Where is Abra Paves?
Argentina, south-america
13.57 km
N/A
extreme
Year-round
Alright, adventure seekers, listen up! I've got a wild ride for you in the Jujuy province of Argentina, south of Cuesta del Lipán–Abra Potrerillos, deep in the northern part of the country. We're talking about Abra Paves, and let me tell you, it's not for the faint of heart.
Forget smooth tarmac – this baby is all unpaved, with rocks aplenty. It's not so much the steepness that'll get you (though it can hit 10%), but the sheer altitude, the crazy climate, and the middle-of-nowhere isolation.
We're talking extreme oxygen deprivation here. Seriously, you need to take it slow and give your body time to adjust. The weather can change on a dime in this semi-arid Puna region, and the winds? They're strong enough to throw your vehicle around!
And get this: it's remote. Like, really remote. No cell service, no emergency services. If your ride breaks down, you're on your own. That's why a 4x4 isn't just recommended; it's essential for survival.
So, how long is this epic journey? From the paved Ruta Provincial 52, it's about 13.57 km (8.43 mi) uphill, climbing . The average gradient is around 10%.
But trust me, the views are worth it. Just be prepared for a challenge – this road is an adventure in every sense of the word!
Road Details
- Country
- Argentina
- Continent
- south-america
- Length
- 13.57 km
- Difficulty
- extreme
Related Roads in south-america
extremeWhere is the road to Laguna Pallarcocha?
🇵🇪 Peru
Okay, picture this: you're in the Peruvian Andes, Condesuyos Province, Arequipa Region, about to tackle a serious off-road adventure up to Laguna Pallarcocha, a stunning lake chilling at a crazy elevation of 4,740 meters. We're talking the AR-107, a 52-kilometer stretch of pure, unadulterated wilderness heading north-south. Forget smooth tarmac; this is a rough-and-tumble dirt track carved into the Cordillera Ampato's volcanic slopes. It's a vital link for remote communities, but "primitive" is definitely the word. You absolutely NEED a high-clearance 4x4 for this. Seriously. Regular cars need not apply unless you fancy getting stuck. The road's eroded, washboarded, and follows the ridge lines, so you'll be picking your way around rocks and ruts the whole time. Now, the weather? It's the boss up here. Avoid this route during bad weather at all costs! Snow, rain, and dust storms can appear out of nowhere. High winds are constant, and in winter, expect snowdrifts and freezing temperatures (think -15°C!). Oh, and altitude sickness is a real thing – over 15,000 feet will mess with your concentration, and your engine will feel the lack of oxygen too. This isn't just a drive; it's an *experience*. You're totally isolated out here. No services, no cell signal, and very little traffic. The drive demands your full attention. But reaching that lake? It's a serene moment of pure silence, with volcanic peaks reflecting in the water. Just remember to bring enough fuel for the return trip, plus emergency oxygen and warm gear. The weather at Pallarcocha is about as predictable as a toddler after cake.
moderateWhere Is Los Nevados?
🌍 Venezuela
Okay, so Los Nevados is this super cute mountain village nestled way up high in the Venezuelan Andes, like way, way up there! We're talking proper altitude here. You'll find it chilling near the Sierra Nevada National Park, southwest of the cool city of Mérida. Getting there? That's half the adventure! Forget smooth asphalt, the 44.1 km (27.40 miles) road from Apartaderos is a wild ride! Picture this: a super skinny track clinging to the side of mountains, some serious drop-offs that will make your palms sweat (we're talking hundreds of meters down!), and views that will absolutely blow your mind. It’s considered one of the most exciting roads in the country for a reason! Get ready for an unforgettable scenic journey.
moderateA very bumpy, grueling road to Puna Jujeña
🇦🇷 Argentina
Alright, adventure seekers, buckle up for Puna Jujeña! This isn't your average Sunday drive. We're talking about a seriously stunning, sky-high pass in the Rinconada Department of Argentina, clocking in at a breathtaking 4,438 meters (that's 14,560 feet for us imperial folks!). You'll find this gem nestled way up in Jujuy Province, in the northern reaches of the country. The road itself? Well, let's just say it's "rustic." Ruta Nacional 40 (RN40) to be exact – 70 kilometers (or around 43 miles) of pure, unadulterated unpaved road winding its way between Orosmayo and Coranzuli. Prepare for some seriously otherworldly views; picture a lunar landscape unfolding before your very eyes. Just remember to keep your eyes on the road – this is a remote route, so come prepared, and be ready for an unforgettable journey!
moderateThe Wild Road to Edward Whymper Refuge
🇪🇨 Ecuador
Okay, adventure junkies, listen up! Deep in the Ecuadorian Andes, in the province of Chimborazo, lies Refugio Edward Whymper, a mountain hut chilling at a staggering 4,855m (15,928ft). Seriously, it's one of the highest points you can drive to in Ecuador! Perched high in the Cordillera Occidental, this refuge – also known as Carrel Brothers Refuge – is your basecamp for tackling Chimborazo, that massive stratovolcano towering at 6,263m. Fun fact: its summit is actually the furthest point from the Earth's core. Whoa! Getting to this surprisingly well-maintained mountain hut is an adventure in itself. The road is unpaved, but usually in decent shape. You'll need a 4WD with good clearance to handle the steep 7.2 km (4.47 miles). Don't underestimate the altitude – your engine will feel the burn as you climb 485 meters, averaging a 6.73% gradient. Pro tip: fill up your gas tank before you go. Mist and fog can roll in quickly, so keep your eyes peeled. But the views? Absolutely epic. Just imagine the bragging rights when you make it to that parking lot!