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RV travel in Argentina and Chile: rental, routes, tips
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Traveling by motorhome in the southern tip of South America is a true adventure. Argentina and Chile, divided yet united by the Andes, offer routes of epic scale. From the glaciers and jagged peaks of Patagonia to the arid deserts of the north, from vineyards to endless steppes — a motorhome gives you the freedom to explore these contrasting lands, cross borders, and build a truly grand itinerary.
Country overview
When planning a trip through Argentina and Chile, it’s important to consider the specifics of each country.
Capitals: The capital of Argentina is Buenos Aires. The capital of Chile is Santiago.
Language: The official language in both countries is Spanish. English proficiency is low outside of tourist areas and major hotels, so knowing basic Spanish phrases will make traveling much easier.
Currency and money: The two countries use different currencies, which is an important point.
Time:
Driving: Both countries drive on the right-hand side.
Visas: Citizens of many countries (including the EU and USA) can visit both countries visa-free for up to 90 days. Russian citizens do not need a visa to enter Argentina. Entry to Chile is also visa-free. Entry conditions may change, so always check current requirements on the official consulate websites of both countries.
Capitals: The capital of Argentina is Buenos Aires. The capital of Chile is Santiago.
Language: The official language in both countries is Spanish. English proficiency is low outside of tourist areas and major hotels, so knowing basic Spanish phrases will make traveling much easier.
Currency and money: The two countries use different currencies, which is an important point.
- In Argentina: Argentine peso (ARS, $). The economy is unstable, and there are both official and unofficial (“blue dollar”) exchange rates. It’s often more favorable to exchange US dollars in cash at the unofficial rate or to use foreign bank cards for payment.
- In Chile: Chilean peso (CLP, $). The economy is more stable. Bank cards are widely accepted.
Time:
- Argentina: Follows UTC-3 year-round.
- Chile: The continental part follows UTC-4 in winter and UTC-3 in summer, with daylight saving time. Thus, in summer, the time in both countries may coincide, while in winter there may be a one-hour difference. Easter Island has its own time zone.
Driving: Both countries drive on the right-hand side.
Visas: Citizens of many countries (including the EU and USA) can visit both countries visa-free for up to 90 days. Russian citizens do not need a visa to enter Argentina. Entry to Chile is also visa-free. Entry conditions may change, so always check current requirements on the official consulate websites of both countries.
Why are Argentina and Chile great for a motorhome trip?
Traveling through Argentina and Chile by motorhome is appealing for several reasons.
First of all, it’s the opportunity to explore a single geographic region — Patagonia without being limited by national borders. You can visit the Perito Moreno Glacier in Argentina, and a few days later — the granite towers of Torres del Paine in Chile. A motorhome is the best tool for such cross-border routes.
It’s also a journey of contrasts. You can cross the Andes, moving from the Argentine steppe (pampas) to the Chilean fjords and rainforests. This variety of landscapes within one trip makes the journey rich and memorable.
Both countries offer solid infrastructure for RV travel, although it’s simpler than in Europe or North America. There is a network of campgrounds, and most importantly — in Patagonia, wild camping (if done responsibly) is widely accepted, giving you more freedom. The roads, though sometimes difficult, allow you to reach the most spectacular places.
Finally, a motorhome gives you the autonomy you need in regions where distances between towns are vast and hotels or restaurants are rare. Having your own shelter, kitchen, and supplies is a major advantage when exploring these remote lands.
First of all, it’s the opportunity to explore a single geographic region — Patagonia without being limited by national borders. You can visit the Perito Moreno Glacier in Argentina, and a few days later — the granite towers of Torres del Paine in Chile. A motorhome is the best tool for such cross-border routes.
It’s also a journey of contrasts. You can cross the Andes, moving from the Argentine steppe (pampas) to the Chilean fjords and rainforests. This variety of landscapes within one trip makes the journey rich and memorable.
