Driving the unpaved Illampu Circuit through Abra de la Calzada in the Andes

Driving the unpaved Illampu Circuit through Abra de la Calzada in the Andes

Bolivia, south-america

Length

140 km

Elevation

5,062 m

Difficulty

hard

Best Season

Year-round

Okay, adventure junkies, listen up! Abra de la Calzada in Bolivia is calling your name. This epic mountain pass punches in at a staggering 5,062m (16,607ft) – seriously high! You'll find it nestled north of La Paz, right in the heart of the Andes.

This isn't your Sunday drive, folks. The Illampu Circuit, as it's known, is a rough and rugged 140km (87 miles) unpaved track starting in Sorata. Think old mule trail meets modern mining road. The views? Absolutely breathtaking. But don't let that distract you.

We're talking serious altitude here – constantly hovering between 4,000 and 5,000 meters. Expect steep climbs, four passes, and tracks that have seen better days. Acclimatization is KEY. Only tackle this one if you’re prepped, fit, and ready for a challenge. Oh, and heads up, this pass is usually snow-covered, so good weather is a must!

Where is it?

Driving the unpaved Illampu Circuit through Abra de la Calzada in the Andes is located in Bolivia (south-america). Coordinates: -16.6508, -63.0755

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Road Details

Country
Bolivia
Continent
south-america
Length
140 km
Max Elevation
5,062 m
Difficulty
hard
Coordinates
-16.6508, -63.0755

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