Abra Paves: An Awe-Inspiring Road through Extremely Remote Areas
Argentina, south-america
13.57 km
4,239 m
hard
Year-round
Hey adventure seekers! If you're craving a true off-the-beaten-path experience, let me tell you about Abra Paves. This high-altitude pass in Jujuy, Argentina, tops out at a lung-busting 4,239 meters (13,907 feet)!
You'll find this wild crossing south of the Cuesta del Lipán–Abra Potrerillos, deep in the northern part of the country.
Now, this isn't your average Sunday drive. The road is completely unpaved, a rugged track of loose rocks that demands a 4x4. The real challenge isn't the steepness (though there are some 10% grades near the top!), but the extreme altitude, harsh climate, and sheer isolation of the Puna region.
Be prepared to battle:
* **Thin Air:** Seriously, the oxygen is scarce up here. Take it slow to avoid altitude sickness!
* **Crazy Weather:** The Puna throws unpredictable weather changes and fierce winds your way. Hold onto that steering wheel!
* **Middle-of-Nowhere Vibes:** We're talking seriously remote. No cell service, no emergency services nearby. Breakdown? You're on your own. That 4x4 isn't just for fun – it's your lifeline!
The adventure starts from Ruta Provincial 52 (RP52), with a 13.57 km (8.43 mi) climb, gaining 388 meters in elevation. Averaging around 2.85%, it's steady, but those altitude and terrain factors make it a proper test.
Where is it?
Abra Paves: An Awe-Inspiring Road through Extremely Remote Areas is located in Argentina (south-america). Coordinates: -36.9080, -62.3563
Road Details
- Country
- Argentina
- Continent
- south-america
- Length
- 13.57 km
- Max Elevation
- 4,239 m
- Difficulty
- hard
- Coordinates
- -36.9080, -62.3563
Related Roads in south-america
hardWhere is Abra de la Santa Cruz and what is the road name?
🇦🇷 Argentina
Okay, buckle up, adventure junkies, because Abra de la Santa Cruz is calling your name! Deep in the Andes of Northern Argentina, this high-altitude pass straddles the line between Jujuy and Salta provinces, offering views that will absolutely blow your mind. You'll find yourself at a staggering 4,597 meters (that's over 15,000 feet!), so be prepared for some serious altitude. We're talking Ruta Provincial 13A – about 46 kilometers (28 miles) of pure, unadulterated mountain road in Salta Province. Now, let's be real – this isn't your Sunday drive. The whole stretch is challenging, twisting and turning as it conquers the Andes. A 4x4 isn't just recommended, it's practically essential. Expect loose gravel, rocky patches, and an overall rugged experience. Important tip: Altitude sickness (Soroche) is a very real thing up here, so take it seriously. Also, you are out there. Services are few and far between, so pack extra water, fuel, and a solid medical kit. And always, always check the weather – those mountain conditions can change on a dime. Basically, Abra de la Santa Cruz is a high-altitude trek offering views of the Andes mountains, but make sure you are prepared.
extremeThe Road from Pusac to Uchumarca is Recommended for Drivers with Strong Nerves
🇵🇪 Peru
Okay, thrill-seekers, buckle up! Carretera Púsac-Uchumarca in the Bolívar Province of Peru is calling your name. This insane mountain road is definitely not for the faint of heart (or those prone to car sickness!). Snaking through northern Peru, you'll start in Púsac at a cool 1,434m altitude and climb all the way up to Uchumarca at a staggering 3,684m. This unpaved beauty is a narrow, steep, and winding 34.1 km (21.18 miles) carved into the side of a seriously steep mountain. Think dramatic drops of hundreds of meters – without guardrails! The real kicker? A 4.9 km (3 mile) stretch packed with 16 hairpin turns that will make your head spin. You'll gain 454m in elevation in this section alone, with gradients hitting a whopping 15%! But, oh my, the views! Absolutely stunning. Just a word of warning: avoid this one if the weather looks dodgy. Seriously.
moderateIs the Road to Abra Culipampa Unpaved?
🇵🇪 Peru
Alright, adventure seekers, listen up! I've got a killer road for you in the Apurímac region of Peru: Abra Culipampa. This bad boy clocks in at a whopping 4,834m (15,859ft) above sea level! Heads up: forget the smooth asphalt. This is a 98km (61 miles) dirt road adventure from Antabamba to the Arequipa border. Some parts are decent, others are sandy, so you'll want a high-clearance vehicle for this one. It's Carretera 111, a mining road, meaning you'll be sharing the road with trucks. But hey, the views are worth it! Think stunning lakes and majestic volcanoes. Just keep your eyes peeled for those mining trucks, and get ready for an unforgettable ride.
hardWhere is the road from Quime to Sacambaya Valley?
🇧🇴 Bolivia
Okay, adventure-seekers, listen up! If you're craving a truly wild ride in Bolivia's La Paz Department, the Quime-Sacambaya Valley Road is calling your name. Picture this: you're southeast of La Paz, deep in the Andes, tackling roughly 31 miles of totally unpaved road. Now, "road" might be a generous term. We're talking hundreds of turns, super narrow stretches, and zero guardrails as you climb to some serious elevation. After a good rain, parts of the road simply vanish. Landslides? Yep, those are a thing. It's intense, folks, because there's zero room for error if another vehicle comes your way. But, oh, the scenery! You're completely surrounded by those massive Andean peaks, winding your way from the tiny town of Quime down to the beautiful Sacambaya Valley, right where the Inquisivi and Ayopayo Rivers meet. Just remember this isn't your average Sunday drive!