Both countries offer solid infrastructure for RV travel, although it’s simpler than in Europe or North America. There is a network of campgrounds, and most importantly — in Patagonia, wild camping (if done responsibly) is widely accepted, giving you more freedom. The roads, though sometimes difficult, allow you to reach the most spectacular places.
Finally, a motorhome gives you the autonomy you need in regions where distances between towns are vast and hotels or restaurants are rare. Having your own shelter, kitchen, and supplies is a major advantage when exploring these remote lands.
Popular regions and routes for motorhome travel
Routes in Argentina and Chile are often built around crossing the Andes and exploring shared geographic zones.
-
Patagonia (Argentina + Chile)This is the main draw for road trip travelers.- Argentine side: The main attraction is the legendary Ruta 40 highway. Key stops include Bariloche (Lake District), the Perito Moreno Glacier near El Calafate, the hiking capital El Chaltén with views of Mount Fitz Roy and Cerro Torre, and the “end of the world” city of Ushuaia.
- Chilean side: The iconic Torres del Paine National Park and the legendary Carretera Austral (Ruta 7) — one of the world’s most beautiful and remote scenic roads, winding through rainforests, glaciers, and fjords.
- Border crossings: There are several border checkpoints allowing for combined routes, for example, from Argentina’s Lake District to Chile’s side or from El Calafate to Torres del Paine.
-
Lake District (Argentina + Chile)Located in northern Patagonia. On the Argentine side, this includes the area around San Carlos de Bariloche and the “Seven Lakes Route.” On the Chilean side — the towns of Pucón and Puerto Varas, featuring volcanoes, lakes, and thermal springs. -
Northwest Argentina and Northern ChileA route for lovers of desert and high-altitude landscapes. In Argentina, this includes the provinces of Salta and Jujuy, with their colorful mountains, salt flats, and vibrant villages. From there, you can cross the Andes into Chile and reach the Atacama Desert — the driest place on Earth, with lunar landscapes, geysers, and salt lagoons. -
Wine regionsYou can plan a route around wineries. In Argentina, this is primarily the Mendoza region at the foot of the Andes, known for its Malbec. In Chile — the Colchagua, Maipo, and Casablanca valleys, located near Santiago.
Best time to travel by motorhome
Choosing the right season for a road trip through Argentina and Chile is essential, as the climate varies greatly from north to south. Remember, the seasons here are opposite to those in the Northern Hemisphere.
Summer (December–February)
Summer is the most popular and, in most cases, the best season for RV travel, especially in Patagonia.
- Patagonia (South): This time offers the longest daylight hours and the warmest, most stable weather (though still unpredictable and windy). Southern Patagonia temperatures range from +10 to +20°C. Roads, campsites, and hiking trails are open. This is peak season, so expect crowds and high prices for rentals and services.
- Central and Northern regions: These areas can be extremely hot, especially in central Argentina and the Atacama Desert in Chile.
Autumn (March–April)
Autumn is a wonderful time to visit Patagonia. The weather is still relatively stable, but tourist numbers drop significantly. The main highlight is the autumn foliage, when the forests on the Andes’ slopes turn vivid shades of red and yellow. This is especially scenic around El Chaltén in Argentina and Chile’s Carretera Austral. Days get shorter and nights cooler. By late April, some mountain passes and campsites may begin to close.
Spring (October–November)
Spring is another good time to travel, especially in Argentina and Chile’s Lake District, where nature comes to life and everything is in bloom. In Patagonia, the weather can still be very unpredictable and windy. There are fewer tourists than in summer. Many high mountain passes open during this period.
Winter (June–August)
Winter is a difficult season for RV travel in Patagonia. Most of the region is covered in snow, strong icy winds blow, many roads (especially in Chile) may be closed, and campgrounds often do not operate. Temperatures drop below zero. However, winter is the best time to visit northern and central regions:
- Northwest Argentina (Salta, Jujuy) and the Atacama Desert in Chile: Winter here is the dry season, with clear sunny days and cold nights — a good time to explore these high-altitude desert landscapes.
