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Ultimate Guide To The Death Road in Bolivia

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If you like speed and adrenaline, you’ve definitely heard of cycling down the Death Road in Bolivia. Also called Camino de la Muerte, the Death Road was named as the most dangerous route in the world by the Inter-American Development Bank. And I’m going to tell you how you can go down this road on a mountain bike!

While the description of this road may sound scary, riding the Death Road by bike is an unforgettable and safe experience. After having cycled its 62 km, I can assure you that it’s an incredible experience if you love adventure sports and adrenaline!

What is the Death Road?

Just 17km from the city of La Paz, there is a site called “La Cumbre” at an altitude of 4,657 meters above sea level. From this point, the “Death Road” descends to the area of Los Yungas (63km) where there is a small town called Yolosa whose altitude is 1,229 meters above sea level. There is a difference in altitude of 3,428 meters between La Cumbre and Yolosa.

The descent by bicycle begins in “La Cumbre”, at 4,657 meters above sea level and descends 32km on a paved road at speeds between 50 and 80km/h or more. Once the first 32km are completed, the route deviates to enter the “Camino de la Muerte” and descends another 31km to the town of Yolosa (1,229 meters above sea level). 

In this second section the average speed is about 30 – 40km/h, due to the rocky and slippery road, but the panorama is more impressive due to the deep precipices, the dense vegetation and the drizzle. Your attention will have to be divided between avoiding stones, puddles, mud, etc. and admiring the landscape.

Where is the Death Road in Bolivia?

The Death Road (Yungas Road) is a narrow road of stones that connects the Bolivian Altiplano, La Paz, with the city of Coroico that’s located in the region of Yungas in the northern Amazon rainforest. 

This deadly road was built in the 1930s by Paraguayan prisoners of war from the Chaco conflict. At that time, the Yungas Road was the only link between La Paz and the Yungas region. So, if you needed to make the trip, you would be risking your life on the road. In 2009, the Bolivian government opened a modern highway with two lanes, new pavement, drainage systems and guardrails that eliminated the need to travel on the Camino de la Muerte. That said, today, this road is used for cycling by thrill-seeking adventurers and adrenaline junkies like you and me.

How long and wide is the death road?

The Death Road is a 60 kilometers long, gravel road with sharp curves, giant cliffs and a width of less than 4 meters. This road is the extreme experience you were looking for. It goes without saying that you have to be VERY CAREFUL when cycling down this road. 

How Dangerous is the Death Road?

A few years ago, the Death Road was so dangerous that it had an average of more than 200 accidents and 96 people killed per year. It was considered the most dangerous road in the world. Nowadays, there is a paved road that is much safer for vehicles, while the Death Road is mainly used for tourism in the form of downhill mountain biking. 

How many people have died on Death Road in Bolivia?

During the 1990s, an average of 300 people a year died on the Death Road in Bolivia. In recent times, a new road was opened between La Paz and Coroico. The new stretch of road is used for vehicles going up, while the old “Death Road” is traveled by those going down. In recent times, there have been about 100 deaths per year on the Death Road.

The worst accident occurred during the 1980’s when a bus fell about 300 meters. More than 100 people died. Heavy trucks don’t leave much room for other road users. But the reputation of the road as dangerous predates the accidents of the last decades. In the 19th century, when goods were transported from La Paz to the city of Coroico, merchants already feared this stretch of road.

At that time, bandits used the narrow path to ambush merchants and steal their goods. Often, this resulted in fatalities.

Getting to the Death Road from La Paz

The Death Road is approximately 2 hours from La Paz. Although you can do the trip yourself, I highly recommend using the services of a tour company. From La Paz, you can take all-inclusive tours, including equipment and meals. Each tour leaves in groups of 5 to 10 people. These groups are led by the tour guide and have a support car that always follows the last cyclist, in case of any eventuality.

Typical Itinerary

In general, cycling on the Death Road lasts for about 5 to 6 hours. It takes a few more hours to travel to and from La Paz. Here’s a brief overview of the itinerary. 

The tours to the Death Road start in La Paz, from where you will go to the Cordillera Real. The descent begins at “La Cumbre”, the highest point on the road to Coroico (over 4300 meters above sea level).  The first trip is about 22 kilometers (1 hour aprox.), through a paved road. Then there is an 8 km. climb that is done in the support vehicle that accompanies the caravan.

This is where the fun begins, because you get back on your bikes, to continue on the Death Road. In a 36 kms. stretch, you will go down through the narrow paths and meet monumental cliffs and waterfalls.

After four hours, you will finish the descent to Yolosa, a community near Coroico (1600 meters above sea level). Some of the tours offer additional services, such as lunch at the Senda Verde refuge.

If you’re still not comfortable and want more details, here you go:

You’ll start the day very early at the agency office in La Paz. Generally, the groups are small with 1 guide assigned to a maximum of 5 to 6 people. Shared transportation is included in your tour and you’ll get into a van which will take you the starting point of the tour. The starting point is called “La Cumbre” or “The Summit” at an elevation of 4700 meters. 

Here, you get a short break and some breakfast. You also get some cocoa leaves here to help with the altitude sickness. After breakfast, you get an opportunity to try out the bikes and get comfortable with them. 

The backup van always follows you in case you ever need to stop, rest or discontinue the trip at any time. The first section of the route runs along a paved road. This helps you gain confidence on the bike. In general, there’s not much traffic here and you ride downhill for approximately 20 kilometers.

After the first section, there’s no more asphalt and you arrive at the REAL Death Road. It’s 45 kilometers of stones, endless slopes, waterfalls, 900-meter cliffs, but above all, incredible landscapes of green mountains covered with thick vegetation that will leave you breathless.

There are several stops planned throughout the trip. You’ll stop to have a snack, to take pictures and videos in the most interesting spots, to take off your layers as the temperature rises and whenever you need to rest your aching. The road is all downhill and in some cases, the slopes are very steep. If you’re not comfortable on the bike, you’ll be riding the brakes constantly.

The last few kilometers are the most challenging. You eventually end up at the village of Yolosa, which is 1200 meters above sea level. Depending on the tour company you choose, you might get a chance to shower and grab a bite at the refuge.

Choosing a Tour Company & How Much to Pay

The highest rated tour companies for the Death Road tour are:

Gravity Bolivia

Altitude travel, vertigo biking, barracuda biking.

Probably one of the safest companies to go with, Gravity Bolivia has been doing Death Road tours for over 20 years. Although they’re the most expensive operator, they are also the only company that meets international safety standards. All their bikes are under 3 years old and undergo daily maintenance checks. They also have the most experienced and knowledgeable guides in La Paz. 

Altitude Travel is another reliable, safe company that you can use to book your Death Road trip. Currently (September 2020), they’re running a promo where you can book the trip for just $50. They use specialized mountain bikes with hydraulic brakes for all their tours. 

Vertigo Biking is another company with a lot of experience doing Death Road tours. They’ve been operating for 10 years and have an excellent safety record. Vertigo is a very ethical company that uses only original manufacturer parts and not cheap replacements. All their guides are also trained in First Aid and rescue. 

Barracuda Biking is another great company. They use only original Kona bikes for all their trips and the bikes go for a maintenance check after each trip. The best part is that a dip in a swimming pool at the end of the Death Road is included!

