A Complete Travel Plan for Peru

A Complete Travel Plan for Peru

Peru, south-america

Length

140 km

Elevation

5,029 m

Difficulty

hard

Best Season

Year-round

Alright, buckle up for the ride of your life on the road to Abra Ares in the Peruvian Andes! This baby clocks in at around 137km (85 miles) and will take you from a mere 1,778 meters (5,833 feet) all the way up to a lung-busting 4,833 meters (15,856 feet) above sea level.

The views? Absolutely breathtaking. Think towering peaks, vast landscapes, and that feeling of being on top of the world. But don't get too distracted, because this road is not for the faint of heart. Expect some serious twists, hairpin turns that'll make your head spin, and potentially some dicey conditions depending on the weather. High altitude sickness is a real possibility too, so take it slow and listen to your body. But hey, if you're up for an adventure, this drive is an unforgettable experience!

Where is it?

A Complete Travel Plan for Peru is located in Peru (south-america). Coordinates: -7.8458, -74.8092

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Road Details

Country
Peru
Continent
south-america
Length
140 km
Max Elevation
5,029 m
Difficulty
hard
Coordinates
-7.8458, -74.8092

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