South America North to South Trip
Guided Panamericana Car Tour from Cartagena, Colombia, to Ushuaia, Argentina

Day 1: Cartagena, Colombia – Start of Car Tour Through Colombia

Upon arrival in Cartagena, participants take over their vehicles, which have already been cleared through customs and are ready for the weeks ahead. While final preparations are completed, there is time to explore the colonial old town or to enjoy the panoramic views from the historic San Felipe de Barajas fortress, overlooking the Caribbean coastline. During the welcome dinner in the evening, you will meet fellow travellers, review the upcoming route and begin to immerse yourself in the spirit of this extraordinary journey.

Altitude: approx. 1,400m

Day 2: Cartagena – Necocli

Early in the morning, we set off on our first stage heading south. Leaving behind the vibrant city of Cartagena, we enter the tropical lowlands of Colombia. Lush vegetation, humid air, and the warmth of the Caribbean accompany us on these first few kilometers. Traffic is still busy near the coast, requiring focus – but the further we go, the quieter it gets.

Day 4: Santa Fe de Antioquia – Guatapé – Medellín

Today we depart from Santa Fe de Antioquia and head east through the mountainous region of Antioquia. The road winds its way through rolling green hills, past small villages and deeply carved valleys. After the first stretch, we pass through Medellín, briefly touching the hustle and bustle of the city before climbing once more toward Guatapé – one of Colombia’s most colorful small towns.

Day 6: Salento – Tatacoa-Wüste

We leave the lush hills of Colombia’s coffee region and head further south. The route takes us along remote backroads, past small villages and fertile valleys. Gradually, the landscape begins to change – dense forest gives way to dry shrubland, and the vegetation becomes noticeably sparser.

Day 8: San Agustin – Devil’s Springboard – La Cocha Lagoon

Today’s ride is long but spectacular. Leaving San Agustín, we climb higher into the Andes on a winding mountain road. A key highlight is the “Devil’s Springboard” – El Trampolín de la Muerte – a legendary road carved into the cliffs, full of tight switchbacks and breathtaking views through misty cloud forest.

Day 11: Otavalo – Quito

After a relaxed start to the day, we continue south toward the Ecuadorian capital. The road winds through scenic highlands, passing lakes, farmlands, and – on clear days – offering views of the majestic Cayambe volcano. As we approach Quito, the surroundings become more urban.

Day 12: Quito Rest Day

A full day to explore or rest. Quito, the highest capital city in the world, impresses with its colonial architecture, vibrant street life, and spectacular mountain backdrop. In the morning, you might stroll through the historic old town – a UNESCO World Heritage Site – or take the Teleférico up to the slopes of the Pichincha volcano, where views at over 4,000 meters stretch far across the Andes.

Day 13: Quito – Quilotoa-See

We leave behind the urban bustle of Quito and head back into the wild beauty of the Ecuadorian Andes. The route takes us along winding mountain roads through rural highland plateaus, past small Andean villages and steep, green ravines. The further we ride, the more rugged and dramatic the landscape becomes – until we reach the turquoise Quilotoa Lake, nestled in the crater of an extinct volcano.

Day 14: Quilotoa – Baños

Today brings a striking change of scenery. We leave the barren highlands behind and descend into greener terrain. The road winds through deep valleys, along mountain rivers and dramatic cliffs.By afternoon, we arrive in Baños – Ecuador’s “adventure capital,” where thermal springs, waterfalls, and lush cloud forest meet. The town is lively and colorful, full of energy and options: cable cars, canyoning, zip-lining, hikes, or simply relaxing in the hot springs. We spend the night in or around Baños – surrounded by mountains and subtropical greenery.

Distance covered: approx. 200 km

Day 16: Cuenca – Machala

Today’s route takes us down from the Andes into tropical lowlands. We pass through misty forests and fertile valleys as the climate gradually becomes warmer and more humid. Our destination is the coastal region around Machala, known for its banana plantations and laid-back coastal charm. A pleasant contrast to the crisp highland air of the past days. We overnight in or near Machala – a quiet base for the upcoming border crossing.

Distance covered: approx. 170 km

Day 17: Machala – Huaquillas – Piura, Peru

Today we cross into Peru. After a short ride to Huaquillas, we handle border formalities – supported by our local team – and continue south into a new country. The landscape becomes more arid, with stretches of desert and occasional river valleys marking our route to Piura. In the late afternoon, we reach the lively city, located between the coastal desert and Pacific plain – the perfect spot to relax and prepare for the next leg of the journey.

