Photo by Flavio Pigazzi
Cuesta de Lipan (Abra de Potrerillos) , “the magical connection pass, 4170m above sea level, to Salinas Grandes”. 37,7km with 5,2% average grade and 33 switchbacks in a stunning Andes scenery.
This climb is famous for its scenery. The Ruta Nacional 52 connects the village of Purmamarca via the Cuesta (slope in Spanish) de Lipan to the famous Salt area (212 square km2). The pass is situated in the province of Jujuy, Argentina.
This Drone Video Cuesta de Lipan illustrates the beauty of the pass
Flavio Pigazzo contributed with some pictures.
Jose Juknevich rode the climb in the summer of 2016. Let’s enjoy his experience.
“I stayed in Tilcara during my trip - this is a tiny town but with plenty of lodging, restaurants and “peñas”, where you have the chance to listen to traditional music while eating local specialities. On a very sunny day in August (the high season here runs from June to August), I cycled from Tilcara to Purmamarca, which is another colourful little town, and from there I took the road to Abra de Potrerillos, which is now known as Cuesta de Lipan. The climb is 37km long and with an average slope of 5.2%. Lots of switchbacks and trucks to Chile, but drivers were very friendly and they cheered up along the route. When I started, I was a bit worried about suffering from altitude sickness but I didn't feel any symptoms and everything went very smoothly to the highest point at 4,170m a.b.s.l. I even regretted not trying to push a little harder. Overall it was a wonderful cycling experience which I highly recommend. The ride can be extended with a ride to Salinas Grandes, which is a huge salt desert near the peak, but I didn't have time for this. So I hope I can return and make the whole ride”
(picture Flavio Pigazzi)
Thank You Jose!