Road trip guide: Conquering Mina Centinela

Road trip guide: Conquering Mina Centinela

Chile, south-america

Length

N/A

Elevation

5,430 m

Difficulty

moderate

Best Season

Year-round

Alright, adventure junkies, listen up! If you're heading to the Atacama Region of Chile and have a serious thirst for altitude, you HAVE to check out the road to Mina Centinela. This high-mountain copper mine isn't just about digging up treasure; it's about the breathtaking journey to get there.

South of the majestic Copiapó volcano (Cerro Azufre, if you're feeling fancy), this mining road climbs to a whopping 5,430 meters (that's 17,814 feet!) above sea level. Just imagine the views! You'll find the start of the road where it peels off from the C-347.

Nestled in the stunning Nevado Tres Cruces National Park, the road is completely unpaved, so buckle up for a bumpy ride. But trust me, it's worth it for the sweeping panoramas of Laguna del Negro Francisco. Just be aware that it's a working mine, so watch out for heavy equipment and mining traffic. But hey, think of the stories you'll have!

Where is it?

Road trip guide: Conquering Mina Centinela is located in Chile (south-america). Coordinates: -38.4511, -71.3640

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Road Details

Country
Chile
Continent
south-america
Max Elevation
5,430 m
Difficulty
moderate
Coordinates
-38.4511, -71.3640

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