Camino del Rey – Catamarca Volcanic Circuit

The Camino del Rey threads between active volcanic peaks in Catamarca’s high puna, where the landscape looks more Mars than Earth. This technical route climbs past steaming fumaroles and sulfur fields, with the notorious Paso del Viento section testing both driver skill and vehicle limits on loose volcanic scree at 14,000 feet. The highlight is Laguna Verde, an emerald crater lake where flamingos feed in water heated by underground thermal vents.

Expert-level difficulty due to extreme altitude, loose surfaces, and sudden weather changes that can drop visibility to zero. Requires serious 4WD capability with low-range gearing and preferably lockers for the scree climbs. April through October only – summer storms create deadly lightning risk at altitude. Carry altitude sickness medication, extra water, and cold weather gear regardless of season. No fuel for 200+ miles; plan accordingly. This is one of Argentina’s most challenging drives, but the volcanic landscapes and complete isolation make it worth every sketchy moment.