Ruta de los Caracoles Mining Circuit

This legendary mining road snakes through the central Andes with 29 numbered hairpin turns that give it the name ‘Route of the Snails.’ Built in the 1960s to access copper deposits, the track climbs from 2,800 meters to over 4,000 meters through abandoned mining camps and glacial moraines. The notorious Curva 15 offers technical rock ledges while Paso del Caracol provides panoramic views of Aconcagua’s western face across the border.

Moderate difficulty requires high-clearance 4WD and experience with altitude — engine performance drops significantly above 3,500 meters. Best tackled April through October when snow clears but weather remains unpredictable. Carry extra fuel, water, and emergency gear as cell service is nonexistent and the nearest help is hours away. The payoff is accessing some of the most remote Andean scenery in Chile with world-class dispersed camping spots among 6,000-meter peaks.