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.
Alannah F
Marketing Manager
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.
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