Chillan to Bariloche by Car in Winter (August/September)
Replies: 4 - Last Post: Jun 10, 2012 11:44 AM Last Post By: vnrose
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Chillan to Bariloche by Car in Winter (August/September)
I'm driving my camper van around South America this summer (winter there) and plan to spend the August/September portion snowboarding.I am planning to first go to Chillan, Chile, and then want to continue on to Bariloche, Argentina, but know that crossing the Andes is impossible in winter in many areas. Can anyone offer information about where you can cross so I can loosely plan my route? I have a camper van equipped for winter conditions/4x4 (I winter camp in the US in it).
Also, Once in Argentina I would love any info on how far south I will be able to drive. Is driving all the way to Ushuaia a pipe dream? I have a 400 mile range between gas stations and can sleep up to a week, easy, in the van without needing any propane or other supply refills.
Thanks for any info!!! (I also welcome other snowboarding recommendations!)
1
You can go south from Chillan and cross at Osorno through the Cardenal Samoré pass to Villa la Angostura and Bariloche. That pass seldom closes. By September it should be no problem. It should take about 5 hours from Osorno to Bariloche, including customs. Remember to get the road insurance you need for Argentina before you cross.2
Driving to Ushuaia is no problem: a single 3000 foot pass just before town. Plenty of gasoline. Very little ripio unless you choose to abandon the paved highways.I hear Patagonia's not as windy in wintertime. That would be a good thing. The only time you really need to watch your gas gauge is when fighting 70 mph headwinds all day.
Mark
