How to get by car to Cumbre Chuchu in the Andes?

How to get by car to Cumbre Chuchu in the Andes?

Bolivia, south-america

Length

30 km

Elevation

4,653 m

Difficulty

hard

Best Season

Year-round

Alright, adventure junkies, buckle up for Cumbre Chuchu in Bolivia's La Paz Department! This ain't your average Sunday drive. We're talking a sky-high mountain pass hitting a whopping 15,265 feet (4,653m). Locals also call the summit Ch’uch’u Apachita or Abra Chuchu.

You'll find this beast in the Larecaja Province, tucked into western Bolivia.

Forget smooth asphalt; this is a pure, unadulterated dirt road experience. Get ready for a serious workout – think endless twists, hairpin turns that'll make your head spin, plus narrow stretches and some seriously steep climbs. Trust me, you'll need a 4x4 for this one.

This epic 18-mile (30km) stretch kicks off from Sorata and winds its way north of the main Cordillera Real range in the Andes. The scenery is breathtaking, but keep your eyes on the road!

Where is it?

How to get by car to Cumbre Chuchu in the Andes? is located in Bolivia (south-america). Coordinates: -15.9529, -62.2581

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Road Details

Country
Bolivia
Continent
south-america
Length
30 km
Max Elevation
4,653 m
Difficulty
hard
Coordinates
-15.9529, -62.2581

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