Distance covered: approx. 290 km

Day 19: Trujillo

After the long coastal stage, relaxation is the order of the day today – but Trujillo also has a lot to offer culturally. The city, known for its colonial architecture and proximity to important archaeological sites, is an ideal place for a little journey back in time to the world of pre-Columbian cultures.

Day 20: Trujillo – Huaraz

Today we leave the coast and dive deep into the heart of the Peruvian Andes. The route first takes us south along the Pan-American Highway before turning inland at Chimbote. What follows is a spectacular ascent through the mountains – with tight curves, changing climates and increasingly dramatic views.

Day 22: Huanuco – Lima

A long and topographically varied stage leads from the southern Ecuadorian Andes down to sea level on the Pacific coast. The day begins early, as the distance to be covered is considerable. Initially, the route follows the Río Huallaga, winding through narrow canyons and deep valleys. As elevation drops, the landscape gradually opens and vegetation thins.

Day 23: Lima Rest Day

After the descent from the mountains, a day without driving is welcome. Lima, perched on cliffs overlooking the Pacific, combines colonial heritage with modern vibrancy. The historic city center – with cathedral, government palace, and colonial arcades – offers insight into Peru’s colonial past. For those interested in archaeology, the Larco Museum presents one of the country’s most comprehensive collections of pre-Columbian artifacts. Alternatively, the districts of Miraflores and Barranco offer parks, cafés, ocean promenades, and art galleries. Whether enjoying a walk along the coast or sampling ceviche and a pisco sour in a terrace restaurant – Lima invites visitors to pause, reflect, and recharge.

Day 25: Ica – Nazca (Optional: Cañon de los Perdidos)

Departure from Ica is relaxed. Those seeking a bit of adventure may opt for a detour to the Cañon de los Perdidos – an eroded desert canyon accessed by gravel roads. The route requires basic off-road capability but rewards with a unique, surreal landscape in the middle of the desert.

Day 26: Nazca – Chalhuanca

The route leaves the desert behind and climbs steadily into the Peruvian Andes. Immediately after Nazca, the PE-30A begins to ascend – a road characterized by tight curves, variable gradients, and ever-changing scenery. With increasing altitude, the environment transforms: dry plains give way to lush valleys, herds of llamas appear, and the air becomes noticeably cooler.

Day 27: Calhuanca – Curahuasi – Urubamba

After breakfast, we leave Chalhuanca and continue north through the dramatic mountain valley carved deep into the Andes. The route winds across countless bends and mountain passes, offering a riding experience full of variety and scenic thrills. As we gain elevation, the landscape becomes increasingly alpine and the air noticeably drier. From Abancay onward, wide-open views of the Andean highlands unfold before us. We pass through the fertile Curahuasi Valley, known for its anise production, and continue along a winding road that cuts through striking Andean terrain.

Day 29: Urubamba – Cusco

After an unforgettable day at Machu Picchu, we take it a little easier today as we make our way to Cusco, the historic capital of the Inca Empire. The drive is relatively short but rich in scenery and cultural sites. We travel through the heart of the Sacred Valley, where adobe homes, colorful markets, and terraced hillsides paint a vivid picture of Andean life. Depending on time and interest, we may stop at a local archaeological site or colonial church along the way.

Day 30: Cusco – Puno

After saying farewell to the former Inca capital, the journey continues early in the morning along well-developed Andean roads heading southeast. The route traverses expansive highland valleys with quinoa fields, potato farms, and small settlements. Llamas and alpacas are frequently seen grazing along the roadside – a familiar image in the Peruvian Altiplano.

Day 31: Puno – Copacabana, Bolivia

The route leads along the western shore of Lake Titicaca toward Bolivia. The lake’s deep blue waters remain in view for much of the way, framed by rolling hills and agricultural terraces. The border crossing at Yunguyo is typically quiet, though some time should be planned for formalities.

Day 33: La Paz

Today, we leave our vehicles behind and discover the unique capital of Bolivia together – La Paz, spectacularly nestled in a massive canyon and framed by the snow-covered peak of Illimani. In the morning, we explore the city from above: riding the modern Teleférico cable car network, we glide over rooftops, valleys, and high-rise buildings – enjoying stunning panoramic views of the sprawling city and its mountainous surroundings.

Day 34: La Paz – Oruro

After the altitude and winding roads of recent days, today offers a more relaxed stage – at least in terms of driving. Leaving the wide basin of La Paz, the route follows the well-developed Ruta 1 heading south. The road stretches across the vast Bolivian Altiplano – a silent, austere plateau where sky and land seem to blend at the horizon.