The Yolosa – La Cumbre Challege

In 2005, the group of cyclists “Los Huanca” from La Paz, invented a cycling challenge that consists of ascending from Yolosa to La Cumbre. That year approximately 20 amateur cyclists participated. Since then, the event “Yolosa – La Cumbre” has been held annually, each year with more participants (400 in 2019) and includes a category of professional cyclists. In fact, it is the most important cycling event in Bolivia that attracts cyclists from abroad.

The route can be divided into two sections:

First section of the route (Yolosa – Chuspipata)

This stretch, 31km on a dirt road, is the famous Camino de la Muerte. It has about 10km at 4.4% slope and 21km at 7.4% (up to the asphalt). The ascent takes about 4 hours for a novice cyclist. Although it is dirt road, due to the humidity of the area the terrain is well settled but you have to cross several streams and go under waterfalls.

Chuspipata is only a halfway point with a part-time record. Many cyclists take a 15-minute break here and take the opportunity to change clothes, eat, recharge and, of course, take the usual pictures. However, this can be done at any point along the route.

Second section of the route (Chuspipata – La Cumbre)

This 32km stretch is on a paved road with cars and buses , so it is essential to keep to the right. This section can be divided into two sectors: one of 10km with 1.7% slope and another of 22km with 6.3% average slope.

Zzip The Flying Fox – The Zipline on Death Road

Built in 2010, Zzipp The Flying Fox is a zipline built over the jungle. Get a birds eye view of the jungle on a canopy tour. Zzip the Flying Fox offers three lines in Yolosa that can be combined with Death Road for a complete adrenaline rush; the highest rises to 350 meters (1,148 feet) above the jungle floor, can reach speeds of up to 85 kilometers (53 miles) per hour in the fastest, and the most panoramic views of a wildlife reserve.

Massimo Hernandes

My name is Massimo, and I was born in La Paz, Bolivia.

From Cochabamba to Potosi, Sucre, and of course, La Paz, I’ve seen everything that these major destinations have to offer and met friends everywhere in between. Through this blog, I hope to share some of my adventures, good eats, and unique experiences with you.

• +591 772 19634
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Gravity Bolivia

The world’s most dangerous road.

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The Refuge Senda Verde

Technical information, riding difficulty, physical difficulty, the world-famous “death road”.

This ride is where Gravity started in 1998. And all those years of experience guarantee that your ride on Death Road with us will be one you’ll be bragging about for years and one most of our riders say was the best experience of their trip in South America.

Our highly trained English speaking guides and mechanics will give you all the helpful information to get you down safely, comfortably and with an amazing time.

Quite deservedly, this world-famous mountain bike ride is our most popular. Gravity has been featured guiding and riding Death Road in more than 60 magazine and newspaper articles, as well as 10 television shows and on the lips and blogs of almost every backpacker and adventure traveler in South America.

The dramatic and scenic “World´s Most Dangerous Road,” dubbed as such by the Inter-American Development Bank in 1995, and locally known as “The Death Road”, “Camino de la muerte” or “Yungas Road” is a must-do adventure activity in South America!  

This amazing ride must be done with the utmost safety and security, which is why we have been working hard for over 20 years to ensure our trip is not only fun but as safe as possible.  And the cherry on the cake is we finish the ride at La Senda Verde Animal Refuge!

• Ride the world-famous Death Road (World’s Most Dangerous Road)! • Incredible scenic variety and a spectacular loss of altitude of more than 3,600m/11,800 ft, from snow-covered high altitude mountain ranges down to the steaming Amazonian Jungle. • 64kms (40 miles) of downhill riding with only a few small uphills and a couple of flat bits! • After the ride relax at La Senda Verde Animal Refuge, featuring rescued monkeys, parrots, and much more. • Company with the best safety record in Bolivia. • Ride the best bikes in Bolivia

Beginners to experts, average fitness and above, and in particular, those looking for a long, world-class, downhill mountain bike ride. A must do for any holiday in South America.

We drive up from La Paz, Bolivia en route to the Yungas valleys. We begin biking at wind-swept La Cumbre at 4,700m/15,400 ft of altitude. At this altitude you’ll get fantastic views of a number of snow-covered peaks, including Huayna Potosí (6,088m/19,973 ft). From here we descend rapidly down a twisting, asphalted road among mountain peaks, grazing llamas and alpacas, tiny villages and a drug check-post (?!). We stop for refreshments, photos, and rests along the way — all the better to give us time to take in the scenery: towering cliff faces, dramatic drops and ever greener vegetation… while preparing ourselves for the next breath-taking section.

After a snack we ride on, descending in altitude even further, and after a brief undulating section of road we enter the jungle itself and the most challenging part of the ride. This infamous narrow dirt road known as Death Road, is cut precariously into the side of the mountain and descends 2,000m (6,500 ft) in altitude. With 1,000m+ (3,300 ft) of vertigo enducing sheer drops off to our left and hulking rock overhangs and cascading waterfalls to our right, we ride on, through mist, low cloud and dust. There is no downhill ride like this in the world!

As we near the end of the ride it gets progressively hotter and dustier. By the time you arrive at the bottom of Death Road in Yolosa (near Coroico) at an altitude of 1,200m/3,600 ft., you will be hot, dirty and exhilarated; having conquered the extreme Death Road (camino de la muerte) with no fear. Just below the village of Yolosa we head to La Senda Verde Animal Refuge, where we enjoy a late pasta and salad buffet lunch and take in the magnificent scenery and animals of the Yungas.

Many of our happy riders have said that this ride on Death Road with Gravity Bolivia is the best experience of their trip, not only in Bolivia, but in all of South America. Dropping over 3500m of altitude this adventure will be one of the best of your holidays! Book your spot on Death Road now!

Our deadline for the next day reservation is 9pm(Bolivian Time), you are welcome to contact +591 772 08356 or [email protected], to verify that we still have spots left on our tours.

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Death Road in Bolivia: How to Visit (And Live to Tell The Tale) in 2024

It’s one of the world’s most famous – or infamous – roads, with a reputation so deadly it will make your hair stand on end. At one time, Bolivia’s North Yungas Road, known colloquially as the Death Road, cost 300+ lives every year. So why would anyone want to visit?

Surprisingly, the Death Road in Bolivia is one of the country’s biggest tourist attractions. It welcomes hundreds of visitors every day who journey from La Paz to experience its perilous twists along lush mountainside firsthand, hoping to live to tell the tale.

Crazy enough to plan your own visit to the Bolivia Death Road? This ultimate guide to the North Yungas Road and the popular Death Road biking tours will help you get there.

This post contains affiliate links that may reward me monetarily or otherwise when you use them to make qualifying purchases – at no cost to you. As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases. For more information, please read our  disclosure policy .

Death Road Bolivia

The Death Road in Bolivia – formally known as the North Yungas Road – is just as treacherous as it sounds. Photos of dramatic mountain passes with little more than a narrow dirt path carved into them don’t do justice to the drama of experiencing the destination for yourself, where high altitude and bottomless cliffs will take your breath away.

The North Yungas Road connects the Bolivian capital city of La Paz with Coroico, a town on the edge of the Bolivian Amazon Rainforest.

For years, the North Yungas Road was the only route between these two destinations, making the journey a terrifying necessity for locals and travelers alike. The road was first carved into the mountainside in the 1930s by prisoners of war captured from Paraguay, and for decades was one of the few routes from the northern Amazon into the capital city.

Why Is The Death Road Dangerous?

