Day 652 – South America – Chile/ Argentina [Portillo to Puente Del Inca]

02/02/22

30km

  From Portillo (Chile) to Puente Del Inca (Argentina)

South America

Into Argentina I ran, on another stunning switchbacks road, through the Cristo Redentor Pass

Saying goodbye to Chile

What a stunning day in the Andes..! The day started with a bit of uncertainty as James’ PCR test result still hadn’t come through. As we went through the Chilean checkpoint, we learnt that PCR tests are no longer required for fully vaccinated tourists into Argentina. Well that did cost us 2 days in Los Andes!

Company on the (mountain) road today

Anyway, we cleared the Chilean checkpoint and a few km after that, I turned onto the mountain road, towards Cristo Redentor. An 8.5km uphill run with a dizzying 52 switchbacks to the summit! James was on his bike, having left the van at the bottom of the dirt trail. I was glad to have company as it was completely isolated – and there were lots of photo opportunities too. Quite a scenic background!

Argentina on the left, Chile to the right!

We reached Cristo Redentor de los Andes at 3,854m of elevation. The monument was erected in 1904 to commemorate the peaceful resolution of a border conflict. It stands right on the line of the Chile/Argentina border. Geographically, I ran into Argentina at this point, down the 12 switchbacks that lead back to the main road. However, I won’t get to cross the Argentinian border checkpoint before tomorrow morning. It seems I am in a no-man’s land tonight!

We enjoyed some hot chocolate at the top, it was quite unexpected. People manning the little souvenir shop also handed us a little “pick me up” in the form of a shot of alcool! No idea what it was, but it was strong and then again, when in Rome…!

Enjoy the video of today’s run: https://www.relive.cc/view/v7O9DMMBBQv

Check my daily run GPS data on or

Here is the map of today’s run: