The Road To Caldera La Pacana Has it All

Caldera La Pacana is a resurgent caldera at an elevation of 4,983m (16,348ft) above sea level, located in the Antofagasta Region of Chile. It’s one of the highest roads in the country.

Caldera La Pacana

Where is Caldera La Pacana?

The caldera is located near Salar de Aguas Calientes, in the eastern part of the Atacama Desert, just north of the Tropic of Capricorn, in the northern part of the country.

Is the road to Caldera La Pacana unpaved?

Set high in the Central Andes, the road to the summit is totally unpaved. It’s a road that doesn’t forgive mistakes. Surrounded by a lunar landscape, the drive is pretty scenic. 4x4 vehicles only. Expect harsh conditions: high winds and cold.

How long is the road to Caldera La Pacana?

The road to the summit is pretty steep. Starting at Ruta 27, the road is 9.65 km (6 miles) long. Over this distance, the elevation gain is 705 meters. The average gradient is 7.30%. Ruta 27 opened in 1991 and was fully paved by 2005.

 

 

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