A terrifying combination of factors contributes to this being one of the world’s most dangerous and deadly roads:

• The Death Road is narrow. In reality, it’s a one-lane road, meaning that head-on collisions are possible if drivers aren’t careful. Twists and turns leave little room for error, meaning even one challenging pass alongside another vehicle could send you tumbling over the mountain.
• The Death Road has challenging climate conditions. Frequent rain and fog make visibility a challenge, especially as travelers pass through the temperate rainforest between the Andes and the Amazon.
• The Death Road is steep. La Paz is at a much higher altitude than Coroico, meaning you’ll be sliding down the road non-stop on your journey. Of course, the cliffs and dropoffs along the length of the road are also perilously steep.
• The Death Road has no guardrails. While sections of guard rails have been added to areas of the route over time, there are portions of the route that still lack anything to stop travelers from tumbling down the mountainside.

So why visit a destination known for so much death? It’s a total thrill! Most visitors visit the Death Road on a mountain biking tour from La Paz , where guides accompany participants downhill past the dramatic landscape, lush and beautiful despite how dangerous it can be for visitors.

Best Death Road Bike Tours

• From La Paz: Mountain Biking Experience on Bolivia’s Death Road
• From La Paz: Death Road Biking: Small Group or Private Excursion

Is The Death Road The World’s Most Dangerous Road?

While the Death Road in Bolivia is still an extremely dangerous road, changes in recent years have made it considerably less dangerous than it used to be. The Death Road used to take the lives of between 200-300 travelers every year until around 2003, but due to recent upgrades to the road, additional guard rails, and decreased use of the route, that number has dropped precipitously.

However, it is estimated that the Death Road still costs the lives of nearly a dozen people every year. Some of these casualties include travelers visiting the road on the classic Death Road bike tours , so take your tour guides’ advice seriously if you plan to visit!

Death Road Bolivia Accidents

There have been far fewer Death Road Bolivia accidents in recent years than there were more than a decade ago, thanks to some new improvements along the road, including areas with guard rails and new pavement.

Prior to these changes, it wasn’t uncommon for travelers to plunge to their deaths off the mountainside or die in crashes on a frequent, almost daily basis, with around 300 deaths recorded in a year for several years running.

However, the most important factor in decreasing the amount of accidents on the Death Road is due to its decreased use. A new road was built in 2007 connecting Coroico to La Paz . This newer, well-maintained two-lane highway is now the preferred route between these two cities in Bolivia , thereby decreasing traffic on the Death Road significantly.

Read More: La Paz, Bolivia: Ultimate Traveler’s Guide

Is Death Road Still Used?

While the Death Road is now, in many cases, considered obsolete thanks to the newer Cotapata-Santa Bárbara highway, it is still a usable public road that receives a not insignificant amount of traffic. While the newer highway connects most destinations between Coroico and La Paz, there are destinations along the route that are still only accessible via the North Yungas Road.

The Death Road was officially closed to bus and truck traffic after the new road was opened, though cars are welcome to continue to use the Death Road – and many still do.

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How to Visit Bolivia’s Death Road

Travelers are free to visit Bolivia’s Death Road with few limitations if they’re looking for a memorable adventure. In fact, the Death Road has long been among the most popular destinations for a day trip from La Paz .

By far, the most popular way to visit the Death Road in Bolivia is by taking a small group day trip departing from La Paz. As this lush yet terrifying road is located in a remote part of the country, almost reaching the Amazon Rainforest, using La Paz as a starting point is almost universally required.

Looking for a recommendation for the best death road biking excursions? These are some of the best in the city (we did the first one!):

Read More: 24+ Best Things To Do in La Paz, Bolivia

Can You Drive On The Death Road?

Visitors can still plan to drive on the Death Road independently. With the increase of “van life” travelers in South America heading to popular Bolivia destinations like the Salar de Uyuni and the Lagunas Route, driving is an increasingly popular way to experience the North Yungas Road as well.

You can rent a car and head towards the Death Road if you are seeking out the experience of driving the Death Road. However, it is important to remember that the rules of the road are different and often not respected in Bolivia. Overall, it’s not an experience we’d recommend – this is one you’ll want to do with a guide showing you the way!

Death Road Bike Tours

Death Road bike tours are the best way to experience Bolivia’s Death Road and are some of the most popular things to do for travelers spending time in La Paz. Day trips include transportation to the start of the Death Road, use of a mountain bike with good suspension and a helmet, a guide to accompany participants along the way, and lunch and use of the facilities at a nearby jungle resort before returning to La Paz.

While the idea of biking down a road renowned for its accidents, tight curves, and lack of guard rails may sound like a bad idea, it’s actually the best way to experience the North Yungas Road.

Bikes allow travelers to take up less precious road space and maneuver more easily among dangerous sections of the road with the support and direction of a guide. This is also an experience that requires the knowledge and guidance of a local, making guided tours a must.

Are Death Road Bike Tours Worth It?

Death Road bike tours, while they might sound intimidating at first, are well worth it! Not only can you say that you survived the Death Road and lived to tell the tale, but you’ll experience one of the most incredible landmarks in South America firsthand.

Despite its imposing history and name, the Death Road is an incredibly beautiful destination. The sweeping mountain vistas as you descend from the heights of the Andes to the lower elevations of the Amazon Rainforest are indescribable. It’s one of the best ways to experience this part of a mostly untouched region of the country.

Death Road Bike Tour Prices

Death Road bike tours generally cost around $90-125 depending on the tour company and the quality of the bike provided . Believe us, this isn’t the time to scrip and save a few dollars to find a cheaper price! You’ll want to go with an experienced tour company that provides mountain bikes with excellent suspension, both for your safety and enjoyment of the experience.

What To Expect

Death Road bike tours generally start early in the morning from La Paz, with a pickup from your hotel or hostel or meeting at the tour office in La Paz. The journey begins from there, with a little over an hour’s ride to the start of the Death Road in Bolivia at La Cumbre.

From La Cumbre, you’ll be riding a section of paved road all downhill. You’ll later get back in the van to avoid an uphill section until reaching Chuspipata, the start of the traditional section of the road known as the Death Road. Here, a famous sign indicating the start of the Death Road welcomes you with a warning about the road’s history.

From Chuspipata, the road is gravel, and the occasional mud sections are possible along the downhill grade. However, we had a great experience with the ride and didn’t think it was overwhelming, especially given the good suspension on the mountain bikes provided.

A guide leading the “pack” of bikers and one following up the rear are comforting and don’t push you to go too fast (or too slow) , depending on your comfort level.

After The Death Road

As you complete the nearly 40-mile all-downhill ride, you’ll feel that you’ve decreased quite significantly in elevation, noting the temperature warmer and slightly muggier depending on the time of the year you travel.

Tour companies then take bikers to one of several nearby jungle resorts for lunch. You’ll have time to use the facilities like the pool and showers as well, so you’ll want to bring your bathing suit and a change of clothes for the experience.

Plan a Trip to La Paz, Bolivia

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Yungas Road Bolivia

Riding a mountain bike down the infamous Death Road in Bolivia might sound like an invitation to insanity, but savvy travelers know it’s an unforgettable adventure in one of Bolivia’s most impressively beautiful regions. If you can overcome your fears – stay as far away as possible from the cliff’s edge! – you’re in for an experience to remember as you navigate down the Death Road.

