Where is Guallatiri Volcano?
Chile, south-america
17.1 km
5,240 m
moderate
Year-round
Alright, adventure seekers, listen up! Deep in the Arica and Parinacota Region of northern Chile, practically spitting distance from Bolivia, lies the majestic Guallatiri volcano. And guess what? You can get seriously close!
We're talking about a rough and rugged, unpaved track snaking up its northern flank. You'll need a 4x4 beast with high clearance for this one - leave the rental sedan at home. This isn't just any dirt road; it's a climb to a staggering 5,240m (17,191ft) above sea level, making it one of Chile's highest drivable roads.
Starting near Churiguaya, you'll grind your way up for 17.1 km (10.62 miles), gaining a whopping 1007 meters in altitude. That's an average incline of almost 6%! The views within Lauca National Park are absolutely mind-blowing, but keep your eyes peeled for oncoming traffic. Finding a spot to pass can be a bit of a puzzle sometimes. Guallatiri has been known to rumble a bit (last eruption in '85!), so you're definitely visiting a living, breathing landscape. Get ready for an unforgettable Andean experience!
Road Details
- Country
- Chile
- Continent
- south-america
- Length
- 17.1 km
- Max Elevation
- 5,240 m
- Difficulty
- moderate
Related Roads in south-america
moderateDriving the forbidden border road to Portezuelo de Chaxas in the Andes
🇧🇴 Bolivia
Okay, adventure junkies, listen up! If you're hunting for a seriously off-the-beaten-path experience, check out the Portezuelo de Chaxas. This wild border crossing sits way up in the Andes, clocking in at a lung-busting 4,494 meters (that's 14,744 feet!). You'll find it straddling the line between Chile's Antofagasta Region and Bolivia's Potosí Department. Fair warning: this isn't a Sunday drive. The road is rough, rugged, and completely unpaved, so you'll need a 4x4 to even think about attempting it. Be advised, though, that the road is closed to private vehicles due to dangerous conditions. There's even a mined area on the Chilean side. Still, the scenery is absolutely epic, with stunning views that stretch for miles.
extremeAbra del Calvario
🇦🇷 Argentina
Okay, buckle up for Abra del Calvario in Jujuy, Argentina! This mountain pass is a beast, topping out at a staggering 4,423 meters (14,511 feet). You'll find it along Ruta Nacional 40, and fair warning, it's a gravel and sand road. The good news is that it's usually maintained well enough that a 2WD with decent clearance can handle it, as long as you take it slow and steady. But listen up: altitude is a *serious* factor here. The air is thin, *really* thin. If you've got any respiratory or heart issues, maybe skip this one. Even if you're in great shape, be prepared to feel the altitude. We're talking about 40% less oxygen than you're used to! Your heart will be pounding, and even simple movements will feel like a workout. Between the elevation, unpredictable weather, steep grades, and remote location, this pass is no joke. But if you're prepared for a challenge and want some seriously epic views, Abra del Calvario might just be your next unforgettable adventure. Just be sure to listen to your body and take it easy!
extremeHow long is South Yungas Road?
🇧🇴 Bolivia
Alright thrill-seekers, buckle up for the South Yungas Road in Bolivia's La Paz Department! This isn't your average Sunday drive. We're talking about a totally unpaved, 25km (15-mile) stretch of pure adrenaline, nestled in the Sud Yungas region. Think you've mastered hairpin turns? This road laughs in the face of your measly switchbacks! Over 50 of them are packed into this route as it climbs to 1,869m (6,131ft). South of the infamous "Death Road," this one's just as wild. Expect seriously tight squeezes, a ton of traffic, and some seriously exposed edges – we're talking 600-meter (1,830-foot) drops! Oh, and did I mention the creek crossing? A few insider tips: uphill traffic ALWAYS has the right of way. And if there's room to pass, switch positions in the road so you can judge how close you are to the edge. Also, for the love of adventure, check the weather before you go! Rain can make this already crazy road even more treacherous. Get ready for views that will take your breath away...if the road doesn't first!
moderateRuta Provincial 48
🇦🇷 Argentina
Okay, picture this: you're cruising through the wild heart of Chubut Province in southern Argentina on Ruta Provincial 48. This isn't your average Sunday drive, folks. We're talking about a 118km stretch of pure Patagonian adventure connecting the tiny villages of Las Plumas and Garayalde. Now, fair warning: this road is gravel, so buckle up for a bumpy but beautiful ride! You'll be treated to unreal views of the Gran Lago Salado – a massive salt lake that'll make your jaw drop. But keep your eyes peeled because you'll be crossing a few dry riverbeds along the way. Word to the wise: if it's been raining, this road can get seriously dicey. Think mud, think slippery conditions, think potentially impassable even if you're rocking a 4x4. Seriously, Mother Nature calls the shots here, so check the weather and maybe pack your sense of adventure *extra* tight!