Exploring South America offers travelers a chance to discover road trips that are truly hidden gems. These routes take you off the beaten path, revealing stunning landscapes and vibrant cultures that are often overlooked. Whether winding through mountain passes or along coastal stretches, each journey promises unique experiences and unforgettable views. Get ready to embark on an adventure where the roads less traveled lead to some of the continent’s best-kept secrets.
Ruta de los Siete Lagos, Argentina
This scenic route through Argentina’s Patagonia region connects the towns of San Martín de los Andes and Villa La Angostura, passing by seven breathtaking lakes. Surrounded by lush forests and towering mountains, the road is a paradise for nature lovers. The 110 km drive offers numerous spots for hiking, fishing, and camping, making it perfect for those seeking outdoor adventure. The road is mostly paved, making it accessible while still offering the thrill of exploring lesser-known areas.
Transpantaneira, Brazil
The Transpantaneira is a dirt road that stretches through the Pantanal, the world’s largest tropical wetland. Spanning 145 km from Poconé to Porto Jofre, this route offers unparalleled wildlife viewing opportunities. Expect to see caimans, capybaras, and a variety of bird species along the way. The road ends at the Cuiabá River, where boat tours can take you deeper into this unique ecosystem. Due to the unpaved surface, a 4×4 vehicle is recommended for this journey.
Carretera Austral, Chile
Stretching over 1,200 km, the Carretera Austral is one of Chile’s most remote and beautiful road trips. It takes travelers through Patagonia’s rugged wilderness, featuring snow-capped mountains, glacial rivers, and dense forests. The road is a mix of gravel and paved sections, so a sturdy vehicle is advisable. Along the way, you can explore national parks, hot springs, and charming villages, offering an authentic taste of Chilean Patagonia.
Route of the Waterfalls, Ecuador
Located near the town of Baños, the Route of the Waterfalls is a short but stunning road trip that showcases some of Ecuador’s most spectacular waterfalls. The 60 km route winds through lush valleys and deep canyons, with numerous opportunities to stop and hike to the falls. The highlight is the Pailón del Diablo, a massive waterfall that you can get up close to via a suspension bridge. This road is well-paved and easily accessible, making it a hidden gem for any traveler.
Ruta 40, Argentina
Ruta 40 is one of Argentina’s longest and most iconic roads, stretching over 5,000 km from the northern border with Bolivia to the southern tip of Patagonia. The route offers a diverse range of landscapes, from the arid deserts of the north to the glacial lakes of the south. While parts of the road are well-traveled, many sections remain remote and offer a true sense of adventure. This road trip is perfect for those who want to experience the vastness of Argentina’s wilderness.
Death Road, Bolivia
Officially known as Yungas Road, this infamous route earned its nickname due to its steep cliffs and narrow passages. The 64 km road descends from La Paz to the town of Coroico, dropping over 3,000 meters in altitude. Despite its daunting reputation, it offers some of the most dramatic views in South America, passing through cloud forests and deep valleys. Adventurous travelers often tackle it by mountain bike, though it’s also possible to drive with caution.
Ruta del Vino, Uruguay
Uruguay’s Ruta del Vino is a lesser-known road trip that takes travelers through the country’s wine region. The route spans approximately 100 km, connecting Montevideo with the town of Carmelo. Along the way, you can visit family-owned wineries and vineyards, tasting some of the country’s best wines. The road is well-maintained and offers a leisurely pace, perfect for those who want to combine scenic views with gourmet experiences.
Road to Purmamarca, Argentina
The road leading to Purmamarca in Argentina’s Jujuy province is a hidden gem for those seeking stunning landscapes and cultural experiences. The 65 km journey from San Salvador de Jujuy to Purmamarca takes you through the colorful Quebrada de Humahuaca, a UNESCO World Heritage site. The highlight is the Hill of Seven Colors, a striking multi-hued mountain that overlooks the village. This paved road is easily accessible, making it a must-see for travelers in northern Argentina.
Ruta del Cacao, Colombia
Ruta del Cacao is a delightful road trip through Colombia’s Santander region, known for its rich cacao production. The route spans around 200 km, starting from the city of Bucaramanga and winding through picturesque towns like San Gil and Barichara. Along the way, you can visit cacao farms, learn about the chocolate-making process, and enjoy the region’s stunning landscapes. The road is well-paved, making it an enjoyable journey for foodies and nature lovers alike.
Chimborazo Loop, Ecuador
This loop around Ecuador’s Chimborazo Volcano offers travelers a chance to experience one of the country’s most iconic landscapes. The 200 km route circles the volcano, which is the highest peak in Ecuador. The road passes through remote villages, Andean grasslands, and high-altitude deserts. Wildlife enthusiasts may spot vicuñas and other native species along the way. While the road is mostly paved, some sections can be challenging due to the altitude and weather conditions.
