Punta Cauchari
Punta Cauchari is a high mountain pass at an elevation of 4.047m (13,277ft) above the sea level, located in Salta Province in northwestern Argentina.
The road to the summit, located within the Los Flamencos National Reserve, is gravel, rocky, tippy and bumpy at times. It’s called Ruta Provincial 27 (RP27). Road conditions are always changing. Winter comes early and stays late on this trail, so you may only be able to safely run it in the middle of the summer. 4x4 vehicle recommended. Due to the high elevations and exposure, the road is subject to strong winds and rapid weather changes. Be prepared for the cold and wind! High winds blow here all year long. Even in summer you can confront with snowy days. Temperatures here in the winter are brutally cold. Adverse weather conditions can prompt closure of the road. It can often be treacherous, with ice and snow accumulating even in the summer, so exercise caution as you make your way.
Located in Los Andes mountain range, do not take this drive if you have respiratory problems or any type of heart condition. Babies under 4 months of age should not make the ascent, either. Notorius lack of oxygen that tests the organisms and a high degree of steepness. Most people feel altitude sickness at around 2,500-2,800 meters. Extremely low oxygen for engine combustion. A major hazard of altitude is the sickness that can indiscriminately affect anyone regardless of age or fitness. The summit has about 40% less oxygen than at sea level, thus breathing is more difficult. Your pulse rate will increase and movement will be more laborious at the summit. The high elevation with its risk of altitude sickness, weather concerns, steep road grade, and overall inaccessibility make the travel dangerous and difficult.
Pic: Marcelo Przedzmirski