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

Day 1: Punta Arenas

Upon arrival in Punta Arenas, the group takes over the already cleared vehicles and makes the final preparations for the expedition ahead. While the last formalities are taken care of, there’s time for a first walk through the southernmost city of Chile – perhaps along the Strait of Magellan, or through the historic center with its grand old villas, monuments, and wind-bent trees. In the evening, everyone gathers for a welcome dinner. Plans for the coming stages are discussed, and the spirit of adventure begins to take hold – a journey that will lead from the vast plains of Patagonia all the way to the tropical Caribbean coast.

Day 2: Punta Arenas – Río Grande / San Sebastián

The first riding day begins with a highlight: crossing the Strait of Magellan. A short ferry ride takes the group from Punta Arenas to Porvenir, on the Isla Grande de Tierra del Fuego. Wind, waves and the stark beauty of the southernmost edge of the world set the tone for the days to come.

Day 3: Río Grande / San Sebastián – Ushuaia

Today marks a symbolic moment: reaching Ushuaia, the southernmost city in the world – and the official starting point of the Pan-American Highway. The route winds through the scenic Garibaldi Pass, climbing through forested Andean slopes and narrow valleys. As the road descends, the landscape becomes more alpine, and finally, the Beagle Channel appears below – framed by snow-covered peaks and glaciers.

Day 4: Ushuaia – Rest Day (optional: Tierra del Fuego National Park)

A day at leisure – a rest day at the end of the world. Ushuaia lies dramatically between mountains and sea, offering countless ways to spend the day. Those seeking activity can explore Tierra del Fuego National Park, just a short drive away. Trails wind through dense southern beech forests, along rugged coastlines, and past remote mountain lakes – a truly special experience.

Day 6: Río Grande – Cerro Sombrero, Chile

In the morning, the group leaves Río Grande and follows the road through the wide-open expanse of Tierra del Fuego. After roughly 80 kilometers, the border crossing at San Sebastián marks the return to Chile. On this side of the island, the scenery remains as stark and impressive as ever – flat grasslands, distant horizons, and the constant presence of wind. By afternoon, Cerro Sombrero is reached – a small, quiet settlement originally built for oil industry workers and today a convenient overnight stop in the middle of nowhere.

Distance: approx. 160 km

Day 8: Puerto Natales – Torres del Paine – Puerto Natales

Today is all about the Torres del Paine National Park, one of South America’s most iconic landscapes. Early in the morning, the group drives into the park, where open steppe gives way to rolling valleys, still lagoons, and the dramatic granite towers that rise above them. The route combines asphalt and well-graded gravel – fully driveable and always scenic.

Day 10: El Calafate – Perito Moreno Glacier – El Calafate

Today is dedicated to one of South America’s great natural wonders – the Perito Moreno Glacier in Los Glaciares National Park. Traveling without luggage, the group sets out in the morning; about 75 kilometers west of El Calafate lies the entrance to this extraordinary glacier region. The well-paved road runs along Lago Argentino, leading into a landscape defined by wind, vast horizons, and ice.

Day 11: El Calafate – El Chaltén

In the morning, the group departs El Calafate heading north. The road follows RP11 back to the legendary Ruta 40 – a name synonymous with adventure and wide-open space. The landscape is pure Patagonia: golden steppe, scattered estancias, and a sky that seems endless.

Day 13: El Chaltén – Gobernador Gregores

Today the group leaves the dramatic mountain scenery of El Chaltén behind and returns to the open vastness of the Patagonian steppe. For a while, the snow-capped peaks of Fitz Roy and Cerro Torre still dominate the rearview mirror – a final, unforgettable sight before they fade into the distance.

