Is the road to Cerro Azufrera de los Cuyanos the ultimate high-altitude test in Chile?
Chile, south-america
47.1 km
5,553 m
extreme
Year-round
Calling all adventurers! Deep in Chile's Atacama Region, near the Argentinian border, lies Cerro Azufrera de los Cuyanos, a massive volcano hiding one of the country's highest roads. We're talking a lung-busting 5,553m (18,218ft) above sea level! This isn't your Sunday drive; this extreme mine road is strictly for seasoned off-roaders and their beastly vehicles.
Starting from Ruta C-173, this 47.1 km trek punches upwards, gaining a staggering 2,060 meters in elevation. Located south of Cerro Piedra Parada, the road relentlessly climbs through the stark Atacama landscapes, culminating in a zone of scarce oxygen and brutal conditions.
Expect a rocky, gravel-strewn surface that will test your mettle. Nearing the summit, brace yourself for 13 tight hairpin turns demanding expert maneuvering. Large, sharp volcanic rocks litter the path, posing a serious threat to your tires. Leave your stock vehicle at home; high clearance, skid plates, and differential lockers are non-negotiable.
The altitude is the ultimate challenge. Above 5,500 meters, the thin air can trigger respiratory problems or exacerbate heart issues. Be prepared for bone-chilling temperatures and relentless winds. The weather is notoriously unpredictable, with sudden snowstorms possible even in summer.
This primitive road, a relic of its mining past, sees little to no maintenance. Given its extreme isolation and exposure, self-sufficiency is key. Pack extra fuel, oxygen, and cold-weather gear. Remember, you're on your own out here in this remote corner of the Atacama – no services or rescue teams to rely on.
Where is it?
Is the road to Cerro Azufrera de los Cuyanos the ultimate high-altitude test in Chile? is located in Chile (south-america). Coordinates: -37.2368, -72.5084
Road Details
- Country
- Chile
- Continent
- south-america
- Length
- 47.1 km
- Max Elevation
- 5,553 m
- Difficulty
- extreme
- Coordinates
- -37.2368, -72.5084
Related Roads in south-america
extremeWhere is Uturuncu?
🇧🇴 Bolivia
Okay, adventure junkies, listen up! Deep in the Potosí Department of Bolivia, near the San Pablo de Lípez Municipality, lies Cerro Uturuncu, a stratovolcano boasting one of the highest roads on the planet! This ain't your Sunday drive, folks. We're talking about a gravel track that claws its way up to a staggering 6,008 meters (19,711ft)! Built originally for a sulfur mine back in the day, the road is now maintained only for tourists by local guides. A 4x4 is a MUST. While the track is generally decent, be prepared for rogue rocks or even a dusting of snow, depending on the season. Now, here's the deal: most reports suggest you can only drive to within a few hundred meters of the summit (somewhere between 5,200 and 5,900 meters), as a landslide has blocked the way further up. However, satellite imagery suggests you can make it to 5,700 meters. A French team even managed to cycle (or push!) their bikes to the top! The lower section is super sandy, and above 5,000 meters, the lack of oxygen is a REAL issue for your engine (and you!). Expect gradients of around 8% for the first five kilometers, ramping up to over 10% between 5,100 and 5,600 meters. The road can get a bit narrow in places, with a seriously steep drop on one side. But, oh, the scenery! Think gigantic landscapes, active volcanoes, and vividly colored lagoons. This is an adventure you won't forget!
moderateWhy is it called Piedra del Molino?
🇦🇷 Argentina
Okay, buckle up, because Piedra del Molino in Salta, Argentina is a wild ride you won't soon forget! This high-altitude pass clocks in at a staggering 3,367m (11,046ft) above sea level. You'll find it snaking through the central-western part of the Salta province. Ever wonder about the name? "Piedra del Molino" translates to "Millstone," and legend has it that a huge granite grinding stone was abandoned here way back in 1927. Talk about a roadside attraction! This adventure lies within Los Cardones National Park, and the road itself, Ruta Provincial 33, is mostly paved. Don't let that fool you though – it's a winding beast also known as Cuesta del Obispo, a name that hints at the challenging path ahead. Stretching for 105 km (65 miles) between Payogasta and El Carril, this drive is not for the faint of heart. We're talking hairpin turns, steep climbs, and some serious drop-offs that might have your stomach doing somersaults. But oh, is it worth it! Just before the summit, there's a breathtaking lookout point where you can see the snaking road and Quebrada del Escoipe spread out before you. The summit itself has a tiny chapel dedicated to St. Rafael, a perfect spot for a moment of reflection after that epic drive.
hardIs Ruta Provincial A unpaved?
🇦🇷 Argentina
Okay, adventure-seekers, listen up! If you're heading to Tierra del Fuego, Argentina (basically the end of the world!), you HAVE to check out Ruta Provincial A. Now, heads up – it's an unpaved road, but don't let that scare you. It's usually in decent shape, but for maximum comfort (and minimizing potential "uh-oh" moments), I'd suggest snagging a 4x4. Be prepared for some tight squeezes, too. Seriously, this is REMOTE. We're talking southeastern Argentina, wayyyy off the tourist trail. Pack everything you need to be totally self-sufficient. If your dream is to get lost in the wild, this is your road. The payoff? Jaw-dropping scenery and a chance to spot some HUGE marine animals in their natural habitat! Just remember, this is Patagonia. The weather can change on a dime, and the wind… whoa, the wind! The road stretches for a good distance, but there's usually a barrier blocking the last bit, but it is still worth it! Prepare to cross the incredible Rio Electrico bridge along the way! Get ready for a road trip to Abra del Lizoite you won't soon forget.
hardLago Zongo
🇧🇴 Bolivia
Okay, adventure seekers, listen up! Lago Zongo in Bolivia's La Paz Department is calling your name, but only if you're up for a serious off-road challenge. We're talking a lung-busting climb to 4,776m (15,669ft) in the heart of the Cordillera Real of the Andes. The road? Well, let's just say it's not for the faint of heart. Think gravel, rocks, and a whole lotta "tippy and bumpy" moments, plus hairpin turns that'll test your driving skills. Definitely a 4x4 situation, and honestly, if unpaved mountain roads aren't your thing, maybe skip this one. Snow can shut this bad boy down anytime, so check conditions before you go! Oh, and did I mention the drop-offs? Seriously, don't look down if you're scared of heights. This trail is STEEP, and if it's wet, you're looking at some serious mud-slinging. The lack of oxygen at this altitude is real, too. Be prepared for potential altitude sickness — most people start feeling it below the summit. But hey, if you're looking for an unforgettable, adrenaline-pumping drive with views that'll blow your mind, Lago Zongo might just be your next adventure.