Long road trips in Chile offer an unmatched range of landscapes. Stretching over 4,200 km from north to south, Chile’s geography goes from the driest desert to icy Patagonia. Exploring with a rental car lets you experience this scenic diversity up close, from Mars-like deserts and snow-capped volcanoes to lush wine valleys and windswept fjords. In this travel guide, we’ll cover several scenic road trip routes in Chile that showcase different sides of the country’s beauty.
Chile’s geography is uniquely suited to long-distance travel. This long, narrow country packs extraordinary diversity into a single stretch of land. A Chile road trip can take you through dramatically different climates and landscapes within just a few days of driving. Major routes such as Ruta 5 run almost the entire length of the country, providing well-maintained roads that make extended journeys enjoyable.
You can watch deserts fade into fertile valleys or follow coastal roads that cling to cliffs above the Pacific. Many of the country’s most beautiful places, such as remote national parks, geothermal areas, and small coastal villages, are difficult to reach by public transport but easily accessible by car. A reliable road network and clear signage make self-driving accessible even for visitors new to the country.
For international travellers, it’s easy to rent a car in Chile. Major rental companies operate in airports and cities, offering modern vehicles and flexible options, including unlimited mileage. Fuel is widely available, and international driving licenses are accepted.
Before setting off on a cross-country drive, it’s important to prepare for Chile’s varied conditions. Planning ahead will make your journey safer and more enjoyable, especially when renting a car in Chile for long distances.
Chile’s seasons are reversed compared to the Northern Hemisphere. Summer from December to February is ideal for Patagonia and southern routes, thanks to longer daylight hours and milder weather. Winter, from June to August, can bring snow and road closures in the Andes and far south, while the Atacama Desert and northern coast remain accessible for most of the year. Plan your route by region, matching destinations with the most suitable season.
Your route should determine your vehicle choice. Highways and cities are easily managed with a standard sedan, but SUVs or 4x4 vehicles are better for gravel roads, mountainous areas, or remote regions such as the Carretera Austral. Check that the car has good tires and a spare, and be prepared for a manual transmission.
Fuel stations can be scarce in remote areas, particularly in Patagonia and the altiplano. Always refuel before long stretches and avoid starting a day with a low tank. Carry some cash for small-town fuel stops, and confirm that your rental includes unlimited mileage.
Main highways are generally well maintained and clearly marked, with speed limits typically 120 km/h on highways and lower in towns. Rural and secondary roads may be narrow or unpaved, so reduce speed and watch for potholes. Seatbelts and daytime headlights are mandatory, and wildlife crossings are common in desert and southern regions. Some highways have tolls, so keep small bills handy.
A Chile road trip can take you from desert heat to mountain cold in a single day. Pack layers, sun protection, and warm clothing for evenings or windy regions. Carry water for long drives, offline maps in case of lost signal, and basic essentials such as a first aid kit, flashlight, and backup phone battery.
These scenic road trip routes highlight the best drives in Chile, whether you are seeking adventure, culture, or unforgettable natural landscapes.
This Chile road trip takes you from the otherworldly Atacama Desert in the far north to the capital city, Santiago. It covers about 1,550 kilometers (about 960 miles) and showcases Chile’s remarkable geographic diversity. Starting near San Pedro de Atacama, the route moves from high-altitude desert landscapes with almost no vegetation to the fertile Central Valley filled with vineyards and orchards.
Although the drive could be completed in about 18 to 20 hours, it is more rewarding to spread it over several days to enjoy the scenery and stop along the way. Temperatures vary greatly, with hot days and cold nights in the Atacama due to altitude, followed by milder Mediterranean conditions farther south.
The Atacama region offers some of the most striking scenery in the country. The Valley of the Moon (Valle de la Luna) near San Pedro features wind-shaped rock formations and dunes that feel almost unreal, especially at sunset. A visit to the El Tatio geysers at dawn reveals steam rising into the cold morning air, while nearby salt flats provide habitats for flamingos. The region is also renowned for its clear night skies, so be sure to bring a powerful telescope for stargazing.
