What are the highest roads in Peru?
Peru, south-america
2,414 km
6,096 m
hard
Year-round
Okay, picture this: Peru. Not just the beaches, but the real heart of it – the Andes Mountains! We're talking about almost 1,500 miles of pure, unadulterated mountain majesty. These aren't just hills, people; these are colossal, ice-crowned peaks scraping the sky at over 20,000 feet. Seriously breathtaking.
Now, to experience this firsthand, you've gotta drive. And let me tell you, the roads here? Epic. Think winding, high-altitude routes that'll challenge your driving skills and reward you with views you won't believe are real. We're talking some of the highest, most remote roads on the planet. Get ready for an adventure!
Where is it?
What are the highest roads in Peru? is located in Peru (south-america). Coordinates: -8.7739, -73.8832
Road Details
- Country
- Peru
- Continent
- south-america
- Length
- 2,414 km
- Max Elevation
- 6,096 m
- Difficulty
- hard
- Coordinates
- -8.7739, -73.8832
Related Roads in south-america
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moderateDriving the wild road to Refugio Volcán Guagua Pichincha
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extremeRoad Trip Guide: Conquering Abra Campana
🇦🇷 Argentina
Alright, adventure junkies, listen up! If you're headed to Salta Province in the extreme northwest of Argentina and craving a seriously epic drive, you NEED to check out Abra Campana. This bad boy tops out at a whopping 4,399 meters (that's 14,432 feet!), so get ready for some thin air. You'll find it in the Santa Victoria Department, and the road, known as Ruta Provincial 7 (RP7), is a 67.2 km (41.75 miles) stretch of pure, unadulterated dirt. We're talking a high-clearance vehicle is a MUST, and after a bit of rain, you might even need to kick it into 4x4. Starting near Abra del Lizoite and winding its way east to Santa Victoria Oeste, this isn't a road for the faint of heart. Think hairpin turns galore and some seriously steep climbs. But trust me, if you're not afraid of a challenge, the views are absolutely worth it! If you're nervous about high mountain roads with a million twists and turns though, maybe sit this one out.
extremeAlto de Chorillos: Driving to 4,806m in the Argentine Puna
🇦🇷 Argentina
Okay, buckle up, adventure junkies! We're heading to the wild, wild northwest of Argentina, to Salta province, where the Alto de Chorillos peak awaits. At a mind-blowing 4,806m (that's 15,767ft!), you'll feel like you've landed on another planet – seriously, the Puna de Atacama desert is *out there*. Your trek starts from the main RN51 highway (can't miss it!). From there, it's a 6.2km (3.8-mile) scramble to the top. The road's gradient is manageable, but the altitude? That's the real beast. Expect your engine to lose some serious oomph up here! This is a gravel road, all tight switchbacks and sneaky loose patches, so a 4x4 is essential for tackling those ramps leading to the LLAMA astronomical observatory. Speaking of beasts, this road can be a real monster, especially when winter snow hits. It's often impassable and can close anytime the snow gets too deep. Even a bit of rain can turn the dry ground into a muddy trap! And if you're not a fan of heights, be warned: sheer drops and narrow sections with zero barriers will test your nerve. Prep is KEY! Ensure your cooling system is tip-top, and pack extra oxygen, because altitude sickness (soroche) is no joke. The climate up here in the Puna is harsh. Temperatures range from mild to…well, freezing. Expect highs in the teens (Celsius), but be aware that nights (and midwinter) can drop to well below zero. Rain usually comes in summer, often in sudden, dramatic bursts. Oh, and did I mention the constant wind and intense sun? Pack water, lots of it, and make sure your vehicle's fluids are topped up. The payoff? Besides bragging rights, you'll reach one of South America's coolest scientific spots. The LLAMA observatory is perched up here because the air is so dry and thin, making for crystal-clear stargazing. Getting to the top is a true test of self-reliance. There are no services, no water, no help for miles! Pack your recovery gear and emergency supplies, and get ready for an unforgettable ride.