South America Road 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 travelers, review the upcoming route and begin to immerse yourself in the spirit of this extraordinary journey along the Panamericana by car from Cartagena, Colombia, to Ushuaia, Argentina.

Altitude: approx. 1,400m

Day 2: Cartagena – Planeta Rica, Colombia

The first stage of the expedition begins early in the morning. The route leads out of Cartagena into the tropical lowlands of Colombia, where humid heat and dense vegetation define the environment. Although the roads are in good condition, the high temperatures and lively local traffic demand full attention, especially in the initial hours. Gradually, the traffic thins out, and the journey continues through small rural settlements, past cattle pastures and extensive palm groves. Short breaks offer the opportunity to cool down and take in the changing scenery. In the afternoon, you reach the town of Planeta Rica, which serves as a comfortable overnight stop to complete the first longer leg of the journey at a relaxed pace. A cool drink and dinner in a convivial setting conclude the day.

Distance covered: approx. 340 km

Day 4: Medellín – Guatapé – Medellín

Today offers a relaxed day excursion to the colorful lakeside town of Guatapé. The winding route leads through green hills and past small rural settlements until the vast reservoir of Guatapé comes into view. One of Colombia’s most iconic landmarks awaits: the Rock of El Peñol. Those who climb its 740 steps are rewarded with a panoramic view of the surrounding landscape and its branching waterways.

Day 6: Salento – Popayán, Colombia

The journey continues from the lush coffee region into the southern Andes. Forests begin to open into broad valleys as the road follows remote country tracks and passes through small mountain communities. A scenic highlight is the Cocora Valley, home to Colombia’s national tree – the wax palm – which towers high into the mountain sky. Later in the afternoon, you arrive in Popayán – one of the best-preserved colonial towns in the country. Known as the “White City,” its calm streets and elegant facades offer a striking contrast to the surrounding landscape. A leisurely walk through the historic center leads past churches and shaded plazas before dinner in one of the town’s welcoming restaurants

Distance covered: approx. 290 km

Day 8: San Agustín – Pasto, Colombia

After breakfast, you leave San Agustín and follow a remote mountain route that offers a constantly changing panorama. Forested slopes, broad valleys, and cool mountain air accompany the drive as the altitude steadily increases. The highlight of the day is the legendary “Trampolín de la Muerte” – a narrow mountain road that winds dramatically above steep cliffs and offers breathtaking views as the fog drifts across the ridge lines.

Day 11: Ipiales – Quito, Ecuador – Start of Car Tour Through Ecuador

In the morning, you proceed to the nearby border crossing at Rumichaca. With proper preparation, the formalities are typically efficient. Once in Ecuador, the South America road trip continues along the Panamericana, winding through fertile valleys, volcanic slopes, and dramatic ridgelines. The roads are generally in good condition, and the open terrain makes for a pleasant drive.

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 – Banos (Optional: Crater Lake Quilotoa), Ecuador

Today’s stage leads through the heart of the Ecuadorian Andes. The main route runs along the well-maintained E35, descending steadily toward the subtropical spa town of Baños. For those seeking additional scenic highlights, a detour via the Quilotoa Loop is possible – a roughly 60-kilometre route through mountainous terrain leading to the rim of the striking turquoise Quilotoa Crater Lake at nearly 3,900 meters. Whether choosing the direct or scenic variant, the day offers varied landscapes – from high-altitude paramo and crater lakes to green gorges and warm thermal springs. Arrival in Baños in the late afternoon. Depending on the route, expect between 5.5 and 7 hours of driving – a rewarding day of contrasts and expansive views

Distance covered: approx. 200/340 km

Day 14: Baños – Cuenca, Ecuador

Leaving subtropical Baños behind, the route climbs steadily back into the cooler elevations of the Ecuadorian Andes. The day begins with a drive via Ambato and continues south on the well-developed E35, also known as the Troncal de la Sierra. As the kilometers pass, the environment becomes quieter and increasingly remote. From Riobamba, the view opens up toward Chimborazo – at 6,263 meters, Ecuador’s highest peak. The final stretch before reaching Cuenca features a series of flowing curves and expansive panoramas. Cuenca itself is widely regarded as one of the most attractive colonial cities in the country – cobbled streets, whitewashed buildings, and lively markets await.

