Things to Know Before Driving the Paved Road to Abra Lliullita
Peru, south-america
45 km
4,645 m
hard
Year-round
Okay, adventure seekers, buckle up for Abra Lliullita! This beast of a mountain pass climbs to a staggering 4,645m (15,239ft) in the Apurímac Department of Peru. Nestled in the southern Peruvian Andes, this route, also called Abra Llullita, will take your breath away - literally!
Historically a vital trade route, now it's more about the thrills and views. Speaking of views, near the top you’ll find the incredible Laguna de Lliullita, a must-see for fishing, hiking, and wildlife spotting.
The road itself? It’s fully paved and known as Carretera 3SF, but don't let that fool you. Expect endless twists, turns (hairpins galore!), and some seriously steep climbs. If you get carsick easily, maybe sit this one out! It's a consistent 45km ascent from Vilcabamba, but the good road surface and lack of traffic make it manageable. After conquering the summit lakes, prepare for a rapid 1,500m descent into Lambrama.
The whole route stretches 135km (83 miles) from Vilcabamba to Abancay. A word of warning: the altitude is no joke. Take it easy and acclimatize to avoid altitude sickness! Trust me, the views are worth the effort.
Where is it?
Things to Know Before Driving the Paved Road to Abra Lliullita is located in Peru (south-america). Coordinates: -9.0510, -75.5135
Road Details
- Country
- Peru
- Continent
- south-america
- Length
- 45 km
- Max Elevation
- 4,645 m
- Difficulty
- hard
- Coordinates
- -9.0510, -75.5135
Related Roads in south-america
hardPichachen Pass is a vital border road from Argentina to Chile in the Andes
🇨🇱 Chile
Okay, adventure seekers, buckle up for the wild ride that is Paso Internacional Pichachén! This high-altitude border crossing between Argentina and Chile sits way up in the Andes at a cool 2,063 meters (that's 6,768 feet!). Connecting the Biobío Region of Chile with the Neuquén Province of Argentina, this isn't your average scenic drive. Forget smooth asphalt; we're talking a 180 km (111 mile) unpaved rollercoaster, known as Ruta CH-5 on the Chilean side and Ruta Provincial 6 in Argentina, snaking its way from Canteras to El Cholar. Expect hairpin turns and a real test for your driving skills! Keep in mind, Pichachén isn't open year-round. Winter brings closures due to minimal maintenance. Also, be prepared for some extreme weather – think dry air and huge temperature changes. Sunny days can be surprisingly warm, but those Andean nights? Seriously cold. Get ready for insane views you'll never forget!
moderateRuta Provincial J
🇦🇷 Argentina
Okay, buckle up, adventurers! Ruta Provincial J in Argentina's Tierra del Fuego is calling your name. Seriously, if you're near the "End of the World," you NEED to experience this 90km stretch of pure gravel bliss. Starting from Ruta Nacional 3, this road winds its way to the stunning Estancia Moat, taking you on a ride you won't soon forget. It's an old mining road that heads toward the Overo Volcano. The road might be a little rough around the edges, but the scenery is absolutely worth it. Get ready for an unforgettable adventure!
moderateWhy is it called Edward Whymper Refuge?
🇪🇨 Ecuador
Okay, adventurers, listen up! If you're in the Ecuadorian Andes, specifically in Chimborazo province, you HAVE to check out the road to Refugio Edward Whymper. This high-mountain hut, perched at a staggering 4,855 meters (15,928 feet), is named after Edward Whymper, the first guy to climb Chimborazo back in 1880. The road itself? It's a 7.2 km (4.47 miles) unpaved climb to the parking lot near the hut. Expect a steep ascent with an average gradient of 6.73%, gaining 485 meters in elevation. You'll definitely want a 4WD, high-clearance vehicle in good condition — the altitude will sap your power. The views are mind-blowing, but be warned: mist and fog roll in often. Keep an eye on your surroundings! This remote road requires a full tank of gas and a sense of adventure. From the hut, it's a launching point for tackling Chimborazo, the stratovolcano whose summit is the farthest point from the Earth's core. Get ready for an unforgettable experience!
hardRoad 37: A Dangerous Drive Due to Drug Cartel Fights in Colombia
🇨🇴 Colombia
Alright, thrill-seekers, buckle up for Carretera 37, a wild ride through the Huila and Cauca regions of southwestern Colombia! Nestled in the foothills of the Cordillera Central, near the fascinating National Archaeological Park of Tierradentro, this 124 km (77-mile) serpentine road connects Garzon to Toez. The views? Absolutely stunning! You'll be treated to breathtaking vistas of Nevado del Huila, Colombia's tallest volcano. However, this beauty comes with a serious dose of reality. Carretera 37 is not for the faint of heart. While mostly paved, expect some sandy and gravelly sections that'll keep you on your toes. Plus, some spots are pretty narrow, so maneuverability can be tricky. Now, the real kicker: this area is known for ongoing drug cartel activity. Sadly, parts of the road may be closed at any given time. This isn't your average Sunday drive, folks. Before you even think about hitting this road, get the latest intel on the security situation. Caution is key!