Argentina - Bus to Mendoza and onward to SCL

Flying to Buenos Aires in mid-May. Will like to take the overnight bus to Mendoza for a few days and then the day bus through the Andes to SCL.

Last year, the pass was closed due to snow in late May. Any clairvoyants here who can like to predict what will happen in May 2011?

I've priced out flights from AEP to MDZ to SCL to MVD to be just under $400. Of course, flying involves paying the Chilean reciprocity tax, whereas I won't have to pay if traveling by bus, right?

Not sure how much I would save by taking a snow-bound bus. Would appreciate any advice.

There will be heavy snow on May 17th and the pass won't re-open until May 23rd :D

Seriously though, it can snow heavily in May and if the pass is closed, you could potentially lose at least 3 or 4 days of your trip. The route is full of lorries so any closure always causes long tailbacks which take time to clear once the route re-opens. At that time of year I'd probably be inclined to fly

There will be heavy snow on May 17th and the pass won't re-open until May 23rd :D

Gracias, Senor Brit. I am planning on going to Mendoza on May 24 and then continue on to SCL on May 28. So, based on your clairvoyance, I should be fine with the bus. :p

In all seriousness, I'll be booking flights. Thanks for your advice.