Chile News and Travel | By Raul Silva M.
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Many crossings pass through the Andes Mountains Image: Cambio21 |
Chile, a country renowned for its stunning geographical diversity—from the arid Atacama Desert in the north to the icy glaciers of Patagonia in the south—offers travelers a rich blend of landscapes and cultures.
Chile shares land borders with Peru, Bolivia, and Argentina, spanning a total length of approximately 7,801 kilometers. Its border crossings serve as vital links for international trade, tourism, and cultural exchange with these neighboring nations. At each major checkpoint, travelers will find essential government services that ensure a safe and efficient crossing experience. These include:
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PDI (Investigative Police of Chile): Responsible for immigration control and document verification.
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Chilean Customs Service: Manages the entry and exit of goods.
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SAG (Agricultural and Livestock Service): Regulates the movement of plants, animals, and agricultural products.
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Carabineros de Chile: Provides law enforcement, security, and assistance to travelers.
Together, these institutions safeguard the integrity of Chile's borders while facilitating movement and cooperation across South America.
Important: The following list includes the most relevant border crossings—those with the highest traffic or strategic importance—that usually remain open year-round, except during periods of extremely adverse weather. It also features seasonal crossings, generally open in summer, as well as others that, due to their remote location or specific conditions, are less accessible and less frequently used. In all cases, it is strongly recommended to check the operating status of your intended crossing in advance.
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Border Crossings Chile - Peru:
Name of Border Pass: Concordia
Coordinates: 18°18′S, 70°19′W
In decimal: -18.3°, -70.316667°
Elevation: 85 m a.s.l.
Highway in Chile: Ruta 5 Norte (Pan-American Highway)
Highway in Peru: PE-1S
Nearest City in Chile: Arica, Arica y Parinacota Region (XV Region)
Nearest City in Peru: Tacna
Additional Information: The Concordia Pass marks the border between Chile and Peru, established by the 1929 Treaty of Lima, which defined the boundary between the two countries following the War of the Pacific. The crossing is monitored by the Chacalluta Border Complex on the Chilean side and the Santa Rosa Border Complex in Peru.
Located near the cities of Arica (Chile) and Tacna (Peru), it is one of the busiest border crossings in Chile and serves as a key corridor for trade and transportation between northern Chile and southern Peru.
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Main Border Crossings Chile - Bolivia:
Name of Border Pass: Visviri / Charaña
Coordinates: 17°35′S, 69°28′W
In decimal: -17.583333°, -69.466667°
Elevation: 4,095 m a.s.l.
Highway or Road Name in Chile: CH-11, A-23, A-93
Nearest town or city in Chile: Visviri
Nearest town or city in Bolivia: Charaña
Additional information: The Visviri / Charaña crossing connects northern Chile with western Bolivia, at a high-altitude location in the Andes. This international pass lies in the commune of General Lagos, in the Arica and Parinacota Region, and is one of the northernmost points of Chile. The nearest settlement on the Chilean side is Visviri, a small town that bears the name of the pass and is often referred to as “where Chile begins” due to its location at the extreme north of the country. On the Bolivian side, it connects to the town of Charaña, in the La Paz Department.
Despite its remote location, the pass serves as a gateway for regional transit and trade, and is occasionally used by travelers and commercial vehicles. The area is also known for its harsh climate and stark, mountainous landscapes. Chilean government services at the site include the Carabineros de Chile and other border control entities.
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Name of Border Pass: Chungará / Tambo Quemado
Coordinates: 18°17′S, 69°04′W
In decimal: -18.283333°, -69.066667°
Elevation: 4,680 m a.s.l.
Highway in Chile: Route CH-11
Nearest Chilean Town: Putre, Arica y Parinacota Region
Nearest Bolivian Town: Tambo Quemado
Additional Information: Known as Tambo Quemado on the Bolivian side, the Chungará border crossing is a key point of connection between Chile and Bolivia. Situated in a high-altitude area, it plays a vital role in the movement of people and goods across the Andes.
Name of Border Pass: Colchane / Pisiga
Coordinates: 19°16′00″S, 68°37′00″W
In decimal: -19.266667°, -68.616667°
Elevation: 3,695 m a.s.l.
