
Where is Portezuelo de Chaxas?
Bolivia, south-america
N/A
4,494 m
moderate
Year-round
Okay, picture this: you're straddling the border between Chile and Bolivia, way up in the Andes at a staggering 14,744 feet! That's Portezuelo de Chaxas, a seriously remote mountain pass that connects the Antofagasta Region of Chile with the Potosí Department of Bolivia.
Now, heads up: this isn't your average Sunday drive. The road is a rough, unpaved dirt track that demands a 4x4 and a healthy dose of adventure. In fact, the border crossing itself is closed to private vehicles due to some seriously sketchy conditions. Word is there's even a mined area on the Chilean side - fenced off and clearly marked, of course - covering a good chunk of land. So, while the scenery is undoubtedly epic, this is one border crossing best left to the pros... or maybe just admired from afar!
Road Details
- Country
- Bolivia
- Continent
- south-america
- Max Elevation
- 4,494 m
- Difficulty
- moderate
Related Roads in south-america
moderateRoad trip guide: Conquering Mina Centinela
🇨🇱 Chile
Alright, adventure junkies, listen up! If you're heading to the Atacama Region of Chile and have a serious thirst for altitude, you HAVE to check out the road to Mina Centinela. This high-mountain copper mine isn't just about digging up treasure; it's about the breathtaking journey to get there. South of the majestic Copiapó volcano (Cerro Azufre, if you're feeling fancy), this mining road climbs to a whopping 5,430 meters (that's 17,814 feet!) above sea level. Just imagine the views! You'll find the start of the road where it peels off from the C-347. Nestled in the stunning Nevado Tres Cruces National Park, the road is completely unpaved, so buckle up for a bumpy ride. But trust me, it's worth it for the sweeping panoramas of Laguna del Negro Francisco. Just be aware that it's a working mine, so watch out for heavy equipment and mining traffic. But hey, think of the stories you'll have!
extremeHow to Get to Paron Lagoon in Ancash by Car
🇵🇪 Peru
Okay, picture this: You're in Peru, near the town of Caraz, ready for an adventure. You're heading to Laguna Parón, a stunning turquoise lake tucked away in Huascarán National Park, one of the biggest in the Cordillera Blanca. The road? Oh, it's an experience. We're talking nearly 30 kilometers of unpaved, winding, gravel road that’ll get your heart pumping. Get ready for over 100 hairpin turns as you climb from Caraz up to a staggering 4,200 meters (that's almost 14,000 feet!). The average incline is about 7.5%, but don't let that fool you. You'll be driving through a dramatic canyon with granite walls that soar a kilometer above you. The views are insane – think steep, almost vertical drops alongside a narrow valley. And the hairpins? They just keep coming, each one offering an even more spectacular (and slightly terrifying) glimpse of the surrounding peaks. Speaking of peaks, keep your camera ready! You'll be treated to jaw-dropping views of Artesonraju (yep, the Paramount logo mountain!), Chacraraju, Pisco, and Huandoy. Trust me, you'll want to stop every few minutes for photos. This isn't just a drive; it's a visual feast of the Peruvian Andes.
hardPasochoa Volcano
🇪🇨 Ecuador
Alright, adventure seekers, listen up! I've got a wild one for you: the road to Volcan Pasochoa, an old volcano nestled in the stunning Ecuadorian Andes. We're talking about reaching a whopping 3,234 meters (that's over 10,600 feet!) above sea level. Now, this isn't your Sunday drive. The road is a mix of cobblestones and rough dirt, so buckle up for a bumpy ride. It's definitely a trail for experienced off-roaders, so if unpaved mountain roads make you nervous, maybe sit this one out. A 4x4 is an absolute must! Also, if heights aren't your thing, be warned: this climb is steep. Keep an eye on the weather too, because thunderstorms can quickly turn this road into a four-wheel-drive-only zone or even make it impassable. Once you reach the top, you'll find a collection of antennas, but the real reward is the panoramic views you'll never forget.
extremeWhere is Abra de Ovejería located?
🇦🇷 Argentina
Alright, adventurers, buckle up for Abra de Ovejería, a seriously high mountain pass clinging to the Salta Province in Argentina! We're talking serious altitude here. You'll find this beast in northern Argentina, practically straddling the border with Jujuy Province. It carves its way through the eastern Andes, offering some killer views of the Salta region. So, what's the road *really* like? It stretches out , connecting the paved road. Forget smooth tarmac – this is a completely unpaved adventure! Think loose soil, gravel, and plenty of sandy sections just waiting to mess with your tires. Seriously, you'll need a 4x4 to conquer those steep inclines and tricky terrain. When should you attempt this epic drive? Summer and autumn are your best bet. Winter and spring bring snow and crazy weather, making the pass totally impassable for most vehicles. Get ready for some unforgettable scenery—and a healthy dose of adrenaline!