Ruta CH-115 – Termas del Flaco High Mountain Circuit

The CH-115 climbs from Curicó valley floor into the heart of Chile’s Andes, dead-ending at Termas del Flaco – natural hot springs tucked beneath 4,000-meter peaks along the Continental Divide. This is proper mountain driving where switchbacks carve through loose scree and the road narrows to single-track with thousand-foot drops. Past the old copper mine workings at El Teniente, you’re committed to a route that sees more condors than vehicles, culminating at thermal pools where gauchos have soaked aching bones for centuries.

Difficult rating earned through steep grades, rockfall zones, and weather that changes in minutes at altitude. Requires capable 4WD with low-range, good brakes, and experienced mountain driving skills. December through March only when snow clears – even then, carry chains and emergency gear. No fuel, food, or cell service for 80+ km. The payoff is world-class thermal springs, Andean condor sightings, and the kind of high-country solitude that reminds you why you bought that 4WD in the first place.