Carretera Andina Nacional 7 Cristo Redentor International Crossing
Historic Andean pass to Chile's Portillo valley
The Cristo Redentor Pass has been the primary Andean crossing between Mendoza and Santiago for over a century, with the current route following sections of the original Transandine Railway grade. Starting from Uspallata, the gravel and asphalt route climbs through increasingly barren landscape past the Puente del Inca natural rock bridge and Aconcagua Provincial Park turnoff, reaching the Cristo Redentor monument at 3,200 meters where the famous statue marks the Argentina-Chile border.
This is a moderate high-altitude route requiring a reliable vehicle with good brakes for the descent into Chile’s Portillo valley. Weather can change rapidly above 2,500 meters, with snow possible year-round and frequent closures June through August. Carry extra water, warm clothing, and check border hours as the pass closes overnight. The reward is one of South America’s most scenic international crossings with views of Aconcagua, the continent’s highest peak, and access to world-class skiing at Portillo.
Trail Specs
| Difficulty | Moderate |
|---|---|
| Trail Type | Overland Route |
| Surface | Mixed |
| Features | High Altitude, Historic, International Border, Scenic |
| Length (miles) | 85 mi / 137 km |
| Duration | 1 day |
| Max elevation (ft) | 10500 ft |
| Best season | December-April |
| Minimum vehicle | High-clearance 2WD |
| Nearest town | Uspallata, Mendoza |
| Land manager | Dirección Nacional de Vialidad |
| Permit required | No |
| Cell service | Spotty |
| Water crossings | No |
| Dispersed camping | Yes |
| Start coordinates | |
| End coordinates | |
| Copy both for Google Maps directionsClick to copy the directions URL · or open it directly in a new tab | |
| Find on Google | Search on Google → |
Location
Trail Conditions
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Frequently asked questions
Can a stock 4Runner or Tacoma handle this crossing, or do I need a lifted rig?
A high-clearance 2WD is the minimum — a stock 4Runner or Tacoma handles this fine. The road is mostly paved or graded dirt, but the high altitude and occasional rocky sections near the pass make low clearance a problem, not the terrain itself.
When does the Cristo Redentor pass close for the season?
The pass is typically open December through April. Snow can shut it down without much warning outside those months — winter closures (May–November) are common and sometimes extend longer after heavy snowfall. Check with Gendarmería Nacional or local road reports before you go.
Do I need special permits or vehicle documentation to cross into Chile here?
Yes — you need a SIVETUR or similar vehicle authorization form to take a foreign-registered vehicle across, and both sides require passport processing at the border. Bring all vehicle ownership documents; customs on both sides will inspect them. Budget 1–3 hours for the crossing depending on traffic.
What's the hardest section of this route and what should I actually expect?
The switchbacks climbing toward the Cristo Redentor tunnel on the Argentine side are the most demanding — steep grade, tight turns, and altitude hits you at 3,200 meters. The road surface is manageable, but vapor lock and overheating are real concerns for carbureted or older vehicles pushing up that climb.
Is there fuel or water available along the route, or do I need to top off in Uspallata?
Top off fuel and water in Uspallata before you leave — it's the last reliable stop. There's nothing between there and the Chilean side at Portillo. Cell service is spotty throughout, so don't count on Google Maps saving you if something goes wrong mid-route.
Trail track
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