
Wiswillani Pass
Peru, south-america
N/A
4,807 m
hard
Year-round
Okay, adventure junkies, listen up! If you're heading to the Arequipa Region of Peru and craving some serious off-road thrills, Paso Wiswillani (also known as Q'asa) is calling your name!
This beast of a mountain pass tops out at a whopping 4,807 meters (15,771 feet) above sea level. We're talking serious altitude here. The road itself? Well, let's just say it's not for the faint of heart. We're talking gravel, rocks, bumps, and plenty of tippy sections along Route 34E. Think a good 4x4 is optional? Think again! You'll need it, especially if it's wet and muddy.
This isn't a joyride for Sunday drivers; it's a proper climb, and it's steep! But hey, if you're an experienced wheeler who loves a challenge and isn't afraid of heights, you'll be rewarded with incredible views of the desolate but beautiful Andean countryside. Just be aware that winter can make this pass totally impassable. Trust me, the views are worth the challenge!
Where is it?
Wiswillani Pass is located in Peru (south-america). Coordinates: -11.0240, -75.4240
Road Details
- Country
- Peru
- Continent
- south-america
- Max Elevation
- 4,807 m
- Difficulty
- hard
- Coordinates
- -11.0240, -75.4240
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