Day 14: Gobernador Gregores – Los Antiguos

In the morning, the group leaves Gobernador Gregores and continues westward along Ruta 40. Today’s stage leads through the barren expanse of central Argentina – a landscape of wind-swept plains, gentle hills, and endless steppe. In this silent wilderness, it’s not uncommon to spot guanacos, rheas, or even condors soaring overhead – all perfectly at home in the vastness of Patagonia. With each passing hour, the Andes draw closer. The silhouettes of distant peaks begin to rise on the horizon, and the vegetation slowly turns greener.

Day 15: Los Antiguos – Puerto Río Tranquilo, Chile

After breakfast, the group follows the lakeside road along Lago Buenos Aires, which on the Chilean side becomes Lago General Carrera. The route offers sweeping views across the vast expanse of water and the Andes rising beyond it. The border crossing into Chile is calm and remote – after leaving the Argentine post, the road passes through a stretch of no-man’s-land before reaching the Chilean side. Here, the landscape changes dramatically: dense forests, clear streams, and steep mountain slopes replace the dry steppe.

Day 16: Puerto Río Tranquilo – Rest Day on Lago General Carrera

After the demanding stage of the previous day, today is devoted to rest – in one of the most beautiful regions along the Carretera Austral. Puerto Río Tranquilo lies picturesquely on the shores of Lago General Carrera, surrounded by mountains, temperate rainforest, and crystal-clear waters.

Day 17: Puerto Río Tranquilo – Coyhaique

One of the most scenic stages of the entire journey lies ahead. The group follows the northern shore of Lago General Carrera, accompanied by deep blue water and snow-covered peaks rising in the distance. The Carretera Austral winds through valleys, across bridges, and along wild, glacier-fed rivers. Again and again, the route opens up to sweeping views of waterfalls, glaciers, and the lush vegetation of Patagonia.

Day 18: Coyhaique – Queulat National Park – Puyuhuapi

After a quiet night, the group leaves Coyhaique and continues north along the Carretera Austral. The road leads through open valleys, rolling plateaus, and dense temperate rainforest – an ever-changing mosaic of rock, water, and sky. The route alternates between straight stretches and tight, winding curves. The scenery feels untouched, almost mystical – Patagonia in its purest form.

Day 19: Puyuhuapi – Chaitén

The day begins with a drive along the fjord before the road turns inland once more. Continuing along Ruta 7, the legendary Carretera Austral leads deep into one of Chile’s most remote regions. Thick rainforest, glacial streams, and cascading waterfalls line the route, while steep mountains rise on either side. Occasional stops offer moments to take in the stillness and grandeur of this untamed landscape.

Day 20: Chaitén – Caleta Gonzalo – Hornopirén

Another highlight of the Carretera Austral lies ahead. The group drives through Pumalín National Park, a natural paradise of dense vegetation, moss-covered trees, and countless streams running through a landscape shaped by volcanic forces and rain. At Caleta Gonzalo, the day’s ferry section begins. The first crossing lasts about 45 minutes to Leptepu, followed by a short stretch of road before the second, longer ferry – around three and a half hours through the fjordlands of northern Patagonia.

Day 21: Hornopirén – Puerto Octay

In the morning, the group leaves Hornopirén, the northern gateway to the Carretera Austral. The route follows the Estero Reloncaví, a stunning section that winds through lush forests, along quiet fjords, and over narrow stretches of partly unpaved road. The further north the journey goes, the denser and greener the vegetation becomes. The climate softens, the air grows humid, and on the horizon, the snow-capped cones of volcanoes begin to appear.

Day 22: Puerto Octay – Villa La Angostura (Argentina)

Today, the group crosses the Andes once more – back into Argentina. From Puerto Octay, the route leads through gentle hills toward the Cardenal Antonio Samoré Pass, one of the most scenic crossings between Chile and Argentina. The road climbs to about 1,300 meters, surrounded by dense mountain forests, deep valleys, and views of the surrounding volcanic peaks. After completing border formalities, the landscape changes noticeably: the light becomes clearer, the air drier, and the tones shift to the warm colors of the Patagonian steppe.

