Ruta del Che – Vallegrande to La Higuera Circuit
Revolutionary history on Bolivia's roughest tracks
This remote circuit through the Cordillera de los Andes follows the path of Che Guevara’s doomed 1967 guerrilla campaign, connecting Vallegrande with the village of La Higuera where he was captured and executed. The route winds through rugged terrain on mining tracks and village connectors, passing the schoolhouse where Che’s body was displayed and the ravine at Quebrada del Yuro where his final battle played out. Local guides in Vallegrande know the exact spots, and the schoolhouse in La Higuera still draws pilgrims from around the world.
Difficult due to rough 4×4 tracks, river crossings, and remote terrain with zero services between villages. High-clearance 4WD essential, spare parts and recovery gear mandatory. Dry season (May-October) only – wet season makes crossings dangerous and tracks impassable. No permits but inform locals of your route. Fuel up in Vallegrande and carry water and food for 2-3 days. What you get is authentic revolutionary history in one of Bolivia’s most isolated regions, far from any tourist trail.
Trail Specs
| Difficulty | Difficult |
|---|---|
| Trail Type | Technical 4x4 |
| Surface | Dirt |
| Features | Camping, Historic, Remote, Water Crossings |
| Length (miles) | 87 mi / 140 km |
| Duration | 2-3 days |
| Max elevation (ft) | 9840 ft |
| Best season | May-October |
| Minimum vehicle | 4WD high-clearance required |
| Nearest town | Vallegrande, Santa Cruz |
| Land manager | Local municipalities |
| Permit required | No |
| Cell service | None |
| Water crossings | Yes |
| 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
What's the minimum rig needed — can a stock Hilux or Land Cruiser handle this without a lift?
You need a proper 4WD with high clearance — a stock Hilux or 80-series Land Cruiser will manage, but low-range is non-negotiable on this route. Lockers or a limited-slip rear will save you on the steeper clay sections after rain. A lifted rig with all-terrain tires is the smarter call.
Is this trail passable outside the May–October dry season?
No. The wet season (November–April) turns the clay tracks into a muddy disaster — sections become impassable even for serious 4x4s, and water crossings can rise to dangerous levels. Stick to May through October, and even then check recent conditions locally in Vallegrande before heading out.
Are there permits or fees required to drive this circuit?
No formal permits are required — the route passes through land managed by local municipalities, not a national park. Expect no entry fees, but carry cash for fuel and supplies in Vallegrande since there's nothing reliable once you're on trail.
What's the hardest section and what should I actually expect?
The descent toward La Higuera is the crux — steep, rutted, and loose with little room for error on the exposed switchbacks. Expect to move slow, spot your line carefully, and potentially winch or use a Hi-Lift if you misjudge a rut after rain. Budget extra time; don't rush this section.
Where do you fuel up — is 87 miles on the trail itself, or do you need a full tank plus spare fuel?
Fuel up completely in Vallegrande before you leave — it's the last reliable fuel stop for the entire circuit. Carry at minimum 10–15 liters of spare fuel; there are no gas stations along the route and the 140km of rough terrain burns more than highway driving would suggest.
Trail track
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