
Abra de Toroya, a winding road only for experienced drivers
Peru, south-america
72.9 km
4,750 m
moderate
Year-round
Alright, adventure junkies, buckle up for Abra de Toroya! This high-altitude pass in the Puno region of southeastern Peru tops out at a breathtaking 4,750 meters (that's 15,583 feet for you imperial system folks).
The road, mostly paved and known as Carretera 34C, stretches for about 73 kilometers (45ish miles) between Santa Lucía and Eslagunero. The scenery on the way up? Get ready for views of Volcan Misti and Nevado Chachani from the summit. The descent is a gradual cruise, although the landscape can be a bit…underwhelming, let's say. But hey, you're in the Andes! Embrace the stark beauty!
Where is it?
Abra de Toroya, a winding road only for experienced drivers is located in Peru (south-america). Coordinates: -11.2150, -75.2414
Road Details
- Country
- Peru
- Continent
- south-america
- Length
- 72.9 km
- Max Elevation
- 4,750 m
- Difficulty
- moderate
- Coordinates
- -11.2150, -75.2414
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