Where is Chungara Lake?
Chile, south-america
25 km
4,517 m
hard
Year-round
Okay, picture this: you're in the far north of Chile, practically knocking on Bolivia's door, smack-dab in the middle of Lauca National Park. You're headed to Lago Chungará, a shimmering jewel of a lake sitting way, way up at 14,820 feet! Seriously, this lake is one of the highest in South America.
The road you'll be cruising on is Ruta 11, also known as Carretera Internacional CH11. It's a fully paved 15.5-mile stretch heading east from Putre, which is already one of the highest towns you'll ever see. Expect some company, especially from trucks rumbling along.
Now, listen up: altitude is the name of the game here. We're talking thin air, so give your car a once-over before you go, especially if it's got a carburetor. And fuel? Fill 'er up in Arica because gas stations are ghosts along these roads. Pack extra if you're planning a longer trek.
But trust me, the views are worth it! Keep your camera handy for those postcard-perfect shots of volcanoes mirroring in the lake. Just remember the weather up here can be wild, so be prepared and soak it all in!
Road Details
- Country
- Chile
- Continent
- south-america
- Length
- 25 km
- Max Elevation
- 4,517 m
- Difficulty
- hard
Related Roads in south-america
hardRoad trip guide: Conquering Quebrada del Peñon
🇨🇱 Chile
Alright, adventure junkies, buckle up for Quebrada del Peñon! This high-altitude pass clocks in at a staggering 12,440 feet in Chile's Atacama Desert. The landscape is insane, nestled within the Nevado Tres Cruces National Park. Now, about the road itself: it's called C-601, and it's a gravel and sand track. Think rugged and remote! Be warned – this baby can get seriously muddy and slippery after a rain shower, turning it into a real challenge. And during or after a storm? Forget about it, even 4x4s might be out of luck. Weather-wise, prepare for extremes. Daytime highs can hit a balmy 30°C (86°F), but nighttime temps plummet, especially in winter when it can dip below freezing. Plus, the area is known for some serious winds, so hold onto your hats! Overall, Quebrada del Peñon is a wild ride with incredible scenery and a true test for the adventurous spirit. Get ready for an unforgettable experience!
moderateAn Andean border road to Cardenal Antonio Samore Pass
🇦🇷 Argentina
Okay, picture this: you're cruising along Paso Cardenal Antonio Samoré, a seriously scenic mountain pass straddling the Chile-Argentina border. We're talking about one of the easiest ways to cross the southern Andes, and get this – it's paved the whole way! You'll climb to a modest 1,306m (4,284ft), linking Chile's Los Lagos Region with the stunning Patagonia region of Argentina. The route is known as Ruta 215 on the Chilean side and seamlessly transitions to Ruta Nacional 231 once you cross into Argentina. The pass stretches for 102 km (63 miles) between Entre Lagos in Chile and Villa La Angostura in Argentina. Keep an eye out for the operating times – typically 9 am to 8 pm, but winter weather can definitely throw a curveball. The pass got its name from Cardinal Antonio Samoré, a peacekeeper between Chile and Argentina in the 70s and 80s. Get ready for some incredible views!
extremeHow challenging is the road to Abra Mañazo?
🇵🇪 Peru
Hit the heights in Puno Province, Peru, on the Abra Mañazo pass, soaring to a staggering 4,518m (14,822ft)! This isn't your average Sunday drive. We're talking a proper Andean adventure, deep in the desolate heart of southern Peru. Picture this: You're cruising (or, let's be real, carefully navigating) through the Altiplano, surrounded by rocky peaks as far as the eye can see. Don't let the "Panamericana" signs fool you; this is a raw, unadulterated mountain track where alpacas outnumber cars. This 55.2 km (34.29 miles) stretch of road demands respect. A high-clearance, 4WD vehicle is a must. While the average slope is a gentle 2%, the surface is rough and ready to test your driving skills. The real kicker? Serious drop-offs. The track can be narrow, and without barriers, it’s just you, your tires, and a long way down. Extra caution is key, especially when the rains come and turn the gravel into a slippery nightmare. But hey, the views! This east-west route connects the town of … to the 34C road junction and serves up some seriously breathtaking panoramic vistas of the Andes. Keep your eyes peeled for Laguna Pumacocha, two high-altitude lakes teeming with surprisingly diverse birdlife. It’s a quiet, remote, and stunning drive that embodies the Peruvian highlands, but it’s definitely not for the faint of heart.
moderateAbra Achallaque
🇵🇪 Peru
Alright, adventure junkies, listen up! Ever dreamed of touching the sky? Then you HAVE to check out Abra Achallaque in the Arequipa region of Peru. This isn't your average Sunday drive; we're talking serious altitude here – a whopping 16,279 feet above sea level! The road? Well, let's just say it's more "rustic charm" than "smooth sailing." Think gravel and sand under your tires. But hey, it's generally in okay shape, so no need to bring a mechanic... maybe. What you *will* need is a camera, because the views are absolutely insane. Think epic mountain vistas and landscapes that'll make your jaw drop. Just remember to take it slow, enjoy the ride, and maybe pack some extra layers for that high-altitude chill!