The Rio Encuentro bridge crossing from Argentina to Chile
Argentina, south-america
N/A
N/A
hard
Year-round
Rio Encuentro International Pass is unlike any other Andean crossing. Forget scaling towering peaks! This border is all about a quick hop over the Encuentro River on a 30-meter bridge. It's this tiny span that links Argentina's Chubut Province with Chile's Los Lagos Region, providing a handy connection between the towns of Corcovado and Palena. Seriously, it's one of the most scenic bridges out there!
Prepare for a road surface switch-up the second you cross the bridge. While the bridge itself is basic concrete, it’s where Argentina's gravel gives way to Chile's smooth pavement. Mostly you'll find locals and smaller vehicles using this route to cruise through Patagonia.
The change is instant. You'll rumble along Ruta Nacional 259 and Ruta Provincial 44 on the Argentinian side – think classic Patagonian gravel. Then, boom, you're on the bridge, and suddenly you're gliding on the Chilean side via Ruta Internacional CH-235. It's paved perfection all the way to Palena!
Keep in mind, this pass is for lighter vehicles only; leave the big rigs behind. You'll find the PDI, Customs (SNA), and the Agricultural Service (SAG) ready on the Chilean side, while the Gendarmería Nacional keeps things in order on the Argentinian side. The border crossing is open daily from 9 AM to 9 PM.
Since Rio Encuentro isn't about crazy high altitudes, it's often a safer bet in winter, assuming the Argentinian gravel roads aren't snowed under. Expect an easy drive across the river that naturally divides these two nations in a seriously remote and serene location.
Where is it?
The Rio Encuentro bridge crossing from Argentina to Chile is located in Argentina (south-america). Coordinates: -37.4852, -64.1616
Road Details
- Country
- Argentina
- Continent
- south-america
- Difficulty
- hard
- Coordinates
- -37.4852, -64.1616
Related Roads in south-america
moderateAntiguo Puente de Pailón is a challenging bridge in Bolivia
🇧🇴 Bolivia
Okay, so picture this: You're in Bolivia, near the little town of Pailón, and you stumble upon what *was* one of the coolest bridges ever! I'm talking about the old Pailón bridge, a wooden wonder stretching almost a mile (1.4km) across the Río Grande. Built way back in the 1950s, it was this super rickety, single-lane affair where trains ALWAYS had the right-of-way. Can you imagine?! Sadly, it's been replaced by a shiny new bridge right next to it, so the old one is out of commission now. Still, what a sight it must have been! Now, buckle up for a wild ride on El Angosto, deep in the Andes. This isn't your average scenic route; it's known as one of the world's most treacherous roads, heading towards the Salar de Ollague Pass. Get ready for some serious elevation and heart-stopping views – if you dare to look!
hardLaguna Jochauma
🇵🇪 Peru
Okay, adventure junkies, listen up! I just discovered Laguna Jochauma, a super-remote lagoon chilling way up at 4,947 meters (that's over 16,000 feet!) in the Arequipa Region of Peru. This isn't your average Sunday drive, folks. We're talking deep into the Andes, in the Wansu range. The road? Let's just say "unpaved" is an understatement. You'll definitely want a 4x4 for this trek. Fair warning: winter can make the whole thing impassable. And even when it's not winter, be prepared for some serious weather. The altitude, combined with strong winds and crazy-fast weather changes, can be brutal. Seriously, if you've got any kind of heart or breathing issues, maybe skip this one. But if you're up for a true off-the-beaten-path experience with views that'll blow your mind (and maybe your hat off!), Laguna Jochauma is calling your name.
extremeHow to navigate the challenging Ruta Provincial 73?
🇦🇷 Argentina
Okay, adventure junkies, buckle up for Ruta Provincial 73 (RP73) in the wild northwest of Argentina! This isn't your Sunday drive; it's a high-altitude odyssey across Jujuy and Salta provinces and easily one of the highest routes the country has to offer. Forget pavement; this is pure, unadulterated dirt road, stretching for about 93 km (58 miles) from Humahuaca to Santa Ana. Seriously, the conditions can be brutal, and the scenery? Think lunar landscape. A 4x4 isn't just recommended; it's practically mandatory. We're talking about tackling some serious elevation here, folks. You'll be cruising entirely above 3,000m! Remember to take it easy and stay hydrated; altitude sickness is a real thing. Plus, Mother Nature loves to throw curveballs: avalanches, blizzards, and landslides are always a possibility. You'll be crossing at least four major mountain passes along the way. Get ready for views that'll make your jaw drop, and an adventure you won't soon forget!
easyHow long is the road from Chivay to Arequipa?
🇵🇪 Peru
Okay, picture this: you're in Peru, cruising from the charming mountain village of Chivay to the vibrant city of Arequipa. This isn't just any road trip; it's a 149km (93-mile) adventure through the heart of the Colca Valley! We're talking about a mix of roads 34A and AR-109. Most of the route is paved, but be warned, the higher you climb, the rougher it gets. Still, it's not too bad, and since there isn't much traffic, it's a pretty relaxed drive, even with the altitude. Speaking of altitude, get ready to climb! You'll reach a staggering 4,879m (16,007ft) above sea level, with views that'll blow your mind. Think sweeping landscapes dotted with vicuña, llamas, alpacas, and even Andean ducks. Seriously, the scenery alone makes this trip worth it!