Driving 25km above 4,900m on the gravel road to Peru's Abra Azuca

Driving 25km above 4,900m on the gravel road to Peru's Abra Azuca

Peru, south-america

Length

25.1 km

Elevation

5,190 m

Difficulty

moderate

Best Season

Year-round

Okay, adventure junkies, listen up! I just conquered Abra Azuca, and WOW, what a ride! Perched way up high in the Peruvian Andes, right on the border between Cusco and Apurimac, this baby tops out at a staggering 5,190 meters (that's 17,027 feet!). Seriously, you're breathing some thin air up there.

This isn't your typical Sunday drive; the 25.1 km (15.59 miles) from Abra Culipampa to the summit is all unpaved, a rugged path snaking through the Wansu mountains. Think epic views, seriously beautiful scenery that'll make your jaw drop.

The road itself? Surprisingly decent, mostly because it's used by mining trucks. Expect gentle inclines for the most part, though there are a few steeper sections to keep things interesting. Pro tip: Acclimatize, acclimatize, acclimatize! This is high altitude, and you'll want to enjoy the experience, not gasp for air. Word on the street is this is one of the highest passes in South America, so you know it's legit!

Where is it?

Driving 25km above 4,900m on the gravel road to Peru's Abra Azuca is located in Peru (south-america). Coordinates: -10.7790, -76.9060

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Road Details

Country
Peru
Continent
south-america
Length
25.1 km
Max Elevation
5,190 m
Difficulty
moderate
Coordinates
-10.7790, -76.9060

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