Camino del Rey – Catamarca Volcanic Circuit
Mars-like volcanic terrain at 14,000 feet
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.
Trail Specs
| Difficulty | Expert |
|---|---|
| Trail Type | Technical 4x4 |
| Surface | Rock |
| Features | Camping, High Altitude, Remote, Scenic |
| Length (miles) | 78 mi / 125.5 km |
| Duration | 3-4 days |
| Max elevation (ft) | 14200 ft |
| Best season | April-October |
| Minimum vehicle | Modified 4WD with lockers |
| Nearest town | Antofagasta de la Sierra, Catamarca |
| Land manager | Provincial Parks Authority |
| Permit required | No |
| Cell service | None |
| Water crossings | No |
| Dispersed camping | Yes |
| Start coordinates | |
| End coordinates | |
| Copy both for Google Maps directionsClick to copy the directions URL · or open it directly in a new tab | |
| Find on Google | Search on Google → |
Location
Trail Conditions
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Frequently asked questions
Can a lifted Tacoma with a locker handle this, or do I need more rig?
A properly built Tacoma with front and rear lockers, all-terrain tires, and a snorkel will manage it, but this isn't a trail for a single locker or a mild lift. Rock sections at altitude demand maximum traction and a rig that won't leave you stranded 50+ miles from the nearest town.
When does snow close the high passes and make this undriveable?
November through March is the wet and snow season at altitude — passes above 13,000 feet can become impassable with no warning and no rescue. Stick to April through October; July and August are the driest and most stable months despite cold nights.
Do I need a permit to run this circuit and is there an entry fee?
You'll need to register with the Provincial Parks Authority in Antofagasta de la Sierra before entering — it's a formality but they want a vehicle description, headcount, and your planned exit date. No fee as of recent reports, but check locally because regulations in Catamarca's puna zone change without much online notice.
What's the hardest section and what actually makes it brutal?
The volcanic rock fields between the second and third day are the crux — loose, jagged basalt with no clear line, steep grades, and thin air at 14,000 feet making every decision slower and every recovery harder. Expect slow crawling speeds, undercarriage contact, and the very real consequence of a broken axle with zero cell service and days from a mechanic.
Where do I top off fuel before the circuit and will a standard tank make it?
Antofagasta de la Sierra is your last fuel stop — period. At 78 miles of trail plus driving in and out, a standard 20-gallon tank is marginal; carry a minimum of 15 liters in jerry cans because low-range crawling at altitude hammers fuel economy harder than any highway number suggests.
Trail track
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