Distance covered: approx. 330 km

Day 16: Loja – Piura, Peru – Start of Car Tour Through Peru

An early start marks the day, as the Panamericana road trip route leads toward the border at Macará. The drive offers a combination of curves, scenic forest sections, and quiet highland views. With some luck, llamas or alpacas may be spotted grazing near the road. The Macará border crossing is relatively quiet and, with well-prepared documents, usually efficient.

Day 17: Piura – Trujillo, Peru

A long but straightforward trip awaits as the route follows the Pan-American Highway southward along the coast. The road passes through arid desert landscapes, agricultural zones, and scattered villages. Traffic is moderate and consists mostly of local trucks and buses.

Day 19: Trujillo – Huaraz, Peru

Today’s route leaves the coast behind and climbs back into the high Andes. After a short drive along the Panamericana to Chimbote, the road veers inland. What follows is a striking ascent into the mountains – serpentine roads, shifting vegetation zones, and impressive landscapes.

Day 20: Huaraz – Huanuco

Today’s route leads out of the Cordillera Blanca into one of the most untouched regions of the Peruvian Andes. The journey offers a rich variety of landscapes: winding mountain roads, remote high plateaus, small settlements, and expansive panoramic views alternate throughout the day. The road is mostly paved, though some sections are marked by potholes – a cautious driving style is advisable. Several mountain passes are crossed, bridges span rushing mountain rivers, and time and again, there is a strong sense of traveling far from conventional tourist routes.

Day 22: 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 23: Lima – Ica, Peru

The journey continues south along the Panamericana Sur. The route traverses one of the driest regions on earth – a landscape shaped by wind, salt, and sun. Vast desert plains alternate with scattered oases and occasional views of the Pacific. The road is mostly straight and well maintained, making for an easy day of driving.

Day 24: Ica – Nazca (Optional: Cañon de los Perdidos), Peru

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: Chalhuanca – Curahuasi, Peru

After breakfast, the route follows the Río Chalhuanca upstream – a deep-cut valley flanked by steep rock faces and terraced slopes. The road meanders along the river, crossing narrow passes and offering continuous elevation changes. The terrain becomes increasingly alpine; vegetation transitions from green riverbanks to sparse highland scrub.

From Abancay onward, the landscape opens noticeably. Broad views across the Apurímac Valley and distant mountain chains dominate the panorama. The air is dry and clear – ideal for driving and photography alike. Curahuasi, perched on a high plateau at over 2,600 meters, offers basic but comfortable lodging and serves as a strategically located base for entering the Sacred Valley region the following day.

Distance covered: approx. 230 km

Day 27: Curahuasi – Urubamba – Cusco, Peru

This stage offers a rare combination of technical driving and cultural immersion. Early departure is recommended, as the route through the Sacred Valley is not only scenic but also rich in optional stopovers. The day begins with a descent into the Urubamba Valley – fertile, green, and framed by steep granite ridges. Traditional villages, terraced fields, and the occasional alpaca herd mark the way.

Day 28: Cusco Rest day – Tour to Machu Picchu

Today marks one of the cultural highlights of the entire journey: the visit to Machu Picchu. Early in the morning, the day begins with a transfer to the train station. From there, the train follows the narrowing Urubamba Valley toward Aguas Calientes – a scenic route along the river, framed by steep cliffs and dense mountain forest.

Day 30: Puno – Copacabana, Bolivia – Start of Car Tour Through Bolivia

The South America road trip route now 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 31: Copacabana – La Paz, Bolivia

Although today’s stage is short in terms of distance, it offers a range of scenic impressions. The route continues along the lakeshore past isolated bays and traditional villages, always with the Cordillera Real visible on the horizon. A special moment is the crossing at the Strait of Tiquina – here, vehicles are ferried across the narrow waterway on simple wooden rafts, while passengers cross separately. The crossing is informal, calm, and thoroughly memorable.

Day 32: La Paz – Death Road – La Paz

Today’s loop is one of the most legendary and visually striking road trips in South America. The journey begins with a drive over the La Cumbre Pass at approximately 4,670 meters, with views of glaciers and the surrounding Andean peaks. From there, the descent begins on the original Yungas Road – widely known as the “Death Road.”