Day 23: Villa La Angostura – San Martín de los Andes

A particularly picturesque stage awaits today. From Villa La Angostura, the group follows the legendary Ruta de los Siete Lagos – the “Route of the Seven Lakes,” one of Argentina’s most beautiful panoramic roads. The road winds through dense forests and past crystal-clear lakes such as Lago Espejo, Lago Correntoso, Lago Falkner, and Lago Villarino.

Day 24: San Martín de los Andes – Zapala

In the morning, the group continues northward. The route first passes through the Lanín National Park, named after the striking Lanín Volcano, whose snow-capped summit dominates the skyline. As the journey continues, the scenery begins to shift. The forests thin out, the green fades to the ochre tones of the steppe, and the ever-present Patagonian wind returns. Following Ruta 40, the road stretches straight and silent across the high plains – a landscape defined by space, light, and solitude.

Day 25: Zapala – Chos Malal

In the morning, the group leaves Zapala and continues north along Ruta 40, crossing the vast high plains and arid steppes of the Neuquén Province. The landscape is one of gentle hills, scattered rock formations, and endless open horizons. Those who wish can make a detour westward to the Laguna Blanca National Park. The remote lake is a sanctuary for flamingos, Andean geese, and a wide variety of other bird species. The stillness and the sweeping views over the plateau make this side trip well worth the effort.

Day 27: Malargüe – Mendoza (Option: Cañón del Atuel)

The journey continues northward toward Mendoza, Argentina’s wine capital. The direct route follows Ruta 40 through wide valleys and barren hill country – a quiet, relaxed drive with little traffic and smooth roads. Another option is a scenic detour via San Rafael and the spectacular Cañón del Atuel. Though this route adds distance and time, it rewards with dramatic landscapes: turquoise waters, winding roads, rugged rock formations, and the vivid colors of the Andean foothills.

Day 28: Mendoza – Rest Day

After several long days on the road, Mendoza offers the perfect setting for a well-deserved break. Some use the time for vehicle maintenance or to check spare parts and gear, while others explore the city and its surroundings. A visit to one of the region’s renowned bodegas is highly recommended – where fine wine, tradition, and hospitality come together in perfect harmony. Alternatively, a stroll through the green city center or an excursion to the Thermal Baths of Cacheuta makes for a relaxing day. As evening falls, the group gathers again over Argentine cuisine and a glass of Malbec – a fittingly refined conclusion before the journey continues north.

Day 29: Mendoza – San José de Jáchal

In the morning, the group departs Mendoza and continues north along Ruta 40. The road leads through wide, dry valleys along the eastern foothills of the Andes. The light is sharp, the air dry, and the long, straight road winds quietly through an increasingly solitary landscape.

Day 30: San José de Jáchal – Villa Unión

Today’s route is among the most striking of the entire journey. The group follows Ruta Nacional 150, cutting through the heart of Talampaya National Park, an area of extraordinary natural beauty. Towering sandstone cliffs, deep canyons, and surreal rock formations dominate the scene. Those who wish can join a guided excursion from the park’s visitor center to experience this magnificent landscape up close.

Day 31: Villa Unión – Belén

The group leaves Villa Unión in the morning and continues north along Ruta 40 – one of the most beautiful stretches of road in northern Argentina. The route leads through wide valleys dotted with cactus fields, rock formations, and small villages where life follows its own unhurried rhythm.

Day 32: Belén – Cafayate

The journey continues through the vast expanses of northwestern Argentina. Ruta 40 runs through barren valleys and gently rising plateaus – a landscape of red rock, grey hills, and scattered cactus fields. The road alternates between asphalt and gravel but remains easily navigable. Small adobe villages and sparse fields mark the route – places where time seems to move differently.

Day 33: Cafayate – Salta

A day of vivid contrasts lies ahead. The route follows Ruta 68 through the spectacular Quebrada de las Conchas, a canyon of deep red cliffs and bizarre formations such as the “Amphitheater” and the “Devil’s Throat.” The shifting sunlight bathes the rocks in intense colors, and nearly every bend offers another perfect photo stop.

