Ruta Nacional 150 Paso Internacional de San Francisco
Historic trans-Andean pass at 4,726 meters.
National Route 150 follows the ancient Inca road and colonial mule train path through the Cordillera de San Francisco, culminating at the 4,726-meter Paso de San Francisco border crossing with Chile. The route climbs from Fiambalá through increasingly barren puna landscape, passing the historic Tambo de Real de San Francisco ruins and crossing multiple high-altitude quebradas. Above 4,000 meters, the road becomes a rough track with washboard surfaces and loose volcanic gravel.
While technically accessible to stock high-clearance vehicles during good weather, the altitude and remoteness require careful preparation. The final 60 kilometers to the pass see rapid elevation gain that can trigger altitude sickness. Best accessed November through April when snow doesn’t block the upper elevations. Carry extra fuel, water, warm clothing, and emergency supplies for potential weather changes. The route offers stunning views of 6,000-meter peaks and access to some of Argentina’s most remote high-altitude terrain.
Trail Specs
| Difficulty | Difficult |
|---|---|
| Trail Type | Overland Route |
| Surface | Gravel |
| Features | High Altitude, Historic, Remote, Scenic |
| Length (miles) | 124 mi / 200 km |
| Duration | 2 days |
| Max elevation (ft) | 15505 ft |
| Best season | November-April |
| Minimum vehicle | Stock high-clearance AWD |
| Nearest town | Fiambalá, Catamarca |
| Land manager | Vialidad Nacional |
| Permit required | No |
| Cell service | None |
| Water crossings | Yes |
| Dispersed camping | Yes |
| Start coordinates | |
| End coordinates | |
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Location
Trail Conditions
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Frequently asked questions
Can a stock Hilux or high-clearance AWD handle this route, or do I need a lifted rig?
A stock high-clearance AWD or 4WD like a Hilux or Prado can manage this route, but low-range gearing is essential for the steep gravel climbs near the pass. Lifted builds have more margin for error on the rougher sections, but ground clearance is less the issue than engine performance at altitude — your engine loses roughly 40% power at 4,726 meters.
Is the pass open year-round or does it close in winter?
November through April is the only reliable window. Snow closes the pass from roughly May to October, and even early in the season conditions can deteriorate fast. Always check current status with Vialidad Nacional or locals in Fiambalá before committing.
Do I need permits or special documentation to cross into Chile at Paso San Francisco?
Yes — this is an international border crossing, so both Argentine and Chilean border formalities apply, including vehicle permits (TVIP for Chile), passports, and customs declarations. Verify the crossing's operational hours in advance; it's a remote post and hours are limited.
What's the hardest section of the route and what should I actually be prepared for?
The climb to the 4,726-meter summit is the crux — loose gravel, no guardrails, significant exposure, and grades that punish overheated brakes on the descent. Altitude sickness is a real threat; the route gains over 11,800 feet and there's no quick way down if someone in your party is struggling badly.
There's zero cell service on this route — how far is the nearest fuel and what's the gas range I need to plan for?
Fiambalá is your last reliable fuel stop before the pass, and the full route runs 200 km through completely remote terrain with no services. Carry enough fuel for at least 300 km with a cushion — altitude and rough surfaces will tank your economy — and bring all your water since crossings are present but not safe to drink without treatment.
Trail track
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