---|---|
| Necochea | 7 | Local Road |
| Mar del Plata | 120 | RN228 |
| Tandil | 170 | RN226 and RN228 |
| Buenos Aires | 500 | RN2 |
| Bahía Blanca | 340 | RN3 |
| La Plata | 470 | RN2 |
| Balcarce | 110 | RN226 |
Nearby Railway Stations:
- Quequén Station (2 km)
- Necochea Station (8 km)
- Lobería Station (30 km)
- Balcarce Station (110 km)
- Tandil Station (175 km)
7. Port of Puerto Madryn
Port of Puerto Madryn is located in the Patagonian region of Argentina and is primarily known for aluminum production and seafood processing. It serves as a key point for exporting aluminum and supports the fishing and tourism industries. The port’s location makes it an ideal gateway for accessing the natural attractions of Patagonia, including Peninsula Valdés.
City Location: Puerto Madryn
Latitude: -42.7692° S
Longitude: -65.0385° W
Nearby Cities:
| City | Distance (km) | Road Connection |
|---|---|---|
| Trelew | 65 | RN3 |
| Rawson | 70 | RN3 |
| Comodoro Rivadavia | 400 | RN3 |
| Esquel | 600 | RN25 and RN40 |
| Viedma | 730 | RN3 |
| Bariloche | 780 | RN40 |
| Rio Gallegos | 920 | RN3 |
Nearby Railway Stations:
- Puerto Madryn Station (3 km)
- Trelew Station (66 km)
- Rawson Station (71 km)
- Dolavon Station (90 km)
- Gaiman Station (75 km)
8. Port of San Antonio Este
Port of San Antonio Este is located on the Atlantic coast of Rio Negro Province and specializes in fruit exports, particularly apples and pears from the Rio Negro Valley. It is also a significant point for the import and export of general cargo. The port has facilities to handle refrigerated cargo, making it essential for the region’s fruit export industry.
City Location: San Antonio Este
Latitude: -40.8500° S
Longitude: -64.9167° W
Nearby Cities:
| City | Distance (km) | Road Connection |
|---|---|---|
| Viedma | 180 | RN3 |
| San Carlos de Bariloche | 480 | RN23 |
| Neuquén | 500 | RN22 |
| Bahía Blanca | 560 | RN3 |
| Puerto Madryn | 420 | RN3 |
| Trelew | 470 | RN3 |
| General Roca | 400 | RN22 |
Nearby Railway Stations:
- San Antonio Oeste Station (60 km)
- Viedma Station (180 km)
- Carmen de Patagones Station (185 km)
- General Roca Station (400 km)
- Neuquén Station (500 km)
9. Port of Comodoro Rivadavia
Port of Comodoro Rivadavia, located in the province of Chubut, is crucial for the oil industry in Argentina. It supports the offshore oil platforms in the South Atlantic and handles oil and gas exports. The port also serves general cargo and is a hub for fishing and shipping activities related to the petroleum sector.
City Location: Comodoro Rivadavia
Latitude: -45.8667° S
Longitude: -67.5000° W
Nearby Cities:
| City | Distance (km) | Road Connection |
|---|---|---|
| Trelew | 400 | RN3 |
| Puerto Madryn | 400 | RN3 |
| Caleta Olivia | 70 | RN3 |
| Rio Gallegos | 700 | RN3 |
| San Julián | 360 | RN3 |
| Esquel | 620 | RN40 and RN26 |
| Puerto Deseado | 300 | RN281 |
Nearby Railway Stations:
- Comodoro Rivadavia Station (1 km)
- Rada Tilly Station (12 km)
- Caleta Olivia Station (71 km)
- Pico Truncado Station (100 km)
- Las Heras Station (150 km)
10. Port of Ushuaia
Port of Ushuaia is strategically located at the southern tip of Argentina, making it the primary gateway for Antarctic cruises. This port is crucial for tourism, scientific research, and naval activities. It also handles cargo and supplies for the local population and industries in Tierra del Fuego, providing vital connections to the rest of Argentina and Chile.
City Location: Ushuaia
Latitude: -54.8000° S
Longitude: -68.3000° W
Nearby Cities:
| City | Distance (km) | Road Connection |
|---|---|---|
| Rio Grande | 220 | RN3 |
| Tolhuin | 115 | RN3 |
| Puerto Williams (Chile) | 30 (by sea) | N/A |
| Punta Arenas (Chile) | 250 (by sea) | N/A |
| Puerto Natales (Chile) | 360 (by sea) | N/A |
| Stanley (Falkland Islands) | 800 (by sea) | N/A |
| El Calafate | 580 | RN3 and RN40 |
Nearby Railway Stations:
- No railway stations available in Ushuaia.
11. Port of La Plata
Port of La Plata, located near Buenos Aires, serves as an alternative to the congested ports in the capital city. It handles a variety of cargo including containers, petroleum products, and dry bulk goods. The port’s modern facilities and strategic location make it an essential part of the logistical network of Buenos Aires Province, facilitating international trade and local manufacturing.