Chilean Route: Ruta CH-15
Nearest Chilean Town: Colchane, Tarapacá Region
Nearest Bolivian Town: Pisiga, Oruro Department
Additional Information: This international crossing connects northern Chile with the Oruro Department of Bolivia. On the Chilean side, the closest settlement is Colchane, located in the highlands of the Tarapacá Region. On the Bolivian side, the nearest locality is Pisiga, accessible via Bolivia’s National Route 12.
Colchane / Pisiga border crossing is one of the main gateways between Chile and Bolivia, located in the Andean highlands at an elevation of 3,695 m a.s.l. The surrounding area is marked by arid landscapes, high-altitude plains, and a strong Aymara cultural heritage. From Pisiga, travelers can continue toward the nearby town of Sabaya, or farther east to the city of Oruro, about 215 km away. On the Chilean side, the route leads westward to the coastal city of Iquique. This crossing is frequently used by tourists and commercial transport alike, serving as a key point for binational trade and cultural exchange.
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Name of Border Pass: Cancosa / Apacheta de Irpa
Coordinates: 19º50´S, 68º35'W
In decimal: -19.816667°, -68.583333°
Elevation: 4010 m a.s.l.
Highway or Road Name in Chile: A-95
Nearest town or city in Chile: Cancosa, Tarapacá Region
Nearest town or city in Bolivia: Bella Vista
Additional Information: 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 the high-altitude environment. Although it mainly serves commercial transport, adventurous travelers seeking to reach Bolivia's more remote regions can use this pass as a gateway to explore seldom-visited areas.
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Name of Border Pass: Abra Oriente de Napa
Coordinates: 20°33′S, 68°35′W
In decimal: -20.55°, -68.583333°
Elevation: 3,785 m a.s.l.
Highway or Road Name in Chile: CH-15
Nearest town or city in Chile: Colchane
Nearest town or city in Bolivia: Cazarpaya
Additional information: Abra Oriente de Napa is a remote Andean border pass between Chile and Bolivia, located in the Tarapacá Region of northern Chile. It sits at an elevation of 3,785 m a.s.l. and connects the Chilean highland route CH-15 with the rural Bolivian area near the village of Cazarpaya, in the Oruro Department. This pass is primarily used for local transit and is not an official international crossing with customs and immigration facilities. It lies east of the more prominent Pisiga–Colchane border complex. Due to its altitude and isolation, travel through this area requires adequate preparation, and road conditions may vary depending on weather.
Name of Border Pass: Salar de Ollagüe
Coordinates: 21°13′S, 68°14′W
In decimal: -21.216667°, -68.233333°
Elevation: 3,695 m a.s.l.
Highway in Chile: Route CH-21
Nearest Chilean Town: Ollagüe, Antofagasta Region
Nearest Bolivian Town: San Pedro de Quemes, Potosí Department
Additional Information: This pass connects Chile and Bolivia through the salt flat that bears its name. The area has a cold arid climate with two distinct seasons: the Chilean winter and the so-called "Altiplanic winter," known for its convective summer rains.
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Name of Border Pass: Hito Cajón
Coordinates: 22°53′S, 67°48′W
In decimal: -22.883333°, -67.800000°
Elevation: 4,480 m a.s.l.
Highway in Chile: Route CH-27
Highway in Bolivia: Route 701
Nearest town in Chile: San Pedro de Atacama, Antofagasta Region
Nearest town in Bolivia: Culpina K, Potosí Department
Additional Information: Hito Cajón is a key border crossing between Chile and Bolivia, playing a strategic role in regional connectivity and trade. It facilitates the flow of tourists and goods while also serving as an important checkpoint for monitoring and preventing illicit activities such as drug trafficking and vehicle smuggling.
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Main Border Crossings Chile - Argentina:
Name of Border Pass: Los Libertadores
Coordinates: 32°49′S, 70°04′W
In decimal: -32.816667°, -70.066667°
Elevation: 3,220 m a.s.l.
Chilean Route: CH-60
Argentine Route: Ruta Nacional 7
Nearest town in Chile: Los Andes
Nearest town in Argentina: Uspallata, Mendoza Province
Additional Information: Listed first due to its strategic, commercial, and touristic relevance, Los Libertadores is one of Chile’s most important international crossings. Located just 153 km from Santiago, the Chilean capital, and close to key cities in Argentina, it is also known as Cristo Redentor Pass, named after the Christ the Redeemer of the Andes statue that stands on the border between the two countries.