Carley Rojas Avila

Carley Rojas Avila is a bilingual New York-based travel writer, editor, content marketer, and the founder of the digital travel publications Explorers Away and Home to Havana. Carley is an expert on all things Latin America, the Caribbean, and Cuba, having lived and worked in four different countries in the region. Her writing has appeared on the Associated Press wires and in Travel + Leisure, Yahoo, MSN, Euronews, The Weather Channel, and more. When she's not writing about her travels, find her front row at a Bad Bunny concert, befriending street cats, and taste-testing every pizza in Havana.

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Death Road Bolivia: Biking Bolivia’s Most Dangerous Road

Find out everything you need to know to enjoy the world-famous Death Road!

Death Road Bolivia – 2024 updated information, how to get there, Death Road Tours and much more!

The below is a first hand account of someone’s journey on Death Road Bolivia in 2019, with updated information for 2024.

Did you know? Bolivia Hop was setup by 2 Irish guys in 2014 and was voted the #1 way to travel around Bolivia in 2024! Click here for more info .

I have arrived in Bolivia – it’s time to take on the most dangerous road in the world. This title goes to Yungas Road , aka Death Road. If you are daring enough, you can ride down this terrifying route on mountain bikes. To me, this is nothing but an invitation. It’s something unique that would be a once in a lifetime adventure.

The road is 40 miles (64 km) in length and was the first road that connected La Paz to the Bolivian Amazon. It was constructed in the 1930’s by the Paraguayan prisoners of the Chaco War. Cut into the Cordillera Oriental Mountain Chain, the road has vertical drops of more than 1,500 ft (457m) and no guard rails.

Death Road Bolivia used to account for 200-300 deaths each year, over forty years ago. Thankfully, its record has gotten a lot better with an average of five deaths per year since 1998. They also closed it in 2007 to bus/truck traffic, but still to this day the road gives no mercy to travelers.

Quick tip: To compare Death Road Tours, use www.findlocaltrips.com for itineraries, prices and more!

Booking My Death Road Tour

As for finding a company to book with, I pre-booked my tour with Find Local Trips . I found this site really good as I was able to book, pay on the site, and didn’t pay an extortionate price for my tour – in fact, I spoke with other backpackers who booked locally and directly – and they paid the same price as I did!

I have learned when traveling through South America that you shouldn’t always go for the cheapest option. You need to get value for your money and should always look for the best product/service within your price range. It is good to talk with other tourists/locals because they can share their experience on what they think is the best option. Definitely make sure the tour company has good equipment/buses, guides are certified in first aid, and the company has a good safety record. I was certainly not going to go with the cheapest deal on offer for this adventure!!! I also bought insurance through my tour company since they require you to have insurance – just in case anything were to happen…

Ready or Not, Here We Go!

Bright and early, we were picked up by our Death Road operator at our hostel in La Paz. We rode by bus with the bikes on top to our starting point of La Cumber at 15,420 ft (4,700 m). We were high in altitude and it was cold. We took a moment to gear up and warm up our muscles. It was so foggy I could barely see the scenery around me.

To start our journey, we toasted to Pachamama (Mother Earth). The common practice is to pour alcohol on the ground, the bike, and then of course a little for yourself 🙂 We started off easy on a paved road for about 14 miles (22 km). This was a good way to get used to the bikes and get a taste for what was to come. It was the calm before the storm!

Discover the REAL Bolivia like a local

Holding on for Dear Life

From here we started down the real death road. No more pavement – it was all gravel. Changing from road biking to mountain biking, the stakes grew higher quickly.. Even more, the course got more challenging. The road was not an easy straight shot from point A to point B, no, it was a winding road with a lot of sharp twists and turns. There were moments where I couldn’t see what was coming around the corner. Plus, I think the most scary part was realizing that just one wrong decision or move could easily take you over the edge. A majority of the road is only 10 ft (3 m) wide so you really don’t have much space to work with! I’m not scared of heights but when I saw that there were no guard rails and no safety barriers, I was scared stiff!!

The bike ride was definitely a test for my arm strength. For the entire ride, my hands were holding onto the brakes. I had to concentrate on not dying, but what I really wanted to do was admire the scenery and stop to take photos every two seconds. The guides did let us stop throughout the route to take pictures which was nice. They broke up the ride very well with snack breaks, photo breaks, and bathroom breaks. Thank God they had functioning toilets we could use!

We rode through waterfalls and had incredible views of the snow-capped Huayna Potosí mountain, the greenery of the rainforests, local Bolivian villages, and llamas.

For information on booking a tour, comparing operators and reviewing prices we recommend to use FindLocalTrips.com a comparison website for tours and activities across South America.

Coca Leaves Grown Here

Fun Bolivia Fact : Yungas is one of the few places that the coca leaf can be grown legally. During the ride you can see fields of this crop. After it is harvested they then lay the leaves on the road to dry out. Once dried, they are packed up into huge bags and carried to the family salon. After that, they are driven to the local markets and beyond.

Keep Calm and Carry On

As I continued down Death Road Bolivia , I was getting used to the unforgivable terrain. Crosses along the road reminded me to not take any risks and to take it slow. Our guide told us that a lot of accidents occur at the end of the route. People get too cocky with their riding skills and lose their sense of caution. I don’t think I would ever be too sure about my cycling skills down that road. There were a lot of rocks in the way, and if you aren’t careful, you could be easily taken down by one. They had what were called “baby heads” scattered throughout the road. Not literal baby heads, but large unavoidable rocks. I almost lost it when I hit one of them and my bike freaked out and slid. It was actually fine and it was just a small scare, but still another stark reminder that this road was no joke.

Arriving at Our Destination

Thankfully, other than some panicky moments I had throughout the route, nothing serious happened and our whole group arrived safely in Yolosa. The whole journey took about 5 hours more or less. We finished at La Senda Verde Animal Refuge for some good food, beautiful scenery, a dip in the pool and a nice hot shower. Trust me after accumulating all the dirt and grime from the road, the shower was glorious.

When it was time to head back, we were given two options. It was either to return the same way we came OR take the New Yungas Road (Direct regular road to La Paz). We decided to take the new road back. It was a unanimous vote, as it was pretty clear that we were all exhausted and didn’t want any more adventure on the way back!!

What should I bring?

Keep it simple: proper clothing and shoes are a must. You will most likely get wet so bring a rain jacket. Don’t forget the essential sunscreen and bug spray. Sunglasses will help not only with the sun, but to also keep the dust and debris out of your eyes.

What should I wear?

Layers: The journey starts in the cold Altiplano terrain. There, you will be happy you have to put on all of the biking gear. But as you continue down the route, you will experience the hot temperatures of the rainforest. By then you will not want to be stuck sweating in your cold-weather clothes, so to be able to put on/take off extra layers is ideal.

When should I go?

The best time to go is in the dry season. If you want to add in another element of danger, you can take the chance of going during the rainy season. Regardless of when, the tours go year-round so whenever it fits in your travel plans – go!

Do I need to be an experienced mountain biker?

No, there is no need to train for this ride, anybody can do it…except for children under 13…sorry kids! Just give a little space between you and the other bikers. Use caution, be careful, and don’t forget to soak in the moment!

Closing Thoughts

If you’re into adrenaline-rushing activities and want to experience something different when traveling in South America, I highly recommend biking down Death Road Bolivia. It is a once in a lifetime experience and definitely something you will never, ever forget.