City Location: La Plata
Latitude: -34.9205° S
Longitude: -57.9536° W
Nearby Cities:
| City | Distance (km) | Road Connection |
|---|---|---|
| Buenos Aires | 60 | Autopista Buenos Aires-La Plata |
| Mar del Plata | 360 | RN2 |
| Rosario | 360 | RN9 |
| Pilar | 112 | RN8 |
| Luján | 128 | RN7 |
| Tigre | 93 | RP27 |
| San Isidro | 82 | RP23 |
Nearby Railway Stations:
- La Plata Station (1 km)
- Tolosa Station (7 km)
- Hudson Station (15 km)
- Berazategui Station (20 km)
- Quilmes Station (25 km)
12. Port of Deseado
Port of Deseado, located in the province of Santa Cruz, is primarily focused on the fishing industry, especially the export of shrimp and squid. The port also supports mining and petroleum exploration activities in southern Argentina. Its natural deep waters allow the accommodation of larger fishing and cargo vessels.
City Location: Puerto Deseado
Latitude: -47.7500° S
Longitude: -65.9167° W
Nearby Cities:
| City | Distance (km) | Road Connection |
|---|---|---|
| Comodoro Rivadavia | 300 | RN3 |
| Rio Gallegos | 700 | RN3 |
| Caleta Olivia | 230 | RN3 |
| San Julián | 200 | RN3 |
| Calafate | 800 | RN40 |
| Rio Turbio | 870 | RN40 and RN293 |
| Trelew | 790 | RN3 |
Nearby Railway Stations:
- Puerto Deseado Station (1 km)
- Caleta Olivia Station (231 km)
- Comodoro Rivadavia Station (301 km)
- Pico Truncado Station (150 km)
- Las Heras Station (200 km)
13. Port of Madryn
Port of Madryn, located in the province of Chubut, is important for aluminum production and seafood processing. It supports the fishing industry and handles cargo related to regional mining and manufacturing activities. The port is also a popular destination for cruise ships, which are attracted by the natural beauty and wildlife of the region.
City Location: Puerto Madryn
Latitude: -42.7692° S
Longitude: -65.0385° W
Nearby Cities:
| City | Distance (km) | Road Connection |
|---|---|---|
| Trelew | 65 | RN3 |
| Rawson | 70 | RN3 |
| Comodoro Rivadavia | 400 | RN3 |
| Esquel | 600 | RN25 and RN40 |
| Viedma | 730 | RN3 |
| Bariloche | 780 | RN40 |
| Rio Gallegos | 920 | RN3 |
Nearby Railway Stations:
- Puerto Madryn Station (3 km)
- Trelew Station (66 km)
- Rawson Station (71 km)
- Dolavon Station (90 km)
- Gaiman Station (75 km)
14. Port of San Antonio Este
Port of San Antonio Este, located on the Atlantic coast of Rio Negro Province, specializes in fruit exports, particularly apples and pears from the Rio Negro Valley. It also handles general cargo and is an important point for the import and export activities of the region. The port’s refrigerated storage facilities are crucial for maintaining the quality of perishable goods.
City Location: San Antonio Este
Latitude: -40.8500° S
Longitude: -64.9167° W
Nearby Cities:
| City | Distance (km) | Road Connection |
|---|---|---|
| Viedma | 180 | RN3 |
| San Carlos de Bariloche | 480 | RN23 |
| Neuquén | 500 | RN22 |
| Bahía Blanca | 560 | RN3 |
| Puerto Madryn | 420 | RN3 |
| Trelew | 470 | RN3 |
| General Roca | 400 | RN22 |
Nearby Railway Stations:
- San Antonio Oeste Station (60 km)
- Viedma Station (180 km)
- Carmen de Patagones Station (185 km)
- General Roca Station (400 km)
- Neuquén Station (500 km)
15. Port of Comodoro Rivadavia
Port of Comodoro Rivadavia, located in the province of Chubut, serves primarily the oil industry. It is an essential base for offshore operations in the South Atlantic, supporting oil and gas extraction activities. The port also handles general cargo and is instrumental in supplying necessary goods to the southern regions of Argentina.
City Location: Comodoro Rivadavia
Latitude: -45.8667° S
Longitude: -67.5000° W
Nearby Cities:
| City | Distance (km) | Road Connection |
|---|---|---|
| Trelew | 400 | RN3 |
| Puerto Madryn | 400 | RN3 |
| Caleta Olivia | 70 | RN3 |
| Rio Gallegos | 700 | RN3 |
| San Julián | 360 | RN3 |
| Esquel | 620 | RN40 and RN26 |
| Puerto Deseado | 300 | RN281 |
Nearby Railway Stations:
- Comodoro Rivadavia Station (1 km)
- Rada Tilly Station (12 km)
- Caleta Olivia Station (71 km)
- Pico Truncado Station (100 km)
- Las Heras Station (150 km)