The formidable Andes mountain range dictates the entire 5,300-kilometer border between Argentina and Chile, creating some of the most dramatic and breathtaking land crossings on the planet. This is a frontier of high-altitude passes, stunning turquoise lakes, active volcanoes, and the remote, windswept wilderness of Patagonia. With nearly 50 crossing points, your options vary greatly by season, location, and your tolerance for adventure. The most heavily trafficked is the Paso Internacional Los Libertadores, which connects Mendoza in Argentina with the region near Santiago, Chile. This route’s centerpiece is the Cristo Redentor tunnel, an essential commercial link that bores through the high Andes.
This high-altitude pass is frequently closed during the winter months (June to September) due to heavy snowfall, which can leave travelers stranded for days. Further south, you can find incredibly scenic routes through the Lake District, like the Paso Cardenal Antonio Samoré near Bariloche. Travel in Patagonia offers more rugged, often unpaved crossings that are truly off the beaten path. Always check the official government websites for both countries for the current weather and road status before you depart, as conditions in the Andes can change with alarming speed at any time of year, making a planned trip impossible without warning.