Note: To actually be able to experience death road they charge bikers a fee. This fee is 25 Bs (about $4) it must be paid at two different points and this goes to the Municipality of Coroico to fund infrastructure projects. This is in addition to the price of your tour.

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DEATH ROAD MOUNTAIN BIKE FROM LA PAZ

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Full Day Biking Excursion: Gather at our meeting point at  07:30 hrs  to begin the most exciting ride of your life through Death Road! You will take a bus up to the “La Cumbre” pass (4,760 masl), which is the highest segment of the route (duration: 1 hour approx.). At this point, your guide will provide you with a mountain bike as well as all equipment necessary for the ride. You will have the opportunity to try out the equipment while your guide gives the day’s instructions.

After the first 22 km. of paved road, you will reach a crossroads and the adventure really begins! You will follow the “Death Road”, a rocky dirt road with amazing precipices and narrow curves, for 32 km until your destination, Yolosa (1,200 masl). Along the way you will experience the most thrilling bike ride of your life, as you take in the beautiful rainforest scenery that engulfs you. Arrive at “La Senda Verde” Animal Shelter where a hot shower, a cold drink and a buffet lunch will be waiting. After about two hours at the shelter, take the bus back to La Paz (duration: 3 hours approx.) where you will arrive between  20:00 hrs  and  22:00 hrs .

Note:  The bus will always be close behind, so you can leave your possessions or even get on it, if you need to rest. We recommend you bring a change of clothes (including shoes) so you can shower and change at La Senda Verde Animal Shelter. Towels, shampoo and soap will be provided.

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The Death Road Mountain Bike Tour is customizable. If you prefer to add extra days or destinations to your trip, please let us know in the Notes section of  the Get Free Quote form. You can also fill out our  Design Your Trip  form or  Contact Us  form with your specific requests.

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Experience Bolivia’s World Famous Death Road (North Yungas Road)

Hi guys! Welcome to my article on Bolivia’s famous Death Road. My name is Meike Helbig . I grew up in a well protected village in the Ore Mountains of Germany. When I was at school, I didn’t really know what I wanted to do and that is why I went to England as an Au Pair for a year after high school.

In the UK, I learned how to speak English and became more enthusiastic about other cultures, mentalities and countries. In my free time, I traveled to many places in England and also to Spain and France. That year, I decided to do an apprenticeship in tourism after returning to Germany.

Since then, I have worked in the travel industry. But I think I inherited my love of travel from my grandfather. He loved traveling and was a guest in many countries. My first backpacking trip outside of Europe was to Thailand. I love backpacking because it gives me the most freedom.

Two Weeks in the Beautiful Bolivia

I did a five month semester abroad in Asuncion, Paraguay and then had time for another month to travel. It was clear to me that I wanted to travel to Bolivia. I heard about a salt desert, lively cities and wonderful hospitality.

Also because of the border with Paraguay, it was clear that I had to go. So I flew from Asuncion to Santa Cruz de la Sierra, my first destination in Bolivia. I spent two weeks in this country. My itinerary was: Santa Cruz, Sucre, Potosi, Salar de Uyuni, La Paz and Copacabana/ Lake Titicaca .

Booking Death Road from La Paz

If I don’t have a lot of time in a country but want to see a lot, I think about my itinerary and the associated sights that I want to see. So I read about the Death Road in Bolivia in travel guides and in some articles on the Internet.

Then I knew I wanted to do that! I knew anyway that I would visit La Paz because I wanted to travel to Peru after Bolivia. So I inquired about tour providers and then booked the tour on site as soon as I arrived in La Paz.

I booked the tour with a local company called Overdose. I don’t know if this tour operator still exists but I felt like I was in good hands and everything was safe. At the end we received a CD with photos and videos and a t-shirt.

But I know that one of the most renowned travel providers in the region for the Death Road is the company Gravity . They have been in business since 1998 and are rated highly with experienced guides, very good equipment, safe bikes, many years of experience and good safety precautions.

The best option is to either book your Death Road tour directly in La Paz or reserve it in advance online. Almost all of the companies that offer mountain bike tours are based in La Paz and the tours start from there. For me, the city of La Paz is one of the craziest places I have ever experienced.

You can find indigenous markets in the middle of the street where women with their black braids and bowler hats sell all sorts of things, small buses which squeeze through the narrow streets and just pure traffic chaos.

My Experience on the Death Road

My tour group and I were picked up at 7:30am and taken to the starting point of North Yungas Road. At 9:45am we received our briefing on the bikes, rules, clothing and protective measures. This happened at the starting point from a crazy height of 4,700 metres above sea level!

The Death Road adventure lasted from 9:45am to 1:45pm. We went from 4,700 metres to 1,200 metres – from the snow to tropics and heat. It was simply a breathtaking experience and one that I will never forget.

I had so much fun! The landscape changed so quickly and I was always hurtling myself downhill on my bike. In the beginning, it was an asphalt road with snow-capped mountains. Then it changed to gravel roads, steep slopes and oncoming traffic. We took plenty of photos along the way.

Biggest Challenge of Death Road

In my opinion, the events on this road have already shown that it’s one of the most dangerous roads in the world. I saw many crosses from crashed cars or cyclists on the way. Cars still drive on the road which is dangerous.

The most challenging thing for me was the altitude at the start and that the climate went from cold to hot. It was also difficult riding on the way down as we cycled over small puddles and wet areas from waterfalls.

Interesting Facts about “El Camino de la Muerte”

Death Road is called “El Camino de la Muerte” in Spanish. It has been considered the most dangerous road in the world for many years now. The road is about 60 kilometres long and leads from La Paz over the La Cumbre Pass at 4,600 metres above sea level and then down to 1,200 metres.

This single-lane road mostly leads along steep slopes without guardrails. Rain, fog and mud often cause poor road conditions with poor visibility. Small landslides and falling rocks can happen at any moment.

One of the most tragic events on the road was in July, 1983. A bus slid off the road and fell into the ravine. This incident killed 100 people and is considered to be Bolivia’s worst traffic accident. According to one estimate, two vehicles per month fall off the road and up to 300 people die each year.

Favorite Moments on the Road

One of my favorite memories from Death Road was when we took photos. The travel guides always came up with funny motifs, perspectives and cool locations. Otherwise, the whole tour was the highlight in itself.

The biking and landscape was just so invigorating. In the end, we were even allowed to chill in a hotel complex with a pool. And this happened just a few hours after I was struggling with the altitude and cold weather!

Need to Know Before you Go

A major challenge of this region in the Andes is definitely the high altitude levels. For example, if you are flying directly into La Paz, it’s extremely important to get acclimatized. Otherwise, you can get altitude sickness.

The most important things are no physical exertion and drinking plenty of water to get used to the altitude. A general rule of thumb is: take it easy and don’t overexert yourself. Slowly but surely your body will acclimatize.

You can search online before coming to La Paz to see which tour providers are available and at what prices they offer the Death Road. Maybe you will be able to book the tour directly from your hotel/accommodation in La Paz.

To see the best of La Paz, you should book at least two nights. After the Death Road tour, you will be tired from the adrenaline rush. This is the perfect chance to relax and see the sights of La Paz. Make sure you do the Death Road tour because this chance may never come again!

BY MEIKE HELBIG IG: @MEIKE.HE_

Author:  Meike Helbig

Meike Helbig grew up in the Ore Mountains of Germany. She went to England as an Au Pair for a year after high school and came back to Germany to do an apprenticeship in tourism.