Along the way, llamas graze near the roadside, isolated settlements appear and disappear, and immense skies dominate the view. At approximately 3,700 metres, Oruro is a high-altitude mining city known for its carnival and the blend of indigenous traditions with industrial history. For this journey, however, Oruro serves mainly as a logistical stop – ideal for refuelling, rest, and preparation for the coming stages toward the Salar de Uyuni.

Distance covered: approx. 230 km
Overnight: Oruro (3,700 m)

Day 34: Oruro – Uyuni, Bolivia

A long but visually striking drive lies ahead. South of Oruro, Ruta 1 continues straight through the arid and wind-swept plains of the Altiplano. The road is mostly paved, traffic is minimal, and the horizon stretches unbroken for kilometres in all directions.

Day 37: Uyuni – Laguna Hedionda, Bolivia

Departing Uyuni early, you embark on one of South America’s most remote and visually remarkable routes: the Lagunas Route. This highland trail leads through dramatic altiplano landscapes, past saline basins, rocky plains, and vibrant lagoons.

Day 38: Laguna Hediona – San Pedro de Atacama, Chile – Start of Car Tour Through Chile

After a quiet night in the solitude of the highlands, the Panamericana road trip route continues south along the Lagunas Route – through terrain that often feels more extraterrestrial than earthly. The day begins with a drive past the surreal Laguna Colorada, known for its striking red waters, fumaroles, and flocks of flamingos.

Day 39: San Pedro de Atacama Day off

After the dusty, high-altitude challenges of the Lagunas Route, today offers a welcome opportunity to pause and recharge. San Pedro de Atacama greets visitors with its distinctive charm: narrow adobe-lined streets, shaded courtyards, small cafés, and an oasis-like atmosphere that invites lingering.

Day 41: Susques – Tilcara – Salta

A landscape of striking contrast awaits. From the stark, lunar-like terrain near Susques, the journey continues along Ruta 52 and later transitions to the legendary Ruta 9. As you begin the descent from the Puna plateau, the landscape changes dramatically. Near Purmamarca, the famous Cerro de los Siete Colores (Hill of Seven Colours) comes into view – a geological tapestry of mineral tones. A brief stop here is well worthwhile.

Day 42: Salta – Cafayate

Today we’re in for a truly scenic ride: we leave Salta and follow the famous Ruta 68 southwards – past wide fields, small estancias, and lush green vegetation in the early stretches. The real spectacle begins in the Quebrada de las Conchas: bizarrely shaped rock formations, deep red canyons, and natural sculptures like the “Devil’s Throat” or the “Amphitheatre” line the winding road.

Day 44: Belen – Villa Union

Today’s stage follows Ruta 40 south through sweeping valleys and multicoloured rock formations. The road passes small agricultural towns and through classic Andean pre-cordillera terrain – with red rock outcrops, cactus forests, and dramatic contrasts. Past Chilecito, one of the most scenic stretches begins: winding roads, weather-sculpted formations, and views that shift with every turn. Although the day is long, the road remains in good condition and the driving is smooth and varied.

Day 45: Villa Union – San Jose de Jachal

Today’s section of the South America road trip route begins on scenic Ruta 76, leading directly into Talampaya National Park – a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a geological wonder. Towering sandstone cliffs, narrow canyons, fossilized tree trunks, and bizarre rock formations carved by wind and time define this surreal desert landscape. Even the drive itself feels like entering another world.

Day 46: San José de Jachal – Mendoza, Argentina

Following a restful night, the journey continues southward toward Mendoza. Ruta 40 leads through dry highland terrain, past hills and parched riverbeds. As the road progresses, the view of the Andes becomes more prominent – snow-capped peaks rising in the distance. Gradually, the landscape softens. Vineyards begin to appear, small wineries line the roadside, and the terrain becomes greener and more cultivated.

Day 48: Mendoza – Malargüe (Option: Canon del Atuel), Argentina

Leaving Mendoza, the road follows Ruta 40 south through dry valleys, olive groves, and scattered villages. The direct route offers a calm and easy drive through the expansive northern Patagonian landscape toward Malargüe – a quiet town at the base of the Andes foothills.

