Mendoza ⇄ Chile: Private Andes Crossing

Why Cross the Andes by Road

Few journeys link two wine countries the way this one does. The road climbs along the Mendoza River, crosses the high valley of Uspallata and rises into the heart of the Andes, to the border at Paso Los Libertadores, at nearly 3,200 meters (10,500 feet). On the Chilean side it drops through Los Caracoles, 29 hairpin bends carved into the mountain, and softens into the vineyards of the Aconcagua Valley.

It’s the most scenic way to connect a Mendoza wine trip with Chile’s Maipo, Casablanca or Colchagua valleys, and a far better story than a one-hour flight.

The Route

Mendoza → Chile shown; Chile → Mendoza follows the same road in the opposite order.

Pickup in Mendoza

At your hotel, Airbnb or El Plumerillo Airport (MDZ).

Potrerillos Reservoir

A photo stop over the turquoise lake and the Cordón del Plata.

Uspallata

Coffee and rest stop in the high desert valley.

Puente del Inca and Aconcagua

The natural stone bridge stained gold by mineral springs, and Aconcagua, the highest peak outside the Himalayas, at 6,961 meters.

Paso Los Libertadores

Border formalities for Argentina and Chile, with your guide helping you through.

Portillo and Laguna del Inca

The famous ski village and its mountain lake, our suggested lunch stop.

Los Caracoles and the Aconcagua Valley

Twenty-nine switchbacks down the mountain to the vineyards.

Drop-off in Chile

At your hotel in Santiago, Santiago Airport (SCL), or Valparaíso / Viña del Mar.

Coming from Chile? You climb from the Pacific side up the Caracoles and descend into Mendoza’s vineyards, arriving in time for a glass of Malbec at sunset.

Before You Go

• Every traveler needs a valid passport. Check whether your nationality needs a visa for Chile or Argentina.
• Both countries have agricultural controls at the border, and Chile’s (SAG) are especially strict: no fresh fruit, vegetables, meat, cheese, honey or plant products. Declare any food you carry.
• The pass is at high altitude. Bring warm layers in any season.
• In winter, roughly June to October, the pass can close at short notice because of snow. If it does, we’ll reschedule at no cost. For winter dates, ask us before booking.

Combine It With Your Wine Trip

Spend a few days in Mendoza’s wine country, cross the Andes by road, then explore the Maipo, Casablanca or Colchagua valleys from Santiago, or the other way around. Tell us your dates and we’ll plan both sides of the mountains for you.

Andes Crossing FAQ

How much does the Andes crossing cost?

USD 650 one way, per car: a private sedan for up to 2 travelers with their luggage. Larger groups travel in a private minivan, with the price on request. Traveling with children? Let us know and we’ll confirm the best vehicle.

How long does it take?

About 10 hours, depending on waiting times at the border.

Is it shared with other travelers?

No. Your driver-guide travels only with your party.

Can we do it in winter?

Yes, but between June and October the pass can close at short notice because of snow. If it does, we reschedule at no cost. Ask us before booking winter dates.

Can we combine it with wine tours?

Yes. Many guests spend a few days in Mendoza, cross the Andes, then visit Chile’s wine valleys from Santiago.

Pair It With

• 3-Day Mendoza Wine Escape, from USD 565 per person
• Uco Valley Wine Tour, from USD 215 per person
• 3-Day Chile Wine Discovery, from USD 585 per person
• Aconcagua Valley Wine Tour, from USD 195 per person