What’s the world’s highest ski resort?
Bolivia, south-america
9.6 km
5,260 m
hard
Year-round
Okay, adventure seekers, let's talk about Ruta Chacaltaya in Bolivia! This isn't your average Sunday drive. We're talking about a 9.6 km (5.96 miles) unpaved climb starting near Ingenio, hauling you up 635 meters to a staggering 5,260m (17,257ft) above sea level. Yeah, you'll need a 4x4 – and maybe a bit of courage because this baby gets steep, like up to 14% steep!
The road's narrow, a little rough, and those drop-offs? Let's just say they add some "spice" to the journey. What awaits you at the top? The remains of what was once the world's highest ski resort. Snow's gone now thanks to climate change, but the views are unreal.
Seriously, the panoramas of Huayna Potosi, Mururata, and Illimani are incredible, not to mention the sprawling views of La Paz and El Alto. If you squint hard enough, you might even catch a glimpse of Lake Titicaca in the distance. And if you're feeling extra energetic, hike another 100 meters to the actual summit. Plus, for the science nerds, there's a gamma-ray research lab up there! Is it worth the white-knuckle drive? Absolutely!
Road Details
- Country
- Bolivia
- Continent
- south-america
- Length
- 9.6 km
- Max Elevation
- 5,260 m
- Difficulty
- hard
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