Los Caracoles Drive Guide From Santiago to Mendoza Through High Andes

Driving across a continent is one thing, but driving over one of the world's biggest mountain ranges is another. The Andes form a tall spine between Chile and Argentina. They are rock, ice, and thin air. For road-trippers and truckers, the route between Santiago and Mendoza is an epic task. Its most famous stretch is called Los Caracoles — the Snails. This road is tight and steep. It tests both people and machines.

Starting the Ascent from Santiago

The trip starts in the busy Chilean capital. The city soon gives way to the Andes. Ruta 60 heads east and feels calm at first. But as the road climbs, the air thins and the temperature drops. This is the last good chance to finish preparations.

Many travelers find it smart to lighten their load. Dropping non-essential bags at best luggage storage Santiago can make the car easier to handle. A lighter car is safer on steep slopes. Focus belongs on the road, not on an overpacked trunk.

The Unforgiving Twists of Los Caracoles

Suddenly the road changes. Los Caracoles, or "The Snails," lives up to its name. This famous section has 29 brutal hairpin turns in quick succession. There are almost no straight stretches. The road zig-zags up a barren slope, rising from about 800 meters (2,624 ft) to over 3,200 meters (10,500 ft) in a short distance.

Many corners have no guardrails. One mistake is not a fender bender; it could mean a steep drop down the mountain. Drivers need steady hands and full attention. Passengers, by contrast, get dizzying views of the valley below. The scene is both beautiful and intimidating.

Facing the High-Altitude Gauntlet

Reaching the top of Los Caracoles is only part of the challenge. The pass, officially Paso de los Libertadores, adds more risks shaped by altitude and weather.

The Fury of Andean Weather

The high Andes weather changes fast. Heavy snowfall and blizzards are common between June and September. Ice can form on the road and visibility can drop to almost nothing. The pass may close for days or weeks in winter, trapping hundreds of vehicles.

Even in summer, sudden storms or strong winds can make driving dangerous. Plan for delays and check forecasts. However, good timing can avoid the worst of it. Stay alert.

The Christ the Redeemer Tunnel

Near the summit lies the Túnel del Cristo Redentor, a 3-kilometer tunnel that cuts through the mountain and links Chile and Argentina. Driving into it feels like entering the mountain's heart. It is narrow and dim. This tunnel is a vital link for travel and commerce.

Altitude can affect both the car and the body. Engines may lose power and people can feel short of breath. Drive slowly and watch your speed.

The Old Road to the Heavens

For adventurous drivers with a solid 4x4, the original unpaved road still exists. This gravel track climbs higher — to nearly 3,840 meters (12,600 ft) — and ends near the Christ the Redeemer of the Andes statue that marks the old border. It opens only a few months in summer. The track is raw and dangerous, a close echo of early 20th-century travel.

Many drivers remember the raw silence up there. Travelers often note the sense of being very small.

The Heavyweights of the Highway

Los Caracoles is also a major commercial route. Large double-trailer trucks use it regularly. These giants climb and descend the steep grades slowly. Overtaking them is almost impossible and risky. A big truck taking a tight hairpin just meters away is humbling.

Their slow pace often sets the traffic rhythm. Patience becomes survival. Expect long stretches in low gear, following behind these heavy vehicles. It is tiring. But it is normal.

Is Your Vehicle Prepared for the Andes?

Trying this drive without proper prep is risky. Steep climbs, high altitude, and sudden weather need respect.

Brakes are critical. Long, steep descents will test brakes to their limit. Make sure brakes are in top condition. Use low gear to control speed and prevent overheating.
Snow chains are not optional in winter. From June 1st to September 30th it is mandatory by law to carry snow chains (cadenas). Police checkpoints are common. If caught without chains, drivers will be turned back and face a fine near 1.5 UTM (about $100 USD).
Check tires and fluids. The road surface can be rough and temperature swings can affect vehicle performance.

Also check your spare tire, lights, and battery. Small failures are expensive and sometimes dangerous up there. Actually—scratch that. Plan for problems rather than hope they won't happen.

The Border Crossing Bottleneck

After navigating the mountain, drivers face the border crossing at the Complejo Fronterizo Los Libertadores. Chilean and Argentinian customs and immigration operate here. During peak season (January–February) or after a weather closure, waits can be huge — sometimes 8–10 hours.

Lines of cars and trucks can stretch for miles down the mountain. Services are scarce. Pack water, snacks, and a full tank of fuel. You may be stuck for a very long time. Many drivers find a quiet patience becomes the best tool.

A brief note about timing: if possible, travel outside peak months and check for recent closures. That can save hours.