I don't usually seek out danger, although frequently I show how end up there. Whether being bombed in Yemen, detained in Afghanistan or shaken-down in Somalia, my travel destinations often involve a bit of risk. But when I had some time in Bolivia, how could I possibly resist a place called "The Death Road"?
Officially known as the North Yungas road, this stretch of road (60 km outside La Paz) was given the morbid title of Death Road back in the '90s. It became famous for having the most fatalities per kilometre anywhere in the world. Some estimates say that between 200-300 people every year were killed trying to traverse the rather poorly planned and even more poorly maintain transport corridor. Starting at La Cumbre Pass (4,650 metres above sea level) and ending at Coroico (1,200 m.a.s.l.) the road is barely wide enough for one way traffic, let alone 2-direction large transport traffic. If coupled with poor visibility and landslides, it is clear to see why so many lost their lives here.
These days, however, most of the traffic has been diverted to much safer passages. This leaves
The trip is certainly a pretty one. And it is generally a fun day out. But it's not really the Edge of Death journey with a "i'm going to die" feeling i was sort of hoping for. Still, if in the region, it's probably a must-see and I'd still recommend it.
Officially known as the North Yungas road, this stretch of road (60 km outside La Paz) was given the morbid title of Death Road back in the '90s. It became famous for having the most fatalities per kilometre anywhere in the world. Some estimates say that between 200-300 people every year were killed trying to traverse the rather poorly planned and even more poorly maintain transport corridor. Starting at La Cumbre Pass (4,650 metres above sea level) and ending at Coroico (1,200 m.a.s.l.) the road is barely wide enough for one way traffic, let alone 2-direction large transport traffic. If coupled with poor visibility and landslides, it is clear to see why so many lost their lives here.
These days, however, most of the traffic has been diverted to much safer passages. This leaves
the road to thrill seekers, mostly of the mountain biking variety. Tours of adventurers leave out of La Paz for the relatively easy day-trip. For the most part, it's all downhill, and there isn't much pressure to go to fast if you don't want. Luckily our guides let us pouch the limits and i'm not sure we could have gone any faster. It doesn't take an expert to do the road, but you should be somewhat comfortable on a bike. One girl on the tour took a nasty spill and broke her collarbone. Apparently, it happens a lot.
The trip is certainly a pretty one. And it is generally a fun day out. But it's not really the Edge of Death journey with a "i'm going to die" feeling i was sort of hoping for. Still, if in the region, it's probably a must-see and I'd still recommend it.
