60.5
PDI
21.4 mi
DISTANCE
7,410 ft
GAINED
6.5 %
AVG. GRADE
FULL CLIMB STATS
Page Contributor(s): Ard Oostra, Switzerland.
INTRO
This is the highest paved pass in the Americas at 15,578’. In contrast to Central and Northern South America (e.g. Colombia), this is a stark climb in the high Andes desert with minimal to no vegetation to be seen. Yet this is a dramatically stark and beautiful climb which we are very glad we spent the time to get to and climb.
PLAN YOUR ROUTE
We've partnered with Sherpa-Map.com to bring you the best route planning tool. With a PRO Membership you can use this climb as a reference when creating your route. This climb has a 6.5% average grade. 76% of this climb is at 5-10% grade and 5% is at 10-15%. The steepest 500 meters is 9.9%.
See more details and tools regarding this climb's grade via the “Profile Tool” button.
Roadway: Two lane highway in very good condition with a nice shoulder the entire climb.
Traffic: Mild but with some big rig traffic as this is a pass connecting San Pedro de Atacama to Paso de Jama.
Parking: There is a wide spot to park on the left 200 meters past the start of the climb (Map; Street View).
Provisions: There is no place to get food or water on the route. There are several locations for food and beverages in San Pedro de Atacama 13 kilometers west of the start of the climb (Map).
Weather: You finish this climb 2,250 meters higher than where you start, at elevation 4,751 meters. Consult the PJAMM "Full Forecast" feature for the time you expect to arrive at the finish to assess what clothing to bring on your ride.
Before heading out on any cycling adventure check out our Things to Bring on a Cycling Trip and use our interactive check list to ensure you don't forget anything.
Stay in San Pedro de Atacama (population 3,899 in 2012) for this climb (Google Map + Reviews). Also consider taking a tour of Alma Observatory 55 kilometers east of San Pedro de Atacama (tour info; Google Map + Reviews).
ROUTE MAP
MEMBER RATING
CURRENT WEATHER
PJAMM TRIPS ADVENTURE STARTER BUNDLES
Check out PJAMM Adventure's prepackaged (self-guided) cycling trips. They will help you plan, document and conquer your next adventure.
NEARBY CLIMBS (0) RADIAL PROXIMITY
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