Border Crossings in South America

Overland Travel in South America: Where Geography Defines the Frontier

Crossing land borders in South America often means engaging with some of the planet’s most imposing natural features, from the Andes mountains to the Amazon rainforest. The continent’s geography is the main character in your overland journey, dictating not just the route but the nature of the crossing itself.

You could find yourself at over 4,000 meters in the Andes, navigating a mountain pass between Argentina and Chile where weather can shut down the road with little warning, even outside of winter. Alternatively, your journey might involve a multi-day riverboat trip in the Amazon Basin, where border formalities are handled in a small jungle town. In the Southern Cone, major highways connect countries like Brazil and Uruguay, where regional agreements can sometimes simplify the process, though procedures for international travelers remain formal.

Patience is crucial when dealing with frontier posts here. Processes can be bureaucratic and involve multiple steps to get the necessary exit and entry stamps; ensure you receive both. Some crossings are notorious for their long queues and complex paperwork. Always verify visa and vaccination requirements well in advance, as they can vary significantly from one country to the next.