How to drive to Galeras Volcano in Pasto?

How to drive to Galeras Volcano in Pasto?

Colombia, south-america

Length

18.4 km

Elevation

4,190 m

Difficulty

extreme

Best Season

Year-round

Okay, adventure seekers, buckle up for Volcán Galeras in Colombia's Nariño department! This isn't your average Sunday drive. We're talking about a 4,190m (13,746ft) stratovolcano nestled in the Andes, near Pasto. Oh, and did I mention it's the most active volcano in Colombia right now?

The road to the top? Let's just say it's not for the faint of heart. Imagine a completely unpaved track, twisting and turning with hairpin curves that'll make your head spin. Add in some seriously steep climbs and enough drop-offs to keep you wide awake, and you've got the picture.

From Pasto, it's an 18.4 km (11.43 miles) climb with a whopping 1,410 m elevation gain. That’s an average gradient of 7.66%, so get ready for a workout! And once you reach the summit, you'll find yourself among a cluster of communication towers. The views on the way are incredible, though, so try to keep your eyes on the road!

Where is it?

How to drive to Galeras Volcano in Pasto? is located in Colombia (south-america). Coordinates: 4.8061, -75.0462

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Road Details

Country
Colombia
Continent
south-america
Length
18.4 km
Max Elevation
4,190 m
Difficulty
extreme
Coordinates
4.8061, -75.0462

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