Where is Carirriñe Pass?
Argentina, south-america
133 km
1,150 m
extreme
Year-round
Paso Carirriñe, nestled high in the Andes at 1,150m (3,772ft), marks the border between Chile and Argentina. It's one of those lesser-known routes that's absolutely bursting with beauty!
This pass links the Los Ríos region of Chile with the stunning Patagonian landscapes of Argentina.
The adventure stretches for 133 km (82.64 miles), from the Chilean town of Coñaripe (right on Lake Calafquén) to San Martín de los Andes in Argentina.
Expect seriously amazing scenery! Think hot springs, rivers of solidified lava, and all sorts of evidence of volcanic activity.
Heads up: the pass is usually open from November 15th during the summer months, from 8 am to 8 pm. Snow, landslides, and road work can close it for much of the year, though.
On the Chilean side (Ruta CH-201), the road's mostly paved but pretty narrow. The final 15km are gravel, but keep an eye out, it might be paved soon.
Once you cross into Argentina (Ruta Provincial 62) get ready for a bumpy ride! It's a narrow, unpaved forest road and hasn't been maintained in a while. It's doable, but maybe not in your average sedan. Weather's a big factor here too, especially in winter. Locals with 4x4s use it often, though!
Road Details
- Country
- Argentina
- Continent
- south-america
- Length
- 133 km
- Max Elevation
- 1,150 m
- Difficulty
- extreme
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