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| Many of the crossings go through the Andes Mountains Image: Cambio21 |
At each of Chile's border crossings, travelers will find essential government services to ensure a secure and smooth passage. These include the PDI (Investigative Police of Chile), responsible for immigration control; the Chilean Customs Service, overseeing the import and export of goods; the SAG (Agricultural and Livestock Service), which regulates the entry of plants, animals, and related products; and the Carabineros de Chile, who provide security and support at the borders. These authorities work together to maintain the safety and integrity of Chile's borders.
For travelers planning to explore the diverse landscapes of South America, having accurate Chile border crossing information is essential. Whether you're venturing from Argentina, Bolivia, or Peru, understanding the key entry points will ensure a smooth and hassle-free journey.
- Important: The following list first includes the most relevant border crossings—those with the highest traffic or importance—that remain open almost all year round, except in cases of extremely adverse weather conditions. A second list then details the crossings that are open temporarily, generally in summer, as well as others that, due to their remote location or special conditions, are less accessible and less frequently used. Get ready to discover these fascinating routes that connect Chile with its neighbors.
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Border Crossings Chile - Peru:
- Additional comments: The Concordia International Pass is a symbolic border crossing point between Chile and Peru, located on the Pacific Ocean coast. It is situated near the historic Concordia Line, established by the 1929 Treaty of Lima, which defined the limits between the two countries after the War of the Pacific. This border marks the beginning of the land boundary between Chile and Peru, starting from Hito 1 (Border Marker 1).
The real border crossing between Chile and Peru is known as the Chacalluta Border Complex on the Chilean side and the Santa Rosa Border Complex on the Peruvian side. It is located near the cities of Arica in Chile and Tacna in Peru. This is the second busiest border crossing in Chile and one of the main routes for trade and transportation between the two countries, particularly for goods transported between northern Chile and southern Peru.
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Main Border Crossings Chile - Bolivia:
- Additional comments: The Chungará border crossing is known on the Bolivian side as Tambo Quemado. This is an important crossing point between both countries, located in the high-altitude region.
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- Additional comments: The nearest Chilean town is Colchane (Tarapacá Region), while on the Bolivian side, the closest town is Pisiga, with access via National Route 12.
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- Additional comments: This pass, one of the least traveled in northern Chile, offers a unique experience, crossing vast high-altitude landscapes where impressive geological formations and rich biodiversity can be observed, including species adapted to high altitudes. Although it is primarily used for commercial transport, adventurous travelers heading to the more remote regions of Bolivia can take advantage of this pass to discover little-explored areas.
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- Additional comments: This pass connects Chile and Bolivia through the salt flat that bears its name. On the Bolivian side, the pass is located in the Potosà Department, while on the Chilean side, it is situated in the Antofagasta Region. The climate is classified as cold arid, with two main seasons: the Chilean winter and the "Altiplanic winter," characterized by convective summer rains.
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- Additional comments: Hito Cajón is a vital crossing point for regional connectivity, border security, and economic development between Chile's Antofagasta Region and Bolivia. In addition to contributing to local economic growth by facilitating trade and tourism, it is a strategic point for controlling illicit activities such as drug trafficking and the smuggling of stolen vehicles.
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Main Border Crossings Chile - Argentina:
- Additional comments: Due to its infrastructure, the imposing landscape of the Andes Mountains, its location 153 km from Santiago, the Chilean capital, and its proximity to important Argentine cities, Los Libertadores is one of the most frequented international border crossings in Chile.
The place, also known as Paso Cristo Redentor, is named after the statue of Christ the Redeemer of the Andes, located on the border between Chile and Argentina. The Chilean road to the pass includes a section famous for its numerous curves, known as Los Caracoles, which offer breathtaking views but require cautious driving. The international pass features the Cristo Redentor Tunnel, a 3,080-meter-long tunnel that crosses the Andes Mountains, facilitating the crossing between Chile and Argentina, especially during winter. Additionally, the pass rises to an altitude of 3,200 m a.s.l., making it a fascinating challenge for travelers who wish to experience the majesty of the Andes.
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- Additional comments: To reach Jama Pass from Argentina, the main route is National Route 52. There are no significant alternatives, as Ruta Nacional 52 is the established paved road connecting Jujuy Province to the Jama Pass. The place is located at an altitude of over 4,000 meters above sea level, making it one of the highest border crossings between Argentina and Chile.
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- Additional comments: Sico Border Crossing is located between the Antofagasta Region in Chile and Salta Province, Argentina. This crossing is primarily accessible via National Route 51 in Argentina and Route CH-23 in Chile. It is open only to passenger vehicles and cargo transport.