Day 34: Salta – Susques (Argentina)

Today’s drive leads high into the Andes – from the lush colonial lowlands of Salta to the thin air of the high plateau. The group begins on Ruta 9, winding through the green mountain forests of the Yungas – the last stretch of lush vegetation before climbing into the barren heights. Beyond Tilcara, the road enters the colorful Quebrada de Humahuaca, passing the famous Cerro de los Siete Colores near Purmamarca.

Day 35: Susques – San Pedro de Atacama (Chile)

One of the great Andean crossings awaits today: the drive over the Paso de Jama, one of South America’s highest paved mountain passes. The road is well built and rises above 4,800 meters – offering scenery of almost unreal beauty. The route traverses the vast Altiplano, passing lagoons, volcanoes, and dazzling white salt flats. After the Argentine border post, the road continues for many kilometers through a silent, uninhabited expanse before reaching Chilean territory.

Day 36: San Pedro de Atacama – Rest Day

After several demanding days at altitudes above 4,000 meters, today is all about recovery. San Pedro de Atacama is the perfect place for it – a small oasis in the heart of the driest desert on Earth. Mud-brick houses, narrow lanes, palm trees, and small cafés create a relaxed, almost timeless atmosphere.

Day 37: San Pedro de Atacama – Laguna Hedionda (Bolivia)

At dawn, the group departs San Pedro and heads toward the Bolivian border at Hito Cajón. After completing the formalities, one of the most breathtaking landscapes of the entire journey unfolds: the vast, high-altitude plains of the Bolivian Altiplano.

Not far beyond the border lies Laguna Verde, shimmering turquoise beneath the perfect cone of Volcán Licancabur. Further north, the legendary Laguna Colorada reveals its surreal palette of crimson waters and flocks of flamingos.

Day 38: Laguna Hedionda – Uyuni

After a cold, crystal-clear night at high altitude, the journey continues across the Bolivian Altiplano. The route passes more lagoons, steaming solfataras, and bizarre rock formations sculpted by wind and time. The group crosses Laguna Cañapa, navigates sandy stretches and compact gravel, and drives through a landscape that feels both ancient and immense. The terrain demands attention but rewards with silence, scale, and otherworldly beauty.

Day 39: Uyuni – Rest Day / Salar de Uyuni

A day for wonder. Today’s excursion explores the Salar de Uyuni, the largest salt flat on Earth. Those who rise early witness sunrise over the vast white expanse – a magical moment when sky and ground merge into a seamless horizon. The salt crust offers perfect traction, and driving across the flat feels like gliding through another world. The destination is Isla Incahuasi, home to towering cacti and panoramic views across the endless white.

Day 40: Uyuni – Oruro

In the morning, the group leaves Uyuni and follows Ruta 1 north through the vast, silent highlands. The road is paved, the traffic light, and the landscape stripped to its essentials – shimmering plains, distant mountain chains, and the occasional llama wandering by.

Day 41: Oruro – La Paz

A shorter but visually striking stage lies ahead. The group continues north on Ruta 1, crossing the vast expanse of the Altiplano before gradually approaching the metropolitan region of La Paz. The arrival is spectacular: suddenly the plateau drops away, revealing the immense bowl of El Alto, with La Paz sprawling far below – framed by steep hillsides and dominated by the snowcapped peaks of the Cordillera Real.

Day 43: La Paz – Copacabana

After a day of rest, the group departs the world’s highest administrative capital and climbs out of the valley in a series of switchbacks – one last view of La Paz and the snow peaks of the Cordillera Real before the landscape opens into the calm expanse of the Altiplano.

