Hike the Andes: Cross from Argentina to Chile on Foot
7 days, 2 countries, one journey that will change you
PRICE
From 1,300 USD
We also offer custom dates for private groups.
2026 DATES
- January 10 to 16
- January 24 to 30
- February 14 to 20
- March 14 to 20
DURATION
- 7 days
- 6 nights
DIFFICULTY
- Moderate / High
- Altitude: 4,350 m
- Distance: 85 km
- Elevation: 3,200 m
Cross the Andes on foot, retracing a historic journey.
Over 7 days, you’ll hike one of the most breathtaking routes in the Andes, following the path taken by General San Martín’s army. The journey begins in Mendoza City and leads deep into the mountains through the Manzano Histórico area, ascending the International Pass of Portillo de Piuquenes. This expedition connects you to history, the vastness of the mountains — and yourself.
This experience is designed so you enjoy every step.
The itinerary follows a progressive acclimatization: challenging days of hiking are balanced with easier ones. You’ll hike with a light backpack — your personal gear is transported for you. Each night, you’ll camp in the heart of the Andes, surrounded by silence and wilderness, sharing the trail with a small group and professional mountain guides by your side.
What do past hikers remember most?
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The raw beauty of the landscapes
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The human warmth and attention to detail
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The comforting, home-cooked meals that taste like heaven after a long day
An experience that transforms both body and spirit.
This isn’t just about crossing a mountain range — it’s about stepping away from the everyday and doing something extraordinary. Because you don’t have to be a hero to walk among giants — you just have to take the first step toward a memory that will stay with you forever.
HIGHLIGHTS
Cross the Andes on foot in an epic journey that doesn’t require you to be an athlete or a hero — just someone willing to do something extraordinary.
We follow a historic route — the Portillo de Piuquenes Pass — once used by General San Martín’s army in their legendary crossing.
You’ll sleep in remote wilderness camps, under endless skies, surrounded by the vast silence of the Andes.
An experience that leaves a mark — not just on the trail, but on your personal story.
WHY DESTINO MONTAÑA
At Destino Montaña, we believe the best adventures are born from a passion for sharing.
We’re a team of mountain guides with over 10 years of experience in the Andes. We know every detail of this journey — and we live it with the same excitement as you.
Beyond logistics, what our travelers value most is the human warmth, the local knowledge, and the spirit of teamwork.
We’re with you every step of the way: from the first preparations to that powerful moment when you realize you’ve made it.
OUR RECOMMENDATION
This experience is perfect if you’re looking to push your limits and take on a real mountain challenge.
You don’t need previous high-altitude experience, but you do need excellent physical condition, regular training, and the motivation to hike long distances with elevation gain.
You can prepare with long walks, uphill hikes, aerobic exercises, and strength training focused on your legs and core.
Intentional preparation makes all the difference — the more you train, the more you’ll enjoy every step.
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Professional mountain guide:
With local experience and training in high-altitude safety. -
Satellite communication and first-aid kit:
To respond in case of emergencies. -
All group camping equipment:
Tents, stoves, cooking gear — everything needed for a comfortable camp. -
Transportation:
From Mendoza city to Refugio Portinari, and from the hot springs at the end of the trek to Santiago de Chile. -
Full board:
Hearty, homemade meals tailored to the physical demands of each day. -
Staff trained in wilderness first aid:
Peace of mind every step of the way. -
Pack mules for group gear and your personal load (up to 10 kg):
You only hike with a light daypack. -
Personalized gear advice:
We help you choose or rent the right gear for the expedition. -
Return of rented gear:
If you rented from our recommended store, we’ll handle the return for you. -
Post-crossing gear return logistics (if requested):
We can bring your gear back from the Chilean border to Mendoza city, in case you prefer not to take it into Chile. -
Personal accident insurance
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1 night in a hostel in Santiago de Chile (shared rooms)
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Support horses:
Available in case of fatigue or discomfort.
NOT INCLUDED
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Personal gear (clothing, sleeping bag, backpack, etc.)
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Transportation to Mendoza or from Chile to your home country
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Costs related to rescue or early departure from the expedition
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Transfer of personal luggage from Mendoza to Chile
Day 0 – Arrival in Mendoza
Welcome to the land of sun and wine. If you need to rent any gear, this is the time to do it. Between 6:00 and 8:00 p.m., we’ll stop by your accommodation (in the downtown area) to pick up the mule bags and get them ready for the crossing.
Accommodation in Mendoza city
Day 1 – From Portinari to Scaravelli
We’ll meet early in Mendoza and drive to the Portinari refuge, where we complete border formalities. From there, the real adventure begins: we hike up to Scaravelli refuge, our first overnight stop.
Distance: 8 km · Elevation gain: +700 m · Max altitude: 3,200 masl · Estimated duration: 4 h
Day 2 – Acclimatization at Scaravelli
A slower day to let your body adapt to the altitude. We take a light hike through the Manantiales area, staying active without overexertion.