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Biking the Death Road in Bolivia: Our Guide for the Ride

Home › Destinations › South America › Bolivia

Written by Laura & Jens , two full-time travel bloggers on a world trip. Here to inspire you with our stories.

Challenging the most dangerous road in the world is going to be a ride you will never forget. The Death Road, officially known as the North Yungas Road, is a steep mountain pass that connects Bolivia’s de-facto capital La Paz with the Yungas Region through rugged terrain.

We survived mountain biking the Death Road on a 64 km (40 miles) long track, and it was the ride of our lifetime. Let us tell you why we think that you shouldn’t miss out on this thrilling adventure and equip you with everything you need to know before jumping on the next plane to beautiful Bolivia.

Why is the Death Road called Death Road?

Well, we could imagine better names that would make a road famous, but before the 1990s, when the road was heavily frequented, it surely was the most suitable name. Because, how else would you call a road that used to claim between 200 to 300 souls every year?

Bolivia’s Death Road is a road full of tragedies. Its construction started in the 1930s, when the Bolivian government forced Paraguayan prisoners to build the North Yungas Road, connecting the mountain region with La Paz. Since that gruesome day, it is estimated that more than 16.000 people have lost their lives on the road, with its blackest day in 1983, when a fully packed bus plunged off a cliff.

Today things look brighter again.  Since the opening of a new, safer road, accidents rarely occur anymore.  The road is also officially closed to all motorized traffic now, except for ongoing roadwork, Death Road tour cars, and locals living next to the road.

The Death Road today is a popular destination for everyone who looks for a thrilling and unforgettable mountain bike ride from the beautiful heights of Bolivia into the lush mountain valleys of the La Paz region. It is a new beginning for the Death Road, as people safely enjoy the thrill of mountain biking this legendary road, that turns its bad legacy into something new and enjoyable.

What to expect from riding the Death Road?

For us, biking down the Death Road was a once-in-a-lifetime experience. Once you overcome the fear of the Death Road being called Death Road, you’ll get rewarded with stunning views, an exciting and thrilling adventure, fun stories and guides and a day you’ll most likely remember for the rest of your life.

Expect mountain biking the Death Road to be a real challenge. Even though you only go downhill, it’s still 64 km (40 miles) and an altitude of 2,400 meters (7,874 feet) to overcome. You’ll make plenty of stops along the way to rest, take pictures, and learn more about the history of this legendary road.

We’d say the difficulty level of the Death Road is rather easy to moderate. Even with little to no mountain bike experience, like we had, you can complete the track.

Is it safe to cycle the Death Road?

Before we talk about our experience biking down the Death Road, let’s get the elephant out of the room first: Is cycling the Death Road actually safe?

Well, we think it is. And not only because we survived our adventurous ride.  Even though the Death Road once was the most dangerous in the world, it isn’t anymore. The construction of a new, safer road in the 1990s has diverted most of the traffic. Today, only mountain bikers are allowed to access the road. Also,  we got some well-maintained bikes, an experienced guide, and a lot of protective gear.

However, weather conditions haven’t changed and remain unpredictable with a high likeliness of fog and rain, especially on the upper parts of the Death Road. Also, landslides regularly happen during the rainy season and there are no guardrails to prevent falling down the steep drops.

As with all adventure activities, there’s no such activity that is completely safe. But there are factors such as the bike’s condition, a guide’s experience, or the right time that you can influence by choosing a good and professional tour company (more on that later).  And in fact, most accidents that happen on the Death Road today are abrasions and fractures. So, it’s common sense to stay alert, be cautious, and don’t overestimate your skills. Your guide will tell you when to exercise caution and drive slowly (more on that in the next section).

Ultimately it is your judgement and risk-awareness that makes up the decision to cycle the Death Road or rather skip on it.

Our Death Road Experience

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Two biking Pros embark on a crazy adventure

We had already explored most of the best things to do in La Paz And were in a quite adventurous mood when looking for activities to fill our remaining couple of days left in Bolivia‘s capital.  How could it be else, after seeing all of the crazy things in La Paz: The Witches market, the Cholita Wrestling, and the city’s strangely managed prison? And there was one thing left to do: Mountain biking the Death Road.

Relevant Reading

We didn’t know much about it, but we’ve heard a lot from other travelers that this is one of the best things to do when in Bolivia.

So, after a little research, we decided to go for it. We visited the tour company the same evening to check out their bikes and signed up for the Death Road tour the next day. Because why not… we have never really mountain biked, but what could go wrong?

The early bird catches the worm

Already at 6:30 a.m. the next morning we were picked up at our accommodation and drove right into the Cordillera Real mountain range. We reached the peak of the La Paz summit two hours later at around 8:30 a.m. where we would have a small breakfast and gear up to start our journey.

Views from the trailhead at around 3,600 meters (11,811 feet) were simply stunning. We got some great shots of those incredible mountains of the Cordillera Real de los Andes and figured out that we were really lucky. Our guide told us that, more often than not, you can be happy to see more than 20 meters into the distance.

We put our biking skills to the test

For the next 60 minutes, we went downhill on a very easy tarred road. We were sure that this must be the new road that has been built to divert most of the traffic of the Death Road. It was our ‘test drive’ to prove to our guide that we can actually ride a bike (just kidding) and to check out our gear.

Even though this was considered the easiest part, we already lost more than 900 meters (2,953 feet) in altitude when we reached the famous Death Road at 2,700 meters (8,858 feet).

Easy, give us more!

Now the serious fun began. The road conditions changed from a new even concrete road with guardrails to a tiny gravel road with steep drops. The sunshine we enjoyed so much earlier was gone, and we were now navigating our way over loose stones and through dense fog.

It was impressive to see, but hard to believe that once a lot of cars were driving on this road. While the width of the Death Road was ideal for riding a bike (you could leave enough safe space to your left), there were sections that we really needed to drive very slowly and be aware of not sliding over a rock and down the drop.

At all times we felt very safe, as our guide was instructing us about every upcoming section. Moreover our ‚safety car‘ followed the group at all times. Poor driver, but that way nobody could get lost.

An once-in-a-lifetime experience

We made several stops along the way to admire the great views, take some cool shots and just chat about the history of the famous Death Road. We had never thought that we would have so much fun.

More than halfway through the tour, we got some snacks and took a longer break at a location where you could also zip line, in case the ride wasn’t giving you too much adrenaline already.

Once we made it safely to the end of the Death Road, approximately 64 km (40 miles) and another 4 hours later, we finished the tour sitting in the sun, enjoying the warm climate, and cheered on now being Death Road Survivors with two ice-cold beers.

What does it cost to bike the Death Road?

Expect to pay between 400 BOB (≈ 60 USD) to 600 BOB (≈ 90 USD) for a guided Death Road Tour, plus an additional 100 BOB (≈ 15 USD) entrance fee.

How much you will pay for the Death Road tour mostly depends on the type of bike you are going to rent. Most tour operators offer you the choice between a classical mountain bike with one suspension in the front (“hardtails”), and full-suspension bikes (front and rear), as well as newer and older models.

After we had examined the available bikes, we chose to go with a classical bike that wasn’t of the newest model. Though, we made sure that it was still maintained very well. That way we could save some bucks, without giving up on any safety. If we wouldn’t have seen the bikes before, we would have made sure to go with the best available option.

Recommended Tour

Tour inclusions and exclusions.

