How to drive the remote RP205 to Abra de Rota in Argentina?
Abra de Rota is a high mountain pass at an elevation of 4,405m (14,452ft) above sea level, located on the border between the Salta and Jujuy provinces in northwestern Argentina. Situated near the Bolivian border, this remote crossing is a true gateway to the silence and isolation of the high Puna.
The pass sits in a vast, arid landscape characterized by rolling brown hills and thin air. The road, officially known as Ruta Provincial 205 (RP205), is a lifeline for the small, remote communities in this frontier region. Traveling here means entering a world where the weather dictates the schedule; the intense sun of the day can quickly turn into freezing temperatures or sudden storms that transform the mountain tracks into slippery traps.
| Road facts: Abra de Rota (RP205) | |
|---|---|
| Location | Salta & Jujuy Provinces, Argentina |
| Elevation | 4,405m (14,452ft) |
| Length | 21.5 km (13.3 miles) |
| Elevation Gain | 678 m |
| Average Gradient | 3.15% |
| Surface | Unpaved / Gravel |
What is the road to Abra de Rota like?
The ascent to the pass via the RP205 is a steady climb through the high-altitude desert. Starting from Suripugio in Jujuy Province and passing through Inti Cancha, the road to the summit is 21.5 km (13.3 miles) long. While the average gradient is a gentle 3.15%, the sheer altitude makes the journey demanding for both engines and travelers. The surface is entirely unpaved gravel, often loose and sandy, which requires a high-clearance vehicle, preferably a 4WD, to navigate safely.
Is it dangerous to drive to Abra de Rota?
The main hazards on this route are the extreme altitude and the isolation. Oxygen is in short supply at over 4,400 meters, and altitude sickness (soroche) is a common risk for those not properly acclimated. The road features several technical sections, including the nearby Baden de Viscachani (located 24 km from the pass) and the approach to Rio Grande (9 km away). During the rainy season, these "vados" (dry riverbeds) can fill with water and mud, making the RP205 impassable. Always check local conditions before departure and ensure you carry extra fuel, water, and warm clothing, as assistance in this part of the Andes can be hours or even days away.
Pic: http://www.losviajesdevickyyened.com/2016/08/de-yavi-pucara-san-roque-por-abra-de.html