Salar de Aguas Calientes: an awe-inspiring route through extremely remote areas

Salar de Aguas Calientes: Picture this – a shimmering salt flat nestled high in the Andes of northern Chile's Antofagasta Region. We're talking seriously high altitude here, topping out at 4,250m (13,943ft)! During the day, you might be sweating in 30°C heat, but brace yourself – nights can plummet below freezing, especially in winter. And the wind? Let's just say it's a constant companion.

This road, also known as Salar de Tara, snakes through a landscape that feels more like Mars than Earth. It's all paved, making it accessible even for 2WD vehicles wanting a taste of extreme altitude. But don't let the smooth surface fool you. This is remote territory. Cell service? Forget about it. The nearest gas station could be up to 160 km away.

Winding through Los Flamencos National Reserve on a high desert plateau, this road is generally open year-round (snow permitting). It's a long, straight shot across the Andes, and you will be at an average height of 3,000 m.a.s.l.

Clocking in at 156.19 km (97.05 mi), the route stretches from San Pedro de Atacama all the way to the Argentinian border. Be ready for some serious winds, blazing sun, and bring enough water for everyone in your vehicle! A couple of spare tires wouldn't hurt either. And keep an eye out for some seriously steep sections – we're talking gradients of up to 12.6% in places!