Things to do on a Santiago to Punta Arenas Roadtrip

Things to do on a Santiago to Punta Arenas Roadtrip

Driving from Santiago to Punta Arenas is one of the best road trips in South America. Stretching over 3000 km, this journey takes you through wine valleys, volcanoes, fjords, glaciers, marble caves, and the wilds of Patagonia. Whether you have 8 days or one month, this route has it all—and the best part? You can even cross into Argentina along the way. With the right planning (and a cheap rental deal from Imoova), this dream road trip is surprisingly affordable and flexible.

How Long Do You Need?

This route is incredibly adaptable:

• 8–10 days: A fast-paced highlights trip (lots of driving, fewer stops)

• 14–18 days: A balanced itinerary with Patagonia highlights

• 21–28 days: The ultimate slow road trip with detours, hikes, and rest days

There’s no single “right” way to do it, your pace depends on how much hiking, spontaneous adventures, and off-the-beaten-path exploring you want.

Renting a Vehicle for $1/Day

One of the best-kept secrets for this trip is Imoova relocation deals. These are one-way vehicle rentals from $1 per day that companies need moved between cities. If you plan to cross into Argentina, you’ll need special paperwork. When booking through Imoova, the rental company can arrange everything for you. Expect to pay around $150 extra for border crossing permits. Currently, Imoova have deals listed where you can get 8 days at $1/day, and if you choose to add extra then these can be added on at a higher rate.

Must-See Stops Between Santiago and Punta Arenas

1. Santiago to Colchagua or Casablanca Valley

Start your trip easing into Chile’s wine country.

• Vineyard tours and tastings

• Rolling hills and relaxed countryside

• Great food

2. Pucón & Villarrica National Park

A road trip favourite for good reason.

• Active volcano views

• Hot springs, waterfalls, and lakes

• Hiking, kayaking, and adventure sports

3. Puerto Varas & Llanquihue Lake

Gateway to Chilean Patagonia.

• German-influenced towns

• Osorno and Calbuco volcano views

• Easy access to national parks and waterfalls

4. Carretera Austral (Optional but Incredible)

If you have time, this is one of the most scenic drives in the world.

• Hanging glaciers

• Turquoise rivers

• Remote villages and ferry crossings

Highlights include:

• Puyuhuapi

• Queulat National Park

• Marble Caves (Capillas de Mármol)

5. Crossing into Argentina (Patagonia Detour)

Crossing into Argentina adds variety and smoother roads.

• Ruta 40 is legendary

• Easier long-distance driving

• Stunning steppe landscapes

Popular stops:

• El Bolsón – laid-back, artsy mountain town

• El Chaltén – hiking capital of Argentina (Fitz Roy!)

• El Calafate – home of the Perito Moreno Glacier

6. Back to Chile: Torres del Paine

No Patagonia road trip is complete without it.

• One of the most beautiful national parks in the world

• Day hikes or multi-day treks

• Guanacos, condors, and dramatic granite towers

7. Punta Arenas

Your final destination at the edge of the world.

• Access to penguin colonies

• Historic maritime city

• Gateway to Tierra del Fuego or Antarctica cruises

Practical Tips for the Journey

• Fuel up often in Patagonia as distances are long

• Download offline maps

• Expect changing weather daily

• Book popular parks (like Torres del Paine) in advance

• Always carry your passport and rental paperwork when crossing borders

Is This Road Trip Worth It?

Absolutely. This is not just a drive, it’s a journey through some of the most dramatic landscapes on Earth. The flexibility to shape it over 8 to 28 days, the option to explore both Chile and Argentina, and the chance to do it for as little as $1/day with Imoova make it one of the best-value adventure road trips out there.

If Patagonia has ever been on your bucket list, this is how you do it. Browse our South America listings here.