GENERAL INFORMATION

PLACE:Villa La Angostura, Neuquén, Argentina.
FORMAT: 100 kilometers | 3 days | 2 lakeside camps
TERRAIN:Mountain trails | Ridges | River crossings | Unique beaches | Streams and lots of adventure.

SCHEDULE
Group 1: Runs on December 1, 2, and 3, 2025.
Group 2: Runs on December 2, 3, and 4, 2025.
Group 3: Runs on December 3, 4, and 5, 2025.
Group 4: Runs on December 4, 5, and 6, 2025.
Grupo 5: Correrá el 5, 6 y 7 de diciembre 2025

In 2025, a new edition of La Etapa will take place with two distances: 33 km and 15 km, starting on Sunday, November 30. More information at http://www.laetapa.com.ar.  

El Cruce 2025 Format

STAGE 1

The Stage 1 start will be in waves according to the time requested in the registration form. This benefits all runners by allowing them to run more comfortably.

STAGE 2

Start order will be based on net time from Stage 1.

STAGE 3

Start order will be based on general classification from Stages 1 and 2.

SCHEDULE

GROUP 1

STAGE 1: Monday, December 1.
STAGE 2: Tuesday, December 2.
STAGE 3: Wednesday, December 3.

GROUP 2

STAGE 1: Tuesday, December 2.
STAGE 2: Wednesday, December 3.
STAGE 3: Thursday, December 4.

GROUP 3

STAGE 1: Wednesday, December 3.
STAGE 2: Thursday, December 4.
STAGE 3: Friday, December 5.

GROUP 4

STAGE 1: Thursday, December 4.
STAGE 2: Friday, December 5.
STAGE 3: Saturday, December 6.

GRUPO 5

STAGE 1: Friday, December 5.
STAGE 2: Saturday, December 6.
STAGE 3: Domingo 7 de diciembre.

PACKET PICKUP

WHERE: Villa La Angostura, Neuquén, Argentina.

DOMINGO 30 DE NOVIEMBRE
LUNES 1 DE DICIEMBRE
MARTES 2 DE DICIEMBRE
MIÉRCOLES 3 DE DICIEMBRE
JUEVES 4 DE DICIEMBRE

Each runner must check in the day before their group's Stage 1 start We recommend arriving Villa La Angostura 48 hours before the race.
In Villa La Angostura:

We suggest staying in hotels or cabins in Villa La Angostura.

Important: Avoid accommodations that charge for the days you'll be actively participating in the race. 

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Accreditation in both Buenos Aires and Villa La Angostura will be by appointment, which will be available in the days leading up to your start. 
Buenos Aires
October 21 to November 8 – Club de Corredores, Av Monroe 915 CABA.
If you check in at Buenos Aires, you will only need to pick up your wristband in Villa La Angostura with a quick turn. 

Mar del Plata:
  November 8 – Run & Bike store Location
If you check in at Mar del Plata, you will only need to pick up your wristband in Villa La Angostura with a quick turn.


Villa La Angostura:
The day before your designated start.
1st step | With appointment: Convention Center Location
2nd step | Cef 7 Gym - Location
Both places are in the center of Villa La Angostura, 800 meters apart.

CATEGORIES

GENERAL

El Cruce Saucony will be divided into the following main categories:

GROUP 1

Will be the first to start.

 

GROUP 2

Will run with a 24-hour difference from GROUP 1.

GROUP 3

Will run with a 24-hour difference from GROUP 2.

GROUP 4

Will run with a 24-hour difference from GROUP 3.

GRUPO 5

Correrá con 24 horas de diferencia del GRUPO 4

Cada categoría tendrá un cupo limitado. Esto es para que puedan correr más cómodos por los senderos y que en los campamentos haya una cantidad de participantes adecuada que permita brindar un excelente servicio. Todas las categorías tendrán el mismo tiempo de corte, que se dará a conocer junto con los recorridos.
Todos los grupos tendrán las mismas distancias, los mismos recorridos, campamentos y organización, así como el mismo reglamento.  

