How To Cross The Chile Argentina Border by Land

As far as border crossings are concerned, the Chile-Argentina border is one of the most impressive in the world. This border covers the Andes mountains and Patagonia and even splits the Tierra del Fuego archipelago. No wonder this border is the third largest worldwide. 

No matter where you choose to cross, you must have your documents in order and know how the general process works. But don’t fret. With a clear list and step-by-step guide, your crossing will be easier than ever. 

In this blog, you’ll find all you need to know about this border crossing, including my personal experience. This is a border you can cross without fuss, trust me!

Chile-Argentina border crossing: A quick glance

Leaving Chile

• You’ll need to get your passport exit stamp when leaving Chile. 
• A $30 departure tax is added to flight tickets when traveling by air. 

Entering Argentina

• On entry, you’ll need a passport with validity throughout your stay. 
• A visa (if needed).
• At least two blank passport pages. 
• Proof of onward travel in the form of a return ticket or a ticket to another country. 
• There aren’t any fees on entry. 

Leaving Argentina

• Pass through immigration and get your exit stamp. 
• Passengers with visas will need to show them.
• All travelers need to show their entry stamp.
• There’s no exit fee when leaving Argentina by land. 
• For air travel, $29 is added to international flight tickets.

Entering Chile

• A passport with a minimum of six months validity. 
• Some passengers will need to show their pre-arranged visa. 
• Proof of onward travel. 
• There aren’t any entry fees. 
• You’ll need to fill out a customs form declaring you’re not bringing animal or plant products into the country. Sometimes, bags are searched, so take this seriously. 

Argentina-Chile border crossing points: Getting organized 

With a border length of 5,308 km (or 3,298 miles), there are many possible places to cross from Chile to Argentina. 

We’ve compiled the top places to cross the border and relevant routes. These are divided up into Patagonia and non-patagonia crossings to help you plan. Hey, it’s easy to get lost with a border this long. 

Patagonia border crossing points

Rio Turbio (Paso Dorotea)

First on the list in Patagonia is Paso Dorotea, the first border I crossed from Chile to Argentina. This border is close to Puerto Natales, a Chilean town many stop in on the way to Torres del Paine. 

This is a small crossing with little traffic. Journeys from El Calafate to Puerto Natales often pass through this crossing.

I crossed with a bus on the way to El Calafate. This was a super easy crossing, as the bus waited for all the passengers and drove us across the no man’s land. As this area is very remote, the best way to cross is by car or bus. Otherwise, you’re in for a hike.

They did scan our bags on each side, so be careful not to carry animal products or plants across the border. Overall, this was one of the calmest borders I’ve ever crossed, and you have the bonus of amazing views. 

Opening Hours: 8 a.m. to 9:30 p.m.

Paso Rio Don Guillermo

If you’re traveling to Torres del Paine, you may also pass through the Paso Don Guillermo. Common routes using this pass include Puerto Natales to Rio Gallegos, Puerto Natales to Cancha Carrera, El Calafate to Torres del Paine, and El Calafate to Cancha Carrera. 

It’s a very small border point that’s usually quick and quiet. 

Opening Hours: 8 a.m. to 9 p.m. 

Paso Cardenal Antonio Samore 

Another common passing point further north in Patagonia is Paso Cardenal Antonio Samore. Puerto Montt to Bariloche and Puerto Varas to Bariloche are common travel routes through here.

Opening Hours: 8 a.m. to 7 p.m. 

Chile Chico – Los Antiguos

Also, in the north of Patagonia, you’ll find the Chile Chico to Los Antiguos crossing. This land border crosses the Jeinimeni River, a popular place for vehicles to cross. 

Crossing further south at Villa O’Higgins is a more popular option if you’re a cyclist.

Opening Hours: 8 a.m to 8 p.m.

Lago O’Higgins  

Known as a stunning border crossing, the Lago O’Higgins border is more off-road but worth the journey. This route is common for cyclists or backpackers traveling between Villa O’Higgins and El Chalten. 

Crossing this way involves an off-road route throughout the wilderness, single-track roads, and two ferry rides. It is not ideal on a time limit, but it is perfect for planning a multi-day adventure. 

Pro tip: There’s approximately 20 km between the immigration offices on this trail. Don’t forget your stamps.

