Pan-American Highway through Peru
Peru, south-america
2,640 km
520 m
easy
Year-round, but December-March for sunshine along the coast
The Pan-American Highway's Peruvian section stretches approximately 2,640 kilometers along the country's Pacific coast, from the Ecuadorian border in the north to the Chilean border in the south. This ribbon of asphalt traverses one of the driest deserts on Earth, the Atacama-Sechura coastal strip, where some weather stations have never recorded rainfall. The road passes through a mesmerizing landscape of sand dunes, coastal cliffs, and arid valleys.
The highway passes near many of Peru's most remarkable archaeological and natural sites. Near Nazca, the famous Nazca Lines are visible from small aircraft that depart from the roadside town. The Paracas National Reserve offers dramatic coastal scenery with red sand beaches and abundant marine wildlife. The Huacachina oasis, a palm-fringed lagoon surrounded by towering sand dunes, sits just off the highway near Ica. The road also connects Lima, the gastronomic capital of South America, with Arequipa, the elegant colonial city at the foot of El Misti volcano.
Where is it?
Pan-American Highway through Peru is located in Pacific Coast, Peru (south-america). Coordinates: -14.7500, -75.1500
Driving Tips
Road quality varies significantly between well-maintained toll sections and rougher free roads. Avoid driving at night as pedestrians, cyclists, and unlighted vehicles are common hazards. Take extreme care when passing trucks on this mostly two-lane road. The coastal fog (garua) can reduce visibility dramatically from June to November. Sol is the currency; toll booths accept cash only.
Road Surface
Paved, variable quality, mostly two-lane with some four-lane sections near cities
Road Details
- Country
- Peru
- Continent
- south-america
- Region
- Pacific Coast
- Length
- 2,640 km
- Max Elevation
- 520 m
- Difficulty
- easy
- Surface
- Paved, variable quality, mostly two-lane with some four-lane sections near cities
- Best Season
- Year-round, but December-March for sunshine along the coast
- Coordinates
- -14.7500, -75.1500
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