BY AGE *

Las categorías por edades femeninas y masculinas aplican a los GRUPOS 1, 2, 3, 4 y 5

All participants must be over 18 years old. The organization reserves the right to cancel registration if this requirement is not met.

Runners GRUPO 2, 3, 4 y 5 serán reconocidos con trofeos y/o regalos de sponsorsin both the general and age group categories.
En caso de querer participar por los premios en efectivo de la categoría general, deberán inscribirse en el GRUPO 1.

The awards ceremony will take place at 4:00 p.m. on the day each group finishes. Prizes will be awarded only if there are more than 5 runners in each category..
If not, they will be classified in the previous category.

WEATHER

The weather in Patagonia is highly unpredictable, characterized by large temperature variations and abrupt changes from sunshine to rain or vice versa. Therefore, we must be prepared for any type of weather.

Take advantage of enjoying Patagonia after running in the mountains and sharing the passion for running with participants from over 45 countries.

Campsites by the lake are ideal in good weather.

It's ideal to air dry your clothing outdoors while at the camp.

Be cautious of the sun! On the trails, especially on ridges, you'll be at an altitude of 1900 meters above sea level. At the campsites, it's 800 meters above sea level. At these heights, the sun is much more aggressive than what we are accustomed to, and if you don't protect your face and body, you may end up with sunburn or overheating.

Use sunscreen and a hat.

The Organization cannot prevent you from getting wet if it rains, feeling cold or hot, not having a place to clean or dry your clothes, among other things.

- When you're not enjoying the camp, remember who chose to be there.

– Fatigue can affect mood—stay positive.

Don't expect everything to be perfect. Both the Organization and the runners have decided to take part in this adventure.

Avoid getting your camping gear wet and dry out any clothing you plan to use the next day as soon as possible.

In case of bad weather, try to stay well-covered. If it's raining, we advise staying inside the tent.

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Bad Weather | Extreme Weather

Patagonia is as stunning as it is unpredictable, and those who choose to live this experience know that the weather can be as challenging as the terrain itself.
Both the organization and runners choose to be outdoors. Nobody enjoys a camp in bad weather—especially after hours of mountain running.
We must be aware that this is the activity we chose, and in hostile weather, it will be tough.

1.- Rain or drizzle: One of the most common (and sometimes most difficult) mountain conditions. Mandatory gear is essential. Once in camp, remember that not everyone will be able to sit under a large tent. In bad weather, you will likely need to spend time inside your personal tent.
There will be no designated spots for drying wet clothes. Dry clothing should be stored in waterproof bags inside your camp bag. Sometimes, you may have to reuse wet clothes the next day or wait for the rain to stop to dry them.
Your waterproof jacket is basic gear—even if the day starts clear. Keeping your warm clothing dry will make a huge difference in recovery and rest.

2.-  Rain or drizzle with wind:Same as above, but you will be colder. Stay dry with a good rain jacket and avoid unnecessary exposure to the cold.

3.- Rain, snow, or extreme windWhile December is not a period of heavy rain or extreme winds, in Patagonia anything is possible. If safety is at risk, the organization will activate Plan B or Plan C.

Plan B

We have a Plan B in case extreme weather conditions require evacuating the camps. In this scenario, participants will be transferred to an indoor gymnasium, where they can spend the night with their sleeping bag on an inflatable mattress.

Those who wish may also book a cabin, hotel, or hostel at their own expense. In this case, the organization’s buses will drop you off at the Villa La Angostura bus terminal, from where each runner will need to reach their reserved accommodation. This cost will be covered by the runner. An updated list of available lodging, with current capacity, will be provided to help with reservations if this plan is activated.

In more complex situations, such as the simultaneous evacuation of both camps, spending the night in the gyms—or even temporarily inside buses—will also be an option, organized and coordinated by the staff.

