Paso Roballos Border Route
Extreme Andes crossing to Argentina's back door
The Paso Roballos route climbs from Chile’s Copiapó Valley through some of the most desolate Andean terrain you’ll find, topping out at 4,580 meters before dropping into Argentina’s Catamarca province. This isn’t your typical border crossing — the route threads between volcanic peaks and ancient mining camps, with the road deteriorating to loose rock and switchbacks as you approach Roballos Pass itself.
This is expert-level terrain requiring full 4WD with rock sliders and recovery gear. The altitude hits hard, weather changes fast, and help is nonexistent. Best tackled April through October when snow doesn’t block the pass. Carry extra fuel, water for 3+ days, and emergency shelter. You’ll earn bragging rights crossing one of South America’s most challenging international passages, plus access to Argentina’s remote Puna plateau.
Trail Specs
| Difficulty | Expert |
|---|---|
| Trail Type | Technical 4x4 |
| Surface | Rock |
| Features | High Altitude, Historic, Remote |
| Length (miles) | 78 mi / 125.5 km |
| Duration | 2-3 days |
| Max elevation (ft) | 15026 ft |
| Best season | April-October |
| Minimum vehicle | Built 4WD with armor |
| Nearest town | Copiapó, Atacama |
| Land manager | Chilean Customs 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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