Driving south along Ruta 5, the landscape gradually changes as the desert softens into semi-arid terrain and then fertile valleys. Coastal detours and brief roadside stops add variety, and La Serena serves as a natural midpoint with beaches and access to the Elqui Valley. The final stretch toward Santiago brings greener scenery, increased traffic, and eventually a dramatic city skyline. It is framed by the Andes Mountains, marking the end of an unforgettable journey across Chile.
This route is the ultimate Chile road trip, linking the country’s capital to the wild landscapes of Patagonia. Starting in Santiago, the journey covers 3,000 kilometers (about 1,860 miles) or more as you travel south through Chile’s inhabited regions.
The drive passes from Santiago’s urban sprawl into the fertile Central Valley, continues through the lake-filled Lakes District, and then follows the Carretera Austral (Ruta 7) deep into Patagonia. Completing the whole route requires at least two to three weeks, as road conditions vary from smooth highways in the north to winding gravel roads and ferry crossings in the south. This is truly an end-to-end adventure designed for travellers who want to experience Chile in its entirety.
Leaving Santiago on Ruta 5, the scenery shifts from agricultural landscapes to forests, lakes, and volcanoes. In the Araucanía and Lakes District, snow-capped peaks such as Volcán Villarrica rise above towns like Pucón, while vast lakes like Lago Villarrica and Lago Llanquihue reflect volcanic cones on clear days. Puerto Varas, with views of Osorno Volcano and strong German-Chilean heritage, is a popular stop before reaching Puerto Montt, the northern gateway to Patagonia and the point where the Pan-American Highway effectively ends.
Beyond Puerto Montt, the adventure intensifies on the Carretera Austral, one of South America’s most scenic drives. The route winds through rainforests, fjords, glaciers, and remote valleys, with several ferry crossings required to navigate Chile’s rugged coastline. Highlights include Pumalín National Park, small frontier towns such as Chaitén and Puyuhuapi, and Queulat National Park, home to the dramatic Hanging Glacier.
Farther south, Coyhaique serves as a key resupply stop before reaching landmarks like the Marble Caves on General Carrera Lake and the turquoise Río Baker. The road officially ends at Villa O’Higgins. This journey requires planning, from ferry schedules to fuel stops and weather changes. Wildlife sightings are common, roads are often remote, and accommodations are spread out.
The Carretera Austral (Southern Highway) is widely regarded as one of the world’s great road trips thanks to its raw Patagonian scenery and sense of remoteness. The route runs about 1,240 kilometers (770 miles) from Puerto Montt in the north to Villa O’Higgins in the south, cutting through the heart of Chilean Patagonia.
Most travellers need 7 to 10 days to drive it comfortably, though hikers and campers often stay longer. The road alternates between paved sections and long gravel stretches, with several ferry crossings required where fjords interrupt the land. Summer, from December to March, is the best time to go, offering longer days and milder weather.
The scenery is the main reason to tackle this route. Early on, the road passes through dense forests, volcanoes, and emerald lakes, particularly in Pumalín National Park. Near Chaitén, volcanic landscapes still bear traces of the 2008 eruption.
Farther south, Queulat National Park features the spectacular Hanging Glacier, visible from the highway and reached by a short trail. Waterfalls spilling down green mountainsides appear regularly as you drive. Around Coyhaique, the largest town on the route, you can refuel and restock before heading deeper into remote territory.
South of Coyhaique lies General Carrera Lake, famous for its intense turquoise color and the Marble Caves, which are best explored by boat from Puerto Río Tranquilo. The route continues past rivers, fjords, and tiny settlements, such as Caleta Tortel, which is known for its wooden boardwalks rather than streets.
Not every Chile road trip is about remote wilderness. This route offers a relaxed journey through central Chile’s cultural, culinary, and coastal highlights, making it ideal for travellers who want variety without extreme distances. Starting in Santiago, the loop covers roughly 400 to 500 kilometers (250 to 310 miles) and can be completed in 4 to 5 days. Roads are mostly paved and well-maintained, and the region’s Mediterranean climate means warm summers and mild winters, so it works well at any time of year.
Leaving Santiago, the first stop is the Casablanca Valley, one of Chile’s premier wine regions. Known for crisp Sauvignon Blanc and Chardonnay, the valley benefits from cool coastal air and morning fog. Many wineries welcome visitors for tastings and lunches overlooking vineyards, offering a calm and scenic introduction to Chilean wine culture. Staying overnight at a vineyard hotel is a popular option.
