Chile, with its diverse landscapes ranging from deserts to mountains to coastal regions, offers some of the most breathtaking and scenic driving routes in the world. Whether you’re seeking dramatic mountain passes, picturesque coastal roads, or winding routes through lush valleys, Chile has something to offer for every road trip enthusiast. Here are some of the most beautiful car routes in Chile:
1. Carretera Austral (Southern Highway): Stretching over 1,200 kilometers through Chilean Patagonia, the Carretera Austral is one of South America’s most iconic and awe-inspiring road trips. This gravel road winds its way through pristine wilderness, passing by towering mountains, ancient forests, crystal-clear rivers, and turquoise lakes. Highlights along the route include the Queulat National Park with its hanging glaciers, the marble caves of General Carrera Lake, and the stunning landscapes of Torres del Paine National Park.
2. Ruta del Vino (Wine Route): Located in the Central Valley region near Santiago, the Ruta del Vino offers a scenic journey through Chile’s renowned wine country. This route passes through picturesque vineyards, rolling hills, and charming colonial towns, where visitors can sample some of Chile’s finest wines, including Cabernet Sauvignon, Carmenere, and Sauvignon Blanc. Highlights along the route include the Colchagua Valley, Casablanca Valley, and Maipo Valley, each offering unique wine-tasting experiences amidst stunning landscapes.
3. Ruta de los Parques (Route of Parks): Spanning over 2,800 kilometers from Puerto Montt to Cape Horn, the Ruta de los Parques is a newly established scenic route that connects 17 national parks in Chilean Patagonia. This route traverses diverse landscapes, including fjords, glaciers, forests, and mountains, providing unparalleled opportunities for wildlife viewing, hiking, and photography. Highlights along the route include the iconic Torres del Paine, the rugged landscapes of Tierra del Fuego, and the remote beauty of Patagonia’s southernmost reaches.
4. Ruta del Desierto (Desert Route): Crossing the Atacama Desert in northern Chile, the Ruta del Desierto offers a surreal and otherworldly driving experience. This route passes through vast salt flats, colorful rock formations, geysers, and lunar landscapes, offering breathtaking views of the Andes Mountains and the Pacific Ocean in the distance. Highlights along the route include the Valley of the Moon, the Atacama Salt Flat, and the Tatio Geysers, as well as charming oasis towns like San Pedro de Atacama.
5. Ruta 5 (Pan-American Highway): Running the length of Chile from north to south, Ruta 5 is the country’s main north-south highway and offers a diverse array of landscapes along its route. From the arid deserts of the north to the lush forests of the south, this highway passes through vibrant cities, quaint villages, and stunning natural scenery. Highlights along the route include the Elqui Valley, the Lake District, and the Chiloé Archipelago, as well as the bustling cities of Santiago and Concepción.
These are just a few of the most beautiful car routes in Chile, each offering a unique and unforgettable journey through some of the country’s most stunning landscapes. Whether you’re seeking adventure, relaxation, or cultural immersion, a road trip through Chile is sure to be an unforgettable experience.