ENVIRONMENTAL STEWARDSHIP

As organizers and participants of adventure races, we are among those who cherish nature the most – the mountains, lakes, and landscapes. Consequently, it deeply troubles us to witness litter such as papers, bags, or other debris tarnishing these beautiful surroundings. We aim to instill environmental consciousness among adventure runners to safeguard our natural treasures.
• Let's consume mindfully and avoid unnecessary waste.

• Let's minimize the use of harmful products and repurpose items whenever possible.

We urge runners to prioritize environmental care and recognize the impact of neglecting it. The Organization will provide waste bins at the campsites, categorized into Wet and Dry waste for proper disposal.

Oasis

 Sabemos lo importante que es recuperar energías durante cada etapa, por eso en cada edición trabajamos para mejorar y sumar más servicios de alimentación e hidratación en los Oasis. At each Oasis you will find a wide variety of options, both sweet and savory, hot and cold:
  • Fruits: Banana, Orange, Watermelon, and Melon 
  • Savory Snacks: Breadsticks, Peanuts, Chips, and Crackers
  • Sweet Snacks: Chocolate-covered Peanuts, Candied Peanuts, and Cookies
  • Quince Paste and Bread
  • Cold Drinks: Water, Gatorade, Coca-Cola, and Fruit Juice
  • Hot Drinks: Coffee and Soup
There will also be options for gluten-free runners. If you have questions, you can contact us via email at info@elcruce.com.ar for more information. Ver más

For environmental care and commitment, no cups or plastic bottles will be provided at aid stations. Please remember to bring the reusable cup included in your race kit.

Per Stage:

Stage 1
Oasis A: km 7
Oasis B: km 16
Oasis C: km 23

Stage 2
Oasis D: km 11
Oasis E: km 23

Stage 3
Oasis F: km 5
Oasis G: km 22

In case of route changes or Plan B, aid station locations may be modified.

RUNNER'S BAGS

Cada participante deberá tener un bolso para que la Organización traslade sus elementos desde el día previo a la largada hasta el final de la carrera. El tamaño máximo de los bolsos que se aceptarán será de 120 litros. Recomendamos entre 100 y 120 litros. En caso de tener 2 bolsos deberán abonar USD 30 (treinta dólares) por el bolso extra.
No se aceptarán bolsos que contengan elementos colgando fuera del mismo. Cada corredor recibirá una etiqueta que deberá colocar en su bolso para su correcta identificación.
The race bag debe ser entregado en el día anterior a la largada en el lugar  y horario determinado por la Organización. En caso de incumplimiento y entregarlo más tarde, siempre que la Organización pueda transportarlo, tendrá una multa de USD 15 (quince dólares).
La organización no se responsabiliza por roturas, rasgaduras de tela, costuras, correas, cierres, etc. durante el traslado entre las diferentes etapas.

Guarda Bolso (Bolso NO Carrera)
La gran mayoría tendrá un 2do Bolso, el cual no despacharan a la carrera y en el mismo tendrán las pertenencias para utilizar cuando regresen a Villa La Angostura. 
Es por esto que la Organización dispone de un servicio de Guarda Bolso para aquellos que no lo puedan dejar en hoteles hasta su regreso. 
La mañana de su largada podrán dejar las pertenencias que no necesiten despachar al campamento y que tampoco utilizarán durante la carrera. Se recibirá una mochila, carry on o valija por corredor. Al finalizar la tercera etapa, podrán retirar su bolso del mismo lugar en el que lo dejaron.

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Luggage Storage

Another important logistical aspect: bags not used during the race—such as those containing casual clothes, personal items, or pre/post-race gear—can be stored with the organization. These must not be your camp bag, but rather items you will not need during the event.

For those whose accommodations cannot store their bags, there will be a designated space to leave them either the day before or the morning of your start. You can collect them at the finish line in the same area where you arrive. This service is designed so that each runner has only what is necessary during El Cruce without worrying about the rest of their belongings.

MANDATORY EQUIPMENT

The mandatory equipment comprises items that every El Cruce runner must carry throughout all three stages of the race.

