Driving the Camino a Pacaraos: A terrifying cliff road in Peru
Pacaraos is a remote high-mountain town sitting at an elevation of 3,331m (10,928ft) above sea level in the Huaral Province of Peru. The road to reach this settlement, known as Camino a Pacaraos, is famous for its extreme narrowness and the vertiginous drops that flank the route.
| Road facts: Camino a Pacaraos | |
|---|---|
| Location | Huaral Province, Peru |
| Length | 2.6 km (1.6 miles) |
| Elevation | 3,331 m (10,928 ft) |
| Surface | Gravel / Unpaved |
| Hazard Level | Extreme (Vertical drops) |
Where does the road to Pacaraos start?
The journey begins at the junction with the Carretera 20C. From this point, the Camino a Pacaraos is only 2.6 km long, but the short distance is deceiving due to the technical and psychological challenges of the terrain as it winds up toward the town.
How dangerous is the drive to Pacaraos?
This road is considered one of the most dangerous in the region. In many sections, the track is only wide enough for a single vehicle, offering no room for error. The most terrifying aspect is the 300-meter drop immediately beside the road, which is completely unprotected by guardrails or any other safety barriers.
What is the road surface like?
The surface is entirely unpaved gravel. Due to its location in the Andes, the road becomes extremely slippery after even light rainfall. Thunderstorms can quickly transform the gravel into a muddy track that requires 4x4 capabilities or, in the worst cases, makes the road completely impassable.
Has there been accidents on this road?
Tragically, the Camino a Pacaraos has a history of serious accidents. Several buses and cars have lost traction or drifted too close to the edge, resulting in fatal plunges down the cliffs. Drivers must exercise extreme caution and be prepared for the psychological pressure of driving alongside such massive drops.
Is a 4x4 required to reach Pacaraos?
While the road is short, a 4x4 vehicle is highly recommended, especially if there is any moisture in the air. The combination of steep, winding sections and a loose gravel surface means that traction is often compromised. Words and pictures rarely do justice to the true intensity of this mountain drive.
Pic: gerardolipe