
A challenging unpaved road to Abra Falda Cienaga
Argentina, south-america
N/A
4,436 m
moderate
Year-round
Alright, adventure seekers, buckle up for Abra Falda Cienaga in Argentina's Catamarca Province! This baby tops out at a whopping 4,436 meters (14,553 feet), so get ready for some thin air. Also known as Abra Puntas Gordas, this isn't your Sunday drive.
We're talking Ruta Provincial 43 (RP43), and "unpaved" is the name of the game. Seriously, you'll NEED a 4x4 for this one. Heights not your thing? Maybe grab a travel magazine instead. The stretch from Salar del Hombre Muerto to Antofagasta is rough, with plenty of sand and washboard sections to keep you on your toes.
Perched high in the northwest, some sections are being upgraded with asphalt. Word on the street is the south side descent is smoother sailing. Get ready for some insane scenery!
Where is it?
A challenging unpaved road to Abra Falda Cienaga is located in Argentina (south-america). Coordinates: -40.2653, -62.2352
Road Details
- Country
- Argentina
- Continent
- south-america
- Max Elevation
- 4,436 m
- Difficulty
- moderate
- Coordinates
- -40.2653, -62.2352
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