Ruta del Sol, Peru
Ruta del Sol is a scenic coastal drive along Peru’s Pacific coastline, stretching from Lima to Paracas. The 250 km route offers stunning ocean views, sandy beaches, and access to the Paracas National Reserve, known for its diverse wildlife. The road is well-maintained and offers a mix of natural beauty and cultural attractions, including archaeological sites and traditional fishing villages. This road trip is perfect for those looking to combine beach relaxation with cultural exploration.
Salta to Cafayate, Argentina
The road from Salta to Cafayate in Argentina’s northwest is a hidden gem for wine lovers and nature enthusiasts. The 180 km drive takes you through the Quebrada de las Conchas, a stunning canyon with red rock formations and unique geological features. Cafayate, at the end of the route, is a charming town known for its high-altitude vineyards and Torrontés wine. The road is paved and easily navigable, offering a comfortable yet scenic journey.
Road to Huaraz, Peru
The road to Huaraz in Peru is a hidden gem that leads travelers to the heart of the Cordillera Blanca, one of the highest mountain ranges in the world. The 400 km drive from Lima takes you through the breathtaking landscapes of the Andes, passing by snow-capped peaks, deep valleys, and glacial lakes. Huaraz serves as a gateway to the Huascarán National Park, where hiking and mountaineering opportunities abound. The road is mostly paved but can be challenging due to its high altitude.
Route to Torres del Paine, Chile
This road trip takes you to one of South America’s most iconic natural wonders, the Torres del Paine National Park in Chilean Patagonia. The 300 km route from Punta Arenas offers stunning views of jagged peaks, turquoise lakes, and expansive grasslands. The park itself is a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve, home to diverse wildlife including guanacos and pumas. The road is a mix of paved and gravel sections, requiring a sturdy vehicle, but the breathtaking scenery makes it well worth the effort.
Ruta del Tambor, Paraguay
Ruta del Tambor is a lesser-known road trip in Paraguay that takes you through the country’s beautiful eastern region. The route spans approximately 150 km, starting from the town of Villarrica and winding through rolling hills, dense forests, and traditional villages. The road is mostly unpaved, making it a true adventure for those seeking an off-the-beaten-path experience. Along the way, you can explore the region’s rich cultural heritage and enjoy the tranquil natural surroundings.
Caminho do Imperador, Brazil
Caminho do Imperador, or the Emperor’s Road, is a historic route in Brazil’s Rio de Janeiro state. The 100 km road was once used by Emperor Dom Pedro II to travel between Rio de Janeiro and the mountain town of Petrópolis. Today, it offers a scenic drive through lush Atlantic Forest, with stunning views of mountains and waterfalls. The road is well-paved and easily accessible, making it a hidden gem for history buffs and nature lovers alike.
Ruta de las Misiones, Bolivia
Ruta de las Misiones is a unique road trip that takes you through Bolivia’s Chiquitania region, home to a series of historic Jesuit missions. The 500 km route connects towns like San Ignacio de Velasco and Concepción, where you can explore beautifully preserved mission churches and learn about the region’s rich cultural history. The road is a mix of paved and dirt sections, so a 4×4 vehicle is recommended. This journey offers a blend of history, culture, and natural beauty.
Road to Bariloche, Argentina
The road to Bariloche in Argentina’s Lake District is a hidden gem that offers stunning views of crystal-clear lakes, dense forests, and snow-capped mountains. The 160 km drive from Villa La Angostura to Bariloche takes you along the shore of Lake Nahuel Huapi, with plenty of opportunities to stop and enjoy the scenery. Bariloche itself is a charming town known for its Swiss-inspired architecture and outdoor activities. The road is well-paved, making it an easy and enjoyable drive.
Ruta de los Volcanes, Chile
Ruta de los Volcanes is a scenic road trip through Chile’s Araucanía region, home to some of the country’s most active volcanoes. The 300 km route takes you through national parks, hot springs, and traditional Mapuche villages. Along the way, you’ll have stunning views of volcanoes like Llaima and Villarrica, with opportunities for hiking and exploring the region’s unique landscapes. The road is mostly paved but can be challenging in some sections due to volcanic activity.
Road to Ushuaia, Argentina
The road to Ushuaia, the southernmost city in the world, is a hidden gem for those seeking an epic adventure. The 500 km drive from Rio Gallegos to Ushuaia takes you through the windswept plains of Tierra del Fuego, with stunning views of the Beagle Channel and the Andes. The road is a mix of paved and gravel sections, with unpredictable weather adding to the challenge. But reaching the “End of the World” is an unforgettable experience, making this road trip a true bucket-list journey.
This article originally appeared on UnifyCosmos.
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