Where is Abra del Condor?
Argentina, south-america
47.4 km
3,942 m
hard
Year-round
Alright, adventure junkies, let me tell you about Abra del Cóndor! This insane mountain pass sits way up high in Argentina, a whopping 3,942 meters (that's 12,933 feet!) above sea level.
You'll find this beast straddling the Jujuy and Salta provinces in the northwest of the country. The road itself? Forget smooth asphalt! We're talking rough and rugged RP133 and RP13 roads, the highest point on this wild route.
Clocking in at 47.4 km (almost 30 miles), this isn't a Sunday drive. Starting from the paved RN9 north of Humahuaca, it'll take you all the way to the charming village of Iruya. Expect a serious workout for your steering wheel: think endless curves, hairpin turns, and scary drop-offs. Oh, and did I mention you'll be fording rivers?
But trust me, the views are worth it! Picture incredible mountain scenery, secluded villages, and crazy off-road trails. The valley views are insane, with cultivated terraces, colorful mountains, and bizarre rock formations sculpted by the wind and time.
The road is usually dry, but watch out for those summer rainstorms that can turn it into an impassable mud bath. Aim for June to October for the best weather window. Get ready for an unforgettable ride!
Road Details
- Country
- Argentina
- Continent
- south-america
- Length
- 47.4 km
- Max Elevation
- 3,942 m
- Difficulty
- hard
Related Roads in south-america
hardClaudio Lucero Refuge
🇨🇱 Chile
Okay, buckle up, adventure junkies! We're heading to Refugio Claudio Lucero, a mountain hut chilling way up high in the Chilean Atacama Region, practically spitting distance from Argentina. We're talking serious altitude here—14,852 feet! Forget smooth asphalt; the road is a sandy, rocky beast. This is strictly for seasoned off-roaders with a 4x4! If unpaved mountain roads aren't your jam, steer clear. The challenge isn't just the terrain, though. The altitude can kick your butt with altitude sickness, and the weather can turn on a dime. Plus, it's seriously remote. But hey, the scenery? Totally worth it! Think vast desert landscapes stretching to the horizon. Snow's rare unless it's winter, so mostly you'll be dealing with dry, dusty conditions. Just remember, you're way out there. Help is a long time coming if anything goes wrong – potentially a day or more – and a helicopter rescue? Forget about it. This wild track is mainly used by climbers tackling the Ojos del Salado volcano. Get ready for an epic (and challenging) ride!
hardLaguna de Querococha
🇵🇪 Peru
Okay, picture this: you're cruising through Huascarán National Park in Peru's Ancash Region, heading towards the ridiculously gorgeous Laguna de Querococha. This isn't just any lake; we're talking about a high-altitude stunner sitting at almost 13,100 feet! The road, Ruta AN110, is your path to paradise. It's paved, so no crazy off-roading needed, but get ready for some serious hairpin action as you climb. Seriously, these turns will keep you on your toes! One word of caution: maybe skip this drive if the weather's looking gnarly. Trust me, you want clear skies to fully appreciate the views.
moderateHow to get by car to Nevado del Ruiz in Colombia?
🇨🇴 Colombia
Okay, picture this: you're in Colombia, ready to tackle what's said to be the highest road in the whole country! We're heading to Nevado del Ruiz, a seriously impressive, snow-capped volcano towering 5,321m (17,457ft) above sea level. This bad boy, also called La Mesa de Herveo or Kumanday, straddles the Caldas and Tolima departments in western Colombia, deep inside Los Nevados National Natural Park. Heads up, the weather here is no joke – even in summer, it can suddenly feel like winter! Plus, this is one of the most active volcanoes in the Americas, so the road can be closed if things get dicey. Starting from Carretera 50, you've got an 18.6 km (11.55 miles) climb ahead. The road starts out paved, but it gets rougher as you go. You'll hit Parador Turístico La Esperanza at 4,117m, which has a barrier that can close if the volcano's acting up. It's also a good spot to take a break, with parking, services, and little bars. From there, it's unpaved all the way, so a 4x4 with high clearance is definitely your friend. The road ends at El Refugio hut, sitting pretty at 4,804m (15,761ft), which is where the hike to the actual summit begins. Get ready for some killer views!
hardHere's How to Have the Ultimate Road Trip to Abra del Gigante
🇦🇷 Argentina
Alright, adventure seekers, buckle up for Abra del Gigante, a seriously epic mountain pass clinging to the border between Jujuy and Salta provinces in northern Argentina! This isn't your Sunday drive – we're talking a wild, unpaved track that climbs to a staggering 4,485m (14,714ft). Think narrow stretches, seriously steep inclines, and more switchbacks than you can count. Seriously, a 4x4 isn't just recommended; it's practically mandatory. The 37km (23-mile) route stretches from Varas in Jujuy, heading north towards Volcán Higueras in Salta. Prepare for views that will blow your mind, alongside the adrenaline rush of tackling a truly challenging road. This one’s for the memory books!