Driving the RN149 to Abra del Colorado in San Juan
Argentina, south-america
88.3 km
2,629 m
hard
Year-round
Hey adventure seekers! Let me tell you about Abra del Colorado, a must-see mountain pass in Argentina's San Juan Province. Picture this: you're cruising along at 2,629m (8,625ft), surrounded by the raw beauty of the Andes. This isn't just any drive; it's a key route connecting the Iglesia and Calingasta valleys, offering breathtaking panoramic views of the towering Andean peaks.
The landscape here is something else – a dry, almost Martian terrain with reddish soil that gives the area its name, "Colorado." You'll be driving on Ruta Nacional 149 (RN149), a smooth, fully paved road that stretches for 88.3 km (54.86 miles) from Bella Vista towards the junction with the RP436, en route to Talacasto.
Now, a word of caution: you're in high mountain territory. Keep an eye out for sudden gusts of wind—the notorious Zonda can really test your driving skills!
Cyclists, take note! This pass is legendary, the ultimate stage of the Vuelta a San Juan. Even if you're not a pro, you'll feel like one as you tackle this climb. The gradients are forgiving, mostly around 5-6%, but it's the sheer length and the desert heat that'll challenge you. The final 15 kilometers are the stuff of legends, winding through a rocky canyon before you finally reach that high-altitude plateau. Trust me, the sense of accomplishment is unreal! For drivers and cyclists, this climb is an epic experience, a unique taste of the Argentinian Andes that you won't soon forget.
Where is it?
Driving the RN149 to Abra del Colorado in San Juan is located in Argentina (south-america). Coordinates: -38.6106, -65.2636
Road Details
- Country
- Argentina
- Continent
- south-america
- Length
- 88.3 km
- Max Elevation
- 2,629 m
- Difficulty
- hard
- Coordinates
- -38.6106, -65.2636
Related Roads in south-america
extremePortezuelo Sairécabur: Driving the 5,541m abandoned mining road in the Atacama
🇨🇱 Chile
Okay, picture this: You're northeast of San Pedro de Atacama, right on the wild border between Chile and Bolivia. You're about to tackle Portezuelo Sairécabur, a seriously high mountain pass hitting a mind-blowing 5,541m (that's 18,179ft!). This isn't your Sunday drive; it's an abandoned mining road that's pure off-road madness, some of the most desolate, stunning scenery the Andes can throw at you. The adventure starts near Guatín, and the "road" is marked as B-221. Think volcanic rubble meets high-altitude desert. This place is REMOTE. You're on your own, so pack everything – especially water, because the local stuff can be dodgy with volcanic sulphur. Now, about the drive... forget smooth asphalt. We're talking loose gravel, deep sand, and sharp volcanic rock. Only a high-clearance 4x4 will cut it. It's a constant uphill battle, averaging a 7% grade, and the thin air robs your engine of power. You'll navigate 15 tight hairpin turns, where losing momentum in the loose sand is a real risk. The "road" can vanish under fresh snow or shifting sand in a heartbeat. At this altitude, the lack of oxygen is brutal. It's one of the highest points you can drive to in South America, so be acclimatized, or altitude sickness will hit hard. Even moving feels like a marathon, and the mental fog is real. Expect your engine to lose half its power. Low gear and patience are your best friends. And the weather? Wildcard! Sunny mornings can turn into snowstorms in minutes. It's always windy and freezing, even in summer. Summit temps rarely get above freezing and can plummet fast. Check the forecast, but pack for the worst: thermal gear, emergency blankets, and enough fuel to run the heater if you get stuck in a sudden storm. It's epic, challenging, and unforgettable.
easyHow Long is Ruta 1 in Chile?
🇨🇱 Chile
Okay, road trippers, listen up! If you're ever in northern Chile, you HAVE to check out Ruta 1. Seriously, it's one of the best coastal drives on the planet. This baby stretches for 438 km (272 miles) along the wild South Pacific. It starts near the desert city of Iquique and winds its way south to Antofagasta. The road is paved, so it’s smooth sailing! But keep an eye on the weather – rock slides and washouts can happen after a storm. The scenery is totally worth the trip. Think dramatic landscapes, lunar-like terrain, and pink-streaked mountains! You'll cruise past deserts, salt flats, volcanoes, geysers, and hot springs. Be prepared, though – you're going through some pretty remote areas, especially further south, so fill up the gas tank and pack some snacks. And don't expect to see a lot of other cars!
easyHow long is the road from Chivay to Arequipa?
🇵🇪 Peru
Okay, picture this: you're in Peru, cruising from the charming mountain village of Chivay to the vibrant city of Arequipa. This isn't just any road trip; it's a 149km (93-mile) adventure through the heart of the Colca Valley! We're talking about a mix of roads 34A and AR-109. Most of the route is paved, but be warned, the higher you climb, the rougher it gets. Still, it's not too bad, and since there isn't much traffic, it's a pretty relaxed drive, even with the altitude. Speaking of altitude, get ready to climb! You'll reach a staggering 4,879m (16,007ft) above sea level, with views that'll blow your mind. Think sweeping landscapes dotted with vicuña, llamas, alpacas, and even Andean ducks. Seriously, the scenery alone makes this trip worth it!
hardWhere is Nevado del Tolima?
🇨🇴 Colombia
Okay, adventure junkies, listen up! If you're heading to Nevado del Tolima (south of the peak, that is), buckle up for an unforgettable drive. This volcano hides in Los Nevados National Natural Park in Colombia, and getting close is half the fun. The 27.1 km (16.83 miles) stretch to the El Silencio–Nevado del Tolima parking lot is an experience. Most cars can handle it, but be warned: it’s seriously steep and narrow, especially as you climb higher. You'll be soaring to some serious elevation! Keep your eyes peeled not just for the views, but for the road itself. You'll cross the old and precarious Puente Negro, which is a bit of an adventure in itself. You have been warned - this is a road you won't soon forget!