Abra de la Santa Cruz: Driving the 4,597m Jujuy-Salta Boundary (RP13A)
Argentina, south-america
46 km
4,597 m
extreme
Year-round
Okay, adventure seekers, listen up! Wanna tackle a seriously epic road trip? Then you HAVE to check out Abra de la Santa Cruz, a crazy-high mountain pass nestled way up in the Argentinian Andes. We're talking a lung-busting 4,597 meters (15,082 feet!) above sea level, so yeah, it's not for the faint of heart.
You'll find this beast straddling the border between Jujuy and Salta provinces in northern Argentina. Route 13A will lead you on this wild, 46-kilometer (28-mile) ride from Abra del Sauce to Casillas.
Now, fair warning: this ain't your average Sunday drive. The whole thing is unpaved and throws EVERYTHING at you – think narrow stretches, seriously steep inclines, and more hairpin turns than you can count! A 4x4 isn't just recommended; it's practically essential to conquer the ever-changing terrain of loose gravel and jagged rocks.
But the biggest challenge? The altitude! At that height, altitude sickness is a real threat, so come prepared. Also, you're pretty much in the middle of nowhere, so don't expect to find gas stations or emergency services around every corner. Pack extra water, fuel, and a first-aid kit, and ALWAYS keep an eye on the weather forecast, because things can change on a dime up there. But hey, the payoff? Unforgettable, panoramic views of the stunning high-altitude Andes scenery that'll leave you breathless (literally!).
Where is it?
Abra de la Santa Cruz: Driving the 4,597m Jujuy-Salta Boundary (RP13A) is located in Argentina (south-america). Coordinates: -38.9148, -61.9457
Road Details
- Country
- Argentina
- Continent
- south-america
- Length
- 46 km
- Max Elevation
- 4,597 m
- Difficulty
- extreme
- Coordinates
- -38.9148, -61.9457
Related Roads in south-america
extremeLaguna Chuchon
🇵🇪 Peru
Okay, buckle up thrill-seekers, because the 20A highway to Laguna Chuchon in Peru is not for the faint of heart! This gravel road, snaking its way up to a staggering 4,465m (14,648ft) in the Lima Region, is a true test of driving skills and nerve. Linking Lima and Colquijirca, this route offers mind-blowing mountain views that'll leave you breathless. But hold on tight – we’re talking seriously exposed edges, with sheer drops of hundreds of meters and absolutely no guardrails. If you're prone to vertigo, this might be one to skip! Be prepared for anything. At this altitude, heavy mist can roll in quickly, and snowfalls can shut the road down at any time. Avalanches, landslides, and icy patches are real possibilities. The climb is brutal, the air is thin, and altitude sickness is a definite concern. They say the road to San José de Parac nearby is even scarier, but honestly, this one's already pushing the limits!
moderateIs the Road to Cuesta del Farallón Unpaved?
🇦🇷 Argentina
Okay, adventurers, buckle up for Cuesta del Farallón, a real hidden gem nestled high in the northwestern part of Argentina, near the Chilean border. This isn't your average Sunday drive! We're talking a totally unpaved, bumpy ride up into the clouds, tucked away in the rugged mountains of Jujuy province. The pass itself clocks in at around , taking you from the tiny village of Lagunillas del Farallón all the way up to , a stunning high-altitude lagoon. Along the way, you'll need to keep your eyes peeled for , but trust me, the views are SO worth it! The straight Ruta Provincial 26 becomes a road you'll never forget in Jujuy. Get ready for an unforgettable adventure!
moderateWalking on a busy highway: The unique experience of the Minhocao in Sao Paulo
🇧🇷 Brazil
Welcome to the Minhocão, São Paulo's CRAZY elevated highway turned urban playground! Originally built in 1970 to tame the city's wild traffic, this 3.4 km (2.1 miles) stretch of concrete cuts right through the heart of downtown. But here's the twist: it's not just for cars anymore! Picture this: every night from 8 PM to 6 AM, and all weekend long, the Minhocão transforms into a pedestrian and cyclist paradise. Seriously! This former speedway becomes a vibrant space where you can stroll, jog, bike, and soak in the unique urban vibes. Forget your typical park – this is an experience. Walking along this flat, paved path gives you a completely new perspective of São Paulo's architecture. And those vertical gardens painted on the surrounding buildings? Total eye-candy! It's more than just a walk; it's a social hub. Imagine food stalls, street art, and families hanging out where cars usually zoom by. The Minhocão is proof that you can turn grey infrastructure into something green and awesome. Sundays are especially buzzing! Expect music, pet parades, and a full-on "urban beach" atmosphere. Just remember, during the week, it's still a highway during the day, so plan your visit for the pedestrian-friendly times to experience the magic. It's a wild ride!
hardWhere is Llano Chajnantor?
🇨🇱 Chile
Okay, picture this: you're in Chile, in the heart of the Atacama Desert, one of the driest places on Earth. You're heading towards the Llano Chajnantor plateau, way up in the Andes Mountains. This place is seriously remote, about 40 km east of San Pedro de Atacama, and the landscape is straight out of a sci-fi movie – so much so, they've even filmed Mars scenes here! The air is thin, almost lunar. This high-altitude spot, reaching a whopping 5,042 meters (16,541 feet), is home to ALMA, the world's largest astronomical observatory. Why here? Because the extreme dryness and clear skies are perfect for peering into the universe. Now, about getting there: the unpaved road stretches for 14.3 km (8.88 miles) from Ruta 27, winding its way up to the plateau. But here's the catch – this isn't your average road trip. The altitude is no joke. If you have respiratory issues or heart problems, seriously reconsider this one. And kids under 16? They're not allowed. Plus, only ALMA-certified vehicles and drivers with a special license can make the drive. While you may not be able to drive up there yourself, the views from the area will make your jaw drop.