Danger should not be taken lightly going downhill through Death Road

Danger should not be taken lightly going downhill through Death Road

The North Yungas Road leading from La Paz to Coroico in the Amazon basin has been called "the most dangerous road in the world" because of its precipitous drop from the highlands to the Amazon jungle, hugging cliffs for most of its 40-mile descent. Since the first tours of the route began in the late 1990s, biking down the road has become increasingly popular with an estimated 15 companies currently organizing the trips.
Until a new paved road opened in 2007, Bolivian buses would frequently plunge off its 3,300-foot cliffs, killing hundreds every year.
But for all its danger, it has become a draw for mountain bikers. Guided trips are offered, but it should not be taken lightly. A U.S. tourist died in April when the lost control of his bike and plunged off a cliff. Also a UK tourist died a few days latter in a car crash in the same road.

On many travel websites, biking down the “world famous death road” is described it as a breathtaking and adrenalin-filled experience. But before joining the ride you should take all safety measures in consideration at least 13 cyclists have died on the road in the past 10 years. The ride usually takes five hours and is 80 percent downhill. Some riders who have completed the ride list near misses with heavy trucks and vans hurtling around the sharp bends.
Make safety a priority of your trip and you’ll have for sure excellent stories to tell your friends and family once you get back home.