Jeinimeni Pass: how to cross from Los Antiguos to Chile Chico

By Santa Cruz Profunda, from Puerto San Julián · Updated 2026-10-15

The Río Jeinimeni Pass links Los Antiguos (Santa Cruz) with Chile Chico (Aysén region). The Argentine checkpoint is about 3 km from town, and Chile Chico about 7 km, according to the province. From there you can continue to the Carretera Austral and the Marble Caves. Here's what you need to cross without surprises.

Pass opening hours and status

Argentina's immigration office (Migraciones) lists opening hours of 9 am to 8 pm for Jeinimeni. Other sources using Gendarmería data show slightly different entry and exit times, and the pass may close due to weather. So, on the day you cross, check the official page of the Ministry of Security, which shows the status (open or closed) updated by Gendarmería and the SMN weather forecast. The Gendarmería phone number at the pass listed there is (2963) 432033.

Keep in mind the time difference with Chile, which changes depending on the time of year.

Documents for travelers

Argentine citizens

According to the national government, a digital DNI (card or light-blue booklet, latest issue) or a passport is valid. Not accepted: handwritten DNIs (green or burgundy cover), “DNI in process” certificates or damaged documents.

Minors under 18

In addition to their ID, they must prove their relationship to the adult they're traveling with and, if not traveling with both parents, carry the authorization of the parent who isn't traveling, as an original or certified copy. Details are on the recommendations for crossing into Chile page.

Foreign nationals

A valid passport and, if your nationality requires it, a visa. Check with the relevant consulate.

If you're crossing by car

ARCA (formerly AFIP) and the national government require:

• A valid driver's license.
• Insurance with international coverage for Chile.
• If you're the owner: the green vehicle card (cédula verde) or the car's title.
• If you're not the owner: the blue card (cédula azul), or a valid green card with the owner's authorization (form OM-2261 certified at Customs, or a notarized power of attorney).
• The license plate etched on the windows: at least the windshield and rear window.

If the car is a rental, the company must authorize the crossing in writing and give you the paperwork; request it in advance.

SAG sworn declaration (Chile)

To enter Chile you must declare any products of animal or plant origin you're carrying, whatever the quantity. The form is free and can be filled in on your phone up to a day ahead or on paper at the border. Anything not authorized is confiscated, and failing to declare can lead to a fine. Watch out in summer: cherries and other fresh fruit from Los Antiguos are exactly the kind of product you must declare. Eat them before you cross.

What's on the other side

Chile Chico is the gateway to the Aysén region. From there you can follow the Chilean shore of the lake (General Carrera) to Puerto Río Tranquilo, where trips to the Marble Caves depart, and connect with the Carretera Austral. There's also a ferry across the lake; check schedules and bookings with whichever company operates it that season. Much of the road network on the Chilean side is gravel and some sections are mountainous: find out before you go.

Step by step at the border

1. Leaving Argentina: immigration and customs checks at the Argentine complex, about 3 km from Los Antiguos.
2. A short stretch to the Chilean checkpoint.
3. Entering Chile: immigration, customs (vehicle papers) and SAG (sworn declaration and baggage inspection).
4. Keep any receipts you're given: you'll need them on the way back, especially those for the car.

Waiting times depend on how many people are crossing; in high season there may be queues.

Practical tips

• Fill up in Los Antiguos before crossing.
• Carry some Chilean pesos in cash for your first expenses.
• During the National Cherry Festival (January), extended opening hours for the pass have been reported: check before you travel at Ahora Calafate – Fiesta Nacional de la Cereza (paso fronterizo con horario ampliado).
• On the way back, Senasa also inspects what you bring into Argentina.

More from the northwest: Things to do in Los Antiguos and Route 41.

Frequently asked questions