
How to get by car to Tocorpuri Volcano on the border of Chile and Bolivia?
Bolivia, south-america
90 km
5,563 m
hard
Year-round
Ready for an epic adventure? Head to the Chile-Bolivia border and discover the incredible Volcán Tocorpuri. A mining road snakes its way up this dormant volcano, climbing to a staggering 5,563 meters (that's over 18,251 feet!). It's seriously one of the highest roads you'll find here.
You'll find Tocorpuri, also known as Michina, Cerro de Tocorpuri, or Cerros de Tocorpuri straddling the border between Chile (Antofagasta) and Bolivia (Potosí). The volcano itself is ancient, formed from old lava flows and volcanic debris. The latest activity was around 34,000 years ago, but there's still geothermal action nearby, possibly linked to the El Tatio geysers.
The road itself? It's a beast! Built for sulfur mining, this unpaved, sandy track winds up the Bolivian side. You'll need a 4x4 for sure. Expect a nail-biting 90 km (56 miles) drive from Quetena Grande, complete with narrow sections and a whole lot of hairpin turns. The views? Absolutely breathtaking, but keep your eyes on the road!
Where is it?
How to get by car to Tocorpuri Volcano on the border of Chile and Bolivia? is located in Bolivia (south-america). Coordinates: -15.9643, -62.4459
Road Details
- Country
- Bolivia
- Continent
- south-america
- Length
- 90 km
- Max Elevation
- 5,563 m
- Difficulty
- hard
- Coordinates
- -15.9643, -62.4459
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