The Chilean side of the route is famous for a winding section called Los Caracoles, known for its steep hairpin turns and panoramic views of the Andes. The crossing includes the Cristo Redentor Tunnel, a 3,080-meter tunnel that cuts through the Andes and ensures year-round access, especially vital during snowy winters. With an elevation of 3,220 m a.s.l., the pass offers travelers a memorable experience surrounded by the dramatic scenery of the mountains—an impressive gateway between Chile and Argentina.
Name of Border Pass: Jama
Coordinates: 23°14′S, 67°04′W
In decimal: -23.233333°, -67.066667°
Elevation: 4,275 m a.s.l.
Chilean Route: CH-27
Argentine Route: Ruta Nacional 52
Nearest town in Chile: San Pedro de Atacama, Antofagasta Region
Nearest town in Argentina: Susques, Jujuy Province
Additional Information: Jama Pass connects the Antofagasta Region of Chile with Jujuy Province in Argentina. On the Argentine side, Ruta Nacional 52 is the main and only paved route leading to the pass, with no significant alternative roads.
Located at over 4,000 meters above sea level, Jama is one of the highest international crossings between the two countries. Despite the altitude, it is well-traveled due to its reliable infrastructure and its role as a key route for both tourism and trade.
Name of Border Pass: Sico
Coordinates: 23°51′S, 67°16′W
In decimal: -23.85°, -67.266667°
Elevation: 4,092 m a.s.l.
Chilean Route: CH-23
Argentine Route: Ruta Nacional 51
Nearest town in Chile: San Pedro de Atacama
Nearest town in Argentina: San Antonio de los Cobres, Salta Province
Additional Information: Sico Pass lies between Chile’s Antofagasta Region and Argentina’s Salta Province. It is accessed via CH-23 on the Chilean side and Ruta Nacional 51 in Argentina. The route is open to both passenger vehicles and cargo transport.
Surrounded by high-altitude desert landscapes, this crossing offers a unique journey through the Andes and is used by travelers seeking a less congested alternative to other northern border passes.
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Name of Border Pass: Socompa
Coordinates: 24°27′S, 68°17′W
In decimal: -24.45°, -68.283333°
Elevation: 3,876 m a.s.l.
Highway or Road Name in Chile: B-55
Nearest town or city in Chile: San Pedro de Atacama, Calama
Nearest town or city in Argentina: Tolar Grande, San Antonio de los Cobres, Salta Province
Additional information: This high-altitude crossing is mostly used for freight and train transport. The road is unpaved and not always in good condition. It offers dramatic landscapes and is suitable only for well-prepared vehicles.
Name of Border Pass: San Francisco
Coordinates: 26°52′S, 68°18′W
In decimal: -26.866667°, -68.3°
Elevation: 4,748 m a.s.l.
Chilean Route: CH-31
Nearest town in Chile: Copiapó
Nearest town in Argentina: Fiambalá, Catamarca Province
Additional Information: San Francisco Pass is known for its breathtaking scenery, featuring expansive deserts, turquoise lagoons, and snow-capped mountains. It serves as a key route for travelers and adventurers looking to explore one of the most remote and awe-inspiring regions of South America.The pass has also been part of major events such as the Dakar Rally, highlighting its importance not just as a border crossing, but also as a destination for those seeking unforgettable experiences in a striking natural environment.
Name of Border Pass: Pircas Negras
Coordinates: 28°04′S, 69°18′W
In decimal: -28.066667°, -69.3°
Elevation: 4,164 m a.s.l.
Highway or Road Name in Chile: Ruta Nacional 108 (CH-31)
Nearest town or city in Chile: Copiapó, Tierra Amarilla; Atacama Region
Nearest town or city in Argentina: Jagüé, Villa San José de Vinchina, Villa Unión; La Rioja Province
Additional information: Pircas Negras is a remarkable high-altitude route crossing the Andes, offering travelers breathtaking views of snow-capped mountains and vividly colored rock formations. The landscape's vastness and solitude provide an unforgettable experience for nature lovers. Although it serves as a strategic connection between Chile and Argentina, the pass is subject to seasonal closures due to snow and adverse weather, especially in winter.