This historic route drops more than 3,000 meters in elevation over 60 kilometers, passing from high-altitude tundra into humid cloud forest. The road is narrow and partly unpaved, bordered by waterfalls, cliffs, and dense vegetation. Caution is essential, but the experience is exceptional.

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 35: Uyuni – Salar de Uyuni – Uyuni, Bolivia

Today is dedicated to one of the most surreal landscapes in South America: the Salar de Uyuni. Covering over 10,000 square kilometres, this immense salt flat offers an otherworldly experience – a blindingly white expanse under an immense sky where perspective and orientation blur. Early in the morning, the journey leads directly onto the salt crust. The surface is firm and smooth, allowing vehicles to glide almost effortlessly.

Day 36: 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: 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 39: San Pedro de Atacama – Susques, Argentina Start of Car Tour Through Argentina

In the morning, the South America road trip route climbs steadily on smooth asphalt to one of the highest border crossings in the Andes. The road to Paso de Jama ascends to over 4,800 metres, with wide views across volcanic peaks, salt flats, and the open expanses of the Altiplano.

Day 40: 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: Payogastilla – Belen, Argentina

The day begins with a visual highlight: the Quebrada de las Flechas, a surreal corridor of jagged rock spires rising sharply from the desert floor. Ruta 40 threads its way through this narrow passage, offering a truly otherworldly driving experience. Further south, a short break in Cafayate is recommended. This welcoming town is known for its colonial ambiance and as the heart of Torrontés white wine production. Continuing along Ruta 40, the road leads through remote valleys, sparse ridges, and quiet villages such as Santa María del Yocavil.

Day 43: Belen – Villa Union, Argentina

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: 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 46: Mendoza Day off

After days of long-distance travel across northern Argentina, Mendoza provides the perfect environment for rest and recovery. The city offers everything needed for vehicle maintenance: workshops, tyre services, and washing facilities. Those preferring a slower pace may opt for a visit to the surrounding wine regions of Maipú or Luján de Cuyo. Many wineries offer guided tastings in tranquil, leafy settings – a welcome contrast to the dusty trails of the past weeks.

Day 47: 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: 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 50: Zapala – San Martin de los Andes, Argentina

Leaving Zapala, the road leads south along Ruta 40. Slowly, the scenery begins to shift. The arid pampas give way to greener valleys, the wind softens, and forests begin to appear. Passing through the region of Lanín National Park, the landscape transforms fully into the lush lake district of northern Patagonia. The snow-covered Lanín Volcano dominates the skyline, and the road now winds through dense woodland, alongside rivers, and past shimmering mountain lakes.

Day 51: San Martin de los Andes – Bariloche, Argentina

Today’s stage follows what is widely considered the most scenic section of Ruta 40: the Ruta de los Siete Lagos – the Road of the Seven Lakes. Departing early from San Martín de los Andes, the journey leads along well-paved roads through dense forests, alongside glassy lakes, and past rugged mountain peaks. The route includes lakes such as Lago Machónico, Lago Escondido, Lago Villarino, and Lago Correntoso – each offering distinct colours, moods, and reflections. The road is winding yet smooth, with little traffic and numerous opportunities to pause for photos or lakeside breaks.

Day 53: Bariloche – Entre Lagos, Chile

Departing Bariloche, the route leads westward along Lake Nahuel Huapi before ascending toward Paso Cardenal Samoré – one of the most scenic border crossings between Argentina and Chile. The climb is marked by dense forests, cascading streams, and sweeping mountain views.

Day 54: Entre Lagos – Hornopias, Chile

Today’s stage begins gently, with a quiet drive through the pastoral scenery of Los Lagos. The road weaves through forests, alongside lakes, and through small, sleepy villages – a peaceful start to the day. After refuelling in Osorno, the journey heads west along Ruta 5 before turning south toward Calbuco. From there, you follow the remote and winding V-69 – a dramatic, partly unpaved road that hugs the edge of the Reloncaví Fjord.

Day 55: Hornopias – Caleta Gonzalo – Chaiten, Ferry, 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 57: Villa Amengual – Villa Cerro Castillo, Chile

The journey across South America by car continues deeper into Patagonia. From Villa Amengual, Ruta 7 leads south through humid river valleys and across wooded gorges, past isolated farms and windswept meadows. The terrain begins to shift, gradually revealing wider plains and more open landscapes. In the late morning, you’ll reach Coyhaique – the largest town in the region and the last significant service point before entering the true solitude of the south. Refuelling, grocery stops or lunch breaks are recommended here.

Day 58: Villa Cerro Castillo – Puerto Río Tranquilo – Cochrane, Chile

This is one of the most diverse days of the South America road trip . Departing early from Villa Cerro Castillo, the Carretera Austral winds through open landscapes, along turquoise rivers and past glaciated valleys. The road surface varies between asphalt and gravel but remains manageable, with scenery that changes around every bend.

Day 59: Cochrane Day off

After the demanding stages of the previous days, today is reserved for rest and maintenance. Cochrane lies in a quiet valley surrounded by mountains, rivers, and vast expanses of untouched nature. While the town itself is modest, it offers all essentials: fuel, food, basic mechanical support, and calm accommodations.

Day 60: Cochrane – Lago Posadas, Argentina

A highlight of the Car expedition across South America begins today: the remote crossing from Chile into Argentina via Paso Roballos. Departing Cochrane early, the route heads east through Valle Chacabuco, part of Parque Patagonia. The landscape gradually opens, becoming drier and more expansive. With a bit of luck, condors may be spotted soaring overhead, and herds of guanacos often line the track.

Day 61: Lago Posadas – Gobernador Gregores, Argentina

Today’s stage is long but straightforward – and reveals the full dimension of the Patagonian steppe. Leaving Lago Posadas, the route initially heads east on gravel through open terrain. The scenery is dominated by wind-swept plains, reddish rock ridges, and an endless horizon under a constantly moving sky.

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 64: El Chalten – El Calafate, Argentina

After a relaxed morning, you leave El Chaltén and follow RP23 back to Ruta 40 – with one last rearview glance toward the Fitz Roy massif. The road is well-maintained, the wind strong, the steppe endless. It’s a calm, transitional stage through open land and broad horizons – the kind of day that invites reflection.

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 67: Rio Gallegos – Cerro Sombrero, Chile

The day begins with a relaxed departure from Río Gallegos, heading south toward the Monte Aymond border post. With documents in order, the formalities are usually efficient – but allow time, as traffic volume can vary. Once in Chile, you follow Ruta CH-255 through rolling steppe terrain to Punta Delgada, where the Strait of Magellanis crossed by ferry – a symbolic milestone for any transcontinental journey. The ferry runs frequently, and the crossing takes about 20 minutes.

On the southern shore, it’s a short drive to Cerro Sombrero, a small but well-maintained settlement in the middle of the Patagonian solitude. Here you’ll find fuel, a reliable place to stay, and a good meal – practical and comfortable before continuing across Tierra del Fuego.

Distance covered: approx. 170 km

Day 68: Cerro Sombrero – Rio Grande, Argentina

Today you traverse the northern reaches of Isla Grande de Tierra del Fuego. The road is well-maintained, the scenery vast and windswept. You cross back into Argentina at San Sebastián, a remote but functional border post where re-entry is typically straightforward. From here, the road continues across open steppe, flanked by low grasslands, wind turbines, and distant estancias. The wind remains a defining feature of the landscape. After approximately 80 km, you arrive in Río Grande, one of the larger towns on the island, offering full services: accommodation, fuel, mechanical support, and supplies.

Distance covered: approx. 220 km

Day 69: Rio Grande – Ushuaia, Argentina

The last 210 kilometres of the South America road trip are ahead – a day of contrasts, emotions, and symbolism. From Río Grande, the road heads south, initially flat and coastal, with the Atlantic on one side and open plains on the other. Sheep farms and distant silhouettes of the Andes set the tone.

Day 70: Ushuaia Day off (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.

Day 72: Ushuaia, Departure

Depending on individual travel plans, you transfer to Ushuaia Airport or begin the organized overland trip to Punta Arenas. One last view of mountains and sea, one final breath of southern wind – and with that, the journey home begins. What remains are the stories, the friendships, and the enduring memory of reaching the end of the world.

Please note: Vehicles that do not fit into a standard container may need to be shipped from an alternative port. For details, please contact our team.