
Lagunas de Epulafquen
Argentina, south-america
40.2 km
1.49 m
hard
Year-round
Okay, picture this: you're in Argentina, practically spitting distance from Chile, high up in the Andes. You're heading toward the stunning Lagunas de Epulafquen, a pair of shimmering lakes sitting pretty at almost 5,000 feet!
The adventure starts on Ruta Provincial 45, a gravel road stretching about 25 miles from Las Ovejas. Now, this isn't your average highway cruise. While generally maintained, the road can get pretty dicey. Think washboarding, ruts, and dips that'll keep you on your toes. A high-clearance vehicle is a must! And be warned: after a rainstorm, this track transforms into a muddy slip-n-slide. In bad weather, even 4x4s might struggle. But trust me, the views are worth it. Imagine winding through the mountains, the air crisp and clean, with the promise of those gorgeous lakes waiting for you at the end. This is an off-the-beaten-path experience you won't forget!
Where is it?
Lagunas de Epulafquen is located in Argentina (south-america). Coordinates: -40.1398, -63.4278
Road Details
- Country
- Argentina
- Continent
- south-america
- Length
- 40.2 km
- Max Elevation
- 1.49 m
- Difficulty
- hard
- Coordinates
- -40.1398, -63.4278
Related Roads in south-america
hardQuebrada de Camarones
🇨🇱 Chile
Okay, adventure seekers, buckle up for the Quebrada de Camarones in Chile's Arica y Parinacota Region! This isn't your average Sunday drive. We're talking about a gravel road that climbs to a cool 1,391 meters (that's 4,563 feet for you imperial system folks). This route links Camarones and Cochisa. Imagine a seriously steep climb with hairpin turns that'll make your palms sweat. Oh, and did I mention there aren't any guardrails? Yeah, this one's not for the faint of heart. But hey, the views? Totally worth it. Just keep your eyes on the road (and maybe a buddy to spot those tight turns!).
moderateRoad trip guide: Conquering Crucero Alto
🇵🇪 Peru
Okay, picture this: You're cruising through the Peruvian Andes in Puno, ready for an adventure. You're about to tackle Crucero Alto, a seriously epic mountain pass soaring to a staggering 14,855 feet! The road, mostly paved and known as Carretera 34C, stretches for about 45 miles between Santa LucĂa and Eslagunero. Get ready for views that will blow your mind – the kind of scenery that makes you want to pull over every five minutes to snap photos. Just be aware that you're really high up here, so take it slow and enjoy the ride!
moderateKahuish Tunnel is one of the world's highest tunnels
🇵🇪 Peru
Okay, so picture this: you're cruising through the Peruvian Andes in the Ancash region, right? Boom! You hit the Tunel de Kahuish, a mind-blowing tunnel at a whopping 14,816 feet above sea level. Seriously, this place is HIGH! You'll find it nestled in Huascarán National Park, surrounded by the Cordillera Blanca mountains. Oh, and don't miss the giant Christ statue (Cristo Blanco) watching over the valley just past the tunnel – photo op alert! Fun fact: they started building this tunnel way back in 1927, and it was a tough job, with lots of dynamite and a few accidents. But hey, they finished it in 1941, and gave it a makeover in 2007. You'll drive it on the AN-110 road connecting Huaraz and Chavin. This tunnel basically cuts through the Cordillera Blanca, taking you from the Santa River valley to the Marañon valley. The west side of the road is smooth sailing on pavement, but watch out – the east side gets a little rougher with mostly unpaved sections. The tunnel itself is pretty long at around 1,587 feet, and it's pitch black inside, so be prepared! It's the highest point on the main road, and there's no way around it, so cyclists, you're going through! Get ready for an unforgettable Andean adventure!
easyWhat’s the history of Collado del Cóndor?
🌍 Venezuela
Okay, picture this: you're in Venezuela, in the Merida region, ready to tackle one of the country's highest roads – Collado del Cóndor, or Pico El Aguila as some call it. We're talking 4,050 meters (13,287 feet) high! This isn't just some random drive; it's steeped in history. At the summit, you'll find a bronze condor statue marking where Simon Bolivar and his crew crossed the Andes way back in 1813. And, of course, there's a little shop for hot chocolate and souvenirs, plus a cute chapel. The whole way up is paved, following the 7 National/Troncal road. But don't think it's a breeze. This 50.6 km (31.44 miles) stretch from Apartaderos to Timotes is packed with over 40 hairpin turns, and let's just say guardrails aren't really a "thing" here. Weekends can get crazy busy, so aim for a weekday trip if you can. Budget about 1.5 to 2 hours if you drive straight through. Is it worth it? Absolutely! The views are insane. The summit overlooks these wild, desert-like mountains, dotted with frailejón plants – those funky high-altitude shrubs you only find in the Andes. And get this: from the top, it's a stunning switchback descent all the way to Lake Maracaibo. Plus, if you're feeling adventurous, a side road near the top takes you even higher to a weather station at 4,208m (13,805ft). Just go for it!