San Francisco Pass
Catamarca
San Francisco Pass is a prominent mountain pass over the Andes Mountains that links the Argentine province of Catamarca with Chile's Atacama Region. The pass reaches an elevation of 4,726 meters (15,505 feet) above sea level, surrounded by some of the highest volcanoes in the world, including Nevado Ojos del Salado, the highest active volcano globally. Historically, it is believed to have been used by Diego de Almagro's expedition in 1536 to enter present-day Chile, and it also served as a route for the Inca emperor Túpac Yupanqui in 1479. The Argentine side is accessed via National Route 60, which ascends through deep valleys flanked by 5,000-meter peaks, while the Chilean side is accessed by Route CH-31, passing near notable natural landmarks such as Maricunga salt flat and Laguna Verde. The region features a rugged, cold climate with significant snowfall in winter, yet the pass remains mostly accessible year-round. Its surrounding area is rich in wildlife, including vicuñas, and offers breathtaking views of snow-capped volcanoes and high peaks. Since 2010, the pass has been part of the route for the Rally Dakar in South America. The pass is not only a natural corridor but also a cultural link historically used by indigenous peoples and early colonizers.
ヒント: The best time to visit San Francisco Pass is during the warmer months to avoid heavy snowfall, as winter temperatures can drop below -20°C. It is advisable to check weather and road conditions before traveling, as the pass is at high altitude and can be challenging. Visitors should prepare for altitude sickness and carry appropriate gear. Purchasing tickets or permits is generally not required, but ensure to have proper identification for border crossing. The route is well-maintained and accessible, with refueling options available in nearby towns rather than on the pass itself. Consider visiting nearby attractions such as Nevado Tres Cruces National Park and Laguna Verde for a fuller experience.
興味深い事実
- •The pass reaches an altitude of 4,726 meters, making it one of the highest paved international passes in the world.
- •It is flanked by some of the highest volcanoes globally, including Nevado Ojos del Salado at 6,879 meters, the highest active volcano on Earth.
- •Diego de Almagro's 1536 expedition into Chile is generally thought to have used this pass.
- •The pass has been part of the Rally Dakar route in South America since 2010.
- •The area around the pass is home to vicuñas, graceful wild camelids native to the Andes.
歴史
San Francisco Pass has been a crucial Andean crossing since pre-Inca times, serving as a link between indigenous peoples on both sides of the mountains.
In 1479, the Inca emperor Túpac Yupanqui traversed the pass, marking its importance in Incan expansion.
The Spanish conquistador Diego de Almagro is believed to have used this pass in 1536 during his expedition into Chile.
The exact border limits in this area were established only after the Buchanan arbitration in 1899 and a subsequent ruling in 1902.
Over time, the pass has evolved from a native trail to a modern paved international route facilitating trade, tourism, and events like the Rally Dakar.
場所ガイド
Route National 60 (Argentina)
This well-paved and signposted road ascends from Fiambalá through a deep valley surrounded by 5,000-meter peaks, leading to the Argentine border post at Las Grutas within the fertile San Francisco Meadows.
Route CH-31 (Chile)
On the Chilean side, Route CH-31 connects the border with Copiapó, passing near natural landmarks such as Maricunga salt flat, Laguna Verde, and the Nevado Tres Cruces National Park.
Surrounding Volcanoes and Peaks
The pass is surrounded by numerous high peaks and volcanoes such as Cerro Falso Azufre (5,906 m), San Francisco volcano (6,018 m), Incahuasi (6,638 m), and Nevado Ojos del Salado (6,879 m), the highest volcano in the world.
Nevado Tres Cruces National Park
Located near the Chilean side of the pass, this national park features salt flats, high-altitude lagoons, and diverse wildlife, offering visitors rich natural and ecological experiences.
