
Where is Abra del Infiernillo?
Argentina, south-america
53.4 km
3,056 m
hard
Year-round
Alright, adventure-seekers, listen up! You HAVE to experience Abra del Infiernillo in Argentina. This epic mountain pass, topping out at a whopping 10,026 feet, is the highest point in the entire Tucumán province.
You'll find this beauty nestled in the Calchaquí Valleys, in the northwest of Argentina, acting as the grand entrance to Parque Provincial Cumbres Calchaquíes. Trust me, the views are worth the drive!
At the summit, nicknamed Infiernillo, you'll find a communication tower, a restaurant serving up llama (yes, really!), a spacious parking area, and the incredible Mirador El Infiernillo viewpoint. But be warned, Mother Nature can be fierce up here with strong winds, swirling clouds, and frequent rain.
The road itself, RP307, is about 33 miles of mostly paved road winding from Amaicha del Valle to Tafí del Valle. Expect some rough patches, narrow squeezes, and loose gravel along the way, plus hundreds of turns and hairpin bends that will keep you on your toes. It's a road trip you won't soon forget!
Road Details
- Country
- Argentina
- Continent
- south-america
- Length
- 53.4 km
- Max Elevation
- 3,056 m
- Difficulty
- hard
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