Highest roads of Argentina
Argentina, south-america
4,000 km
4,694 m
hard
Year-round
Okay, Argentina, you wild thing! This country's the second biggest in South America and it's showing off with the Andes Mountains carving out its entire western edge. Think colossal peaks, including Aconcagua (basically the rooftop of the Americas!) and get ready for some serious high-altitude driving!
We're talking rugged, unpaved roads that were mostly carved out for mining or sneaking across the border to Chile. These routes climb sky-high, sometimes topping out above 4,700 meters (that's 15,400 ft for those of you not using the metric system!). Buckle up for a mix of tough mountain passes and trails that'll leave you breathless (literally, thanks to the altitude).
Think places like the Abra de Vacas Heladas (sounds chilly!) and the famous Paso de San Francisco. Picture yourself tackling the crazy narrow road to Iruya in Salta Province, or conquering the epic Cuesta del Lipán to Abra de Potrerillos in Jujuy. Argentina's high roads aren't just drives, they're full-blown adventures!
Road Details
- Country
- Argentina
- Continent
- south-america
- Length
- 4,000 km
- Max Elevation
- 4,694 m
- Difficulty
- hard
Related Roads in south-america
moderateA steep unpaved road to Cerro La Hoya
🇦🇷 Argentina
Okay, adventure seekers, listen up! Tucked away in the Patagonian wilds of Argentina's Chubut Province is Cerro La Hoya, a seriously stunning peak clocking in at 1,650 meters (5,413 feet). You'll find it snuggled in the foothills of the Andes, and getting there is half the fun. The "Camino a la Hoya" is all unpaved road, but don't worry, it's generally in great shape! Apparently, it was once a 4x4 and mountain bike-only kind of track. This road, built in the 50s, leads to the La Hoya ski resort. Starting from Esquel, a cool little town nearby, it's a 14-kilometer (8.69 miles) climb to the top. Get ready for a serious workout for your car – you'll gain 1,041 meters in elevation, with an average gradient of 7.43% and some pitches hitting a maximum of 16%! Heads up - a service road north of the resort can take you even higher, up to 1,890 meters (6,200 feet).
hardWhere is Carretera 37?
🇨🇴 Colombia
Okay, buckle up, adventure awaits on Carretera 37! This wild ride carves its way through the heart of Colombia, nestled in the foothills of the stunning Tierradentro National Archaeological Park and beneath the watchful gaze of Nevado del Tolima, the country's highest volcano. It's a bit of a rollercoaster, this one. Mostly unpaved, it throws in some dirt sections and seriously uneven patches just to keep you on your toes. Think serpentine twists and turns! While parts of it can be, parts of the road are, well, let's just say, challenging. So definitely keep an eye out and check local conditions before you head out. But trust me, the views are totally worth it. This is a road trip you won't soon forget!
hardRoad trip guide: Conquering Cruz de Paramillo in Mendoza
🇦🇷 Argentina
Okay, adventure junkies, listen up! Cruz de Paramillo, nestled way up in the Argentinian Andes in Mendoza Province, is calling your name. We're talking about a wild, unpaved ride called Ruta Provincial 52, but locals know it as Ruta del Año (Route of the Year) and for good reason! This 93km (58-mile) rollercoaster from Uspallata to Mendoza boasts a mind-blowing 365 turns. Seriously, hairpin heaven! You'll climb to 2,960m (9,711ft), where a white cross and cute little chapel mark the summit – a monument to those old Jesuit missionaries. But wait, there's more! Feeling extra adventurous? Take the 3.6 km (2.23 mile) gravel track that branches off to the north. It winds its way up to a scenic lookout point at 3,149m (10,331ft), complete with communication towers. It’s a short but sweet climb, with an average gradient of 5.25%. The reward? Jaw-dropping views, including the majestic Aconcagua peak. Get ready for some serious scenery on this one!
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!