Estimated duration: 2–3 h (gentle hike)
Day 3 – The trail to La Olla
The longest and most demanding day of the trek. We ascend to 4,350 meters before descending to the La Olla campsite. A tough but key stage of the crossing.
Distance: 22 km · Elevation gain: +1,150 m · Max altitude: 4,350 masl · Estimated duration: 12 h
Day 4 – Río Tunuyán and views of Mt. Tupungato
We cross the Tunuyán River on horseback and continue to Contreras camp. Surrounded by glaciers and 6,000-meter peaks, this day offers some of the trek’s most breathtaking views.
Distance: 8.5 km · Elevation gain: +200 m · Max altitude: 3,250 masl · Estimated duration: 4 h
Day 5 – Heading to Gauchito Gil
We continue towards the border landmark. The hike takes us through vast valleys and mountain ridges. We rest and prepare for the final crossing.
Distance: 12 km · Elevation gain: +250 m · Max altitude: 3,300 masl · Estimated duration: 6 h
Day 6 – Crossing Portillo de Piuquenes
We start at dawn to reach the Chilean border. After crossing the Portillo Pass at 4,100 m, we descend to the hot springs at Plomo. From there, we transfer to Santiago.
Distance: 11 km · Elevation gain: +750 m · Max altitude: 4,100 masl · Estimated duration: 8 h
Day 7 – End of the journey
Breakfast in Santiago. From here, each traveler organizes their own return.
If you’re returning to Mendoza by bus, our team takes the Andesmar service at 10:30 a.m.
If you’re flying, we recommend avoiding very early departures due to fatigue from the expedition.
Do I need previous experience?
No previous high-altitude experience is required. However, excellent physical condition is essential — both aerobic capacity (for long ascents) and muscular endurance (for multi-hour hikes on uneven terrain).
What if I’m missing gear?
We’ll help you choose the right gear and recommend reliable rental shops in Mendoza. You’ll receive personal advice to make sure you’re well prepared.
What’s the weather like?
Weather in the Andes can be extreme and unpredictable. In one day, temperatures can range from -10 °C to 25 °C. The sun is strong, winds can reach over 70 km/h, and snow is possible. Your gear must be suitable for all conditions.
What are the campsites like?
They are completely wild — no showers, no services, no comforts. You’ll sleep in tents under an open sky, with no option to bathe (except in a stream) or wash clothes.
What happens if I get too tired?
The itinerary is designed with progressive effort in mind. Still, there will be a support horse available to help you reach camp if needed. This resource is shared among participants.
How is my personal gear transported?
Your gear (up to 10 kg) will be carried by mules. We recommend renting a strong duffel or mule bag, as loads may get damaged during transport.
What’s included in the full-board meals?
All meals and hiking snacks for the 7 days:
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Breakfasts, lunches, afternoon snacks, and dinners
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Homemade, hearty, and energy-packed food: stews, pasta, barbecue, soups, homemade bread, fruit, cereal bars, nuts, and more.
If you have any dietary restrictions, just let us know when you book — we’ll gladly accommodate you.
How does the trip end?
We finish on Day 7 with breakfast at the hostel in Santiago, Chile. After that:
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You can fly back (we don’t recommend booking early morning flights).
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You can return to Mendoza by bus (we’ll help you arrange it).
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If at least 8 participants return to Mendoza, we can organize a private transfer. Ask us when booking.
What challenges should I expect?
You’ll be in the high mountains, with no services and exposed to tough weather. You’ll need to be prepared to:
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Protect yourself from intense sun
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Hike across rocky, uneven terrain
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Sleep without modern comforts
Technical gear is mandatory. Underestimating the mountain can be risky, so mental preparation is key — this journey demands resilience, attitude, and adaptability.
How do I book?
Send us a message on WhatsApp and we’ll send you the full details.
To reserve your spot, we require a 30% deposit and a short online form with your information.
Still have questions — or want to choose your own dates?
Send us a WhatsApp message and we’ll send you the full guide with everything you need to know.
If you’re traveling solo, with a partner or a small group, we can help you set up a custom departure date that fits your schedule. Let us know what you have in mind — we’re flexible and happy to adapt.
Why choose us for this journey?
Small groups, personalized attention — and flexible options.
We go with a maximum of 20 people and 1 guide for every 4 participants. This allows us to support you closely, adapt the pace when needed, and offer a safer, more human experience.
Want to customize your dates or travel with your own group? We can make it happen.
Officially authorized by the Government of Mendoza.
We are certified to operate in the Manzano–Portillo de Piuquenes Natural Reserve (Gov. of Mendoza – EX-2023-00869829-GDEMZA).
Ongoing support and human connection.
From the first contact to the last step of the trek, we’re here for you. We organize a pre-trip video call, guide you with gear selection, and answer all your questions so you feel fully prepared and confident.
Professional and approachable guides.
All our guides are officially certified, trained in wilderness first aid, experienced in mountaineering, and deeply familiar with the terrain.
More than a company — we’re like family.
A trusted local network.
We work with muleteers, horsemen, and drivers we’ve known for years.
You walk — we take care of the rest.