Ruta Provincial 76 Abra del Acay

The Abra del Acay holds the distinction of being Argentina’s highest driveable pass, where RP76 claws its way to 4,895 meters through moonscape terrain that feels more like Tibet than South America. This remote crossing connects the mining town of San Antonio de los Cobres with the village of Tolar Grande, passing abandoned mining camps and salt flats that stretch to distant volcanic peaks. The road deteriorates significantly above 4,500 meters, becoming a rocky track marked only by tire ruts and the occasional apacheta cairn.

This is expert-level high-altitude driving requiring 4WD with low range, full recovery gear, and serious altitude preparation. Weather can turn deadly without warning—snow and wind are possible year-round above 4,500 meters. Best attempted May through September with multiple days’ supplies, as mechanical failure here means a long walk to nowhere. Only experienced mountain drivers should attempt this route, but those who make it earn bragging rights for conquering Argentina’s roof.