Exploring the Remote and Rugged Abra de La Honda o del Portillo: A High Andean International Pass

Exploring the Remote and Rugged Abra de La Honda o del Portillo: A High Andean International Pass

Argentina, south-america

Length

90.1 km

Elevation

4,156 m

Difficulty

hard

Best Season

Year-round

Okay, adventure junkies, listen up! Abra de La Honda, or del Portillo, is a seriously epic international mountain pass straddling the border between Argentina and Chile. We're talking serious altitude here – a whopping 4,156 meters (that's 13,635 feet!).

This beast connects the Coquimbo Region of Chile with the Calingasta department in Argentina, deep in the Andes Mountains. The pass gets its name from the stunning Honda valley, so you know the views are going to be incredible.

Now, let's be real – this isn't your Sunday drive. The entire 90.1 km (56.4 miles) from La Vega is unpaved and seriously rugged. We're talking narrow roads, hairpin turns that will test your skills, steep climbs, and complete remoteness. Seriously, you might not see another soul out there. A high-clearance 4x4 isn't just recommended; it's essential. This wild route leads to an unnamed international pass where the road ends, so plan accordingly!

Where is it?

Exploring the Remote and Rugged Abra de La Honda o del Portillo: A High Andean International Pass is located in Argentina (south-america). Coordinates: -39.3789, -61.8135

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Road Details

Country
Argentina
Continent
south-america
Length
90.1 km
Max Elevation
4,156 m
Difficulty
hard
Coordinates
-39.3789, -61.8135

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