The Rio Encuentro bridge crossing from Argentina to Chile
Paso Internacional Río Encuentro is unique among Andean crossings. Instead of a high-altitude climb, this border is defined by a 30-meter international bridge over the Encuentro River. This small span connects the Chubut Province in Argentina with the Los Lagos Region in Chile, serving as a vital link between the towns of Corcovado and Palena. It’s one of the most spectacular bridges in the world.
The drive is a study in contrasts: as you cross the bridge, the road surface changes instantly. While the bridge is a simple concrete structure, it represents the exact point where the Argentinian gravel tracks meet the paved highways of Chile. This crossing is primarily used by light vehicles and locals moving through the Patagonian landscape.
| Road facts: Paso Internacional Río Encuentro | |
|---|---|
| Location | Argentina (Chubut) / Chile (Palena) |
| Bridge Length | 30 meters |
| Argentina Side | RP44 / RN259 (Gravel) |
| Chilean Side | Ruta Internacional CH-235 (Paved) |
| Hours of Operation | 09:00 to 21:00 |
Driving across the Encuentro River bridge
The transition between the two countries is immediate. On the Argentinian side, you reach the border via Ruta Nacional 259 and Ruta Provincial 44. This section is entirely unpaved, consisting of typical Patagonian gravel. Once you drive across the 30-meter bridge, you land on the Chilean side, where the road becomes Ruta Internacional CH-235. This route is fully paved and in excellent condition, leading directly to the town of Palena.
Border Logistics: Light vehicles only
Due to the characteristics of the bridge and the local roads, this pass is only enabled for light vehicles (vehículos menores). Heavy trucks are not permitted to use this crossing. On the Chilean side, the facility is staffed by the PDI, Customs (SNA), and the Agricultural Service (SAG), while the Argentinian side is managed by the Gendarmería Nacional. The border is open daily from 09:00 to 21:00.
A scenic alternative in Patagonia
Because it lacks the extreme elevation of other mountain passes, Rio Encuentro is often a safer and more reliable option during the winter months, provided the local gravel roads on the Argentinian side remain clear. It offers a straightforward driving experience, crossing a river that marks the natural boundary between the two nations in a remote and peaceful setting.
Pic: Jose Pedro Martinez