Where is Caliz Pass?
Peru, south-america
50 km
5,206 m
hard
Year-round
Alright, adventure junkies, listen up! If you're heading to Peru, you NEED to experience Paso Caliz. We're talking about a seriously high mountain pass, topping out at 5,206 meters (that's 17,080 feet!). You'll find it nestled between the Canchis and Quispicanchi provinces, deep in the Cusco Region, practically breathing the same air as the Quelccaya Glacier.
Word to the wise: this road is NO JOKE. It's about 50 kilometers (31 miles) of pure, unadulterated, unpaved Andean adventure. Think killer drop-offs, super tight hairpin turns that will test your driving skills, and sections so steep you'll swear you're going vertical. Oh, and did I mention the altitude? You're gonna feel the thin air up there, so be prepared for some potential altitude sickness!
This epic route, also known as Abra de Caliz or Abra Laccopata, runs from Marcapata (off Carretera 30C) down to CU-125 Road. Winter's a no-go—the snow makes it completely impassable. But if you hit it right, you're in for a visual feast. Just imagine yourself winding through the Cordillera Vilcanota range, surrounded by snow-capped peaks and mind-blowing scenery. Trust me, it's an unforgettable journey!
Road Details
- Country
- Peru
- Continent
- south-america
- Length
- 50 km
- Max Elevation
- 5,206 m
- Difficulty
- hard
Related Roads in south-america
hardWhere does Road BR-319 start and finish?
🇧🇷 Brazil
Ready for a wild ride? Check out the BR-319, a Brazilian highway that's not for the faint of heart! This 857km (532 miles) stretch connects Manaus (the bustling capital of Amazonas) to Porto Velho (the capital of Rondônia) deep in the Amazon. Built in the '70s to open up the rainforest, the BR-319 crosses through Humaitá, Lábrea, and other small cities, offering a glimpse into remote Amazonian life. It opened in 1973, but by 1988 it was impassible. Repairs started in 2008. So, is it drivable? Usually, yes, but during the rainy season, it can turn into a muddy mess. Expect a mix of asphalt, gravel, and sand, plus some serious potholes and missing guardrails to keep you on your toes. Be warned: this isn't your average road trip. Environmental groups are concerned about the impact of rebuilding the highway on deforestation. The original construction wasn't exactly state-of-the-art, built on swampland and prone to floods that washed away bridges. These days, most cargo goes by boat. If you're brave enough to attempt it, be prepared to camp rough and experience the raw beauty (and challenges) of the Amazon. Don't miss the abandoned Viaduct Petrobras for a surreal photo op in the middle of the jungle!
hardRuta Provincial 2
🇦🇷 Argentina
Okay, picture this: you're cruising along the Ruta Provincial 2 in Argentina's Valdes Peninsula, right on the Atlantic coast. This isn't your average Sunday drive – it's a 139km adventure! The road starts with some nice asphalt, but quickly turns into "ripio," which is basically gravel. It connects the Ruta Nacional 3 to the tiny town of Punta Delgada on the Golfo Nuevo. Now, weather here is WILD. Valdes Peninsula is semi-arid, so things change fast, and the wind can be intense. That's why they recommend sticking to 60km/hour. Trust me, a cracked windshield or flat tire will ruin your wildlife spotting! Speaking of which, this route is all about the scenery. You'll have the chance to spot massive marine animals in their natural habitat. It’s usually maintained so a normal car *could* do it if you’re careful and the weather is good. That said, for max comfort and fewer worries, seriously consider renting a 4x4. The gravel can get loose, especially on the edges, and muddy after rain. Basically, come prepared for an adventure!
extremeAbra Mio
🇵🇪 Peru
Alright, adventure junkies, buckle up for Abra Mio in the Huaral Province of Peru! This bad boy tops out at a whopping 4,764 meters (that's 15,629 feet!), so get ready for some serious altitude. The road is gravel, so expect a bumpy ride. If it's been raining or snowing, you might want to bring a 4x4. Speaking of snow, avalanches and landslides are a real possibility here, so keep an eye on the weather. Patches of ice can make things extra dicey! You'll know you've reached the end of the line when you hit the small town of Chungar, accessible from the main Vichaycocha to Cerro de Pasco road. And don't forget to check out the stunning Laguna Chungar on the south side of the pass—it's a view you won't want to miss!
hardLaguna Ashcajocha
🇵🇪 Peru
Okay, adventure seekers, listen up! Deep in the Ayacucho region of Peru, nestled high in the Andes, awaits Laguna Ashcajocha – a stunning high-mountain lagoon sitting pretty at 4,383m (14,379ft). Getting there is, well, an *experience*. We're talking a gravel road that gets rocky, bumpy, and maybe a little tippy in spots. Not for the faint of heart (or those who hate unpaved roads!). A 4x4 is definitely your best friend here. This hidden gem lies along a seriously remote road connecting Chicha (near the Ayacucho/Apurimac border) and Sañayca (just a hop off the Nazca-Abancay highway). Heads up: as you climb, the air gets thin. The altitude will challenge you, especially near the top! Remember to take it slow and listen to your body. But trust me, the views are worth it! Think dramatic escarpments and expansive plateaus – pure Andean magic!