Day 44: Copacabana – Puno, Peru

Today the group leaves Bolivia and returns to Peru. The road follows the shores of Lake Titicaca, passing terraced fields, small settlements, and rolling hills. Shortly after departure, the quiet border post at Kasani is reached – usually a calm crossing that simply requires a bit of patience. On the Peruvian side, the route continues across the high plateau of the Altiplano, with glimpses of the lake shimmering between the hills. Short stops in small farming villages offer a window into traditional Andean life.

Day 45: Puno – Cusco

After a final look over Lake Titicaca, today’s journey leaves the Altiplano behind and winds back into the greener valleys of the Andes. The group follows Ruta 3S, crossing wide plains, gentle passes, and quiet mountain villages. The landscape is quintessential southern Peru: adobe houses, small fields, grazing alpacas, and bustling local markets. A stop at the Inka Museum of Pukara or at the scenic La Raya Pass (4,335 m) – the highest point of the day – is well worth it, with views of glaciers and surrounding peaks.

Day 46: Cusco – Urubamba

From Cusco, the route leads into the Sacred Valley of the Incas, one of the most historic and scenic regions of Peru. It’s a short but rewarding drive through a landscape of green terraces, brilliant peaks, and traditional village life. Depending on timing, there’s the opportunity to visit the Maras salt terraces or the circular agricultural terraces of Moray.

Day 47: Urubamba – Machu Picchu – Urubamba

A true highlight of the entire journey: the visit to the legendary Inca citadel of Machu Picchu. Early in the morning, the group drives to the train station in Ollantaytambo and boards the comfortable Vistadome train. The scenic ride follows the Urubamba River, descending through ever-changing landscapes – from dry highlands to lush cloud forest. After about ninety minutes, the train reaches Aguas Calientes, the gateway to Machu Picchu. From here, shuttle buses wind their way up the steep slopes to the ruins themselves.

Day 48: Urubamba – Chalhuanca

After the days spent exploring the Sacred Valley, with its fertile fields and Inca heritage, the route climbs once more into the Andes. The group follows the road toward Abancay, winding through green valleys and small mountain villages where life moves at an unhurried pace. Beyond Abancay, the landscape changes dramatically – the lush highlands give way to arid mountains.

Day 50: Nazca – Ica (Optional: Cañón de los Perdidos)

From Nazca, the route continues north along the Panamericana Sur, crossing endless desert landscapes of stone, sand, and sunlight. The road stretches through a palette of ochre tones, with only the occasional green field or palm grove breaking the monotony where irrigation brings life to the dry soil. For those seeking adventure, a detour to the Cañón de los Perdidos is a rewarding option – a remote, little-known desert canyon with dramatic rock formations and deeply carved ravines.

Day 51: Ica – Lima

The final stretch along Peru’s coastal desert lies ahead. The group continues north on the Panamericana Sur, crossing sunbaked plains, passing dry riverbeds and low hills, with occasional glimpses of the Pacific Ocean. A worthwhile stop is Paracas, a relaxed seaside town known for its excellent seafood and the nearby Paracas National Reserve – home to pelicans, flamingos, and sea lions. A fresh ceviche by the water makes for the perfect midday break before the journey continues northward.

Day 52: Lima – Rest Day

After the long stages of recent days, today is devoted to relaxation and exploration. Lima, Peru’s capital, is full of contrasts – colonial architecture, modern districts, and one of South America’s finest culinary scenes, all set beside the Pacific Ocean. History lovers may visit the historic center, with its cathedral, government palace, and the renowned Museo Larco, home to a remarkable collection of pre-Columbian art.

Day 53: Lima – Huánuco

Today, the group leaves the coast behind and heads back toward the Andes. The road climbs steadily through the Western Cordillera, taking vehicles and drivers from sea level to nearly 2,000 meters in a single day – a route of contrasts and ever-changing scenery. The early part of the drive follows well-paved roads through the Central Sierra, passing dry valleys and mining towns. As the route continues inland, the landscape becomes greener and more varied. Beyond La Oroya, traffic thins, and the scenery opens into wide mountain valleys.

