You’ll need to go at a “snail’s pace” if you’re riding through Los Caracoles on Ruta CH-60.
The highway, also known as Los Libertadores International Pass or Cristo Redentor, treads through a 10,105-foot tunnel in the Andes Mountains. The mountain pass connects Santiago de Chile to Mendoza, Argentina, and stands a remarkable 10,500 feet high.
29 hairpin turns in the Andes
Yet, the altitude is not the only scary part. The road bends in a series of 29 switchbacks on the Chile side to help cars make a safe incline or descent.
Given the steepness of the route running through Andes Cordillera, it is also one of the most challenging, especially when navigating snowy and frigid temperatures. Thankfully, the roads are wide enough to accommodate both trucks and cars.
While Los Caracoles is open 24 hours a day, any significant congestion could leave cars stranded for 12 hours. Unhindered, it usually takes 10-30 minutes to get up and through the road.
Despite the nerves, don’t forget to look around at the unreal views and likely some goats.
