Not all roads lead to Rome—some lead to the edge of a volcano, through a jungle, or straight into the clouds. South America doesn’t do quiet little drives. It does thunderous waterfalls, wild coastlines, high-altitude deserts, and ancient ruins hiding just off the highway. Here, every turn feels like a plot twist. One day you’re cruising past flamingos in Bolivia’s salt flats. The next, you’re winding through Patagonia with the Andes towering like a movie set. This isn’t just about getting from A to B. It’s about chasing horizon after horizon, windows down, music up, heart pounding with every new mile. These 11 road trips don’t whisper, “take your time.” They roar, “go now, go far, and don’t look back.”
Pan-American Highway through Chile
Stretching from Alaska to Argentina, the Pan-American Highway offers a peek into Chile’s diverse climates. As you drive through the Atacama Desert, marvel at the ancient geoglyphs and salt flats. It’s a landscape that feels both otherworldly and intimately connected to the earth.
Towards the central region, vineyards stretch for miles. Consider a stop in Santiago to experience urban culture. Continuing south, the scenery shifts dramatically. The lushness of Patagonia welcomes you with jagged peaks and glacial lakes.
Each kilometer traveled on this highway tells a new story of Chile’s natural wonders.
Ruta 40 in Argentina
Ruta 40 is Argentina’s legendary road, sprawling over 5,000 km parallel to the Andes. Every bend reveals a new panorama, from the arid north to Patagonia’s icy splendor. The journey is not just about the views; it’s an odyssey through varied cultures and histories.
In Salta, traditional music greets you, while Mendoza tempts with world-class wines. As you approach Patagonia, the landscape becomes a canvas of snow-capped peaks and crystal-clear waters.
It’s a trip that transforms with the terrain, offering both solitude and the soul of Argentina.
Trans-Amazonian Highway, Brazil
The Trans-Amazonian Highway is an ambitious project, slicing through the heart of the Amazon. This road takes you deep into the jungle, where biodiversity is unmatched. In the wet season, roads can be challenging, adding a sense of adventure.
Travelers might spot exotic wildlife and meet indigenous communities living traditionally. It’s a bold journey, celebrating the raw beauty and complexity of the Amazon.
Beyond the physical road, the journey is an exploration of Brazil’s environmental and cultural narratives.
Carretera Austral, Chile
Carretera Austral is a road less traveled, offering a gateway to Chile’s remote south. Starting from Puerto Montt, this route unveils untouched landscapes of fjords, forests, and glaciers. It’s ideal for those seeking tranquility amidst nature.
Take time to visit the Marble Caves and Queulat National Park. The winding roads ensure every turn offers a spectacular view.
The journey culminates in Patagonia, where the wilderness beckons explorers. This road is a symphony of nature’s grandeur, unfiltered and pure.
Death Road, Bolivia
Named for its treacherous nature, Death Road is not for the faint-hearted. This narrow path stretches through the Yungas, offering both thrill and breathtaking views. The road descends from the cold peaks of La Paz to the tropical valleys below.
Cyclists often brave this journey, seeking adrenaline and the experience of a lifetime. The landscape changes dramatically, from cloud forests to dense jungles.
Despite its name, it’s a journey of life, showcasing Bolivia’s stunning contrasts.
Serra do Rio do Rastro, Brazil
Serra do Rio do Rastro is renowned for its dramatic twists and turns. This road is a marvel of engineering, snaking through Brazil’s Santa Catarina state. Each hairpin curve offers views that seem to stretch into infinity.
Travelers often stop to capture the panorama from viewpoints strategically placed along the route. The area’s biodiversity is equally captivating, with forests teeming with wildlife.
It’s a drive that plays on your senses, where every moment is steeped in beauty and thrill.
Route of the Sun, Ecuador
The Route of the Sun in Ecuador is a feast for the eyes. This coastal drive is lined with beaches, cliffs, and charming fishing villages. The Pacific Ocean accompanies you, offering serene vistas and vibrant sunsets.
Stop by Montañita for surf and fresh seafood. The road meanders through a tapestry of scenery, each segment more inviting than the last.
It’s a journey that celebrates Ecuador’s coastal charm, perfect for those seeking sun and sea.
Northern Circuit, Colombia
Colombia’s Northern Circuit takes you through some of the country’s most captivating terrains. This route weaves through the Andes, past coffee plantations and tropical valleys. The aroma of Colombian coffee is never far away.
Towns like Medellín and Cartagena offer a mix of culture and history. The landscape is painted with green hues and cloud-kissed peaks.
It’s a drive that immerses you in Colombian life, offering a taste of tradition and innovation.
Avenue of the Volcanoes, Ecuador
Ecuador’s Avenue of the Volcanoes is a majestic journey through the heart of the Andean highlands. This road is flanked by towering volcanoes, each with its own story. Cotopaxi and Chimborazo are highlights, with their snow-capped peaks piercing the sky.
Travelers are treated to a panorama where earth meets sky. Village markets along the way offer a glimpse into local life, rich in tradition.
It’s a road that inspires awe, blending geologic grandeur with cultural depth.
Cuyo Road, Argentina
The Cuyo Road is a journey through Argentina’s viticultural heart. Stretching through Mendoza, it offers lush vineyards against the backdrop of the Andes. The region is renowned for its Malbec, inviting wine enthusiasts to savor its flavors.
The road itself is scenic, with each turn revealing a new vista. Beyond wine, the landscape is dotted with olive groves and fruit orchards.
It’s a celebration of nature’s bounty and human craftsmanship, where every sip tells a story of place.
Route of the Seven Lakes, Argentina
Nestled in Argentina’s Lake District, this route is a symphony of water and woodlands. The Route of the Seven Lakes takes you past pristine lakes, each mirroring the surrounding peaks.
It’s a drive that invites contemplation, with the road winding through forests alive with the sound of nature. Small towns along the way offer a warm welcome.
The journey is both serene and invigorating, a testament to the natural beauty of the Argentine Patagonia.