
The paved BR-174 is becoming impassable
Brazil, south-america
1.581 km
N/A
hard
Year-round
Okay, adventure seekers, listen up! BR-174 in Brazil: this paved road is a wild ride straight through the heart of the Amazonas! Stretching 1,581 km (982 miles), it's a north-south spine connecting Manaus (the Amazonas capital) to Pacaraima, right on the Venezuelan border.
Now, don't let "paved" fool you. This route gets hammered by heavy trucks, especially when the rains come. We're talking potholes, mud pits, and potentially some serious quagmires. It's a true test for your vehicle (and your nerves!).
If you're lucky with the weather, expect a solid 25-30 hours of driving to conquer the whole thing. Inaugurated in 1980 and finished in 1998, this road has seen some things! Keep an eye out for flooding when you cross the Anauá River. But hey, who wants a boring drive anyway? Get ready for some epic scenery and a true taste of the Amazon.
Where is it?
The paved BR-174 is becoming impassable is located in Brazil (south-america). Coordinates: -17.6519, -51.2804
Road Details
- Country
- Brazil
- Continent
- south-america
- Length
- 1.581 km
- Difficulty
- hard
- Coordinates
- -17.6519, -51.2804
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