All Death Road Tours should include a guide, good equipment (helmet, gloves, jumpsuit, shin, and arm guards) and well-maintained mountain bikes. Most of them provide you a very basic breakfast (bread-and-jam-style), some snacks along the way, and a full lunch at the end. Our tour also included a visit to a nearby hotel, where we could have a swim in the pool and relax in the sun which came in very handy.

Entrance fees and tips were not included in the tour. But we happily tipped our guide and driver, as he not only met our primary goal of surviving, but was also very professional, approachable, helpful and informative throughout the whole experience.

How to visit the Death Road?

The best way to experience the Death Road is by booking a tour from La Paz. There are a handful of tour operators that offer you a daytrip to the Death Road. It’s a long drive from La Paz, and we don’t know if it is actually possible to enter the Death Road without a tour. But we know that this is definitely something you do NOT want to do.

In case you are planning your trip to La Paz, consider staying there at least three days to explore all of the (other) crazy things that you can do in the city.

If you are looking for some good accommodations that we can recommend, have a look into our picks:

Madero Hotel & Suites

• Where we stayed

Hotel Sagarnaga

• Best value for money

Hotel Rosario

• Sustainable property

Hostal Iskanwaya

• More options

What to pack for the Death Road?

If we think back to our Death Road experience, the thing we needed the most were sunglasses. Not because of the sun, but because of nothing getting in your eyes while rushing downhill.

We’ve stuck our heads together to come up with a packing list for your ultimate Death Road adventure. You don‘t need much. But for a more comfortable ride, you can leave your bag in the safety car.

• Sweater / Pullover
• Sport Clothes & Shoes
• Changing Clothes
• Water Bottle
• Insect Repellent
• Swimwear, Towel

Nice to Haves

• First Aid Kit (Plasters)

What is the best time to bike the Death Road?

The best time to bike the Death Road (Camino de Yungas) is during the dry winter season, especially from June to August. The drier the better the road conditions are, as the road can get quite treacherous when wet. It’s already a challenge to bike the Death Road, so we’d recommend to not make it more difficult.

Also, weather conditions can change quickly, independent of the time of the year. You start your ride at an altitude of 3,600 meters (11,811 feet), but 4 hours and 64 km (40 miles) later you end it at only 1,200 meters (3,937 feet). So, while you lose more than 2,400 meters (7,874 feet) in elevation, the cloudy and wet weather in the summit can turn into a beautiful sunny day (or the other way round!).

We wouldn’t recommend cycling down the Death Road during the wet season. Rainfalls during this season are way more probable, making it unpredictable to plan. It’s also riskier, as landslides happen more regularly. Even though we visited the Death Road at the beginning of the wet season, we still came across a recent landslide.

Have a look to our climate diagram to find out the best time for challenging the Death Road:

Travel Time

Is biking the Death Road worth it?

Maybe you guessed it already from reading about our Death Road experience: Yes, challenging the Death Road was a one-of-a-lifetime experience for us. We enjoyed the adrenaline-pumping ride as much as the beautiful views from the mountain and along the track. Even as complete amateurs, we were able to survive the ride without any injuries, but with a lot of unforgettable memories.

Now that we have successfully completed the Death Road, we are happier than ever that we dared to tackle this adventure. And what turned out to be true were our guide’s words: “I’m pretty sure that riding down the Death Road will be one of your most favorite experiences in Bolivia, if not in whole South America.”

He was right. It was indeed one of the best things we did in Bolivia, right after visiting the Uyuni Salt Flats.

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We’re Laura and Jens , two curious adventurers travelling the world full-time. Through our travel blog, we want to inspire and guide you to embark on your own unforgettable journey.

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Mountain Biking Death Road In Bolivia – Complete Guide

Death Road in Bolivia (also known as Yungas Road) is said to be one of the most dangerous roads in the world!

As scary as it may sound, mountain biking down Death Road was one of the best experiences I had while I was backpacking in Bolivia.

I have put together this guide including everything you need to know about biking Death Road Bolivia before you go!

Table of Contents

WHERE IS DEATH ROAD?

Death Road (Yungas Road) is approximately a 1.5-hour drive from La Paz, Bolivia’s 3rd largest city.

Click here to see the location on Google maps.

The altitude at Death Road in Bolivia is 4,650 meters above sea level in the Yungas Mountain Region.

WHERE TO BOOK A DEATH ROAD BOLIVIA TOUR

There are dozens of tour operators offering biking tours on Death Road Bolivia and it can be overwhelming trying to decide which operator to book with.

I personally recommend booking the Death Road Mountain Biking Tour with Get Your Guide .

Click Here to see the full scoop on what’s included in this tour.

THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE YOU GO

Although Death Road in Bolivia is one of the most dangerous roads in the world, not once did I feel like I was going to fall over the edge as the gravel road is quite wide, and in my opinion, it’s not as sketchy as you may think.

Also, since a new highway has been constructed, La Paz Death Road is now only used for recreational mountain biking activities, so you won’t have to worry about dodging cars or other vehicles.

The cycle route is approximately 80 km which takes around four to five hours from start to finish. The majority of the trail is all downhill with some flat sections.

Bolivia Death Road Tours include hotel pick up and drop off, breakfast and buffet lunch, all equipment such as mountain bikes, helmets, shin pads, and elbow pads, gloves, waterproof jacket, waterproof pants, and a tour guide.

Must Read → 3 Week Peru Itinerary

Have you got travel insurance for your trip?!

We all know accidents can happen and having Heymondo Insurance will save you thousands of dollars if something goes wrong.

Heymondo offers low-cost Travel Insurance to keep you covered on all your adventures.

WHAT TO EXPECT AT DEATH ROAD IN BOLIVIA

Once you’re all geared up with your mountain bike and other equipment the Death Road Bolivia tour guide will first give everyone a very important safety briefing so be sure to listen carefully and then it’s time to finally hit the road!

The first part of the route towards North Yungas Road is a 20km cycle down the newly constructed highway so that everyone can get familiar with their bikes.

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Do note that cars and other vehicles use this road so you must stick to one side, allowing them to overtake.

If you feel comfortable enough to shift your gaze off the road you’ll be able to see the incredible Andes mountain ranges and the Cordillera Real.

After about an hour of downhill riding on the tar-sealed road, the tour stops at a security checkpoint and this is where you’ll take a short rest for breakfast and refreshments.

The tour guides will then throw all the bikes back on top of the van for a further ten-minute drive uphill to the official starting point.

Pssst! Check out this EPIC Hiking Backpack!

Perfect for shorter day hikes, the Osprey Stratos 24L is a tough pack made from sustainable materials.

With great internal organization, this is all you need for your next adventure, no matter the weather!

MY EXPERIENCE BIKING DEATH ROAD BOLIVIA

At the very top of Death Road Bolivia, we were engulfed in a thick cloud for the first thirty minutes of downhill riding.

The lower we got on the trail the clearer it became as the cloud started to disperse, revealing the jungle and surrounding mountain ranges.

We stopped half a dozen times along the trail to take photos at some incredible viewpoints and cascading waterfalls that gush over the road.

There were the odd pothole and larger rocks that I had to avoid, though all in all, it was the most scenic mountain bike ride I have ever been on!

I must admit, when I arrived at the finishing point of the Death Road Tour Bolivia I was grateful to have survived this once-in-a-lifetime experience.

Although I found it fun, exciting, and easy to cycle down the most dangerous road in the world, for some it results in injury or death.

