Los Caracoles Scenic Drive

Experience the wonders of nature with Los Caracoles Scenic Drive! Journey through 10km of stunningly beautiful landscapes in El Juncal and Portillo, Chile, and enjoy the view of the imposing mountains and deep valleys throughout the drive. The best time to take this unforgettable drive is from October to April, when the weather is mild and pleasant. The road is generally in good condition, although some sections may be curvy and narrow. It is important to be aware that seasonal road closures due to weather conditions may occur. No matter your budget or driving experience, Los Caracoles Scenic Drive is sure to provide you with a high level of enjoyment and memories. So come and experience the beauty of nature and make this road trip a part of your journey!

El Juncal is situated in the heart of Chile's stunning Los Caracoles Scenic Drive. This small town, located in the Maule Region of Chile, is a great starting point for an unforgettable road trip. El Juncal offers a variety of interesting sights to explore. The town boasts a beautiful church, the Iglesia San Isidro, and a captivating museum, the Museo de El Juncal. The museum houses a plethora of artifacts from the area, from pre-Hispanic times to the present. Nature lovers will appreciate the nearby Valle del Yeso National Reserve, where they can observe the area's stunning landscapes and wildlife. If you are traveling to El Juncal by air, the closest international airport is Arturo Merino Benítez International Airport (SCL). Car rental services are available at the airport, so you can make the most of your Los Caracoles Scenic Drive experience. El Juncal is the perfect place to start your road trip along the Los Caracoles Scenic Drive. With its stunning sights, natural beauty, and car rental services, El Juncal is a great launching pad for an unforgettable journey through Chile.

Join us for an exciting road trip from El Juncal to Portillo! This 10 km drive will take you less than an hour and you will get to enjoy a scenic road. But keep in mind that there may be a lack of gas stations on this stage and some sections may be closed seasonally. Be prepared for some steep ramps, winding roads, and narrow sections. Along the way, you can visit some interesting places such as the El Juncal's hot springs and Portillo's ski resort. To get the most out of this stage, make sure to check the itinerary for attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites. So buckle up and let's start the journey!

Portillo, Chile is the end of the spectacular Los Caracoles Scenic Drive. Situated in the Central Andes, Portillo has been a popular tourist destination for many years. With its majestic mountains, crystal clear lakes, and picturesque valleys, it is an ideal destination for outdoor enthusiasts. Portillo has a number of attractions that are perfect for exploring. The ski resort is one of the most popular, offering a range of activities from skiing and snowboarding to snowshoeing and tubing. The area is also home to several hiking trails, offering stunning views of the surrounding mountains. Other attractions in Portillo include the Museo del Reloj, which houses a collection of clocks from the 18th century to the present day, and the Museo Histórico, which tells the story of the area’s rich cultural heritage. There is also a wide range of restaurants, bars, and cafes to explore. If you are traveling to Portillo by car, the closest international airport is El Loa Airport (CCP), located about 60 miles away in Calama. From there, you can take a bus or hire a taxi to reach Portillo. Portillo is an ideal destination for those looking for a unique outdoor experience. With its stunning views and numerous attractions, it is the perfect place to end the Los Caracoles Scenic Drive.

Before you set off

Los Caracoles Scenic Drive is an awe-inspiring 10-kilometer route that winds through the Andean mountain landscape between El Juncal and Portillo in Chile. This drive offers panoramic views of the rugged terrain, featuring towering peaks, expansive valleys, and a series of switchbacks that challenge and excite drivers.

Key Destinations and Top Sights:

The journey begins near the historic town of Los Andes, ascending into the heart of the Andes Mountains. Travelers will be treated to the dramatic vistas of the Aconcagua Valley and have the opportunity to marvel at Mount Aconcagua itself—the highest peak in the Western Hemisphere. Portillo, a world-renowned ski resort, is another highlight, offering a glimpse into Chile's winter sports culture.

Best Time to Go:

The optimal time to embark on the Los Caracoles Scenic Drive is during the Southern Hemisphere's spring and summer months, from October to April. During this period, the weather is generally mild, and the mountain passes are clear of snow, providing safer driving conditions and better visibility of the breathtaking scenery.

Potential Risks:

The drive can be challenging due to its steep inclines, hairpin turns, and narrow passages. It is known for its series of switchbacks, locally called `caracoles` (Spanish for `snails`), which require careful navigation. Additionally, travelers should be aware of the potential for sudden weather changes in the mountains and check for seasonal road closures, especially during the winter months when snow and ice can render the road impassable.

Interesting Facts for Roadtrippers:

The Los Caracoles route is a testament to human engineering, carved into one of the most formidable mountain ranges on the planet. The drive is part of the Pan-American Highway, a network of roads stretching over 19,000 kilometers from Alaska to Argentina, making it one of the longest roadways in the world. Drivers will also cross paths with the Transandine Railway, a now mostly defunct railway line that once connected Chile and Argentina, illustrating the historic importance of this region for cross-border transportation.

A good choice for:

The Los Caracoles Scenic Drive is more than just a Road Trip; it is an excursion into the heart of the Andes, connecting travelers with the raw beauty of one of Earth's most majestic mountain ranges. The journey offers a mix of adrenaline, awe, and tranquility, leaving an indelible mark on all who traverse this path. Whether you're a seasoned Road Tripper or a first-time visitor to Chile, this drive promises a profound connection with the natural world and an array of memories that will last a lifetime.