Is It Possible to Drive the Washed-Out Punta Olimpica Old Road in Peru?
Peru, south-america
5.9 km
4,939 m
extreme
Year-round
Okay, adventure junkies, listen up! Deep in Peru's Ancash region lies a hidden gem (or maybe a hidden dare): the Punta Olimpica Old Road. Forget smooth sailing – this is a white-knuckle ride along the edge of forever, with drop-offs that'll make your palms sweat.
Starting south of the paved Punta Olimpica Pass, this unpaved path is more like a suggestion than a road these days. Washed out and boasting 21 hairpin turns, it's not for the faint of heart. Reaching a dizzying 4,939m (16,204ft) in the Cordillera Blanca, expect snow, crazy winds, and fog. Oh, and did I mention it's an avalanche zone?
At just 5.9km (3.66 miles) long, don't let the short distance fool you. This route was replaced by the famous Punta Olimpica Tunnel back in 2013, and since then, it's been left to the elements. Translation? Boulders in the middle of the road and sections literally crumbling away. Cliff views? Unbelievable. Car? Forget it. Bike? If you're feeling brave. But honestly, hiking it might be the sanest (and safest) way to soak in the epic views. Just be prepared for a truly wild, unforgettable experience!
Where is it?
Is It Possible to Drive the Washed-Out Punta Olimpica Old Road in Peru? is located in Peru (south-america). Coordinates: -7.3702, -75.8818
Road Details
- Country
- Peru
- Continent
- south-america
- Length
- 5.9 km
- Max Elevation
- 4,939 m
- Difficulty
- extreme
- Coordinates
- -7.3702, -75.8818
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