Official Shirt of El Cruce (Provided by the Organization)

Competitor number (Provided by the Organization)

Runner's chip (Provided by the Organization)

1 Backpack with shoulder straps and water reservoir

1 Waterproof jacket for high-altitude mountain

1 Long-sleeved technical mountain shirt (Provided by the Organization)

1 Microfleece (Provided by the Organization)

1 Winter hat (Not a cap)
1 Bivy sack (Not a survival blanket)

It has to be suitable for spending a night outdoors

1 Survival blanket

It is mandatory to carry food in a Ziploc bag without its packaging and gels in a plastic bottle already dissolved

Moleskin or similar for blisters

First aid kit (according to the needs of each runner)

Sunglasses

Hiking sticks

Two pairs of shoes with good prior use

Sunblock

Towel

Headlamp

Shorts and leggings

Sandals, essential for your feet to breathe after each stage

Hat

Rain jacket

RECOMMENDED EQUIPMENT

While not essential for race participation, the recommended equipment will significantly enhance your race experience.

Runner’s Bag Checklist

For your convenience, we're sharing a checklist put together by fellow runners from past editions of El Cruce in the Facebook group "La leyenda continúa," moderated by José Luis Pepe Llanos. While assembling your bag is a personal process, this checklist can serve as a helpful guide to ensure you have all the essentials for the race.

Registration Form

Desde el 28 de agosto hasta el 22 de septiembre From August 26 to September 16, participants must complete the online form. The information in this document is very important, as it will allow for smoother logistics for every runner. You can edit this form until the closing date.
This form can be edited until the closing date.
What is the form for?

Bib, Fleece, Base Layer, and Camp T-shirt (size charts will be available in the form, but those who prefer can try the items at the Club de Corredores in Buenos Aires)

Rentals

Rentals and Optional Services

For those seeking more comfort during the experience, the organization offers optional rentals, which can be arranged through the online form.

Individual Tent: Normally, runners share a tent in Camp 1 and Camp 2, but those who prefer to sleep alone may rent an individual tent. Quantities are limited; once sold out, a waiting list will be opened.
Es importante saber que la cantidad de carpas individuales es limitada y, una vez completado el cupo, se habilitará una lista de espera para nuevas solicitudes.

Inflatable Mattress: Delivered directly to your tent before arrival. Spare mattresses will be available in case of punctures or air leaks, with night staff on hand for assistance.

Sleeping BagRented sleeping bags must be collected during accreditation and returned at the end of the race at Cef 7 in Villa La Angostura.

Bivvy Sack: This safety item will also be collected during accreditation and returned at the finish line.

Camp Chair: For those who want a seat outside their tent in both camps.

These services are designed to make personal logistics easier and offer more rest and warmth during your mountain days. We recommend booking early to ensure availability.

AWARDS

La premiación final se realizará los días (3, 4, 5, 6 y 7) de diciembre.

General

GROUP 1 (Men & Women)

  • 1st Place: USD 3,000 2nd Place: USD 2,000 3rd Place: USD 1,000

*For Argentine runners, the prize will be awarded in Argentine Pesos at the official exchange rate.

GROUP 2 (Men & Women)

  • Medals for the top 3 finishers.

GROUP 3 (Men & Women)

  • Medals for the top 3 finishers.

GROUP 4 (Men & Women)

  • Medals for the top 3 finishers.

Grupo 5 Caballeros y Damas.

  • Medals for the top 3 finishers.

Sponsor gifts may be awarded.

BY AGE
GRUPO 1, 2, 3, 4 y 5 CABALLEROS Y DAMAS:
  • Up to 29 years old inclusive.
  • From 30 to 34 years old inclusive.
  • From 35 to 39 years old inclusive.
  • From 40 to 44 years old inclusive.
  • From 45 to 49 years old inclusive.
  • From 50 to 54 years old inclusive.
  • From 55 to 59 years old inclusive.
  • From 60 to 64 years old inclusive.
  • 65 years and above

Premiación con medallones a los 3 primeros puestos de cada categoría. 

*Awarding is contingent upon having more than 5 runners in the category. Otherwise, they will be classified in the previous category.

