Things to Know Before Driving the Paved Road to Abra Lliullita
Abra Lliullita is a high mountain pass at an elevation of 4,645m (15,239ft) above sea level, located in the Grau Province, in the heart of Apurímac Department in Peru.
Where is Abra Lliullita?
Part of Peru's Southern Sierra, the pass, also known as Abra Llullita, is located high in the Andes, in the southern part of the country.
Where’s Laguna de Lliullita?
Near the summit, there’s a stunning lagoon known as Laguna de Lliullita. It’s known for its peaceful natural setting, ideal for fishing, trekking, and wildlife watching, particularly vicuñas. The lagoon is accessible via a scenic 3-hour drive from Abancay.
Historically, it was part of an important trade route between Chuquibambilla and Abancay, used by mule drivers transporting goods. This path lost its importance after a modern road was built but is still partially used today. In the 1980s, the area was affected by Peru’s internal conflict and witnessed violent clashes. Today, Lliullita has regained its status as a peaceful and reflective destination, rich in natural beauty and history.
Is the road to Abra Lliullita paved?
The road through the summit is fully paved, yet pretty defiant, with countless turns (many of them hairpin turns) and steep parts. It’s called Carretera 3SF. Better avoid it if you’re prone to car sickness. It is pretty much constant uphill for 45km from Vilcabamba, but the road surface is good, there’s almost no traffic, and it’s never steep. From the lakes at the top, it’s a fast 1,500m descent to Lambrama.
How long is the road to Abra Lliullita?
The road through the summit is 135km (83 miles) long, running south–north from Vilcabamba to Abancay. Remember, this is a high mountain pass: at this elevation, oxygen levels drop, and visitors need to take adequate precautions against AMS (Acute Mountain Sickness).
Pic: Fernando Espinoza