Is the road to Abra del Calvario on Ruta 40 paved?
Abra del Calvario is a high-altitude mountain pass rising to 4,423m (14,511ft) above sea level in the Jujuy province of northern Argentina. This remote section of the legendary Ruta Nacional 40 is a true test of endurance for both vehicle and driver. Crossing the Puna landscape, the road is far from the paved highways found elsewhere in the country, offering a raw experience where the altitude and the shifting surface are the primary obstacles.
| Road facts: Abra del Calvario | |
|---|---|
| Location | Jujuy, Argentina |
| Elevation | 4,423m (14,511ft) |
| Road Name | Ruta Nacional 40 (RN40) |
| Length | 67 km (41.6 miles) |
| Surface | Gravel and Sand |
How long is the road through Abra del Calvario?
The high-altitude stretch through the pass spans 67 km (41.6 miles), running north-south from Coranzuli to Casa Quemada. As part of the iconic Ruta 40, this journey is a slow grind. Even though the road is maintained, you cannot expect to maintain high speeds. The vast distance between settlements means you must be entirely self-sufficient, as mechanical assistance or fuel are non-existent along this section of the Puna de Atacama.
What is the road surface like on the Abra del Calvario?
The surface is a challenging mix of loose gravel and deep sand. One of the most frustrating hazards is the "serrucho" or washboarding—ripples in the road caused by wind and traffic that can vibrate a vehicle to pieces if you don't find the right speed. While a high-clearance 2WD can technically manage the route in dry conditions, a 4x4 is highly recommended to deal with the sandy patches that can bog down a lighter car. Deep ruts and sudden dips in the track require constant steering corrections to avoid losing the line.
Is the altitude at Abra del Calvario dangerous for drivers?
At over 4,400 meters, the lack of oxygen is the silent enemy on this pass. Your engine will lose a massive amount of power, making the long, sandy climbs feel like a struggle for the vehicle to stay in gear. Drivers must be aware of altitude sickness; the thin air can cause dizziness and slow down your decision-making. It is essential to carry extra fuel, as the engine consumes much more than usual when fighting for power in the high Puna. The isolation here is absolute, and the environment is unforgiving for those who ignore the mechanical strain of the climb.
What are the weather hazards on the road to Abra del Calvario?
The weather in the Jujuy highlands is extreme and unpredictable. Strong winds are a constant, often blowing sand across the track and reducing visibility. During the summer months, sudden storms can turn the dry dust into a muddy trap, while in winter, freezing temperatures can make the ground as hard as concrete. If you see clouds building up over the surrounding peaks, reconsider the crossing. The 67 km between Coranzuli and Casa Quemada offer no shelter, and the track can become impassable in minutes if the Andean weather turns violent.