Day 54: Huánuco – Huaraz

Leaving Huánuco in the morning, the group heads northwest into one of the most remote regions of the central highlands. The road follows narrow valleys, climbs over passes, and winds its way past small Andean villages – often far from any major route. The pavement is mostly good, though occasionally interrupted by potholes or short gravel stretches. In return, the scenery is breathtaking: deep canyons, jagged peaks, and the endless expanse of the Andes.

Day 55: Huaraz – Trujillo

After days spent in the mountains, today’s journey leads back to the coast. The group follows one of the most spectacular mountain roads in Peru – a long descent that ranks among the country’s most scenic drives. Tight switchbacks, deep canyons, and ever-changing vegetation make this a varied and demanding stage.

Day 56: Trujillo – Rest Day

After the long descent from the mountains to the coast, today offers a well-earned break. Those wishing for a quiet day can stay in Trujillo, whose colonial center, colorful façades, and lively cafés invite leisurely exploration. For those interested in history and culture, an excursion to Chan Chan, the vast adobe city of the Chimú civilization, is highly recommended.

Day 57: Trujillo – Piura

After a restful day, the journey continues north along the Panamericana Norte. The highway cuts through the wide coastal plains of northern Peru – a landscape of desert, dunes, and the occasional green oasis. The view alternates between barren hills, wind-shaped dunes, and the narrow strips of farmland nourished by rivers flowing down from the Andes.

Day 58: Piura – Huaquillas – Machala, Ecuador

Today, the group leaves Peru and crosses into Ecuador. The Panamericana leads north through stretches of dry, sandy desert before reaching the border town of Huaquillas by late morning. The crossing can take some time, but patience is rewarded – on the other side, the landscape changes completely. Ecuador greets travelers with lush tropical greenery, banana plantations, and fertile lowlands.

Day 59: Machala – Cuenca

Today’s drive leads back into the mountains. From the coastal plains, the road climbs steadily through lush valleys, misty forests, and winding mountain roads. With each ascent, the air grows cooler, the vegetation denser, and the views more expansive.

Day 61: Baños – Quilotoa Lake

Leaving the subtropical Baños behind, the route climbs steadily back into the highlands. The road ascends through winding valleys, passing waterfalls and misty forests, where clouds drift close to the treetops. As the elevation increases, the landscape becomes sparser and the air cooler. The Andes here reveal their raw, austere beauty – open slopes, rocky ridges, and wide horizons.

Day 62: Quilotoa Lake – Quito

After a quiet night in the highlands, the day begins with a descent toward the Ecuadorian capital. The road winds along steep mountainsides and fertile valleys, passing small Andean villages where life moves at a gentle rhythm. Gradually, traffic increases, the scenery becomes more populated, and the signs of urban life grow stronger. By early afternoon, Quito is reached – a city at 2,850 meters, ringed by volcanoes and recognized as the highest capital in the world.

Day 63: Quito – Rest Day

A day of rest and discovery in the heart of the Andes. Quito blends colonial heritage with the vibrancy of modern life – all set in an extraordinary mountain setting. In the morning, a walk through the historic center, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, reveals cobbled streets, ornate churches, and lively plazas. Alternatively, the Teleférico offers a spectacular ascent to over 4,000 meters, with stunning views across the city and surrounding peaks.

Day 64: Quito – Otavalo

The group leaves Quito in the morning and follows the Panamericana Norte deeper into the fertile Andean highlands. The landscape unfolds in soft mosaics of farmland, valleys, and volcanic slopes – a patchwork of colors stretching toward the horizon. Along the way, snowcapped peaks like Cayambe and Imbabura rise majestically in the distance, framing one of the most scenic stretches of Ecuador’s mountain route.

