Cuesta de Sama
Cuesta de Sama is a high mountain pass at an elevation of 3.889m (12,759ft) above the sea level located in the Tarija Department in Bolivia.
The road to the summit is gravel. It links Iscayachi and San Lorenzo towns. It’s 40.6 km long. There are some narrow sections –totally impassable for 2 cars at the same time. If two vehicles have to pass each other, one might have to reverse for some kilometers of winding narrow road to get to a place wide enough to pass. It shouldn’t be attempted by those who don't know how to reverse.
The surface of the road is gravel. Along this section there have been hundreds of fatalities, as well as material losses valued at many millions. This road tests the skill, and courage, of any driver. It’s definitely not for anyone suffering from vertigo or a fear of landslides. The fog is usual in this section and it’s heavily trafficked by buses and trucks. This track can get very muddy and slippery after rain making it challenging to get through. During and after a storm the road may be impassable, even with a four-wheel-drive vehicle.
Road suggested by: Hugh Wilson
Pic: D@ANIEL JOSE