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Name of Border Pass: Agua Negra
Coordinates: 30°11′S, 69°49′W
In decimal: -30.183333°, -69.816667°
Elevation: 4,779 m a.s.l.
Highway or Road Name in Chile: CH-41
Highway or Road Name in Argentina: Ruta Nacional 150
Nearest town or city in Chile: Vicuña
Nearest town or city in Argentina: Las Flores, San Juan Province
Additional information: Connecting Chile’s Coquimbo Region with Argentina’s San Juan Province, Agua Negra is one of South America's highest international passes. It is typically closed during winter due to harsh weather. A major infrastructure project—the Agua Negra Tunnel—is under construction to allow year-round transit, boosting regional trade and connectivity with its planned 13.9 km length.
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Name of Border Pass: Paso Internacional Vergara (Del Planchón)
Coordinates: 35°12′S, 70°31′W
In decimal: -35.200000°, -70.516667°
Elevation: 2,505 m a.s.l.
Highway or Road Name in Chile: Route J-55
Highway or Road Name in Argentina: Ruta Nacional 145 and Ruta Provincial 226
Nearest town or city in Chile: Curicó (Maule Region)
Nearest town or city in Argentina: Malargüe (Mendoza Province)
Additional information: This seasonal mountain pass is open during summer months and connects the Maule Region with Argentina's Mendoza Province. Surrounded by stunning Andean landscapes, it is mainly used by adventurers, cyclists, and 4x4 travelers. Chilean border services, including Carabineros and customs, are present when the pass is open. It is also close to Radal Siete Tazas National Park, a popular nature destination.
Name of Border Pass: Pehuenche
Coordinates: 35°58′S, 70°23′W
In decimal: -35.966667°, -70.383333°
Elevation: 2,553 m a.s.l.
Highway or Road Name in Chile: CH-115
Highway or Road Name in Argentina: Ruta Nacional 145
Nearest town or city in Chile: Talca, San Clemente; Maule Region
Nearest town or city in Argentina: Malargüe, Las Loicas; Mendoza Province
Additional information: Named after the native Pehuenche people, this scenic pass is known for its thermal springs, rivers, and snow-covered peaks. Travelers can also visit Laguna del Maule, a natural gem along the way. Pehuenche is both a commercial route and a gateway to outdoor recreation such as skiing, fishing, and hiking.
Name of Border Pass: Pino Hachado
Coordinates: 38°39′S, 70°53′W In decimal: -38.65°, -70.883333°
Elevation: 1,884 m a.s.l.
Highway or Road Name in Chile: CH-181
Highway or Road Name in Argentina: Ruta Nacional 242
Nearest town or city in Chile: Lonquimay, Liucura; Araucanía Region
Nearest town or city in Argentina: Zapala, Las Lajas; Neuquén Province
Additional information: This border pass is one of the most frequently used in southern Chile, providing a steady flow of trade and tourism between the Araucanía Region and Neuquén Province. Though generally open year-round, it may close temporarily in winter due to snow. It is a vital link in the corridor that connects Ruta Nacional 242 to Argentina’s Ruta Nacional 40.
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Name of Border Pass: Icalma
Coordinates: 38°50′S, 71°16′W
In decimal: -38.833333°, -71.266667°
Elevation: 1,300 m a.s.l.
Highway or Road Name in Chile: S-61
Highway or Road Name in Argentina: Ruta Provincial 13
Nearest town or city in Chile: Icalma, Melipeuco, Temuco; Araucanía Region
Nearest town or city in Argentina: Villa Pehuenia, Zapala; Neuquén Province
Additional information: Nestled in a scenic region rich in Mapuche culture, Icalma Pass is a favorite for ecotourism. Its proximity to Conguillío National Park and China Muerta Reserve makes it a gateway for hiking, fishing, and kayaking. Accessibility is seasonal, as snowfall may lead to winter closures.
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Name of Border Pass: Mamuil Malal
Coordinates: 39°34′S, 71°29′W
In decimal: -39.566667°, -71.483333°
Elevation: 1,210 m a.s.l.
