Road trip guide: Conquering Pascua Lama
Pascua Lama is an international high mountain peak at an elevation of 5,256m (17,244ft) above sea level, located on the border of Argentina and Chile. It's one of the highest roads in the country.
Where is Pascua Lama?
The peak is located north of Veladero mine, on the southern reaches of the Atacama Desert, between the Atacama Region in Chile and San Juan Province in Argentina. At the summit, there’s a gold mine.
Is the road to Pascua Lama unpaved?
The road to the summit is totally unpaved. It’s a very steep mining road with 25 hairpin turns. Local residents, who live off the land, worry about the effects of mining on such a fragile ecosystem and the mining company’s plan to displace the glaciers. Along with NGOs and environmental associations, they strongly oppose the project.
How dangerous is it to drive high to Pascua Lama?
Perched high in the Andes Mountains, this drive is not recommended for anyone with respiratory or heart conditions. Infants under four months should also avoid the ascent. The combination of steep gradients and thin air makes it especially demanding — both for travelers and vehicle engines. Altitude sickness commonly begins around 2,500–2,800 meters, where the lack of oxygen becomes noticeable and engine performance can be affected.