Túnel Las Raíces
A historic 4.5 km tunnel connecting Curacautín and Lonquimay, known for its curve and dramatic seasonal scenery.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Snowy landscapes and winter charm
Túnel Las Raíces
Best Time
Snowy landscapes and winter charm
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A historic 4.5 km tunnel connecting Curacautín and Lonquimay, known for its curve and dramatic seasonal scenery.
"An impressive engineering feat that connects two distinct landscapes, offering a unique driving experience."
Curved Tunnel Views
The tunnel's curve means you can't see the exits from the middle. Enjoy the unique engineering!
Free Toilets Available
Restroom facilities are available and free to use.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Historic Tunnel Itself
A 4.5 km engineering marvel connecting Curacautín and Lonquimay, built between 1930-1939.
Dramatic Landscape Change
Experience the striking contrast in scenery as you transition between regions.
Winter Wonderland Access
The tunnel is a key route to snowy landscapes and winter activities in Lonquimay.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Navigating the 'Giant' Tunnel
Seasonal Scenery Shifts
+2 and lush, dramatic scenery during warmer periods. Plan your visit based on the visual experience you seek.Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Curved Tunnel Views
The tunnel's curve means you can't see the exits from the middle. Enjoy the unique engineering!
Free Toilets Available
Restroom facilities are available and free to use.
Seasonal Scenery
Expect snow in winter
Gateway to Lonquimay
Use the tunnel to access attractions like Piedras Coloradas Mitrauquen.
Tips
from all over the internet
Curved Tunnel Views
The tunnel's curve means you can't see the exits from the middle. Enjoy the unique engineering!
Free Toilets Available
Restroom facilities are available and free to use.
Seasonal Scenery
Expect snow in winter
Gateway to Lonquimay
Use the tunnel to access attractions like Piedras Coloradas Mitrauquen.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors are impressed by the Túnel Las Raíces' historical significance and engineering feat, noting its impressive length and unique curved design. The dramatic shift in scenery it provides between Curacautín and Lonquimay is a major highlight, especially the winter snowscapes. While it's a transit point, its historical context and the visual transition make it a memorable part of any journey through the region.
"The tunnel, among other curiosities is curved, so when you are about half-way you don't see the entrances."
Carlos Meier
"Such an interesting piece of engineering that was built between Curacautín and Lonquimay under the Cordillera la Raíces. The construction began in 1930 and it was inaugurated in 1939, it is 4,528 meters (14,856 ft) long. It was considered the longest railway tunnel in América in its time."
Andres Chile
"Bknooo!"
ignacio pereira sepulveda
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Túnel Las Raíces is located on Ruta 181, connecting the communes of Curacautín and Lonquimay in the Araucanía Region.
The tunnel is generally open year-round, but conditions can vary significantly with weather, especially in winter when snow is common.
The tunnel is approximately 4.528 meters (14,856 ft) long,
The tunnel offers a dramatic change in scenery. On one side, you might find the landscapes of Curacautín, and on the other, the Andean region of Lonquimay, which can be snowy in winter.
Stopping inside the tunnel is generally not permitted for safety reasons. It's a transit route, not a viewpoint. Enjoy the drive-through experience.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, there are no tickets required to drive through Túnel Las Raíces as it is part of a public road (Ruta 181).
As of current information, there are no tolls associated with using Túnel Las Raíces.
The tunnel is typically open 24 hours a day, but it's always advisable to check for any temporary closures due to weather or maintenance.
There is no entrance fee to pass through the tunnel itself.
While primarily for vehicles, cyclists might be able to pass through, but it's recommended to check local regulations and safety advisories beforehand due to traffic.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
The tunnel is famously curved, meaning you can't see the entrances from the halfway point, adding a unique element to the journey.
The tunnel serves as a gateway to Lonquimay, where you can find places like Piedras Coloradas Mitrauquen
Yes, restrooms are available and are free to use.
The dramatic landscape changes and the tunnel's historical significance offer great photo opportunities, especially during different seasons.
The tunnel is a well-maintained road, but drivers should exercise caution due to its length, curve, and potential for varying weather conditions, especially in winter.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Plan your visit around the seasonal changes to make it even more exciting. A winter trip can mean seeing snow-covered landscapes, while summer offers greener, more dramatic views.
+1 Remember that stopping inside the tunnel isn't allowed, so enjoy the drive-through experience and save your photos for before and after.🚗 Road Trippers & Adventurers
The historical significance as one of America's longest tunnels adds a layer of intrigue to the journey.Adventurers will appreciate how the tunnel serves as a gateway to further exploration in the Lonquimay area, including natural attractions like Piedras Coloradas Mitrauquen
and access to hiking trails and winter sports. The seasonal changes, from snowy winter wonderlands +2 to vibrant summer landscapes, make it a destination worth revisiting.Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
A Historical Engineering Marvel
At the time of its completion, it was considered the longest railway tunnel in America, a significant feat that connected the isolated communities of Curacautín and Lonquimay under the Cordillera la Raíces.Its construction was a monumental undertaking, involving immense labor and resources to carve through the Andes. The tunnel's unique curved design was a deliberate choice, adding to its mystique and engineering challenge.
Seasonal Transformations and Access
+2 The drive through can be an experience in itself, with snow-covered mountains and a crisp, cold atmosphere.Conversely, during warmer months, the tunnel opens up to the vibrant, lush scenery of the Araucanía Region.
The transition from one climate and landscape to another is often abrupt and striking. This seasonal variability means that the experience of passing through the tunnel can be vastly different, offering unique photographic opportunities and travel experiences year-round. Visitors often highlight this dramatic shift as a key part of their journey.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit