Cordillera de la Costa Valparaíso to Aconcagua Traverse

This forgotten mining route climbs from Valparaíso’s Pacific coastline through the rugged Cordillera de la Costa, following pack mule trails used by 19th-century copper miners. The track winds through eucalyptus groves and scrubland toward the Aconcagua valley, passing the abandoned El Soldado mine complex where German engineers once extracted high-grade copper ore. Expect steep switchbacks and loose shale sections as you navigate past slag piles and concrete foundations of the old processing plant.

Stock high-clearance vehicles can handle most sections, though the final descent requires careful line choice through rocky drainage cuts. Dry season (November-March) offers the best conditions, as winter rains turn the clay sections into boot-sucking quagmires. No permits needed for this route, but carry extra water and fuel for the 65-kilometer traverse. The payoff comes at sunset when you’re looking back at the Pacific from 2,800 meters, copper tailings glowing amber in the dying light.