Carirriñe Pass is a scenic, lesser-traveled mountain pass between Chile and Argentina
Argentina, south-america
133 km
1,150 m
extreme
Year-round
Okay, adventure seekers, listen up! Paso Carirriñe is a must-do border crossing between Chile and Argentina, clocking in at 1,150m (3,772ft) above sea level. This isn't your everyday highway; it's a less-traveled path linking the Los Ríos region of Chile to the wild beauty of Argentine Patagonia.
The route stretches 133 km (82.64 miles), starting near Coñaripe on the shores of Calafquén Lake and winding its way to San Martín de los Andes. Prepare to be amazed by the volcanic landscape – think hot springs and solidified lava flows!
A heads-up: this pass is generally open during the summer months, usually from November 15th, with limited hours (8 AM to 8 PM). Snow, landslides, and road work can shut it down other times of the year, so plan accordingly.
On the Chilean side (Ruta CH-201), you'll mostly find paved, albeit narrow, roads, though the last 15km are gravel (but slated for pavement!). Cross into Argentina (Ruta Provincial 62), and you’re in for a different experience. It's unpaved, bumpy, and super narrow. It can get rough, so I'd seriously recommend a 4WD vehicle. Despite the weather's impact and some dicey road conditions, locals use it quite a bit (they know what they're doing!).
Where is it?
Carirriñe Pass is a scenic, lesser-traveled mountain pass between Chile and Argentina is located in Argentina (south-america). Coordinates: -36.6796, -63.4491
Road Details
- Country
- Argentina
- Continent
- south-america
- Length
- 133 km
- Max Elevation
- 1,150 m
- Difficulty
- extreme
- Coordinates
- -36.6796, -63.4491
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