How to drive the unpaved RP13A Road to Abra de la Santa Cruz
Abra de la Santa Cruz is a high mountain pass at an elevation of 4,597 meters (15,082 ft) above sea level, located in Argentina.
Where is Abra de la Santa Cruz?
The pass is located on the boundary between Jujuy and Salta provinces, in the northern part of the country.
How long is the road to Abra de la Santa Cruz?
The road through the pass is called Ruta Provincial 13A (RP13A). The road runs east–west for 46 kilometers (28 miles) long, connecting Abra del Sauce (in Salta Province) to Casillas (in Jujuy Province).
Is the road to Abra de la Santa Cruz unpaved?
The road is entirely unpaved and presents significant driving difficulties. The track features narrow parts, dangerously steep sections, and countless turns as it climbs and descends the high Andes mountains.
Can I drive my vehicle on the road to Abra de la Santa Cruz?
A 4x4 vehicle is strongly recommended to navigate the varying surfaces, which often include loose gravel and rocky sections.
How challenging is the elevation at Abra de la Santa Cruz?
Set high in the Andes Mountains of Northern Argentina, travelers must be prepared for the risks associated with extreme altitude sickness (Soroche), which affects most people above 4,000 meters. Due to the isolation of the Jujuy-Salta high plateau, emergency services, fuel, and supplies are extremely rare or non-existent. Travelers should carry extra water, fuel, and medical supplies, and always check weather forecasts, as the weather can change rapidly in the Andes.
Pic: Vicky Yened