Drive the spectacular Ruta 60 through the High Andes to the legendary Portillo ski resort and the Argentine border at 3,832 m — a road-trip through snow tunnels, switchback hairpins and glacier-carved valleys that rivals any mountain drive on earth. Out of ski season, you'll have the epic landscape virtually to yourself.
What to expect
From Santiago (or directly from San Antonio port), your route climbs through the Los Andes valley and into the high cordillera via a series of audacious switchbacks — the same road that challenged generations of Andean travellers before the modern tunnel was built. At Portillo, Laguna del Inca glimmers in colours shifting from jade to cobalt depending on the light, backdropped by sheer peaks rising more than 2,000 m above the water. Your guide shares the geology, the local legends of the Inca lake and the history of this legendary ski circuit. A hot lunch at the Portillo hotel restaurant, with its lake-facing windows, is a sublime finale.
Good to know
A long day — factor 10+ hours from San Antonio port. The road is fully open in summer (Nov–Apr) and may be subject to snow closures in winter; confirm road conditions with your operator. Altitude exceeds 3,800 m at the lake — acclimatise the previous day if possible, and avoid alcohol until you descend. Pre-book the Portillo hotel restaurant for lunch, as non-guest access can be limited.
Sail there
Luxury cruises that call at Santiago — book through us, the fare is identical and your concierge stays on your side.