Day 49: Malargüe – Chos Malal, Argentina

Today’s drive continues south on Ruta 40 into the heart of northern Patagonia. The road stretches seemingly endlessly across volcanic terrain – past basalt fields, dry hills, and open steppe. This is Patagonia in its rawest form: vast, rugged, and solitary. On route, you pass through the Payunia region, one of the most volcanically active areas on Earth.

Day 50: Chos Malal – Zapala, Argentina

From Chos Malal, the route continues through the province of Neuquén – a region of wild terrain, rock outcrops, and open steppe. For those seeking a remote detour, an early side trip toward the Tromen Volcano is recommended. The gravel road is remote and rugged but rewards with exceptional views of the snow-capped volcanic cone standing stark against the Patagonian plains.

Day 52: San Martin de los Andes – Villa de la Angostura, Argentina

We begin our day in San Martín de los Andes and follow the famous Ruta de los Siete Lagos – one of Argentina’s most scenic panoramic roads. This winding route takes us through dense forests and past crystal-clear lakes such as Lago Villarino, Lago Falkner, and Lago Espejo Grande. Changing light, shimmering water surfaces, and snow-capped peaks in the background make this a day to savor.

Day 53: Villa Angostura – Puerto Octay, Chile

Today we cross the Andes: From the lakeshore, we follow Ruta 231 and climb up to the Cardenal Antonio Samoré Pass – one of the most important, yet also most scenic border crossings between Argentina and Chile. The road winds its way up to about 1,300 meters in elevation through mountain forests, offering spectacular views of volcanoes and wide valleys.

Day 54: Puerto Octay – Hornoprien, Chile

Early in the morning, we continue south – a scenic and varied day of travel that brings us closer to the wild landscapes of Patagonia. We follow the coastal road along the Estero Reloncaví, passing snowy volcanoes, tranquil bays, and deep green forests. Parts of the route are unpaved but in good condition, offering a real sense of adventure.

Day 55: Hornopiren – Caleta Gonzalo – Chaiten, Chile

An early start is essential today, as two ferry crossings await through the pristine fjordlands of northern Patagonia – a scenic highlight and logistical adventure combined. The first ferry departs from Hornopirén and navigates the fjords to Leptepu over approximately 3.5 hours. A 10 km overland connection along the V-721 follows before the second, shorter ferry carries you to Caleta Gonzalo. From here, a spectacular drive begins through Pumalín National Park – a region of lush temperate rainforest, cascading waterfalls, and steep-walled valleys.

Day 56: Chaiten – Puyuhuapi, Chile

Early in the morning, we continue our journey south, following the Carretera Austral (Ruta 7) through some of Patagonia’s most spectacular landscapes. The road winds past volcanic terrain, dense forests, and rugged coastal stretches – a wild and pristine world shaped by nature.

Day 57: Puyuhuapi – Queulat Park – Coyhaique, Chile

Today’s route includes one of the most spectacular sections of the Carretera Austral. Not long after setting off, we reach Queulat National Park, where a stop at the viewpoint for the Ventisquero Colgante – the famous “Hanging Glacier” – is a must. Water crashes down in roaring waterfalls from the glacier edge, framed by lush green cliffs. We continue over a mix of paved and gravel roads, winding through the dramatic mountain scenery of the Aysén region. The road is narrow and remote, but incredibly rewarding.

Day 58: Cohaique – Puerto Río Tranquilo, Chile

We continue south along the legendary Ruta 7, through ever-changing landscapes: barren high plateaus, lush valleys, roaring rivers, and snow-capped peaks. This long but rewarding stage takes us through vast, sparsely populated terrain, where nature reigns supreme. Along the way, we stop at scenic viewpoints offering breathtaking panoramas – the feeling of being on a true expedition is never far.

Day 59: Puerto Tranquillo

After the long stage of the previous day and the intensive drive through the heart of Patagonia, a day to take a breather is planned today. Cochrane is secluded and quiet in a wide valley, surrounded by mountains, rivers and endless nature. The place offers only a simple infrastructure, but everything travelers on two wheels need: gas station, small supermarkets, a pharmacy, cafes and accommodation with space to breathe.

Day 61: Los Antiguos – Gobernador Gregores, Argentina

Today we set off on a long but easily rideable stage through the open expanse of the Patagonian steppe. Starting from Los Antiguos, we leave the fertile shores of Lago Buenos Aires behind and head east. The landscape soon opens up – dry, windswept, and vast. The road, partly unpaved, winds through a rugged and barren terrain shaped by volcanic rock formations, endless hills, and the ever-present Patagonian wind.

