El León Pass
Andean crossing with magical landscapes
One of the most beautiful border crossings in Chile, Paso El León connects the Río Puelo basin with the Argentine border through an old muleteer corridor. The journey begins in the town of Río Puelo and combines a vehicle section with a final three-hour walk, immersed in an environment of mountains and Valdivian forest.
The trail borders the turquoise waters of the river as it runs through remote landscapes, nestled between steep rock walls and native vegetation. The area allows you to go horseback riding, practice fly fishing, and explore access routes to glacial lagoons in the high mountains.
Plan your trip to El León Pass
How to get there
How to get there by air
Fly directly to El Tepual Airport in Puerto Montt (PMC). From the air terminal, you must travel approximately 135 km to the Río Manso junction area. This journey is made in a rental vehicle or transfer and places you near the starting point of the trail to Paso El León.
How to get there by land
From Puerto Montt, take Route V-69 south, passing Cochamó to the “El Manso” turnoff in Río Puelo. Follow this 45 km gravel road (4×4 recommended) to the Paso El León border complex. Here the vehicular route ends, at the Carabineros checkpoint. This is the point where, after registering with the authorities, you begin trekking along the valley trail.
Must-Know Tips
If you plan to cross the border, your passport and vehicle documentation are essential. As it is a natural area of great value, it is essential to travel without leaving a trace and contribute to the conservation of the fragile Andean ecosystem.
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