Alto de Mifafi: this road is not for timid drivers

Alto de Mifafi: this road is not for timid drivers

Venezuela, south-america

Length

N/A

Elevation

4,414 m

Difficulty

moderate

Best Season

Year-round

Okay, adventure junkies, listen up! If you're in Venezuela's Mérida State and craving a serious off-road experience, you HAVE to tackle the Alto de Mifafi. Nestled in the stunning Sierra de La Culata range, within La Culata National Park, this baby tops out at a whopping 4,414 meters (14,481 feet)!

Forget smooth tarmac; this is a bumpy, unpaved ride from Casa de Gabierno on the Transandina highway towards Mucumpis. Seriously, leave your sports car at home. You absolutely need a 4x4 to conquer this beast.

Think incredible Andean scenery, wild terrain, and bragging rights for days. Just be prepared – this isn't your Sunday afternoon drive. Pack accordingly, check the weather, and get ready for an unforgettable adventure. The views from the top are totally worth it! This road is also known as Pico los Caracoles and Pico Los Nevados.

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Road Details

Country
Venezuela
Continent
south-america
Max Elevation
4,414 m
Difficulty
moderate

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