Ruta Provincial 51 – Paso Sico Circuit
High Puna crossing to Chile's forgotten border
The Paso Sico route cuts through the heart of the Puna de Atacama, where oxygen gets thin and landscapes turn Martian. Starting from San Antonio de los Cobres, this remote border crossing climbs relentlessly through moonscape terrain dotted with vicuñas and flamingo-filled salares. The highlight is Paso Sico itself at 4,079 meters—one of Argentina’s highest vehicle-accessible passes—where you’ll find the actual border marker amid a field of volcanic peaks.
This is serious high-altitude overlanding that demands respect. Your 4WD needs to handle loose volcanic gravel, sudden weather changes, and altitude that’ll make both you and your engine work harder. Best tackled April through November when snow doesn’t block the pass. Carry extra fuel, water, and warm gear—temperatures can drop below freezing even in summer. The reward is absolute solitude in one of South America’s most alien landscapes, plus bragging rights for crossing into Chile through the back door of the Andes.
Trail Specs
| Difficulty | Difficult |
|---|---|
| Trail Type | Overland Route |
| Surface | Gravel |
| Features | High Altitude, Remote, Scenic |
| Length (miles) | 87 mi / 140 km |
| Duration | 2-3 days |
| Max elevation (ft) | 13380 ft |
| Best season | April-November |
| Minimum vehicle | Stock 4WD high-clearance |
| Nearest town | San Antonio de los Cobres, Salta |
| Land manager | Provincial Government of Salta |
| Permit required | No |
| Cell service | None |
| 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 Land Cruiser or 4Runner handle Ruta Provincial 51 without modifications?
A stock high-clearance 4WD will get you through, but expect rough washboard gravel, loose rock sections, and sustained high-altitude grades that will stress a factory suspension. Skid plates are strongly advised — there's nothing soft about the Puna.
What months is Paso Sico actually passable?
April through November is the reliable window. Summer (December–March) brings Bolivian rains that can flood low crossings and turn sections of the route into impassable mud. Snow can close the pass outside of season without warning.
Do you need a permit or special paperwork to drive Ruta 51 toward the Chilean border?
No trail permit is required on the Argentine side, but if you're crossing into Chile at Paso Sico you need your vehicle's documentation, passport, and a CITES-compliant vehicle export permit (Título del Automotor). The border crossing is staffed but hours are limited — confirm current operating hours with Gendarmería before you go.
What's the hardest section of this route and what makes it technical?
The climb toward the 4,079-meter pass is the crux — sustained steep grades on loose gravel with exposed drop-offs and no guardrails. At that altitude your engine loses significant power, so underpowered or heavily loaded rigs will struggle. Take it slow, watch tire placement, and don't rush the descent.
Is there any water or fuel between San Antonio de los Cobres and the border?
No fuel exists on the route — fill up completely in San Antonio de los Cobres before you leave. Water sources on the Puna are scarce and unreliable; carry a minimum of 10 liters per person for the full 2–3 day circuit. There is zero cell service the entire way, so self-sufficiency isn't optional here.
Trail track
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