Yungas Road (Death Road)
Once the world's most dangerous road, now a thrilling downhill cycling adventure through breathtaking Andean landscapes.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Clearer skies, less fog
Yungas Road (Death Road)
Best Time
Clearer skies, less fog
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Once the world's most dangerous road, now a thrilling downhill cycling adventure through breathtaking Andean landscapes.
"Absolutely epic! The asphalt down to the old road is smooth and fast, gorgeous views and fun hairpins."
Choose a Full-Suspension Bike
Opt for a full-suspension bike for a smoother, safer ride on the rocky, uneven terrain.
Pack Insect Repellent
Annoying, itchy bugs await at the lower altitudes. Don't forget your repellent!
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Epic Downhill Descent
From La Cumbre Pass to Coroico
Experience a thrilling 60km downhill ride with a massive elevation drop, passing waterfalls and dramatic cliffs.
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Spectacular Andean Scenery
Throughout the road
Marvel at breathtaking views of cloud-draped valleys and lush Yungas jungle, often shrouded in mist.
Memorial Crosses
Along the roadside
See crosses marking spots where travelers tragically lost their lives, a somber reminder of the road's history.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Book Your Tour Wisely
Prepare for Altitude and Terrain
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Choose a Full-Suspension Bike
Opt for a full-suspension bike for a smoother, safer ride on the rocky, uneven terrain.
Pack Insect Repellent
Annoying, itchy bugs await at the lower altitudes. Don't forget your repellent!
Listen to Your Guide
Your guide's instructions are crucial for safety on this challenging road.
Bring Snacks and Water
Most tours include a snack, but extra water and energy bars are a good idea.
Tips
from all over the internet
Choose a Full-Suspension Bike
Opt for a full-suspension bike for a smoother, safer ride on the rocky, uneven terrain.
Pack Insect Repellent
Annoying, itchy bugs await at the lower altitudes. Don't forget your repellent!
Listen to Your Guide
Your guide's instructions are crucial for safety on this challenging road.
Bring Snacks and Water
Most tours include a snack, but extra water and energy bars are a good idea.
Wear Layers
Temperatures vary greatly from the cold start to the humid jungle finish.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently describe the Yungas Road as an epic, thrilling, and unforgettable adventure, highlighting the spectacular scenery and the unique challenge of the downhill ride. While the road's historical danger is acknowledged, modern tours are generally well-managed, though the terrain remains demanding. Some find the bugs at the end to be a nuisance.
"Just a stunning, narrow, pot holed road with bumps and rivulets, waterfalls, and huge drops at the side of the road.
I took the downhill mountain bike tour and the scenery was spectacular, when you could see it thru the fog that envelops the higher parts.
I cannot imagine how things were when this was the main road. It's hairy enough now with virtually no traffic. How buses and trucks passed each other defies my imagination."
Phil McC
"Biked Death Road with Gravity Bolivia. Highly recommend, top of the line bikes and guides.
Absolutely epic! The asphalt down to the old road is smooth and fast, gorgeous views and fun hairpins.
Death road is just incredible.
Narrow, rough, rocky, horribly juddering and riveted from water streams down the road - so a downhill bikers dream!
Stunning waterfalls, views were outrageous with cloud dipping low across the valleys.
Obviously a reminder that the name is for a reason, there’s many crosses to mark the deaths of those who met untimely deaths."
NZ Wild Rose
"Very interesting adventure. Quite extreme I might add, and probably unique worldwide, especially regarding the elevation drop. The tour takes the entire day, consists of two parts. The first one starts at 5200m altitude, is 21km long and takes part on an asphalt. I fell here because I lost balance on the bike. Two weeks after, everything still hurts, but I am not muerte so all is good. The second part is 35km long and is very rocky and extremely dangerous. Practice utmost caution and follow the staff instructions! Bring repellent for the finish - there are very annoying and persistent, itchy bugs."
Stefan Popov
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Most tours pick you up directly from your accommodation in La Paz. The journey to the starting point, La Cumbre Pass, takes about an hour.
While technically possible, driving yourself is not recommended due to the extreme danger and lack of infrastructure. Organized tours provide safety and expertise.
The road begins at La Cumbre Pass, which is over 5,000 meters (16,400 feet) above sea level.
The downhill cycling tour typically takes a full day, with about 4-5 hours of actual riding time.
While some tours cater to younger riders, it's generally recommended for those with some cycling experience due to the challenging terrain and altitude.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
You don't buy tickets for the road itself, but rather book a downhill cycling tour with a tour operator. Prices vary depending on the company and bike quality.
Tours usually include bike rental (often full-suspension), protective gear, a guide, transportation to the start, and a snack or lunch.
Prices can range from $50 to $150 USD, depending on the tour operator and inclusions.
Most companies have a minimum age requirement, often around 12-14 years old, and may require parental consent for minors.
Tours typically run daily, departing in the morning from La Paz. It's a full-day activity.
🎫 🚴 Onsite Experience
It was once considered the world's most dangerous road due to its narrowness, steep drops, and lack of guardrails. While now mostly used for tourism, caution is still paramount. +1
The terrain is varied, starting with paved sections and transitioning to rough, rocky, and often muddy tracks with numerous water streams.
Wear comfortable athletic clothing, layers for temperature changes, and sturdy closed-toe shoes. Protective gear is provided by the tour.
The views are spectacular, featuring dramatic cliffs, lush valleys, and frequent waterfalls, though fog can obscure higher sections.
While significantly safer now with reduced traffic, crosses along the road serve as a stark reminder of past fatalities.
📸 📸 Photography
Capture the dramatic landscapes, waterfalls, memorial crosses, and the thrill of the downhill ride. The start and viewpoints offer stunning panoramas.
It's best to stop at designated viewpoints or pull-offs for photos to ensure your safety and that of others.
Drone usage may be restricted in certain areas or by tour operators. Check regulations and get permission if necessary.
A GoPro or action camera is ideal for capturing the ride. A smartphone with a good camera is also great for landscape shots.
Morning light can be beautiful, but be prepared for fog at higher elevations. Midday can offer clearer views as you descend.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
💰 Budget Travelers
❤️ Thrill-Seekers & Adrenaline Junkies
+1Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Infamous History of Yungas Road
+2 This grim reputation earned it the moniker "Death Road." In 2007, a new, safer highway was completed, diverting most traffic away from the old route. Today, the "Death Road" is a testament to human endurance and a popular, albeit adrenaline-pumping, tourist attraction. While the danger has been significantly reduced with the new highway, the old road still demands respect and caution. Many tour operators now lead downhill mountain biking expeditions along its dramatic course, offering a unique way to experience its history and breathtaking scenery.
+1 The crosses scattered along the roadside serve as poignant reminders of the lives lost on this legendary path. Cycling the Death Road: What to Expect
+1 This is where the real challenge begins: a narrow, rocky, and often muddy track with steep descents and sheer drops. Expect to encounter stunning waterfalls cascading down the mountainsides and dramatic views of the cloud-filled valleys below.
+1 While the descent is largely gravity-assisted, the rough terrain and constant need for focus can be physically demanding. Many riders recommend choosing a full-suspension bike for better control and comfort. Remember to listen carefully to your guides, as they are experienced in navigating this challenging route and ensuring your safety. Beyond the Thrill: The Cultural and Natural Significance
The road also holds cultural significance, representing the resilience and resourcefulness of the people who built and used it. The memorial crosses are a somber reminder of the human cost associated with its construction and use.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit