highwayy

Los Andes, Chile → Paso Libertadores

Los Caracoles

Hard#1 in Chile880 votes
Distance
75 km
Duration
Half day
Best time
Oct – Apr
Highest point
3,000 m

The switchbacks to the Cristo Redentor pass. A stack of asphalt on the Chilean side, trucks, and the Andes doing the rest.

Top highlights

  • High altitude3,000 m
  • Los Caracoles switchbacksThe numbered stack. Stop only in a bay.
  • PortilloThe lake and the ski hotel. The pass is just beyond.
  • Road qualityPaved, steep, often icy at the top even in spring. Closures after snow. Trucks in low gear. The old rail zigzags still sit beside the road.
  • PermitsInternational pass. Passport for the border. Chains in winter; the pass closes in bad weather.
  • Best timeOct – Apr

Recommended itinerary

  1. Los Andes, Chile

    Start

  2. Los Caracoles switchbacks

    55 km

  3. Portillo

    65 km

  4. Paso Libertadores

    End · 75 km

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