Truth be told, the road that you’re about the see isn’t just one of the world’s most dangerous mountain biking paths; it also happens to be the most dangerous road in the world. In fact, you’ve probably seen it on television, as it’s been featured on shows like Top Gear and Ice Road Truckers.
It’s called the Yungas Road, and it’s located in Bolvia, stretching about 43 miles from the town of La Paz to Coroico. For the most part, the road is one single lane, along which cars and trucks make their ways every day, and not always for the best. Monsoon rains can sometimes cause parts of the road to become washed out, and landslides and fallings rocks are an omnipresent threat. This is part of the reason that some estimate nearly 300 people meet their ends on this road every year.
So, why does such a dangerous road appeal to mountain bikers? The answer is simple. Most of the road is downhill and the views are absolutely stunning. So, if you think you’re the kind of mountain biker that doesn’t mind taking your life in your hands, then come check out these 15 stunning photos of Yungas Road!
1. That’s an Understatement
This roadside indicates that the path ahead is winding… That’s the understatement of the century!
2. Bad Weather
It’s not just the road itself that poses a danger to mountain bikers and travellers. It’s the elements, which can be and often are inhospitable.
3. Motorists
Think the drivers are bad where you come from? Try dealing with the cars and trucks along Yungas Road!
4. Are You Up For It?
We’ll be covering more of the dangers you’ll encounter later, but if you’ve got nerves of steel on your mountain bike (and a helmet), then you’re good to go!
5. No Guardrail
You may have already noticed that there’s no guardrail in any of the pictures you’ve seen. Well, don’t expect any, because there aren’t any!
6. Steep Drop
And that’s absolutely terrifying, because the drops over the side of the road are as unforgiving as they come.
7. Huggin’
Therefore, you’ll probably want to stay as far away from the cliff face as possible. One small mistake could have disastrous consequences!
8. Waterfalls
As you make your way along the road, you’re sure to encounter several waterfalls, some of which may always be there, some which might be due to recent rains.
9. Don’t Look Down
You know how they say not to look down, right? Well, if you do, you might see evidence of why you shouldn’t have.
10. You Never Listen…
Of course, you’re a mountain biker and you like extremes. So, push yourself to the edge if you’d like… Just be careful!
11. Mudslides
Depending upon the recent weather in the region, you may have to contend with the aftermath of mudslides.
12. Just Cruisin’
Provided you hit a stretch of the Yungas Road without any mudslides, rockslides or motorists, it should be smooth downhill mountain biking!
13. Heavy Rain
Here you can see what it’s like to be on the Yungas Road when there are heavy rains falling.
14. You Can Do It!
Think you’ve got what it takes? Then why not pack your bags (and bike) and head for Bolivia?
15. And If You Make It…
If you manage to get to the end of the Yungas Road, then you can spend some time getting some much-needed R&R in the town of Coroico.