Travel: Logistics and Accommodation

Por consultas: reservas@elcruce.com.ar
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ACCOMMODATION AND TRANSFERS

A key part of fully enjoying El Cruce is arriving with good prior organization. This is not just another race—it involves complex logistics before, during, and after the event. We recommend not leaving these matters to the last minute. Every detail you settle in advance will give you more peace of mind and enjoyment when the time comes.

We suggest arriving in Villa La Angostura at least two days before your start date. This will allow time to adapt to the environment, complete your check-in calmly, and have a margin for any travel setbacks. The closest airport is San Carlos de Bariloche, located 80 km away, with several airlines offering multiple flights. From there, you will find different transfer options, such as minibuses, buses, or taxis, which you can hire for your trip to and from Villa La Angostura. Another option is Chapelco Airport (San Martín de los Andes), 140 km away. Transfers from there are more limited, so if you choose this option, we suggest renting a car with 3 or 4 other runners to share expenses and gain more flexibility.

When booking accommodation, pay attention to an important detail: during the race, you will spend two nights in the camps, away from your base lodging in Villa La Angostura. Therefore, when booking hotels, houses, or cabins, we recommend finding options that allow you to avoid paying for those two nights you will not be using the room. Some accommodations may not accept split-day reservations, but many will if asked in advance. Remember: on the day you leave for camp, you will depart very early and return to Villa La Angostura only two days later, in the afternoon.

FOTORUN

At El Cruce, we're constantly pushing boundaries, and that's why we've introduced RUNTAG – an innovative app that harnesses the power of dual artificial intelligence in facial and numerical recognition. This cutting-edge technology allows runners to effortlessly identify themselves in event photos. For participants of El Cruce 2024, this means accessing all their personalized event photos directly on their mobile device or computer.
To take advantage of this exciting feature, simply opt-in when completing your registration form for sizes, equipment rentals, tents, and more.
Once photos start rolling in, you can view them by visiting elcruce.runtag.app and registering with the same email you used to sign up for the race. Get ready to capture and relive every moment of your El Cruce experience like never before with RUNTAG.

EL CRUCE BOOK: A PERSONALIZED JOURNEY

Celebrate 20 years of adventures and challenges with the official Cruce book. From its humble beginnings in 2002 in Penitentes, Mendoza province, this work captures the essence and excitement of each edition of the most emblematic trail running event.
Every year, the book is enriched with new stories and highlights. But the best part is that runners can add their personal touch: an 8-page chronicle and their own photos on the cover and inside.
Immerse yourself in the magic of running among the mountains of Patagonia with your own personalized copy of the Cruce book.
For more information, inquiries, or orders, contact us at libro@elcruce.com.ar

Spectators

Much of the El Cruce course crosses private land and areas belonging to local communities. The organization manages and obtains permits exclusively for runners, so it is strictly prohibited to access areas outside the authorized spaces.

Designated, authorized spots will be set where spectators can cheer for participants safely and respectfully towards the environment.

All spectators will have the option to access the Cerro Bayo chairlifts, from which they can enjoy privileged views and cheer runners in a unique setting. The organization will soon provide detailed information on chairlift prices, as well as recommended days and times to visit the mountain.

Reminder:
El Cruce camps are for runners only. No entry will be allowed to individuals not part of the organization or not properly accredited as participants.

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Todos los corredores deberán informar su condición alimentaria mediante el formulario correspondiente. Deberán seleccionar: 

Opción A: Recibirán alimentación preparada en campamento, que si bien se toman medidas los mismos pueden tener contaminación cruzada. (Importante: Pueden utilizarse utensilios que hayan estado en contacto con TACC, las carnes son asadas en parrilla donde se pudo haber calentado pan con TACC).

Opción B: Celíacos que no toleran la contaminación cruzada o cualquier mínimo contacto con Gluten. En este caso no tendrán acceso a la comida del campamento, ya que recibirán viandas certificadas sin TACC para el almuerzo y cena . Quienes elijan esta opción figuraran en un listado que les dará acceso a las viandas en campamentos y productos seleccionados en los Oasis.

