
Road PA-106
Peru, south-america
79 km
2.037 m
extreme
Year-round
Okay, buckle up for the Carretera PA-106 in Pasco, Peru! This isn't your average Sunday drive. We're talking a 79km stretch of high-mountain gravel that connects Paucartambo (2,037m above sea level) to Ninacaca (a lung-busting 4,140m!).
Seriously, think twice before attempting this in anything less than a sturdy 4x4, unless you're already planning an upgrade! The gravel is rough, and the climb is intense, with some sections hitting a 10% gradient.
Oh, and did I mention the altitude? You'll gain 2,103m, and oxygen gets scarce above 2,500m. Take it slow, and maybe pack some altitude sickness remedies.
Along the way, you'll encounter unlit tunnels, stunning high-mountain lakes, and views that'll make you forget about the lack of oxygen... for a minute.
But, heads up! This area is known for heavy mist, avalanches, landslides, and ice patches. Plus, the gravel can get seriously loose and muddy after rain, making it impassable. So, check the weather before you go, and maybe avoid it altogether during storm season. This route is narrow, steep, and potentially treacherous but worth it for the views!
Where is it?
Road PA-106 is located in Peru (south-america). Coordinates: -10.0418, -73.8058
Road Details
- Country
- Peru
- Continent
- south-america
- Length
- 79 km
- Max Elevation
- 2.037 m
- Difficulty
- extreme
- Coordinates
- -10.0418, -73.8058
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