Cordillera de los Andes Paso Internacional Pehuenche
Andean border crossing at 2,553 meters.
Paso Pehuenche punches through the Andes at 2,553 meters, following ancient Pehuenche trading routes between Chile’s Maule Valley and Argentina’s Mendoza province. The climb starts gentle through wine country near San Clemente, then gets serious after Laguna del Maule — loose volcanic scree, narrow switchbacks carved into cliff faces, and weather that can turn savage in minutes. The Argentine side drops through spectacular red rock canyons before hitting the dusty plains near Malargüe.
Difficult route requiring experienced mountain driving and proper gear. Stock 4WD minimum, but aggressive tires and skid plates recommended for the volcanic rock sections. Open December through March when snow clears — attempt outside this window only with chains and experience. Passport required for border crossing. No services for 150 kilometers past Laguna del Maule. This is serious Andean adventure driving through landscapes that look like Mars, with views that stretch across two countries.
Trail Specs
| Difficulty | Difficult |
|---|---|
| Trail Type | High Clearance |
| Surface | Gravel |
| Features | High Altitude, Historic, Remote, Scenic |
| Length (miles) | 87 mi / 140 km |
| Duration | 1 day |
| Max elevation (ft) | 8376 ft |
| Best season | December-March |
| Minimum vehicle | Stock 4WD |
| Nearest town | San Clemente, Maule |
| Land manager | Chilean Border Control |
| Permit required | No |
| Cell service | None |
| Water crossings | Yes |
| Dispersed camping | No |
| Start coordinates | |
| End coordinates | |
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Location
Trail Conditions
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Frequently asked questions
Can a stock 4WD handle Paso Pehuenche, or do I need a lifted rig?
A stock 4WD is the minimum — think stock Land Cruiser, Patrol, or equivalent. The gravel switchbacks and loose volcanic surface will punish anything with low clearance or open diffs, and there's no recovery help coming quickly at this altitude.
When is Paso Pehuenche actually open and passable?
December through March is the reliable window. Snow closes the pass hard outside those months, and even in early December or late March you can hit unexpected closures. Check with Chilean border control before you commit — they'll have current road status.
Do I need permits or special paperwork to cross from Chile into Argentina here?
Yes — this is an international border crossing, so you need your passport, vehicle title, and a notarized authorization if the vehicle isn't registered in your name. Both Chilean and Argentine customs must clear you, and hours are limited, so confirm crossing times with Aduana Chile before you go.
What's the hardest section of this trail and what should I actually expect?
The upper switchbacks approaching the 2,553-meter pass are the crux — tight turns, loose gravel, and significant exposure with no guardrails. At that altitude your engine loses power noticeably, so don't expect to muscle through a sketchy line the same way you would at sea level.
How far is the nearest fuel stop, and is there water on the route?
Fuel up fully in San Clemente before you leave — there's nothing on the 140km route. There are water crossings on trail, but treat anything you pull from them; potable water is not available along the way, so carry all you need for the full day.
Trail track
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