Highway or Road Name in Chile: CH-199
Highway or Road Name in Argentina: Ruta Provincial 60
Nearest town or city in Chile: Curarrehue, Pucón, Villarrica; Araucanía Region
Nearest town or city in Argentina: Junín de los Andes, San Martín de los Andes; Neuquén Province
Additional information: Also known as Paso Tromen, Mamuil Malal is surrounded by captivating views of the Andes and Lanín Volcano (3,776 m a.s.l.). It is heavily used by tourists exploring Villarrica and Lanín national parks, and the route is lined with native forests and scenic viewpoints.
Name of Border Pass: Hua Hum
Coordinates: 40°05′S, 71°40′W
In decimal: -40.083333°, -71.666667°
Elevation: 659 m a.s.l.
Highway or Road Name in Chile: CH-203
Highway or Road Name in Argentina: Ruta Provincial 48
Nearest town or city in Chile: Puerto Fuy, Panguipulli; Los Ríos Region
Nearest town or city in Argentina: San Martín de los Andes; Neuquén Province
Additional information: Unlike most high-altitude passes, Hua Hum is situated at a low elevation amid forests and lakes. Travelers cross Lake Pirihueico by ferry, offering a scenic and peaceful journey. This pass blends natural beauty with historical interest and is especially appealing to outdoor enthusiasts.
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Name of Border Pass: Cardenal Samoré
Coordinates: 40°49′S, 71°57′W / In decimal: -40.816667°, -71.95°
Elevation: 1,305 m a.s.l.
Highway or Road Name in Chile: CH-215
Highway or Road Name in Argentina: Ruta Nacional 231
Nearest town or city in Chile: Osorno, Entre Lagos; Los Lagos Region
Nearest town or city in Argentina: Villa La Angostura; Neuquén Province
Additional information: As one of the busiest crossings in southern Chile, Cardenal Samoré plays a vital role in binational commerce and tourism. It is surrounded by native forests and snow-capped mountains, and includes modern facilities for customs and immigration. The pass was renamed in honor of Cardinal Antonio Samoré, who mediated the Beagle conflict between Chile and Argentina.
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Name of Border Pass: Pérez Rosales
Coordinates: 41°04′S, 71°49′W
In decimal: -41.066667°, -71.816667°
Elevation: 1,020 m a.s.l.
Highway or Road Name in Chile: CH-225
Nearest town or city in Chile: Peulla; Los Lagos Region
Nearest town or city in Argentina: San Carlos de Bariloche; Río Negro Province
Additional information: This picturesque crossing is named after Vicente Pérez Rosales, an influential figure in southern Chile's development. The crossing is highly seasonal in terms of tourist demand, with the highest flow from November to April (summer months), and a moderate season during the winter months of July and August, when tourists come for skiing and snow activities. It can be closed temporarily due to bad weather or geological hazards even during high season.
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Name of Border Pass: Río Manso
Coordinates: 41°31′S, 71°51′W
In decimal: -41.516667°, -71.85°
Elevation: 480 m a.s.l.
Chilean Road Access: From Puerto Varas, take Route 225, then Route V-69 to Cochamó. From there, follow secondary roads to El León, 1 km from the border. The final stretch along the Manso River valley is currently accessible only on foot, horseback, or by boat.
Nearest Town in Chile: Cochamó, Los Lagos Region
Nearest Towns in Argentina: Villa Mascardi, San Carlos de Bariloche, and El Bolsón – Río Negro Province
Additional information: The Río Manso Pass is located in a scenic area near the Vicente Pérez Rosales National Park and offers a less-traveled but picturesque connection between Chile and Argentina. It is mostly used by adventure travelers and locals. The route involves gravel roads on both sides and may be affected by weather conditions, especially in winter. Border facilities are minimal, so travelers should check ahead for opening hours and requirements.
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Name of Border Pass: Futaleufú
Coordinates: 43°10′S, 71°44′W
In decimal: -43.166667°, -71.733333°
Elevation: 335 m a.s.l.
Highway or Road Name in Chile: CH-231
Highway or Road Name in Argentina: Ruta Nacional 259
Nearest town or city in Chile: Futaleufú
Nearest town or city in Argentina: Trevelin, Esquel; Chubut Province
Additional information: This low-altitude pass connects the picturesque Chilean town of Futaleufú—renowned for its world-class whitewater rafting—with Argentina’s Chubut Province. It’s a popular crossing for adventure travelers exploring the rivers, forests, and lakes of northern Patagonia. Open year-round, though subject to weather disruptions during winter.
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