The road to Portezuelo Paranal in the Andes will take your breath away
Chile, south-america
160 km
4,832 m
hard
Year-round
Alright, adventure seekers, buckle up for Portezuelo Paranal! This high-altitude pass clocks in at a whopping 4,832m (15,853ft) in the Antofagasta Region of Chile, practically spitting distance from Argentina. You'll find it nestled in the Andes, way up in the northeastern corner of the country.
The road is paved, so no need for a 4x4, but don't get complacent! At this elevation, you're playing in thin air in a Mars-like landscape—totally barren but strangely beautiful.
The whole route is a 156.19 km (97.05 mi) stretch from San Pedro de Atacama to the Argentinian border. It was opened on December 6, 1991 and has been paved since 2005.
Expect intense sun (sunglasses are a must!), crazy winds, and next to zero civilization. We’re talking up to 160 km (100 mi) to the nearest gas station. Phone signal? Forget about it. Pack water, spare tires (at least two!), and your wits. And while it is paved, keep an eye out for some seriously steep sections, reaching a maximum gradient of 12.6%.
The drive itself can be a bit monotonous because it is a long straight road with the same scenery. Located in Los Flamencos National Reserve, it is open year-round but can be closed due to snow. The best views? Definitely on the way down. So, get ready for an unforgettable, if slightly surreal, ride across the Chilean high desert!
Where is it?
The road to Portezuelo Paranal in the Andes will take your breath away is located in Chile (south-america). Coordinates: -36.5158, -67.9520
Road Details
- Country
- Chile
- Continent
- south-america
- Length
- 160 km
- Max Elevation
- 4,832 m
- Difficulty
- hard
- Coordinates
- -36.5158, -67.9520
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