- Ski resorts: Around Bariloche (Argentina) and near Santiago (Chile), the ski season begins.
Motorhome rental in Argentina and Chile: what you need to know
Renting a motorhome in this region is different from other places, and choosing the right company and vehicle requires careful consideration.
Where to rent?
The main rental hubs are in the capitals — Buenos Aires (Argentina) and Santiago (Chile). For Patagonia road trips, it’s more convenient to start from southern cities like Bariloche, El Calafate, or Ushuaia in Argentina, and Punta Arenas or Puerto Montt in Chile. However, these smaller cities tend to have fewer rental companies and models available — and higher prices.
Rental conditions
- Age and experience: Most companies require drivers to be at least 25 years old with 2–3 years of driving experience.
- License: A standard category B license is sufficient. An International Driving Permit (IDP) is often recommended for both countries and is commonly requested by rental companies.
- Deposit: A refundable deposit is typically held on your credit card when you pick up the vehicle. It can range from $1,000 to $3,000 USD or euros.
Types of motorhomes
The rental fleet in Argentina and Chile is smaller and less modern than in Europe or North America.
- Campers and pickup trucks with living module: The most common and suitable for local road conditions. Often these are 4x4 pickups with a living module on the back. Ideal for gravel roads (ripio) and rough terrain in Patagonia.
- Campervans: Converted vans, best for paved roads.
- Large motorhomes: Less common and more expensive. On many roads in Patagonia, especially in Chile, driving a large motorhome can be difficult.
Insurance
Insurance is mandatory. Basic insurance often comes with a high deductible and does not cover damage to the windshield, tires, or suspension caused by gravel roads. Since driving on ripio is almost unavoidable in Patagonia, check if the company offers extended coverage for these risks.
Border crossing
This is a key logistical issue. If you plan to cross between Argentina and Chile, you must notify the rental company in advance. They need to issue a notarized permit for the vehicle. This service is paid and can take time to arrange (sometimes several weeks), so plan trans-border trips well in advance. Not all companies offer this option.
One-way rental
This is possible within the same country between major cities, but usually comes with a high extra fee. Cross-country one-way rentals (pick up in one country and drop off in the other) are generally not available.
When to book?
For high season travel (December–February), it’s essential to book your motorhome — especially a 4x4 camper for Patagonia — well in advance: 6–9 months ahead or even a year before your trip.
Roads and driving in Argentina and Chile
Driving in this region is part of the adventure, and it requires preparation.
Types of roads
- Paved roads: The main national highways in both countries — such as Ruta 3 in Argentina or Ruta 5 (Panamericana) in Chile — are mostly paved and generally in good condition.
- Gravel roads: This is the most common road type in Patagonia as soon as you leave major highways. The famous Ruta 40 in Argentina has many gravel sections in the south. Chile’s Carretera Austral is mostly gravel. Driving on ripio requires slower speeds (40–60 km/h), extra attention, and leads to fast tire wear and possible windshield damage from flying rocks.
- Border crossings (Pasos fronterizos): Crossing the Andes between Argentina and Chile takes place via mountain passes, which can be closed in winter due to snow. Border procedures may take from an hour to several, and require full car documentation.
Key driving rules (traffic laws)
- Speed: Speed limits are posted in km/h. On highways it’s usually 100–120 km/h, on rural roads 80–100 km/h, and in cities 40–60 km/h. On gravel roads, drive much slower than posted limits.
- Lights: Both countries recommend using dipped headlights at all times outside of cities, even during the day.
- Seatbelts: Mandatory for all passengers.
- Alcohol: Both countries enforce strict laws. Chile has a “zero tolerance” policy with harsh penalties. Avoid drinking entirely if you’re driving.
- Driving style: Can be more chaotic than in Europe, especially in large cities. On remote roads, expect long distances without services.