Paso Fronterizo San Sebastián

Are you headed to the Tierra del Fuego archipelago? Amazing! 

If you want to hop across the border here, you’ll likely pass from San Sebastian, where the main road crosses from one country to the next. 

The immigration checkpoints here are 15 km from each other, and crossing by bus is recommended for ease. 

Ushuaia – Puerto Williams

If you’re off to the “End of the World” (AKA Ushuaia), you’ll cross at the Ushuaia – Puerto Williams point. Don’t be scared! Ushuaia is dubbed “End of the World” because it’s the southernmost city on earth. 

It’s on the Beagle Channel, so crossing here involves a boat journey. Your boat crew will tell you where you need to go when leaving and docking, and they’re there to give tourists immigration advice. 

Pro tip: If you’re leaving Puerto Williams, check your documents in the town government building before arriving at the docks. This is an hour’s drive away. Plan in advance or ask local tourist information for more info. 

Other Argentina-Chile border crossing points

Sico Pass

Located in the northernmost border area, the Sico Pass is a high-altitude crossing point you won’t want to miss. This is a popular crossing point on the way to San Pedro de Atacama, and the route itself is gorgeous. 

The Sico Pass is quieter than other points due to its remote location, but crossing isn’t always quick. Travelers report non-asphalt roads, no cash machines, no gas stations, and no stores. Come prepared with snacks, cash, and a full tank (if driving.) 

Understanding basic Spanish is also helpful at this pass. 

While this is a frequently traveled route, it’s less tourist-friendly. Consider this route if you’ve passed a Spanish-speaking land border before.

Fun Fact: This pass is 4500m (14,760 ft) above sea level. 

Paso de Jama

Even further north is Paso de Jama, another Andean crossing that provides impressive mountain views. Plus, this point is busier than the Sico Pass — more coaches and cars cross here.

This is a popular crossing point when traveling from San Pedro de Atacama to Salta. Along this route, buses pass desert landscapes and mountainous terrain. Notably, you drive through Jujuy Province, an area known for colorful rock formations. 

There’s a gas station, hotel, and store, but no cash machine. Have some spare cash on hand, just in case. Free bathrooms are available here. Ideal for a quick road trip stop.

Opening Hours: 8 a.m. – 11 p.m.

Paso Los Libertadores

Perhaps the most popular border crossing point, Paso Los Libertadores, is a busy Andes crossing offering unforgettable, rugged views. This route connects Mendoza, Argentina, and Santiago, Chile, so there’s no wonder it’s a busier point. 

This was the second crossing point I took while traveling, and I crossed via coach from Mendoza. However, I didn’t travel to Santiago. I went a little further to Valparaiso. In my experience, this journey was worth it just for the views. From winding roads to vineyards, I spent the entire journey with my eyes glued to the scenery. 

The border was easy, as the bus waited for us between immigration offices. There was a short wait time at each, and many border guards were around. There were even a few guard dogs — Chile takes its no animal or plant product custom laws seriously. 

Fun Fact: The landscape around this border crossing was used as a backdrop of the Himalayas in Seven Years in Tibet.

If taking a bus, try to book this route in advance. Bus tickets sell quickly in the high season. All buses from Santiago or Mendoza pass through this point. Don’t worry if you can’t find a ticket with Paso los Libertadores in the name. The only other way is to drive via hire car.

Weather can impact this route, so check the forecast ahead of your trip. Also, if you experience car sickness, this route might not be best for you. It’s beautiful. But also high and involves lots of hairpin turns. Awesome, but not ideal if you’re prone to getting sick. 

Pro tip: This is a longer route, but book it during daylight if possible. You’ll want to see the scenery.

The most popular Chile Argentina border travel routes

Chile and Argentina are unique locations that anyone with wanderlust should visit. Journeys are always better minus last-minute stress. 

Get inspired by the most popular border crossing journeys below.

El Calafate to Cerro Castillo

El Calafate is an unmissable stop on any Argentine journey, but where will you go next?

A popular route from here is El Calafate to Cerro Castillo. Available travel options include an SUV, minivans, and cars. This is a more remote route, so long-haul city buses aren’t available.