Day 62: Gobernador Gregores – El Chalten, Argentina

Leaving Gobernador Gregores, the drive through South America continues across the open emptiness of the central steppe. For a time, the road remains dead straight – through wind-swept plains, dry valleys, and past skeletal riverbeds. But with every kilometre, the silhouettes on the western horizon grow sharper: the first distant views of Fitz Roy and Cerro Torre may appear, promising the return to Patagonia’s dramatic mountains.

Day 63: El Chalten Day off

El Chaltén offers a well-earned break – and a chance to experience one of Patagonia’s most iconic mountain landscapes. The day is yours: whether you stay local or head out on foot depends on your mood. For those who enjoy hiking, the trail to Laguna Capri is a rewarding half-day route. Starting directly from the village, it leads through lenga forest and up to one of the most iconic viewpoints of Fitz Roy – ideal in the morning light. The walk is moderate and offers wide views of glaciers and spires.

Day 65: El Calafate – Perito – Moreno – Glacier, Argentina

Today marks one of the visual and emotional highlights of the road trip through South America: the visit to Perito Moreno Glacier. You drive west for about 75 kilometres into Los Glaciares National Park – on a paved road that offers panoramic views over the lake and mountains. As you approach the glacier, the first view is unforgettable: a towering wall of electric-blue ice stretching across the lake, creaking and calving with deep, echoing roars. A network of elevated walkways and terraces allows close observation without ever compromising safety.

Day 66: El Calafate – Puerto Natales, Argentina

Today we leave El Calafate and head west – back into Chile and deeper into the windswept landscapes of southern Patagonia. The route first takes us along Argentina’s legendary Ruta 40 toward the small town of Esperanza. The terrain is wide and open, shaped by wind, endless skies, and a feeling of pure freedom.

Day 67: Torres del Paine

Today we head out for one of the absolute highlights of the journey: a full-day excursion to Torres del Paine National Park – one of the most spectacular natural landscapes in South America. We set off early and follow a scenic road through open steppe and along shimmering lakes, until the jagged granite towers appear on the horizon.

Day 69: Cerro Sombrero – Rio Grande, Argentina

Today we cross the northern part of the Isla Grande de Tierra del Fuego. After a windy day of driving on well-developed roads, we reach the border station of San Sebastián, where we enter Argentina again. From there it is about 80 kilometers to Río Grande, one of the larger towns of Tierra del Fuego with good infrastructure, hotels, workshops and refueling facilities. The landscape is still wide and windy – typical Tierra del Fuego.

Distance covered: approx. 160 km

Day 70: Rio Grande – Ushuaia

We leave early in Río Grande and tackle the last 210 kilometers of our journey – a day full of scenic contrasts and emotions. The road initially leads flat along the east coast of Tierra del Fuego. To the left is the Atlantic Ocean, to the right endless grassy areas with sheep, wind turbines and the occasional estancia. As is so often the case, the wind blows strongly from the side, but the road is in good condition and can be driven smoothly.

Day 71: Ushuaia, Rest Day (Optional: Parque Nacional Tierra del Fuego)

Today, the vehicles rest. Ushuaia is more than just the end of the road – it’s a gateway to southern wilderness, framed by the Andes and the Beagle Channel. The city’s dramatic location alone makes it worth lingering. If you prefer activity, Tierra del Fuego National Park offers hiking trails through windswept forest, lakes, and coastal panoramas. Alternatively, a boat tour on the Beagle Channel offers a unique perspective: sea lions, remote islands, and a glimpse of the “southernmost post office in the world.”

Day 72: Ushuaia – Rio Grande / San Sebastian

After the emotional highlight at the end of the world in Ushuaia, the journey slowly begins to turn northward. Today, we drive back over the Paso Garibaldi and across the vast open spaces of Tierra del Fuego towards Río Grande or further to San Sebastián, near the Chilean border. Once more, we feel the vastness and the ever-present Patagonian wind that has accompanied us on the Isla Grande de Tierra del Fuego.

Distance covered: approx. 210 km

Day 74: Punta Arenas

Today, our great journey comes to an end. The last formalities are completed, and the group slowly dissolves. After weeks full of shared experiences, challenges, and unforgettable moments, it’s time to say goodbye – to one another, to the road, to the southern tip of the Americas.

Those who wish can book an optional return transfer by ship to Ushuaia – a final chapter, a last crossing of the windswept waters of Tierra del Fuego. For everyone else, the adventure ends here – with a final view over the Strait of Magellan, perhaps a glass in hand, but certainly with hearts full of memories.