En ambos casos recibirán una pulsera amarilla que deberán utilizar durante toda la carrera. 

Alimentos que encontrarán:

Almuerzo y Cena: 

Opción A

  • Carne y Pollo 
  • Ensalada de Lechuga y Tomate
  • Lentejas con verduras
  • Arroz 
  • Garbanzo 
  • Huevo Duro 
  • Fruta 

Opción B

  • Viandas certificadas sin TACC
  • Fruta

Desayuno

  • Fruta 
  • Huevo Revuelto (No disponible para Opción B)
  • Galletitas Molinos Ala
  • Dulce de membrillo
  • Manteca / Mermelada / Dulce de leche
  • Turrón Arcor

Oasis: 

  • Fruta (Banana, Naranja, Melon y Sandia) 
  • Galletitas Molinos Ala
  • Quince Paste and Bread 
  • Maní con chocolate Maní King
  • Maní Garrapiñada Maní King
  • Mogul Arcor
Transfers from Bariloche Airport to Villa La Angostura

Transfers/Colectivos: 

Ventajas: Más económicos que los taxis y se pueden reservar con mucha anticipación. 

Desventajas: Algunos tienen horarios fijos por lo que no se podrán ajustar a cambios o retrasos de vuelos y en otros casos pueden tener que esperar más de lo deseado al resto de los pasajeros de otro vuelo. 

Via Bariloche

Costo (a agosto): $5.200 por persona aproximadamente. Disponibles con 2 meses de anticipación. 

Horario fijo y en algunos casos con paradas ya establecidas para subir/bajar pasajeros durante el recorrido, lo que lo puede hacer un poco más lento. No se adapta a demoras en el vuelto. Tienen una única parada en Villa La Angostura que es la Terminal, y de ahí deberán contratar un Taxi hasta el alojamiento. 

Web: https://viabariloche.com.ar/

AeroAngostura

Costó (a agosto): $25.000 por persona. Ya disponibles

Horarios fijos y viaje directo de Aeropuerto a VLA. Opción de paradas sobre la ruta 40 en el ingreso a VLA: Villa La Angostura (Terminal de ómnibus), El Mercado (Garita de ingreso), Australis (Alfa Centauro), Cumelén (Garita de ingreso), Manzano (Garita de ingreso – Bifurcación de asfalto), Muelle de Piedra (Garita de ingreso), Calfuco (Garita de ingreso).

Web: https://aeroangostura.com/aeroapp/#/

RUCAN 

Costo (a agosto): por tramo 30 USD – Ida y Vuelta: 55 USD. Ya disponibles

Horarios a convenir según reservas. Podrá hacer paradas intermedias en puntos ya establecidos y previamente coordinados. 

Contacto: +54 9 2944 903356 | operaciones@rucanturismo.com

TAXIS:

El costo promedio de los taxis a agosto ronda los $100.000 y $120.000 durante el día y en algunos casos $150.000 si es de madrugada. La ventaja de esta opción es que pueden coordinar un horario según necesidad, y no depender de demoras de otros pasajeros. Como desventaja, son más caros que los transfers, los precios pueden sufrir modificaciones y no podrán reservar con tanta anticipación.

Contactos: 

Villa La Angostura:

Taxi Remises Roxana Villa La Angostura | 0294 496-7744
Taxi Martinez | +54 9 2944 24-5604
Taxi Nestor | +54 9 2944 51-1753
Taxi Villa la Angostura | 0294 15 494-2522
Taxi Reyes | 0294 424-4473
Taxi de la montaña | 0294 15 465-1744
Taxi La Unión | 0294 455-4804

Bariloche: 

Remises Auto-Jet | 0294 442-2408
Remises Centro | 0294 15-414-6600
Remises Nahuel Bariloche | 0294 15-412-6602 

Aplicaciones de Traslado

Otra alternativa son las apps de traslado, pero que solo se pueden contratar al llegar al Bariloche. Y el precio se ajusta por demanda y oferta.