You can expect the approximate drive time to be 3 hours, depending on the number of stops your provider makes daily. Minivans and SUVs from Tiempo Libre are an excellent way to cross this border and include English-speaking staff. 

El Calafate to Puerto Natales

Puerto Natales is the place to be if you’re headed to Torres del Paine National Park, and you can easily cross the border to get to this spot.

El Calafate to Puerto Natales is a longer Patagonia route. Still, the 6-hour drive through rugged wilderness and mountainous views is worth every second. Your options for this journey include buses, SUVs, minivans, and cars.

Bus Sur is a Patagonia-based provider that covers this route. Buses include chargers, A/C, WCs, and TVs. All the abbreviations you need for a long trek.

I crossed the Chile-Argentina border multiple times, and while in Patagonia, this is the journey I took — but in the reverse order. The scenery is incredible and gives you a true sense of peace you won’t find anywhere else.

El Calafate to Cancha Carrera

Want to get dropped straight to a border crossing? 

The El Calafate to Cancha Carrera route doesn’t take you across the border but to the town by the nearest immigration offices. Your two options for this 2-hour and 30-minute drive include cars and minivans.

Tolkeyen Patagonia Turismo provides minivans and cars across this route and has been doing so since 2001. This is the provider to explore if you want to drive with experts. 

Once you reach Cancha Carrera, you can pass through the Paso Rio Don Guillermo border by foot to reach Chile. However, the next town over from the border is Cerro Castillo, a 2-hour hike away or an 11-minute drive. So, unless you’re a well-equipped hiker, it might be best to skip across this border via a direct bus route from El Calafate to Cerro Castillo.

Puerto Montt to Bariloche

Two of the most popular spots in Patagonia, Puerto Montt and Bariloche, must be on your sightseeing list. But consider your transportation before arriving.

From Puerto Montt to Bariloche, travel options include reclining seat buses and SUVs. This journey is approximately five hours long, so being comfortable is vital. You’ll want to recline that seat down and enjoy the views. 

Via Tac offers reclining seat buses across this route, with space for 15 kg bags plus small backpacks or handbags. It’s ideal if you’re traveling with a large backpack in tow. 

This route passes the Paso Cardenal Antonio Samore border.

Puerto Varas to Bariloche

Another popular Bariloche route is from Puerto Varas, a Chilean city on Lake Llanquihue with views of the Osorno and Calbuco Volcanoes. 

Similarly to the route above, traveling from Puerto Varas to Bariloche takes approximately five hours. Travel options here also consist of SUVs and reclining seat buses. 

LS Travel Group Chile provides daily SUV journeys from Puerto Varas (and Puerto Montt) to Bariloche. These drivers are happy to pick up and drop off passengers at hotels and the airport — ideal for door-to-door travel.

This route passes through the Paso Cardenal Antonio Samore border point.

El Calafate to Torres del Paine

The Torres del Paine National Park is a must-see on the Chilean side of Patagonia. But you might have to cross the border to get there. 

Traveling from El Calafate to Torres del Paine is a standard route for anyone wanting to hike or catch a glimpse of the mountains. Your options include 4×4 buses, SUVs, and minivans. Comapa Turismo is a trusted provider of minivan shuttles.

Puerto Natales to Río Gallegos

Puerto Natales is a travel hub within the Patagonia region. 

You can easily book Comapa Turismo SUVs from Puerto Natales to Rio Gallegos. These private cars help you easily make the 4-hour journey across the border. 

Pro tip: Obviously, private cars cost more than buses or shared shuttles. If you’re on a budget, you check the bus schedules.

Puerto Natales to Cancha Carrera

From Puerto Natales to Cancha Carrera, you can book minivans or private SUV transfers. 

This journey passes the Paso Rio Don Guillermo border crossing and takes approximately an hour. Comapa Turismo offers regular minivan services along this route. 

What do you need to cross the border?

Don’t assume your next border crossing has the same requirements as your last. Here are the technical elements of the Chile Argentina border crossing.

Important Disclaimer

Although we do our best to provide cutting-edge information, the travel world moves fast. Always check with your embassy and the country you’re visiting to get the most up-to-date information on any policy changes and customs. 

Passport

Chile requires at least six months of validity on your passport from the entry date. You’ll also need one blank page for stamps. 

