How to navigate the challenging Ruta Provincial 73?

Ruta Provincial 73 (RP73) is a demanding high mountain road situated in the extreme northwestern part of Argentina, ranking as one of the highest roads in the country.

Ruta Provincial 73

Is Ruta Provincial 73 in Jujuy unpaved?

Stretching across the provinces of Jujuy and Salta, this drive poses significant challenges. The road is entirely unpaved, and extremely adverse conditions are common, resembling a lunar landscape in many areas. A 4x4 vehicle is recommended to complete the drive.

How long is Ruta Provincial 73?

The road extends for 92.8 km (57.66 miles), running in a west-southeast direction from Humahuaca to Santa Ana. Avalanches, heavy snowfalls, and landslides can happen at any time.

How high is Ruta Provincial 73?

The road traverses entirely at an elevation above 3,000m. At this height, oxygen levels decrease, requiring visitors to take appropriate precautions against Acute Mountain Sickness (AMS). The road encompasses four major mountain passes:

  1. Abra Azul: 4,617m (15,147ft) above sea level -23.191361, -65.054556
  2. Abra del Viento: 4,614m (15,137ft) above sea level -23.275556, -65.018667
  3. Abra del Zenta: 4,595m (15,075ft) above sea level -23.229300, -65.049990
  4. Abra Colorada: 4,493m (14,740ft) above sea level -23.236694, -65.035917

Pic: Juan Rigatuzzo

 

 

Drive Us to Your Road!

With over 13,000 roads cataloged, we're always on the lookout for unique routes. Know of a road that deserves to be featured? Click here to share your suggestion, and we may add it to dangerousroads.org.