Continuing west brings you to Valparaíso, Chile’s historic port city and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The city is famous for its colorful hillside houses, street art, and vintage funiculars. Park the car and explore on foot, enjoying viewpoints from Cerro Alegre and Cerro Concepción, wandering mural-filled streets, and sampling fresh seafood by the harbor. Nearby Viña del Mar, just a short drive away, is a good place to go to the beaches.
Driving south along the coast leads to Pichilemu, Chile’s surfing capital. Even if you do not surf, Punta de Lobos offers dramatic cliffs, powerful waves, and memorable sunsets. The return loop to Santiago passes through rolling countryside, rounding out a road trip that blends wine, culture, food, and ocean scenery.
Chile’s Southern Lakes District is a postcard-perfect region of shimmering lakes, snow-capped volcanoes, and lush forests. A classic route begins in Temuco and winds south through lake country to Puerto Montt, with the option to continue on to Chiloé Island.
The full journey from Temuco to Castro on Chiloé covers about 520 kilometers (320 miles) and is best enjoyed over 7 to 8 days. Roads are mostly paved and well-maintained, making this a relaxed and scenic Chile road trip focused on natural beauty rather than long distances.
From Temuco, the drive quickly enters the Araucanía and lake region, where deep blue lakes sit beneath volcanic peaks. Pucón, situated on the shores of Lake Villarrica, is a popular starting point and a hub for outdoor activities. Here, you can hike in nearby national parks, soak in natural hot springs, kayak on the lake, or simply enjoy views of Volcán Villarrica, which often releases gentle plumes of steam. The town also offers excellent food and local craft beer.
Continuing south, the route passes through a chain of lakes and forested landscapes dotted with waterfalls and protected areas. Highlights include Ojos del Caburgua, Huilo-Huilo Reserve, and towns with a German-Chilean heritage, such as Frutillar, renowned for its lakeside setting and traditional kuchen.
Puerto Varas, on Lake Llanquihue, is one of the region’s highlights, offering iconic views of Osorno and Calbuco volcanoes. Nearby attractions include Petrohué Falls and scenic drives up Osorno Volcano. From Puerto Montt, you can cross by ferry to Chiloé Island, famous for its wooden churches, colorful palafitos, rich folklore, and hearty local cuisine.
Chile’s southernmost region, Magallanes y la Antártica Chilena, offers one of the most dramatic Chile road trip experiences. It is centered around Torres del Paine National Park and extends toward the literal end of the world. This journey usually begins in Punta Arenas or Puerto Natales and unfolds across vast distances and open Patagonian landscapes.
The distance from Punta Arenas to Puerto Natales is approximately 250 kilometers (155 miles), with an additional 80 kilometers leading into Torres del Paine itself. Spend 1 to 2 weeks exploring this region properly, especially if you plan to cross into Argentina.
Punta Arenas is a great starting point, known for its historic role in polar exploration and its views over the Strait of Magellan. From here, the drive north crosses wide Patagonian pampas, where guanacos, rheas, and endless skies dominate the scene. Puerto Natales, set along Last Hope Sound, serves as the main base for visiting Torres del Paine and is the last major stop for fuel and supplies.
Driving into Torres del Paine National Park is an unforgettable experience. The road winds past turquoise lakes, open valleys, and herds of wildlife before revealing the park’s iconic granite towers. Highlights accessible by car include Laguna Amarga, Lago Pehoé, and Grey Lake, where icebergs drift near the shore. Weather changes quickly, with strong winds common even in summer, but the shifting light adds to the park’s raw beauty.
Chile is a country that was practically made for road trips. From the scorching desert of Atacama to the icy fjords of Patagonia, a long-distance drive in Chile showcases the planet’s diversity. Embark on any of these routes to capture stunning photos and gain a deep understanding of Chile’s region. Just remember to plan for the season, choose the right vehicle, and take those essential precautions.
Start planning your trip and book a monthly car hire in Chile with unlimited mileage. With Final Rentals, booking a car online is fast and simple. Select El Tepual International Airport as your pickup location, enter your travel dates, and choose a vehicle for your trip. Book and manage your car rental at any time. Download the Final Rentals app on Google Play and the App Store.
