
Where is Abra de Chorrillos?
Argentina, south-america
57.9 km
4,555 m
hard
Year-round
Okay, road trip enthusiasts, buckle up for Abra de Chorrillos! This high-altitude pass punches through the border between Jujuy and Salta provinces in northwest Argentina, topping out at a whopping 4,555 meters (14,944 feet)!
Imagine yourself cruising along Ruta Nacional 51 (RN51), mostly on unpaved roads, but totally doable in a regular car, *if* the weather's dry. You'll be tracing the path of an old, abandoned railway for much of the way, adding to the vintage vibe.
Stretching nearly 58 kilometers (36 miles) from San Antonio de los Cobres to Olacapato, this route serves up some serious scenery. Think arid landscapes, shimmering salt flats, and the kind of wide-open spaces that make you feel truly small. The weather is a bit extreme, with daytime temps varying from 14°C to 21°C (57F to 70F). Nightime temperatures in midsummer go to 6°C (43F) and in midwinter to -8°C (18F). Expect the chance of rain exclusively in the summer. Prepare for a ride that's both challenging and breathtaking!
Road Details
- Country
- Argentina
- Continent
- south-america
- Length
- 57.9 km
- Max Elevation
- 4,555 m
- Difficulty
- hard
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