What’s the history of Collado del Cóndor?
Venezuela, south-america
50.6 km
4,050 m
easy
Year-round
Okay, picture this: you're in Venezuela, in the Merida region, ready to tackle one of the country's highest roads – Collado del Cóndor, or Pico El Aguila as some call it. We're talking 4,050 meters (13,287 feet) high!
This isn't just some random drive; it's steeped in history. At the summit, you'll find a bronze condor statue marking where Simon Bolivar and his crew crossed the Andes way back in 1813. And, of course, there's a little shop for hot chocolate and souvenirs, plus a cute chapel.
The whole way up is paved, following the 7 National/Troncal road. But don't think it's a breeze. This 50.6 km (31.44 miles) stretch from Apartaderos to Timotes is packed with over 40 hairpin turns, and let's just say guardrails aren't really a "thing" here. Weekends can get crazy busy, so aim for a weekday trip if you can. Budget about 1.5 to 2 hours if you drive straight through.
Is it worth it? Absolutely! The views are insane. The summit overlooks these wild, desert-like mountains, dotted with frailejón plants – those funky high-altitude shrubs you only find in the Andes. And get this: from the top, it's a stunning switchback descent all the way to Lake Maracaibo. Plus, if you're feeling adventurous, a side road near the top takes you even higher to a weather station at 4,208m (13,805ft). Just go for it!
Road Details
- Country
- Venezuela
- Continent
- south-america
- Length
- 50.6 km
- Max Elevation
- 4,050 m
- Difficulty
- easy
Related Roads in south-america
hardLaguna Verde de Azufral: Driving the restricted emerald crater road of Colombia
🇨🇴 Colombia
Deep in southern Colombia's Nariño department, nestled within the Azufral Natural Reserve, lies the stunning Laguna Verde de Azufral, a volcanic lake shimmering with emerald waters. This beauty sits way up high, at 3,970m (that's over 13,000 feet!). The old road, once called Via acceso Laguna Verde, was a legend. Starting near Villa Santa Isabel off Carretera 17, it was about 11.7 km of pure adventure, climbing a hefty 770 meters. Think steep, narrow, unpaved, and only getting rougher as it snaked up the north side of the Azufral Volcano. Before it closed, this track was infamous for its challenges, demanding a serious 4x4 with high clearance to handle those deep ruts and crazy inclines. The reward? A panoramic viewpoint near 4,000m, showcasing all three crater lagoons. But be warned, the weather here is wild – expect sudden snow, fierce winds, and a quick chill any time of year! This road to Laguna Verde is now closed to vehicles. The decision protects its unique environment and the striking color of the water, which was sadly being impacted. While it remains a part of Colombia's 4x4 history, it is now a reminder that these high-altitude volcanic paradises need to be protected. Even though you can't drive it anymore, the Nariño department still offers mind-blowing mountain views! If you're exploring near Villa Santa Isabel, pack waterproof gear and warm layers – that high-altitude climate is no joke. And, of course, respect those "No Entry" signs in the Reserva Natural del Azufral!
extremeCruce de los Andes-Paso de los Piuquenes
🇦🇷 Argentina
Okay, adventure seekers, let's talk about the Cruce de los Andes Paso de los Piuquenes, nestled high in the Argentinian Andes, in the province of Mendoza! This pass hits a whopping 4,350m (14,271ft) above sea level, so get ready for some serious altitude! The road? Well, let's just say it's not for the faint of heart. We're talking gravel, rocks, bumps, and maybe a few tippy moments. You'll need a 4x4 and some solid experience with unpaved mountain roads. Forget about this route from October to June, unless you're a fan of impassable conditions (weather depending, of course). It's steep, and the last stretch is more of a hiking path than a road. Keep an eye on the sky – thunderstorms can turn those unpaved surfaces into a 4x4-only zone, or worse. And even in summer, ice and snow can be a factor, so be cautious. This pass, also called Portillo Argentino, connects Tunuyán in Argentina with San Gabriel in Chile. But a word of warning: if you have respiratory issues or heart problems, this might be one to skip. The air is THIN up there. Altitude sickness is a real concern, and even your engine might struggle with the low oxygen. The summit has about 40% less oxygen than sea level, making breathing a chore. Your pulse will be racing, and even simple movements will feel harder. This high altitude, combined with the unpredictable weather and steep grades, makes this pass a challenging but rewarding adventure.
hardA wild mining road to Abra de La Deidad in the Andes
🇨🇱 Chile
Alright, adventure junkies, listen up! If you're in Chile's Coquimbo Region and crave some serious altitude, you HAVE to check out Abra de La Deidad. This bad boy clocks in at a whopping 4,907 meters (that's 16,099 feet!), making it one of Chile's highest roads. Nestled in the heart of the Andes, practically kissing the Argentinian border near Los Cuartitos, this isn't your average Sunday drive. We're talking a completely unpaved, rugged mining road. Expect a challenging journey, folks – think narrow stretches, seriously steep inclines, and hairpin turns galore. But here's the catch: due to its extreme elevation, you can only tackle this beast during the summer months (December to April). The rest of the year, Mother Nature slams the door shut with heavy snow. And even in summer, be prepared for biting winds and bone-chilling cold. The views? Absolutely epic. The bragging rights? Totally worth it.
hardHow long is the road from Santa Maria to Santa Teresa?
🇵🇪 Peru
Okay, thrill-seekers, listen up! If you find yourself in the Cusco Region of central Peru and are feeling *extra* adventurous, you HAVE to check out the road from Santa Maria to Santa Teresa. This isn't your average Sunday drive, folks. Forget smooth tarmac – we're talking a completely unpaved, rugged track stretching for about 22.6 kilometers (or roughly 14 miles) between these two towns in the La Convención Province. Plan for about an hour to an hour and fifteen minutes to conquer it, assuming you don't stop to catch your breath (and trust me, you might need to!). What makes it so wild? Well, for starters, you'll be climbing to a staggering 1,748 meters (that's 5,734 feet!) above sea level. Add to that some serious exposure with massive drops down to the Urubamba River below, and a distinct lack of guardrails in many spots, and you've got yourself a nail-biting experience. If you're afraid of heights or landslides, maybe sit this one out! But if you're up for a challenge and incredible views, this is one road you won't soon forget!