Abra del Acay 

Sometimes the destination is a singular road

The routes of northwestern Argentina open up in the middle of high mountains.

A pass is the crossing of a mountain range at its highest point. Therefore, there are many passes in Salta that offer spectacular views at altitude; Abra del Cóndor, Abra Blanca, Abra de Muñano, to name just a few.

One of the most demanding experiences is -without a doubt- the Abra del Acay. The road connects the Puna town of San Antonio de los Cobres - known for its famous Tren a las Nubes - with La Poma in the north of the Calchaquíes Valleys.

Heading north to south, it begins peacefully on the high plateau, where you will find herds of guanacos and llamas, some of a few and, with luck, a large herd of many auquenidos.

But this tranquility is brief because the superb ascent opens up after a few kilometers.

The climb on this narrow gravel road feels intense. It requires concentration because the turns are shrinking and the cornice conquers the scene. You climb up to 4950 meters above sea level. Upon reaching the pass, the wind blows so hard that the heavy truck eases and begins to shake, like an airplane in a trance. For those who dare to step down for the picture, press hard because the feeling is that from one moment to the next an involuntary flight will be of the visitor himself.

Perhaps to relax the tension, almost as a work of wise nature, a trio of shameless foxes appears looking for a treat from the visitor. The gusts also whip them, so you can appreciate the beautiful and thick fur that protects them from the low temperatures of these heights.

The ice is emerging at the side of the narrow lane as if adding risk factors. The white frost not only accumulates there but at times appears adhered to the cracked walls of the mountains. And what about the frozen rivers that must be crossed on the descent, which at first appears to be less risky... however, it is even more relentless than the ascent.