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- Additional comments: The San Francisco Border Pass is renowned for its breathtaking scenery, including vast deserts, turquoise lagoons, and snow-capped mountains. It is a key route for adventurers seeking to explore one of the most remote and spectacular areas of South America, offering an unforgettable experience for those who dare to travel it. Paso San Francisco has also been used by events such as the Dakar Rally, underscoring its significance not only as a border crossing but also as a destination for those seeking adventure in a stunning natural environment.
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- Additional comments: Pircas Negras is a spectacular route that connects Chile and Argentina, crossing the Andes through dazzling landscapes. However, due to its altitude and weather conditions, the pass may be closed in winter or during periods of snow. In summary, Pircas Negras is important not only as an alternative border crossing but also as a potential facilitator of trade and tourism, although sometimes it faces serious operational and climatic challenges.
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- Additional comments: The Agua Negra International Pass connects the Coquimbo Region in Chile with the San Juan Province in Argentina. Its altitude makes it one of the highest passes in South America, and it is closed during winter due to extreme weather conditions and snow accumulation. A tunnel is currently under construction to facilitate year-round crossing. The Agua Negra Tunnel will be approximately 13.9 kilometers long, making it one of the longest tunnels in South America. The construction of the tunnel is expected to enhance the transit of goods and boost the region's economy.
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- Additional comments: The name “Pehuenche” comes from the Pehuenche indigenous people, who inhabited the Andes mountain region in both Chile and Argentina.
The route offers captivating landscapes, featuring hot springs, snow-capped mountains, rivers, and lagoons such as Laguna del Maule, a natural attraction in the area. In addition to being an important commercial crossing, the pass is frequented by tourists seeking access to skiing, mountaineering, fishing, and scenic routes in both Chile and Argentina.
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- Additional comments: Pino Hachado is one of the significant border crossings between Chile and Argentina, particularly important for vehicle traffic, including the transport of goods and tourism. It is one of the passes that remains open for most of the year, although temporary closures may occur in winter due to snow and weather conditions. Pino Hachado connects the AraucanÃa Region in Chile with the province of Neuquén in Argentina. The road that reaches the Pino Hachado International Pass on the Argentine side is Ruta Nacional 242. This route connects with Ruta Nacional 40 in Las Lajas, Neuquén Province, and continues toward the border crossing with Chile.
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- Additional comments: Hua Hum International Pass is one of the most scenic border crossings between Chile and Argentina, known for its unique combination of natural beauty and historical significance. Unlike many other border crossings that traverse the high peaks of the Andes, Hua Hum is situated at a relatively low altitude, surrounded by dense forests, crystal-clear rivers, and Lake Pirihueico in Chile.
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- Additional comments: The Cardenal Samoré Pass is one of the busiest border crossings between Chile and Argentina, serving as a key route for trade and tourism. Known for its stunning natural scenery, it is surrounded by native forests, mountains, and lakes.
The complex features modern facilities with efficient immigration and customs controls, facilitating the transit of vehicles and people. However, due to its location in the Andes Mountains, the pass is subject to extreme weather conditions, especially in winter, when heavy snowfall can sometimes force its temporary closure. Originally known as Paso Puyehue, it was renamed in honor of Cardinal Antonio Samoré, an Italian Catholic cardinal and diplomat who played a crucial role in mediating the Beagle conflict between Chile and Argentina in the 1970s.
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- Additional comments: The pass is named after Vicente Pérez Rosales, a prominent Chilean politician and explorer of the 19th century who promoted German colonization in southern Chile and played an important role in the region's development.
The crossing of the Pérez Rosales Pass is one of the most beautiful scenic routes in the area. It includes a boat ride across several lakes, such as Lake Todos los Santos in Chile and Lake FrÃas in Argentina, surrounded by mountains and lush forests. The pass is mainly accessible during the summer months (December to March), when weather conditions are more favorable. In winter, the weather can be severe, with snowfalls and extreme cold, making the crossing difficult.
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- Additional comments: The Huemules International Pass is situated in a remote area of the Andes Mountains, straddling the Aysén Region in Chile and the Province of Chubut in Argentina. Its geographical location is quite isolated, surrounded by breathtaking natural landscapes. Access to the pass can be restricted in winter due to severe weather conditions, including snow and ice.
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- Additional comments: Unlike other busier border crossings, the Jeinimeni River Pass is less crowded, allowing for a quieter journey and a more personal experience while exploring the region's natural wonders. Although it is not one of the largest passes, it plays a vital role in the local economies, facilitating trade and cultural exchange between Chile and Argentina.
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- Additional comments: The Don Guillermo River International Pass is a relatively lesser-known border crossing that connects Argentina with Chile, but it has its own charm and significance in a remote yet very picturesque area of Southern Patagonia. The region is characterized by its natural beauty, featuring vast steppes, snow-capped mountains, and rivers, with glaciers nearby. It is also close to the renowned Torres del Paine National Park.
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