Fuel
- Types: Gasoline is called Nafta in Argentina and Gasolina in Chile. Diesel is Gasoil. Most campers in this region are diesel.
- Fuel stations: Crucial for planning. In Patagonia, the distance between stations can be 300–500 km or more.
- Rule #1: If you see a station — fill up. Never start a long stretch with less than half a tank. Stations may have lines or run out of fuel. It’s wise to carry an extra jerry can.
- Prices: Fuel in Chile is usually more expensive than in Argentina.
Ferries
On the Chilean side, especially along the Carretera Austral, ferries are used to cross fjords. You must account for them in your route and budget. Some run on a fixed schedule; others require advance booking — especially in high season.
Parking and overnight stays in a motorhome
The overnight system in Argentina and Chile is different from Europe. It’s a mix of organized campgrounds and wide opportunities for wild camping.
Wild camping
“Wild” camping is the main and most common way to overnight in Patagonia.
- Rules and possibilities: Unlike many other countries, this is part of the travel culture. Due to the vast empty spaces, it’s easy to find places near lakes, rivers or simply in the steppe. The golden rule is “Leave no trace”: take all your trash with you, don’t light fires in prohibited areas, and don’t harm nature.
- Where to stop: Look for pullouts from the main road, ideally near rivers, lakes or sheltered from the wind. In towns, you can stop at gas stations like YPF (Argentina) or COPEC (Chile), which often have lights, toilets and a level of safety.
- Restrictions: Overnighting on private land requires permission. In national parks, you can usually stay only in official campgrounds. Look for signs like “Prohibido Acampar” (Camping prohibited).
Official campgrounds
Organized campgrounds do exist, but the network isn’t as dense as in Europe.
Types and amenities:
Prices: Paid campgrounds are usually inexpensive, around $10–20 USD per night.
Booking: Usually not required, except for the most popular national park campgrounds in high season.
Types and amenities:
- Municipal campgrounds (Camping Municipal): Usually located on the outskirts of towns, they offer basic facilities (toilets, scheduled hot showers, grill areas — “parrilla”). This is the budget option.
- Private campgrounds: May offer more amenities, including electricity and Wi-Fi, but are less common and more expensive.
- Campgrounds in national parks: Can be either paid with basic amenities, or free — just a grassy field near a trail with no services.
Prices: Paid campgrounds are usually inexpensive, around $10–20 USD per night.
Booking: Usually not required, except for the most popular national park campgrounds in high season.
Motorhome servicing on the road
Traveling in a motorhome in Argentina and Chile requires more independence and planning than in Europe.
Fresh water refill (Agua Potable)
- Sources: The main places to refill water are campgrounds and gas stations (especially large networks like YPF and COPEC), which usually have water taps. In many small towns, you may find street water points.
- Quality: Tap water in cities is usually safe to drink, but in rural areas or when filling from rivers and lakes (possible in Patagonia), it is recommended to use filters or purification tablets.
Gray and black water disposal
Wastewater disposal infrastructure is poorly developed.
Where to dump: Dedicated dump stations are very rare. The main place to dump is organized campgrounds.
What to do if there’s no campground:
Planning: Plan your route to stop in towns with campgrounds regularly for full motorhome servicing.
Where to dump: Dedicated dump stations are very rare. The main place to dump is organized campgrounds.
What to do if there’s no campground:
- Gray water (Aguas grises): In Patagonia, it is common to discharge gray water in suitable natural areas, away from water sources, using biodegradable detergents.
- Black water (Aguas negras): Dumping toilet cassette waste in nature is strictly forbidden. If there’s no nearby campground, public toilets at gas stations or in towns can be used — do so carefully and responsibly.
Planning: Plan your route to stop in towns with campgrounds regularly for full motorhome servicing.
Gas bottles
Gas is needed for cooking, heating, and the fridge.
