How to drive the unpaved LM-120 from Tinco to San Mateo?
The LM-120 is a massive high-altitude transit located in the Department of Lima, Peru. Stretching for 140 km (87 miles) from Tinco to San Mateo, this unpaved route is a true Andean challenge. While technically navigable by passenger cars in dry weather, a high-clearance 4x4 vehicle is strongly recommended to manage the loose gravel, steep gradients, and the thin air of the highlands.
| Road facts: LM-120 (Tinco to San Mateo) | |
|---|---|
| Location | Lima Department, Peru |
| Length | 140 km (87 miles) |
| Max Elevation | 4,930 m (16,174 ft) |
| Surface | Unpaved / Gravel |
What are the main mountain passes on the LM-120?
Driving the full 140 km of the LM-120 involves conquering two major high-altitude passes. The technical high point is Punta Ushuayca, sitting at a staggering 4,930m (16,174ft) above sea level. At this altitude, your engine will struggle with power loss due to hypoxia. The second major hurdle is Abra Suijo (also known as Abra Suyoc), which reaches 4,706m (15,439ft). These sections are characterized by narrow lanes carved into the mountainside with sheer drops and no guardrails, requiring a steady hand and constant focus on the roadbed.
Which lakes can you find along the LM-120 route?
One of the best reasons to drive this remote road is the chain of high-altitude lakes that sit right next to the track. As you climb from Tinco, you will pass Laguna Paucarcocha at 4,284m (14,055ft), a perfect spot to take a break and let the brakes cool down. Further north, the road skirts Laguna Tototral (4,342m) and Laguna Chuspi (4,395m). These lakes are spectacular, but remember that the weather at 4,000 meters can change in minutes—sudden rain can turn the gravel surface into a slippery mess, making the 140 km transit much more dangerous.
Where is the best viewpoint on the LM-120?
For the best views of the valley, the Mirador de Carhuayno is the place to stop. Located at 3,695m (12,122ft), it offers a massive panorama of the Andean peaks. It’s a great logistical point to check your vehicle's vitals before tackling the final ascent to the 4,900m summits. The LM-120 provides a raw, unfiltered look at the Peruvian highlands, but it demands respect; the road is often only wide enough for one vehicle, and meeting a local truck on a blind bend means someone will have to perform a long-distance reversing maneuver.
Driving tips for the Lima to San Mateo transit
Technically, the 140 km drive requires a vehicle in top mechanical condition. The sustained climbs put a massive thermal load on your cooling system, and the descents require heavy use of engine braking to avoid brake fade. Logistically, there are no services or fuel stations between the main villages, so you must carry extra supplies. The road surface is mostly unpaved gravel, so check your tire pressure and sidewall integrity—the sharp Andean rocks are known for causing punctures. The best time to drive the LM-120 is during the dry season (May to September) to avoid the high risk of landslides and washed-out sections.