
Where does the Trans-Chaco Highway start and end?
Argentina, south-america
775 km
N/A
moderate
Year-round
Okay, picture this: the Trans-Chaco Highway, or Ruta PY09 as the locals call it, stretching a whopping 775 kilometers (481 miles) across Paraguay, from José Falcón near Asunción all the way to the Bolivian border at Fortín Sgto. Rodríguez. You'll cruise through Central, Presidente Hayes, and Boquerón, eventually linking up with Argentina's National Route 11 and Bolivia's National Route 6.
Once upon a time, this road was legendary for all the wrong reasons – think vehicles swallowed whole by mud during the rainy season! It got a full paving in 2007, but the asphalt didn't last, so be ready for a bumpy ride filled with dust, cracks, and potholes galore. The thin pavement really struggles with all the heavy trucks that use the road!
While it's mostly straight, you’ll need to keep your eyes peeled every second to dodge those sneaky potholes. Driving at night? Maybe not, especially if it's your first time. The poor conditions make it extra risky. Plus, it's a pretty remote area – low traffic, sparse population – so stock up on extra food and water in case you run into trouble. Prepare for heat and a wild ride!
Road Details
- Country
- Argentina
- Continent
- south-america
- Length
- 775 km
- Difficulty
- moderate
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