- System: Argentina and Chile use their own gas bottle standards, which are different from each other and from the European or American ones. These bottles aren’t interchangeable and need to be refilled rather than swapped.
- Refilling: You can refill gas bottles at specialized gas stations. They’re not always easy to find, especially in remote areas.
- Adapters: This is the biggest technical issue when crossing borders. Argentine and Chilean gas bottles have different thread types. If you’re traveling in your own motorhome, you’ll need a set of adapters to be able to refill the same bottle in both countries. Some rental companies offering cross-border trips provide bottles with adapters or two separate bottles. Always double-check this in advance.
Food, groceries, and shopping
Having a kitchen in your camper is the key to a comfortable and budget-friendly road trip in Argentina and Chile.
In Argentina, the cuisine is all about meat. Asado (grilled meat) is a national tradition, and it’s worth trying different cuts of steak. Empanadas — baked pastries with various fillings — are also very popular. Argentina is famous for its red wine, especially Malbec from the Mendoza region. The national drink is mate, traditionally sipped through a metal straw (bombilla) from a gourd (calabash).
In Chile, thanks to its long coastline, seafood is excellent — sea urchins, oysters, and a variety of fish. Signature dishes include pastel de choclo (corn pie with a meat filling) and curanto (a traditional dish from Chiloé Island where meat, seafood, and vegetables are cooked in a pit over hot stones). Chilean wine is also well known, especially the Carménère and Cabernet Sauvignon varieties. The national spirit is pisco, a grape brandy used to make the famous Pisco Sour cocktail.
In Chile, thanks to its long coastline, seafood is excellent — sea urchins, oysters, and a variety of fish. Signature dishes include pastel de choclo (corn pie with a meat filling) and curanto (a traditional dish from Chiloé Island where meat, seafood, and vegetables are cooked in a pit over hot stones). Chilean wine is also well known, especially the Carménère and Cabernet Sauvignon varieties. The national spirit is pisco, a grape brandy used to make the famous Pisco Sour cocktail.
- In Argentina: Major chains include Coto, Carrefour, Jumbo, Dia. Prices can fluctuate significantly due to inflation.
- In Chile: Major chains include Líder (owned by Walmart), Jumbo, and Santa Isabel. Prices are more stable and higher than in Argentina (at official exchange rates).
- Selection: Good variety of meat, vegetables, fruits, and wine.
- Opening hours: Usually open until 20:00–21:00. In smaller towns, there might be a midday break (siesta).
A great place to buy fresh fruits and vegetables and soak up the local flavor.
Estimated trip budget
Planning a budget for a trip to Argentina and Chile should take into account Argentina’s unstable economy and generally higher prices in Chile. It’s best to calculate everything in US dollars.
- Camper rental: This is the main expense. Renting a fully equipped camper suitable for Patagonia can cost from $150 to $300 per day, depending on the season and the company.
- Fuel: Fuel costs will be significant due to long distances. Diesel is noticeably more expensive in Chile than in Argentina. You can spend $100–150 per 1000 km.
- Campgrounds: A night at a paid campground costs around $10–20. Using free “wild” spots can help reduce this part of the budget.
- Food: Cooking your own meals is the most economical option. Expect to spend $25–40 per person per day. Food is generally cheaper in Argentina than in Chile.
- Attractions and border crossings: National park entry fees apply (e.g. Los Glaciares in Argentina or Torres del Paine in Chile — about $30–40 per person). Also budget for ferry crossings (in Chile) and fees for paperwork when crossing the border with a rental vehicle.
Daily budget (excluding camper rental)
- Budget option (mainly wild camping, home cooking, minimal paid activities, more time in Argentina): $50–80 per day for two people.
- Mid-range option (mix of campgrounds and wild spots, occasional meals out, visits to major parks): $100–150 per day for two people.
Money-saving tips: Spend more time in Argentina, where many goods and services are cheaper. Refuel in Argentina before crossing into Chile. Take full advantage of free camping opportunities. Cook your own meals and shop at large supermarkets.
