Crossing between Chile and Argentina in a rental campervan is entirely possible and well worth doing for several routes. This guide covers the full process.
Getting permission
You need written authorisation from Nomad before crossing the border in our vehicles. Request this at booking or at least 72 hours before your crossing. We provide a notarised letter that border officials recognise immediately — it's a standard document in this part of Chile.
Documents to have ready at the border
- Your passport (or national ID if you're EU)
- Your driving licence
- Vehicle registration document (we give you this at pickup)
- Our notarised authorisation letter
- Vehicle insurance document (included in your rental)
The inspection process
Both the Chilean SAG (agricultural inspection) and the Argentine SENASA will inspect the vehicle for prohibited food items. This inspection is thorough — they use sniffer dogs at busier crossings. The inspectors are professional and courteous if you're honest. Trying to hide food results in confiscation and potentially a fine.
Food rules
- Prohibited from Chile into Argentina: fresh fruit, vegetables, dairy, meat, seeds, plants
- Prohibited from Argentina into Chile: same list, strictly enforced
- Packaged and tinned food: generally permitted
- Alcohol: fine for personal use
- Pet food: technically prohibited — leave it at home
Important
Eat your fresh produce before the border or give it away at your last campsite. The inspection is not the place to negotiate.
How long does it take?
Budget 1–2 hours for each border crossing. In peak season (January–February), popular crossings like Paso Huemul and Paso Casas Viejas can take 3+ hours. Earlier in the morning is always faster.
Most-used crossings for campervan routes
- Paso Cardenal Samoré — Lake District loop via San Martín de los Andes. Paved both sides.
- Paso Río Mayer — southern Carretera Austral. Gravel, remote.
- Paso Cancha Carrera / Villa O'Higgins — end of the Carretera, boat + foot crossing only.
- Paso Río Don Guillermo — access to El Calafate / Glaciar Perito Moreno. Paved.
