Cordillera de los Andes Paso Pino Hachado

This remote mountain pass cuts through the heart of the Andes at 1,884 meters, following ancient Mapuche trade routes between Chile and Argentina. The route winds through pristine Araucaria forests and volcanic moonscapes, crossing the Continental Divide where massive Lonquimay Volcano dominates the skyline. Technical sections include loose volcanic rock descents and river crossings that can turn treacherous during snowmelt, with the final approach requiring careful navigation through unmarked boulder fields.

Moderate to difficult terrain demands high-clearance 4WD with good ground clearance and skid plates. Weather changes rapidly at altitude — snow possible year-round above 1,500m. Best tackled April through October when passes stay clear, though early season brings muddy conditions from spring thaw. Fuel up in Lonquimay before heading out, carry extra water, and pack warm gear. The reward is raw Andean wilderness few ever see, plus bragging rights for crossing one of Chile’s most remote international borders.