The Inhumane Climb to Cerro El Amago with 19% Ramps
Argentina, south-america
35.1 km
1,703 m
moderate
Year-round
Okay, buckle up, adventure awaits! We're heading to Cerro El Amago in the San Luis Province of Argentina, a seriously cool mountain pass topping out at 1,703m (5,587ft).
Out here in central Argentina, this isn't just any drive; it's an experience. At the summit, you'll find a collection of antennas beaming out TV and phone signals - a unique twist!
The road, Provincial Route 9, is paved all the way, though the top section throws in some interesting concrete wrinkles to keep you on your toes. Speaking of toes, be prepared for a workout. This climb is a long, demanding 35.1 km (21.81 miles) stretch between San Francisco del Monte de Oro and Carolina.
The real fun starts from San Francisco del Monte de Oro with a 17.4 km (10.81 miles) climb, gaining 905m in elevation. Expect an average gradient of 5.2%, but hold on tight – some ramps crank up to a leg-burning 19%!
Nestled in the Precordillera, the views are absolutely killer. Think panoramic vistas of San Francisco, a dramatic deep gorge, the majestic Cerros del Socoscora, and the serene Valle Reservoir Las Palmeras. Keep your eyes peeled, too; you might spot some magnificent condors soaring overhead. It's a visual feast you won't soon forget.
Where is it?
The Inhumane Climb to Cerro El Amago with 19% Ramps is located in Argentina (south-america). Coordinates: -36.5069, -62.6651
Road Details
- Country
- Argentina
- Continent
- south-america
- Length
- 35.1 km
- Max Elevation
- 1,703 m
- Difficulty
- moderate
- Coordinates
- -36.5069, -62.6651
Related Roads in south-america
extremeLaguna Quequerane
🇵🇪 Peru
Okay, picture this: you're in Peru, high up in the Puno region, ready for an adventure. You're heading to Laguna Quequerane, a stunning high-altitude lake sitting pretty at 4,034 meters (13,234 feet)! Now, getting there? That's half the fun, right? The road is an absolute beast – think gravel, narrow squeezes, and mud galore (especially after rain!). Seriously, you'll want a 4x4 for this one. Be warned, the climb is steep, and the air gets thin, so listen to your body. Altitude sickness can kick in way before you reach the top, around 2,500-2,800 meters. Plus, keep your eyes peeled for avalanches, heavy snow, and landslides. Patches of ice can pop up anytime and make things extra dicey. But hey, the scenery is incredible!
hardAbra del Acay is said to be the highest road pass in America
🇦🇷 Argentina
Okay, buckle up, adventure seekers! We're headed to Abra del Acay in Argentina's Salta Province. This legendary mountain pass tops out at a staggering 16,259 feet (4,956 meters). It's rumored to be the highest point you can reach on a national highway anywhere in the Americas! Part of the iconic Ruta 40, Argentina's longest road, the stretch leading to Abra del Acay is a proper off-road adventure. Think unpaved, narrow gravel roads demanding your full attention. Those tight bends and steep drops? They're real! Watch out for strong winds, and remember, you're going off-grid. No cell service here, so pack accordingly – essential repair gear, plenty of food and water, and top up that gas tank whenever you can. The 83-mile (133 km) journey between Payogasta and San Antonio de los Cobres should take around 3 hours non-stop. Keep in mind that winter can bring icy and snowy conditions that may block parts of the road. While the conditions are tough – think poorly maintained surfaces and unpredictable weather – the views are out of this world. Prepare for breathtaking scenery that will reward every daring traveler!
moderateDriving the road to Corazon Volcano is not a piece of cake
🇪🇨 Ecuador
Okay, adventure seekers, listen up! Deep in the Pichincha province of Ecuador, just southwest of Quito, lies Volcan Corazon, an old, snoozing volcano begging to be explored. Forget paved paradise, because you're gonna tackle a gnarly gravel road that winds its way up, up, up to a breathtaking 4,306 meters (that's a staggering 14,127 feet!). Seriously, this is one of Ecuador's highest roads! Forget your fancy sports car; you'll need a 4x4 with some serious clearance for this slow-and-steady climb through the western Andes. Keep an eye on the sky, because those Andean weather patterns are wild! The rainy season often transforms the landscape into a snowy wonderland, but be prepared for anything – and pack warm clothes! Your starting point? The charming town of Machachi. Get ready for views that'll steal your breath (and maybe test your car's limits)!
hardTake the Scenic Route and Discover Abra de Lares in Cusco
🇵🇪 Peru
Okay, buckle up, adventure seekers! Let's talk about Abra de Lares, a crazy-high mountain pass chilling at 14,576 feet in the Cusco Region of Peru. This road is a proper Andean adventure. It's paved, sure, but super narrow – think "squeeze-by-another-car" narrow. We're talking hairpin turns galore and massive drop-offs with zero guardrails. Definitely not one for the faint of heart, and avoid it completely if it's raining. This 34.7-mile stretch from Calca to Laris will take you about 1.5 to 2.5 hours of non-stop driving. It's a relentless climb, hitting gradients of up to 10% in places, so get ready for some seriously steep sections. But the views? Absolutely worth it. Prepare for scenery that will blow your mind!