Connectivity and internet
Staying connected in Patagonia can be a challenge. Internet and mobile signal are far from guaranteed.
Mobile signal
Main providers in Argentina are Claro, Movistar, and Personal. In Chile — Entel, Movistar, WOM, and Claro. 4G coverage is available in cities and along some main roads. Outside populated areas, there is often no signal at all, especially on long stretches of Ruta 40, Carretera Austral, and in national parks. Entel in Chile and Personal in Argentina tend to have slightly better coverage in remote areas.
SIM cards
Buying a local SIM card in each country is the most affordable option. A passport is usually required. Data packages are relatively inexpensive. Note that an Argentinian SIM won’t work well in Chile and vice versa (international roaming is expensive).
Wi-Fi
Available in cafés, restaurants, some gas stations, and paid campgrounds in towns. Speed may be low. Don’t rely on it too much.
Satellite connection
If you’re heading into truly remote areas or need to stay connected at all times, consider renting or buying a satellite messenger (such as Garmin inReach). It lets you send and receive text messages and send an SOS signal from anywhere in the world.
Safety, culture, laws, and useful tips
A few tips for traveling in Argentina and Chile.
General safety
Patagonia is a very safe region with low crime rates. Most risks are related to nature and the road, not people. In big cities like Buenos Aires and Santiago, take standard precautions against street theft.
Camper and road safety
- Wind: Patagonia is known for strong, gusty winds. Be especially careful when driving a tall camper and when opening the doors.
- Road conditions: Gravel roads can change quickly. Always carry at least one full-size spare tire and know how to use it.
- Animals: Guanacos, rheas, and sheep often appear on the roads. Slow down when you see them.
Police and checkpoints
You may encounter police or gendarmerie checkpoints, especially near provincial borders or at city entrances. Document checks are common.
Laws
- Border crossings: Transporting fresh products (meat, vegetables, fruit, honey) across the Argentina–Chile border is strictly prohibited. Customs officers conduct thorough inspections and will confiscate all forbidden items. Eat or dispose of your food supplies before crossing.
- Drones: Using drones in national parks is often prohibited or requires special permission.
Culture and etiquette
- Pace of life: Life, especially in rural areas, moves slowly. Don’t expect fast service.
- Siesta: In small towns, many shops and businesses may close for a few hours during the day.
Language barrier and English proficiency
English is not widely spoken outside major tourist areas. Knowing basic Spanish will make your trip much easier and is warmly appreciated by locals.
Tap water
In major cities, tap water is usually safe to drink. In Patagonia, you can drink water from clean mountain rivers and streams, but it’s best to use a filter to be sure.
Emergency numbers
Argentina: 911 (police), 107 (ambulance)
Chile: 133 (police), 131 (ambulance)
Chile: 133 (police), 131 (ambulance)
Electricity
- Argentina: Voltage 220V, frequency 50Hz. Outlets are type C (Europlug) and type I (three flat pins).
- Chile: Voltage 220V, frequency 50Hz. Outlets are type C (Europlug) and type L (three round pins in a row).
Useful resources
For planning your trip and finding up-to-date information:
- Camping apps: iOverlander is the most popular and useful app in South America. Users mark wild camping spots, campgrounds, water sources, fuel stations, and share updates.
- Road conditions: Check the status of mountain passes and roads on the official websites of each country’s road authorities, especially in winter.
- National park information: Each major park (Torres del Paine, Los Glaciares, etc.) has its own official website with details about rules, trails, and camping.
- Tourism websites: argentina.travel and chile.travel are the official national tourism websites.
Conclusion
Traveling by camper in Argentina and Chile is a journey into the wild and majestic nature of Patagonia and beyond. Careful route planning, attention to your vehicle’s condition, and readiness for autonomy will make it one of the most memorable adventures of your life.
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