Where is Abra Paves?
Argentina, south-america
13.57 km
N/A
extreme
Year-round
Alright, adventure seekers, listen up! I've got a wild ride for you in the Jujuy province of Argentina, south of Cuesta del Lipán–Abra Potrerillos, deep in the northern part of the country. We're talking about Abra Paves, and let me tell you, it's not for the faint of heart.
Forget smooth tarmac – this baby is all unpaved, with rocks aplenty. It's not so much the steepness that'll get you (though it can hit 10%), but the sheer altitude, the crazy climate, and the middle-of-nowhere isolation.
We're talking extreme oxygen deprivation here. Seriously, you need to take it slow and give your body time to adjust. The weather can change on a dime in this semi-arid Puna region, and the winds? They're strong enough to throw your vehicle around!
And get this: it's remote. Like, really remote. No cell service, no emergency services. If your ride breaks down, you're on your own. That's why a 4x4 isn't just recommended; it's essential for survival.
So, how long is this epic journey? From the paved Ruta Provincial 52, it's about 13.57 km (8.43 mi) uphill, climbing . The average gradient is around 10%.
But trust me, the views are worth it. Just be prepared for a challenge – this road is an adventure in every sense of the word!
Road Details
- Country
- Argentina
- Continent
- south-america
- Length
- 13.57 km
- Difficulty
- extreme
Related Roads in south-america
moderateWhere is Icalma Pass?
🇦🇷 Argentina
Okay, picture this: you're straddling the border between Argentina and Chile at a cool 1,307 meters (that's 4,288 feet!) above sea level. This is the Icalma Pass, a newly paved gem nestled high in the Andes. On the Argentinian side, it's known as RP23, while in Chile, it transforms into Route R-89. The whole shebang is about 14.8 km long, connecting the charming villages of Villa Pehuenia in Argentina and Icalma in Chile. Close to the top, there's a border crossing point. Now, a word of warning: this isn't a Sunday drive. You're high in the mountains, so the weather can be a bit of a drama queen – changing in a heartbeat. Snow and heavy conditions are common, especially in winter, so be prepared for restrictions and mandatory snow chains. But generally, it's open year-round, so keep an eye on local reports, and get ready for some seriously stunning scenery!
hardLaguna Salar de Pajonales
🇨🇱 Chile
Okay, adventurers, listen up! Deep in Chile's Antofagasta Region lies Laguna Salar de Pajonales, a stunning high-altitude lake sitting pretty at 3,541 meters (that's 11,617 feet!). Getting there is an adventure in itself. You'll need a trusty 4x4 to tackle Route B-885, and let me tell you, it's not for the faint of heart. We're talking a serious climb that will test both your vehicle and your lungs – the air gets pretty thin up there, so be prepared for potential altitude sickness. The gravel track can be loose and slippery, especially after rain. In fact, during and after storms, this road can become completely impassable. But, if you're up for the challenge, the views are absolutely worth it! Imagine yourself surrounded by the rugged beauty of the Chilean landscape. Just be sure to check the weather forecast before you go.
extremeThe dangerous road to Caranavi is not for the faint of heart
🇧🇴 Bolivia
Okay, thrill-seekers, listen up! Deep in the Bolivian Yungas, near the infamous Death Road, lies the road to Caranavi, and let me tell you, it's an adventure! Picture this: a mostly dirt track clinging to the mountainside, barely wide enough for one vehicle, with a raging river on one side and sheer drops on the other. This isn’t a Sunday drive. We're talking serious pucker-factor here. Expect heavy traffic, blind corners, and a road that laughs in the face of rain. One wrong move and… well, let's just say you don't want to find out. Stretching for about 62 kilometers (38 miles) from Coroico to Caranavi, this section of Ruta Nacional 3 is a wild ride through breathtaking (and slightly terrifying) scenery. Mountains, cliffs, and precipices abound. Just keep your eyes on the road, because you definitely don’t want to miss the next turn!
hardWhy is Termas Valle de Colina famous?
🇨🇱 Chile
Okay, picture this: you're in Chile, itching for an adventure, and someone whispers about natural hot springs nestled high in the Andes. That's Termas Valle de Colina, sitting pretty at 2,500 meters! Getting there is half the fun. You'll cruise from Santiago for about 76 kilometers (almost 50 miles!) towards Argentina, following Camino Al Volcán (Ruta G-25). The road hugs a river, snaking its way deeper and deeper into the mountains. It's paved at first, but don't get too comfy. The last 10 kilometers are rocky, unpaved, and begging for a 4x4. Seriously, leave the sedan at home. Expect some steep sections! Once you arrive, it's a short 3-kilometer hike to a killer viewpoint of the San José Volcano. But the real reward? Nine natural thermal pools, terraced down the mountainside, with water temps hitting up to 50°C. Imagine soaking in those mineral-rich waters with snow-capped peaks all around – bliss! Word to the wise: check the weather. Even in summer, it can get chilly up there, especially at night. The weather can change fast, from sunny skies to misty rain, or even snow. In winter, the road's usually closed, so plan accordingly. This isn't just a drive, it's an experience!