Driving Santiago to Mendoza
 

Hi,
I was thinking about adding a two night trip to Mendoza to my current intinerary and I was wondering how long of a drive it is from Santiago, Chile to Mendoza, Argentina? I'll be traveling in June. What will road conditions be like is it a major highway or a little road through the Andes? Thanks for your help.
Colin

Dear Colin:

We traveled fron Mendoza to Santiago by bus about 8 years ago. The highway is a major border crossing so it is very good. The trip by bus took 8 hours. This included two stops at the border for inpections. Plus it was a holiday, so there were lines of cars. This was in December, summer, so snow wasn't a problem. In June I couldn't say how it would be. If you saw the Amazing Race with Rob & Amber, this was the route the show took thru the Andes. Only on the Chilean side are there switch backs.

This was one of the highlights of our trip. The scenery was amazing.

Good luck,

MY

In June there is the possibility that the pass will be blocked by snow. So best to be flexible as it is not normally closed for that long. If there is snow then you will need to have chains on your wheels.

Why not take a bus, there are fine buses. Driving is not that simple in that route. Good luck.

there is nothing better than forgetting about driving and enjoying the wonderful landscape.
2 companies, 2 timetables. 6 hs. ride.
beautiful scenery for u$s 25 dollar each.
regards,
milla