Paso de Jama High Altitude Border Crossing
Gateway through the Puna's alien landscape
The Paso de Jama connects Susques, Argentina to San Pedro de Atacama, Chile across one of South America’s highest international border crossings at 4,200 meters. This route cuts through the Puna de Atacama’s otherworldly terrain where vicuñas graze among volcanic peaks and salt flats stretch to infinity. The customs complex sits alone in this desolate expanse, often shrouded in clouds that roll across the altiplano like ghostly fingers.
This is a moderate high-altitude route demanding acclimatization and cold-weather preparation. Stock high-clearance vehicles handle the paved sections fine, but sudden weather changes can create treacherous conditions. Best traveled April through October when storms are less frequent. Fuel up in Susques or San Pedro—there’s nothing between. The payoff is raw, unfiltered Andean wilderness where condors soar overhead and the silence is so complete it rings in your ears.
Trail Specs
| Difficulty | Moderate |
|---|---|
| Trail Type | Overland Route |
| Surface | Gravel |
| Features | High Altitude, Historic, Remote, Scenic |
| Length (miles) | 75 mi / 121 km |
| Duration | 1 day |
| Max elevation (ft) | 13779 ft |
| Best season | April-October |
| Minimum vehicle | Stock high-clearance |
| Nearest town | Susques, Argentina / San Pedro de Atacama, Chile |
| Land manager | Argentina-Chile Border Authority |
| Permit required | No |
| Cell service | None |
| Water crossings | No |
| Dispersed camping | Yes |
| Start coordinates | |
| End coordinates | |
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| Find on Google | Search on Google → |
Location
Trail Conditions
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Frequently asked questions
Can a stock Hilux or 4Runner handle Paso de Jama without any mods?
Yes — the road is maintained gravel and a stock high-clearance vehicle is sufficient. You don't need a lift or lockers, but decent all-terrain tires and a reliable cooling system matter at 4,200 meters.
When is Paso de Jama closed or dangerous to cross?
November through March is the Bolivian winter (wet season), when flash flooding and snow can close the pass without warning. April through October is the reliable window — dry, cold nights, and predictable conditions.
Do you need special permits or paperwork to cross at Paso de Jama?
Yes. You need a valid vehicle title, proof of insurance valid in both countries, and a TVIP (Temporary Vehicle Import Permit) for Chile — get this at the border. Fresh fruit, vegetables, and meat are prohibited across the crossing and will be confiscated.
What's the hardest part of this route and what should I actually expect?
The difficulty isn't technical — it's physiological. At 13,779 feet, altitude sickness is the real hazard, especially if you've come up fast from lower elevations. Drive slowly, stay hydrated, and don't push it if you or a passenger feels off; the nearest serious medical help is San Pedro de Atacama or Jujuy.
How far is the nearest fuel from the route, and is there anywhere to camp legally?
Susques on the Argentine side has the last reliable fuel stop before the crossing — fill up there. Dispersed camping is possible in the Puna on the Argentine side, but there are zero services on the route itself, so carry extra fuel, water for at least two days, and all your food.
Trail track
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