Taking an overland trip through South America is the kind of adventure that sticks with you forever. Imagine driving through towering mountain ranges, dense rainforests, endless deserts, and rugged coastlines, all in one epic journey. For those wondering can you drive to South America, the answer is yes, but it comes with a few challenges.
If you’re planning to drive to South America from North America, you’ll need to find a way around the Darien Gap, a thick, impassable jungle between Panama and Colombia. While there’s no road through it, many overlanders ship their vehicles across this section, then continue their journey down the continent. Once you hit the open roads of South America, you’ll have endless options for routes, landscapes, and unforgettable experiences.
Getting to South America by Car
A common question among adventurers is can you drive to South America? The short answer is yes—but you can’t drive straight through from North America. The biggest obstacle is the Darien Gap, a 100-mile stretch of dense jungle between Panama and Colombia with no roads. It’s simply impossible to cross by vehicle.
Most travelers looking to drive North America to South America take their cars, trucks, or motorcycles as far as Panama and then ship them by cargo ferry to Colombia. This process requires some planning, but once you’re in Colombia, the road network opens up, and you can continue your journey south.
The key to overland travel in South America is preparation. Many regions have rough roads, high altitudes, and unpredictable weather, so choosing the right vehicle, packing properly, and having flexible plans are essential.
Best Overland Routes in South America
Once you’ve made it onto the continent, the real adventure begins. South America is packed with incredible overlanding routes, each offering a different mix of scenery, culture, and driving challenges. Whether you want to experience the heights of the Andes, the depths of the Amazon, or the remote beauty of Patagonia, there’s a perfect overland trip for you.
The Andean Highway: Colombia to Argentina
This route takes you along the backbone of South America, following the Andes—the longest mountain range in the world. If you’re looking for a challenging but rewarding overland America experience, this is one of the best drives you can take.
What to Expect:
- Start in Colombia’s capital, Bogotá, and head south through Ecuador, where you’ll pass active volcanoes and historic cities.
- In Peru, you’ll find breathtaking landscapes and famous stops like Machu Picchu and the Sacred Valley.
- Cross into Bolivia and visit the world’s largest salt flats, Salar de Uyuni, where the sky and ground seem to merge into one.
- Finish in Argentina’s Patagonia region, home to glaciers, turquoise lakes, and the southernmost city in the world, Ushuaia.
This overland trip has everything—challenging mountain passes, cultural hotspots, and some of the best scenery you’ll ever see.
The Amazon Trail: Brazil, Peru, Ecuador
For those looking to take an overland trip through the jungle, this route is an unforgettable experience. The Amazon Basin is a wild, remote region full of winding dirt roads, river crossings, and dense forests.
What to Expect:
- Start in Manaus, Brazil, a major city in the middle of the rainforest.
- Drive west along the Trans-Amazonian Highway, one of the most rugged and remote roads in South America.
- Cross into Peru and explore the dense jungle, stopping in Iquitos, a city only accessible by boat or plane.
- Continue north to Ecuador’s Amazon region, where you can visit indigenous communities and spot exotic wildlife.
This route is not for the faint of heart. Roads can be muddy and washed out, wildlife encounters are common, and fuel stops can be few and far between. But for the truly adventurous, it’s an experience like no other.
Patagonia: Chile & Argentina
For many travelers, overlanding America means one thing—Patagonia. This region, shared by Chile and Argentina, is famous for its dramatic landscapes, wild weather, and endless stretches of road cutting through empty, breathtaking terrain.
What to Expect:
- Start in Santiago, Chile, and head south along the Carretera Austral, a winding highway passing glaciers, fjords, and rugged mountains.
- Cross into Argentina and drive Ruta 40, a famous road running along the Andes.
- Visit Torres del Paine National Park, home to some of the most stunning hiking trails in the world.
- Continue south to Ushuaia, known as “The End of the World.”
Patagonia is a dream for overland travel, offering wide open spaces, challenging terrain, and incredible natural beauty.
What You Need to Know Before Driving in South America
Fuel Availability
While fuel is generally available in most regions, remote areas—such as Patagonia or the Amazon—can have long stretches without gas stations. Carrying extra fuel is highly recommended.
Road Conditions & Safety
Some roads, like Bolivia’s “Death Road,” can be dangerous due to steep cliffs and unpredictable conditions. Always check local driving laws, and in remote areas, travel with a satellite phone in case of emergencies.
Weather & Terrain
South America has incredibly diverse climates. In Patagonia, you’ll deal with freezing temperatures and high winds, while in the Amazon, you’ll face heat, humidity, and heavy rainfall. Pack accordingly for the terrain you plan to explore.
Can You Drive to South America from North America?
Many adventurers dream of doing a full drive North America to South America road trip. While it’s possible, the Darien Gap remains a major challenge. The best option is to drive through Central America to Panama, then ship your vehicle to Colombia before continuing your journey.
Some of the most popular long-distance overland trip routes include:
- Seattle Overland to Patagonia – A full north-to-south adventure covering both continents.
- Overland Washington to Chile – A mix of North and South America’s most scenic routes.
- Drive to South America from North America – A once-in-a-lifetime road trip for true explorers.
Final Thoughts: Is Overlanding in South America Worth It?
If you love road trips, adventure, and discovering new cultures, overland travel through South America is an experience like no other. Whether you’re exploring the Andes, trekking through the Amazon, or navigating Patagonia’s wild landscapes, every mile brings new challenges and unforgettable moments.
For those asking, can you drive to South America? The answer is yes—if you’re willing to embrace the unknown, plan carefully, and enjoy the thrill of the open road. So fuel up, map out your route, and get ready for the ultimate overland expedition across South America.