Day 65: Otavalo – Ipiales, Colombia

Today marks the final border crossing of the journey. The route continues north through Ecuador’s lush Andean highlands – across wide valleys, over graceful bridges, and past villages clinging to the hillsides. The border at Tulcán is generally quiet, and after completing the formalities, the landscape opens once again. Colombia welcomes travelers with rolling green hills, deep gorges, and the unmistakable feeling of entering a familiar yet new world.

Day 67: La Cocha Lagoon – Devil’s Springboard – San Agustín

An early start marks one of Colombia’s most adventurous driving days. The route begins through remote valleys and lush mountain landscapes, where mist, sunlight, and vibrant greenery constantly alternate. The highlight is the legendary “Trampolín del Diablo” – the “Devil’s Springboard” – a narrow mountain road carved into the cliffs, winding through dizzying drops and hairpin turns.

Day 68: San Agustín – Tatacoa Desert

Leaving the green hills around San Agustín, the group heads north toward the lowlands. The road descends through fertile valleys, past coffee plantations and rivers, as the scenery gradually turns drier and lighter. Hour by hour, the vegetation changes – lush forest gives way to scrubland, then to semi-desert terrain.

Day 69: Tatacoa Desert – Salento

After a final morning in the stillness of the Tatacoa Desert – surrounded by warm colors, cacti, and endless sky – the group heads toward the green heart of Colombia: the famous Coffee Region. The road first crosses the flat plains of Huila, where heat and dust still dominate. But with every kilometer, the air grows cooler, the landscape greener, and the scent of vegetation stronger. Soon banana groves, avocado trees, and the first coffee bushes line the roadside.

Day 70: Salento – Amagá Viaduct – Medellín

The day begins in the cool mountain air of the Zona Cafetera. Leaving Salento, the group follows winding mountain roads through emerald hills, past coffee plantations, small villages, and sunlit valleys. A worthwhile stop en route is the Amagá Viaduct – an old railway bridge spanning a deep valley, now a striking spot for photos and sweeping views. The road continues north through the Andes, and gradually, signs of the city appear on the horizon.

Day 71: Medellín – Guatapé – Santa Fe de Antioquia

After breakfast, the group leaves Medellín and drives east toward the picturesque mountain region around Guatapé. From afar, the massive rock of El Peñol rises above the landscape. Climbing its 740 steps rewards with an unforgettable panorama of blue water and green islands. Following a relaxed break in Guatapé – perhaps over coffee or a stroll through its brightly painted streets – the route returns westward through the hills of Antioquia.

Day 72: Santa Fe de Antioquia – Necoclí

Today’s route leads down from the mountains to the Caribbean lowlands. Curving Andean roads descend through lush tropical vegetation before opening onto the broad plains of the Urabá region. Palm groves, cattle pastures, and banana plantations dominate the scenery; the air grows heavier, the light more humid, unmistakably coastal. Along the way, small lively towns reflect the easygoing rhythm of Colombia’s Caribbean fringe. By afternoon, the sea appears at last – the Gulf of Urabá glimmering in the distance.

Day 73: Necoclí – Cartagena

The final driving day. From Necoclí, the group follows the northern coast of Colombia eastward – through tropical plains, past palm groves and small villages, with shifting shades of sea and sky as constant companions. With every kilometer, anticipation grows. By afternoon, the skyline of Cartagena, the “Pearl of the Caribbean,” shimmers on the horizon. The colonial old town welcomes travelers with colorful façades, cobblestone streets, and the warm glow of late sunlight.

Day 74: Cartagena – Departure

The final morning on the Caribbean coast. After breakfast, the group slowly parts ways – some heading to the airport, others staying a few extra days in the city. Cartagena bids farewell with sun, sea breeze, and the sense of something extraordinary accomplished.

Weeks of motion, dust, wind, and unforgettable moments now rest in memory. In thought, the road reappears – the Paso de Jama, the Atacama Desert, the Ruta 40 – all merging into one continuous line across a continent. And one truth remains: anyone who has come this far carries a part of that road forever.