
Abra Tres Cruces
Peru, south-america
N/A
3,738 m
extreme
Year-round
Alright, thrill-seekers, let’s talk about Abra Tres Cruces in the Peruvian province of Yauyos! This beast of a mountain pass tops out at a lung-busting 3,738 meters (12,263 feet). The road itself, known as LM-124, is a gravel track that’s narrow and seriously steep.
Fair warning: at this altitude, snow can shut things down at any moment. Heavy mist is also common, making visibility a real issue. Plus, avalanches, heavy snow, and landslides are always a risk, and icy patches can make things extra dicey. The lack of oxygen hits hard – altitude sickness is common above 2,500 meters! But hang in there and you'll be rewarded with views you won't soon forget!
Road Details
- Country
- Peru
- Continent
- south-america
- Max Elevation
- 3,738 m
- Difficulty
- extreme
Related Roads in south-america
hardRoad trip guide: Conquering Cruz de Paramillo in Mendoza
🇦🇷 Argentina
Okay, adventure junkies, listen up! Cruz de Paramillo, nestled way up in the Argentinian Andes in Mendoza Province, is calling your name. We're talking about a wild, unpaved ride called Ruta Provincial 52, but locals know it as Ruta del Año (Route of the Year) and for good reason! This 93km (58-mile) rollercoaster from Uspallata to Mendoza boasts a mind-blowing 365 turns. Seriously, hairpin heaven! You'll climb to 2,960m (9,711ft), where a white cross and cute little chapel mark the summit – a monument to those old Jesuit missionaries. But wait, there's more! Feeling extra adventurous? Take the 3.6 km (2.23 mile) gravel track that branches off to the north. It winds its way up to a scenic lookout point at 3,149m (10,331ft), complete with communication towers. It’s a short but sweet climb, with an average gradient of 5.25%. The reward? Jaw-dropping views, including the majestic Aconcagua peak. Get ready for some serious scenery on this one!
hardHow to Get by Car to Taapaca Volcano on the Chilean Highlands?
🇨🇱 Chile
Okay, adventure junkies, listen up! Deep in the Parinacota Province of Chile lies Volcán Taapacá, a stratovolcano also called Nevados de Putre. Nestled within the stunning Parque Nacional Lauca in northern Chile, this volcano is a sight to behold with its high peaks and fascinating geological history. Here's the kicker: a mining road snakes its way up the volcano's northern side, climbing to a staggering 5,450m (17,880ft) – making it one of the highest roads in the whole country! Built to access sulfur deposits near the summit (though it doesn't quite reach the very top), this road is not for the faint of heart. Starting near Chacapalla, the 20km (12-mile) route is entirely unpaved, mainly sand, so a 4x4 is a must. Expect narrow sections and a serious dose of hairpin turns as you ascend. The scenery? Absolutely breathtaking. Just keep your eyes on the road… and maybe a prayer on your lips! Get ready for an unforgettable ride.
hardThe Winding Road from Tupiza to Quiriza is for Experienced Drivers Only
🇧🇴 Bolivia
Hey adventure junkies! Get ready for an epic Bolivian off-road experience from Tupiza to Quiriza, deep in the Potosí Department near the Argentinian border. Forget pavement – this is pure, unadulterated dirt, sand, and rock! This isn't a Sunday drive, folks. You'll need a trusty 4x4 to conquer this beast and even ford a river! The entire route sits above 3,100m, climbing to a lung-busting 4,236m (13,897 ft) at its peak. Starting in Tupiza (3,160m), a gorgeous, remote town that feels like the edge of the world, you'll traverse 63.9 km (39.70 miles) of corrugated road heading north to the mining town of Quiriza (3,598m). Prepare for a wild ride through some truly stunning, untouched landscapes. Trust me, the views are worth the bumps!
hardRuta Provincial 2
🇦🇷 Argentina
Okay, picture this: you're cruising along the Ruta Provincial 2 in Argentina's Valdes Peninsula, right on the Atlantic coast. This isn't your average Sunday drive – it's a 139km adventure! The road starts with some nice asphalt, but quickly turns into "ripio," which is basically gravel. It connects the Ruta Nacional 3 to the tiny town of Punta Delgada on the Golfo Nuevo. Now, weather here is WILD. Valdes Peninsula is semi-arid, so things change fast, and the wind can be intense. That's why they recommend sticking to 60km/hour. Trust me, a cracked windshield or flat tire will ruin your wildlife spotting! Speaking of which, this route is all about the scenery. You'll have the chance to spot massive marine animals in their natural habitat. It’s usually maintained so a normal car *could* do it if you’re careful and the weather is good. That said, for max comfort and fewer worries, seriously consider renting a 4x4. The gravel can get loose, especially on the edges, and muddy after rain. Basically, come prepared for an adventure!