The Drive Up Putana Volcano is Among Earth's Highest Roads on Earth

Volcán Putana is a stratovolcano located on the border between Chile and Boilivia. A former mine access road climbs up to 5.779m (18,959ft) above sea level. It’s one of the highest roads on Earth.

Putana Volcano

Where is Putana Volcano?

The volcano is located on the border between the Potosí Department of Bolivia and the Antofagasta Region of Chile. The volcano is sometimes referred to as Jorqencal or Machuca. Strong fumarolic activity is present at the summit and is visible from far distance. The volcano has large sulfur deposits.

Why is there a road to Putana Volcano?

Sulfur was mined at the summit of the volcano, which is thus accessible by a road on the Chilean side. The former mine access road, heavily used by trucks, tops out at 5.779m (18,959ft) above sea level, just below the summit. Due its inactivity, the road seems no longer passable. It’s one of the highest roads in the country.
Pic: Birgit Droste

 

 

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