Argentina requires you to have a valid passport for the entirety of your stay. You also need two free pages for exit and entry stamps.

Visa

You might need a pre-arranged visa to enter Chile or Argentina. 

However, many nationalities are visa exempt for both countries. This includes citizens from the US, UK, EU, and Canada.

Check whether your nationality needs a visa here. Border crossings are best when you’re 100% prepared.

Departure tax

Chile has a $30 departure tax usually included in flight tickets. Have this cash with you when crossing land borders.

Argentina has a $29 international air departure tax on all cross-border flights. No fees are required if you’re crossing land borders.

Proof of exit

Both Chile and Argentina require you to receive a proof of exit stamp. You must also ensure you collect a proof of entry stamp on arrival. If either stamp is missing, go to your nearest immigration office to avoid fees or future issues. 

Proof of onward travel

Proof of onward travel shows you’re leaving the country and not overstaying your visa or allocated tourist days. 

Chile and Argentina require proof of onward travel within 90 days of arrival. Not all tourists report this being checked at the border. However, we recommend purchasing a return or onward ticket and having a receipt ready. 

Cash

Traveling with cash is recommended for all border crossings. While Chile and Argentina are more likely to accept cards than other South American countries, many vendors and businesses are still cash-based.

Argentina uses the Argentine peso, and Chile uses the Chilean peso. Change your currency at the border or before travel to avoid getting caught out.

Pro tip: Banks in big cities often have the best exchange rates. Remember this before you hit the road.

Proof of economic stability

Chile doesn’t require any proof of economic stability. 

Argentina requires proof of economic stability when applying for a tourist visa. Non-visa arrivals don’t need to show anything.

Pro tip: You should consider traveling with a bank statement or credit card for any trip, though. Hotels sometimes request this, and it’s good to have it on the off-chance a border guard requests it.

Entry fee

Chile and Argentina don’t have entry fees. 

Safety tips

Staying safe on the road is a concern for all travelers. The popular border crossings between Chile and Argentina are very safe and tourist-friendly. However, it’s always good to keep your valuables hidden and out of sight.

Covid-19 restrictions

Argentina has no Covid-19 requirements. You can visit regardless of vaccination status.

For Chile, you’ll need to present a vaccination certificate and ID. If you’re not vaccinated, a negative PCR test from the last 48 hours is required. Children under 18 can travel to Chile regardless of vaccination status.

Map of the Chile Argentina border 

Calling all visual learners. Use the map above to see the important Argentina to Chile crossing points. 

Plan around these border locations for an easy journey. You’ll thank yourself when you’re on the road!

Places to explore 

Need some Argentina Chile border inspiration? Here are some of the unmissable sights in each country. 

Chile must-see sights

Santiago: Chile’s capital city is a must-visit if you love exciting nightlife, history, and gorgeous views. The Andean foothills surround Santiago, so don’t forget your camera.

Valparaiso: Valparaiso is the second most populated city in Chile, and it’s home to coastal views, exciting street art, and unique hilltop homes.

San Pedro de Atacama: Situated in the north, the Atacama desert marks the entrance to the salt flats. But it’s also home to remarkable landscapes, natural springs, and unique stargazing tours.

Torres del Paine: One of the most popular hiking locations in the world, Torress del Paine offers mountain views, glacier trips, and rare wildlife. 

Argentina must-see sights

Buenos Aires: The capital of Argentina is the place to be. Known as the “Paris of the South,” this city offers entertainment, history, and exquisite cuisine.

Mendoza: A large city in Argentina’s wine region. If you enjoy a glass of Malbec, you’ll experience the best of the best here.

El Calafate: This Patagonian town is the gateway to the Los Glaciares National Park, a glacier spotting and hiking spot.

Ushuaia: Located on the Tierra del Fuego archipelago, this town is known as the End of the World. The journey here may be long, but the sights are worth it.

Final thoughts about the Chile-Argentina border

With so many amazing cities, sights, and natural wonders on each side of the border, you’ll likely pass over it more than once. 

The Chile Argentina border has countless options for crossing, but with our research, you’re ready to go. Bookmark this blog to have the latest crossing information and Bookaway routes by your side. 

Ready for a few other border crossings? How about traveling from Argentina to Bolivia or Chile to Peru?

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