Where is Tacora Volcano?

Where is Tacora Volcano?

Chile, south-america

Length

18.6 km

Elevation

5,590 m

Difficulty

extreme

Best Season

Year-round

Okay, adventure seekers, listen up! Deep in the Arica y Parinacota Region of Chile, practically spitting distance from Peru, lies the mighty Volcan Tacora. This northernmost volcano of Chile isn't just a pretty face; it's an active one, simmering with fumaroles and hints of past eruptions.

Now, the real kicker? A crazy mining road claws its way up this beast, all the way to a staggering 5.590m (18,339ft)! Yeah, you read that right—it's one of the highest drives you can find in South America.

Forget smooth asphalt; this is a rugged, unpaved climb, a true test for you and your 4x4. Picture this: 18.6 km (11.55 miles) from Chislluma packed with endless hairpin turns, stomach-dropping cliffs, and an average gradient of 7.02%. It's not for the faint of heart, but the views? Absolutely insane! You'll find sulfur mines dotting the landscape between Tacora and Chupiquiña, and you might even spot some hot springs bubbling on the eastern side. Get ready for an Andean adventure you won't soon forget.

Share this road

Road Details

Country
Chile
Continent
south-america
Length
18.6 km
Max Elevation
5,590 m
Difficulty
extreme

Related Roads in south-america

Mamuil Malal Pass: a border road in the Andesmoderate

Mamuil Malal Pass: a border road in the Andes

🇦🇷 Argentina

Okay, adventurers, listen up! Let me tell you about Paso Mamuil Malal, also known as Paso Tromen, a totally awesome international mountain pass chilling at 1,253m (4,111ft) between Chile and Argentina. You'll find this gem hanging out north of the Lanín Volcano, connecting the Araucanía Region in Chile with the Neuquén Province in Argentina. Pro tip: double-check the time zones at the tourist offices before you go, because Chile loves to switch things up seasonally! The road stretches for about 85 km (53 miles) from Curarrehue in Chile to Malleo in Argentina. On the Chilean side, Ruta CH-199 will get you started from the Pan-American Highway near Freire, and it's been fully paved since 2017 - smooth sailing! Once you cross into Argentina, you'll be cruising on Ruta 60. Heads up: the final 12 km (7.5 miles) to the pass are unpaved, but word on the street is they're planning to change that. Keep in mind that this pass can get snowy in the winter, so closures are possible, and snow chains are a must during those colder months. All that said, the views high up in the Andes are absolutely unforgettable!

A pretty unpaved road to Laguna Marcapomacochahard

A pretty unpaved road to Laguna Marcapomacocha

🇵🇪 Peru

Okay, picture this: you're in Peru, Junín Region, Yauli Province. You're headed towards Laguna Marcapomacocha, a stunning mountain lake shimmering way up at 14,665 feet! The road? Well, let's just say it's an *adventure*. We're talking unpaved, rugged terrain where you'll definitely want a 4x4. Seriously. It clings to the cliffs without guardrails, so keep your eyes on the road! The climb is brutal. The air gets thin, *real* thin. Be prepared for that altitude sickness to kick in – most people start feeling it well before you even reach the lake. But honestly? The scenery is breathtaking. Jagged peaks, vast skies... it's worth the challenge! Get ready for an unforgettable ride.

An awe-inspiring drive to Punta Olimpica in the Andeshard

An awe-inspiring drive to Punta Olimpica in the Andes

🇵🇪 Peru

Okay, picture this: you're in Ancash, Peru, smack-dab in the middle of Huascarán National Park. You're about to tackle Ruta Departamental AN-107, heading towards Punta Olimpica, one of Peru's highest paved roads, topping out at a staggering 15,525 feet! This isn't just any road trip; it's an adventure that’ll take your breath away – literally! We're talking stunning views of Huascarán, Peru’s highest mountain, and a climb so steep (maxing out at a 6.3% gradient) you'll feel like you're scaling the sky. Get ready for "Sector de las Mil Curvas" – the "1000 turns section"! It’s a 26km stretch of pure adrenaline with 46 hairpin turns. Seriously, hold on tight! The whole drive is about 76.2km (47.34 miles) from Carhuaz to San Martín de Chacas. Heads up: this road has a bit of history! Construction started way back in 1910 but wasn't finished until 1984. The pavement is mostly good, but there's a short, 2km stretch that's still unpaved. And, get this, near the top, you'll cruise through the Tunnel Punta Olimpica – a 1,384-meter marvel and one of the world's highest tunnels! Keep in mind that at this altitude, the air is thin. If you're not used to it, take it easy or grab some altitude sickness meds. Rainy or snowy weather can shut this road down, so plan accordingly. But if you're up for the challenge, the views are worth every twist and turn!

How to get by car to Cumbre Chuchu in the Andes?hard

How to get by car to Cumbre Chuchu in the Andes?

🇧🇴 Bolivia

Alright, adventure junkies, buckle up for Cumbre Chuchu in Bolivia's La Paz Department! This ain't your average Sunday drive. We're talking a sky-high mountain pass hitting a whopping 15,265 feet (4,653m). Locals also call the summit Ch’uch’u Apachita or Abra Chuchu. You'll find this beast in the Larecaja Province, tucked into western Bolivia. Forget smooth asphalt; this is a pure, unadulterated dirt road experience. Get ready for a serious workout – think endless twists, hairpin turns that'll make your head spin, plus narrow stretches and some seriously steep climbs. Trust me, you'll need a 4x4 for this one. This epic 18-mile (30km) stretch kicks off from Sorata and winds its way north of the main Cordillera Real range in the Andes. The scenery is breathtaking, but keep your eyes on the road!