Tejos Refuge is one of the highest roads of South America
Chile, south-america
N/A
5,791 m
extreme
Year-round
# Refugio Tejos: The Ultimate High-Altitude Adventure
Tucked away in Chile's Copiapó Province at a jaw-dropping 5,800m (19,000ft), Refugio Tejos isn't just a mountain hut—it's one of the world's highest motorable destinations. Perched in the Atacama region near the Argentine border, this legendary pit stop serves climbers tackling Ojos del Salado, the Andes' most impressive peak and the planet's tallest volcano.
The hut itself is pretty humble: an L-shaped structure with six beds, a gear room, and a poignant history. A Chilean mining company left it behind as a memorial to a helicopter pilot who lost his life in these brutal mountains.
Getting here? That's where things get serious. The unpaved road is absolutely relentless—steep, rocky, and unforgiving. Only experienced 4x4 drivers should even attempt it. The terrain climbs to rank among South America's highest roads, and those vertical cliff faces hundreds of meters high? Yeah, they're real, and they're terrifying. One wrong move and you're staring into dizzying valleys below.
Weather up here doesn't play nice either. Even in summer, sudden snowstorms can materialize out of nowhere, with temperatures plummeting without warning. Wind is your enemy too—gusts can be genuinely dangerous given the exposed cliff edges and minimal margin for error.
This isn't a scenic Sunday drive. Refugio Tejos demands respect, skill, and nerves of steel. But if you're a true adventure seeker? It's unforgettable.
Where is it?
Tejos Refuge is one of the highest roads of South America is located in Chile (south-america). Coordinates: -37.6880, -72.3237
Road Details
- Country
- Chile
- Continent
- south-america
- Max Elevation
- 5,791 m
- Difficulty
- extreme
- Coordinates
- -37.6880, -72.3237
Related Roads in south-america
moderateWhere is Abra Tres Cruces?
🇧🇴 Bolivia
Okay, so you're heading to Bolivia? Let me tell you about Abra Tres Cruces. This mountain pass punches through the western edge of Bolivia, right in the Cordillera Occidental mountains. We're talking serious altitude here — it's sky-high! The road itself stretches about from south to north. The ascent from is usually pretty gentle, nothing too crazy. However, once you get into the heart of it, be warned! A lot of it is unpaved, and those sections can get a bit hairy with steeper climbs and roads that can be seriously rough in bad weather. But forget the bumps for a second and look around! The scenery up here is absolutely breathtaking. You'll be driving through some of the most incredible landscapes Bolivia has to offer. Just take your time, keep your eyes on the road (especially on those unpaved bits!), and get ready for an unforgettable adventure.
extremeHow to get to the Casiri lagoons by car?
🇧🇴 Bolivia
Laguna Casiri Hembra and Laguna Casiri Macho are a pair of stunning high-altitude mountain lagoons located in the Arica and Parinacota Region of Chile. Situated near the Bolivian border, the road to these lakes is one of the highest driving routes in the country, surrounded by a dramatic landscape of volcanoes. Road facts: Casiri Lagoons General Lagos, Chile (near Bolivia) 16.1 km (10 miles) from Caquena Rocky Gravel / Unpaved How to get to the Casiri lagoons by car? The drive begins in the remote village of . From the village, the road stretches for , climbing steadily toward the high plateau. The route involves an elevation gain of 540 meters, ending at the shores of the lakes: Casiri Hembra (4,825m) Casiri Macho (4,856m) What are the road conditions in this volcanic area? The surface is entirely unpaved, consisting of gravel and loose volcanic rocks . The track is described as "tippy" and bumpy, with several steep sections that require technical driving. Due to the loose surface and the high gradients, a is strictly required. This is a trail designed for experienced off-roaders; avoid this route if unpaved mountain tracks are not your strong point. Weather and altitude hazards At nearly 4,900 meters above sea level, the effects of altitude (hypoxia) are noticeable for both drivers and engines. The road is usually impassable during the winter months due to snow. Additionally, sudden summer thunderstorms can rapidly transform the dry gravel into a muddy trap, making the road dangerous or completely impassable in minutes. A landscape of volcanoes and algae gardens The journey is well worth the effort for the stunning surrounding landscape of volcanoes and sharp rocky peaks. is particularly unique for its underwater algae garden visible in the southern area. Despite the harsh conditions, mosquitoes are abundant along the edges of the lagoons, which are framed by ancient volcanic rock formations. Driving safety and preparation Given the extreme isolation near the Bolivian border, travelers must be fully self-sufficient. Ensure your vehicle is in top mechanical condition and carry extra supplies. The road is narrow and winding, with sharp curves that demand constant focus, especially when navigating the rocky embankments at such extreme elevations. Pic: Marcelo Toro Zavala An epic road to Paso Salar Capina in the Andes Cerro Juquel: Driving the steep 9.5% climb in Potosí, Bolivia Embark on a journey like never before! Navigate through our to discover the most spectacular roads of the world Drive Us to Your Road! With over 13,000 roads cataloged, we're always on the lookout for unique routes. Know of a road that deserves to be featured? Click to share your suggestion, and we may add it to dangerousroads.org.
hardLaguna Salada
🇧🇴 Bolivia
Alright, adventure seekers, listen up! Deep in Bolivia's Sur Lípez Province, nestled within the otherworldly Salvador Dalí Desert, lies Laguna Salada. This isn't your average scenic overlook - we're talking a high-altitude salt lake experience at a whopping 4,407 meters (that's 14,458 feet!). The road in? Think gravel and sand, baby. This track can get seriously muddy and slick after a good rain, turning your drive into a proper challenge. If a storm rolls through, be warned: even a 4x4 might not save you. But oh, the views! Seriously, the wild landscape and the shimmering lake are absolutely worth the effort, making this a must-do for any off-the-beaten-path enthusiast. Just be prepared for an *adventure*.
extremeHow to drive the wild 4x4 road to Abra Turi Turini?
🇧🇴 Bolivia
Alright, adventure junkies, buckle up for Abra Turi Turini in Bolivia! This insane mountain pass punches through the La Paz Department at a lung-busting 4,985m (16,354ft) – seriously, it's up there with the highest roads in the country. Find it west of Quime, nestled in the Inquisivi Province. Getting there is half the battle – this is a proper mining road, totally unpaved, so a 4x4 is a must. Expect seriously steep sections and narrow stretches that'll test your nerves. The reward? Jaw-dropping views of shimmering lagoons. The catch? Those views come with some serious exposure – think perilous drop-offs that demand your full attention. This epic route stretches for 67.8 km (42.12 miles) from Araca to Rodeo, running north to south. Remember, you're hanging out at around 5,000m (16,400ft) the entire time! That thin air is no joke. Altitude sickness is a real threat – headache, dizziness, nausea... you name it. Plus, your engine might feel the strain in the low oxygen. The weather is super unpredictable, too; be prepared for snow, ice, and bitter cold, even in summer. Acclimatize slowly, drink tons of water, and take it easy. Pack warm layers, water, and emergency essentials – you could be miles from help!