My advice is only to book a tour if you are a competent rider and comfortable with heights.

At the end of the tour, our guide handed out t-shirts to us all that stated ‘Death Road Survivor’.

We wore our t-shirts with pride as we sat down to lunch at the restaurant and later a refreshing swim in the pool was more than rewarding!

WHERE TO STAY IN LA PAZ

La Paz has hundreds of accommodation options to choose from, so I have narrowed it down to a few of my favorite places to stay in La Paz to fit the needs of budget backpackers and luxury travelers.

See the list of accommodations below that I personally recommend:

Luxury:  Ritz Apart Hotel

Ritz Apart Hotel, a modern 5-star hotel centrally located in La Paz, provides air-conditioned rooms with flat-screen TVs and private bathrooms, a fitness center, hot tub, sauna, in-house restaurant, room service, and free WiFi.

Perfect for travelers with a larger budget.

Mid Range:  Selina La Paz

Selina La Paz is a 3-star property that is perfect for families, couples, and solo travelers!

Great location in La Paz offering double, triple, and dormitory rooms at an affordable price. Selina also features a billiards table, an in-house restaurant, and a bar for all guests.

Budget:  The Rooftop Bolivia

The Rooftop Bolivia is rated one of the best accommodations in La Paz for budget travelers.

Featuring a bar, shared lounge, city views, restaurant, shared kitchen, free wifi, and a nightclub!

The Rooftop has dorms and private rooms available and breakfast is included.

For all other La Paz accommodations, Search on Booking.com

More central & south america travel guides.

• Mexico: 4 Week Mexico Itinerary
• Cuba: 10 Day Cuba Itinerary
• Peru: Backpacking Peru – 3 Week Itinerary
• Bolivia: Things To Do In Bolivia
• Brazil: 2 Day Rio De Janeiro Itinerary
• Argentina: Things To Do In Argentina
• Chile: Things To Do In Chile

FINAL THOUGHTS – MOUNTAIN BIKING DEATH ROAD

If you have any questions at all about the Death Road in Bolivia, please leave me a comment below and I will get back to you as soon as I can.

For a quicker response, be sure to join Jonny Melon’s Travel Tribe on Facebook and post your questions or recommendations to our awesome community.

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How to book a Death Road tour from La Paz

Sometimes, I use affiliate/sponsored links with my recommendations, which if bought through might earn me a few pennies at absolutely no extra cost to you . This helps with the cost of keeping this site alive so I can continue to guide you on your travels. Please remember that I would never ever ever recommend anything I don’t or wouldn’t use myself. Big thanks to each and every one of you who have trusted my recommendations so far! Lozzy x

The Death Road cycling tour is one of the most popular things to do in La Paz . As with many activities in Bolivia, it can be hard at first to navigate just how to book a Death Road tour from La Paz, and what to look for in an agency. Many hostels will offer advice on agencies that they are affiliated with, but that doesn’t necessarily mean they’re the best, and they’re almost never the cheapest way to book. Luckily, we’ve written this short guide on how to book a Death Road tour from La Paz, just for you!

Death Road (or North Yungas Road, officially) has earnt its name by being the most dangerous road in the world in terms of injuries and deaths. It was constructed by Paraguayan prisoners of war, and reaches 60km from La Paz to the Amazon.

It’s barely more than a car’s width in places, but is technically a two-way road and there are no barriers to protect you from drops of hundreds of metres down a jungly cliff, so it’s very easy to see why so many drivers fell to their deaths.

While agencies have been supplying tourists with their Death Road tour from La Paz for decades, it was only in 2006 that a second, much safer road was built to redirect the traffic from North Yungas.

Even though cars can now take another route between La Paz and the Coroico, you will still come across some vehicles on your Death Road tour, mostly local residents (yep, there are houses along it!) and other tour companies.

After this post on how to book a Death Road tour from La Paz, Bolivia, you may also find these guides helpful:

• What to do in La Paz, highest capital in the world
• Torotoro National Park: explore dinosaur footprints in Bolivia’s epic adventure hub
• Best time to visit Bolivia: is rainy season really that bad?

Instead of doing anything to save us from the middle of nowhere on top of a mountain, our two guides and the driver decided to GO TO SLEEP FOR 3 HOURS in a truck stop cabin and wait for help to magically appear.

Luckily, we had a litre of rum, portable speakers and a bus-load of excitable millennials on board, and were actually sort of sad when a replacement bus arrived at 4am to break up the party.

What to expect from the Death Road tour

After about an hour of driving out of the city, the Death Road bike tour starts high up in the mountains, from which you’ll do several kilometres of cycling downhill on asphalt main roads. There are potholes here, so you still have to be careful.

The van will drive after the last person in the group for the entire tour, so no one should get left behind, but if you crash near the front of the pack it may be a while until any of the guides realise.

The group should stop and have a bike-check and safety briefing just before you enter the gravelly stretches of Death Road, then plough on down.

There’s a stop at a small restaurant for your included lunch of sandwiches and crisps, with the chance to zipline across the valley if you have some spare change. There’s then another hour or so to cycle all the way down to the bottom of the valley, where you chill poolside in a hotel, have dinner and then get driven a few hours back to the city.

Where to book a Death Road tour from La Paz

As always, never book a death road tour online, book any South American tours in-office so that you can check you trust the agency, investigate their safety procedures and what’s included and negotiate on a price. Do, however, check online to see reviews of said agency. You can absolutely book a Death Road tour from La Paz the day before departure. There are plenty of tour agency offices in the city, especially around the main hostel areas of Santa Barbara and Calle Linares.

What to look for in a Death Road tour agency

Just like the Uyuni Salt Flats tour , pretty much every La Paz tourism agency offers the same itinerary for the Death Road tour. You’ll likely get picked up at the same time, dropped off at the same place, eat the same lunch at the same restaurant, end the tour at the same place and go to relax at the same hotel with a pool.

There is one major difference though: the gear. Most companies available to book a Death Road tour will offer you two bike options – essentially just normal and double suspension. For the vast majority of the cheaper companies, even the more expensive bike option will fall short of the mark for quality and safety.

We quickly learned that the bikes pretty much fell apart on the road, and instead of just replacing it with a new one from the fleet, they repair it using parts from a transplant bike. Unfortunately for Andy, his was the 4th bike in the group of 11 to break, and he got landed with the transplant bike for the last 3rd of the way. For our new friend Devon, whose pedals didn’t work, there was no other option but a slow walk’n’cruise (thankfully most of Death Road in this direction is downhill).

On top of this, despite taking down all our measurements and preferred sizes for the protective gear, when we got there we were just given whatever was available, even if that meant a M suit for XS Lozzy and an odd pair of golf gloves with holes in them. Pretty much everyone we spoke to on different tours told us their equipment was the same, and despite customers complaining and demanding refunds after every tour, nothing changes.

The only way to really avoid this when you book a Death Road tour from La Paz is to be super vigilant with reading the reviews of cheaper guides (though it’s not fool-proof as the agencies often sell you on to other guide companies so you never know who you’ll end up with) or break the bank and go with one of the more expensive online agencies that don’t sell you off; Gravity comes very highly recommended and has a wealth of safety approvals – but you will pay out of your nose for it. Altitude is another very well-rated company with a lower price point.

When to go on the Death Road tour

If it’s possible for you to avoid this tour during the rainy season (Jan-Feb) and instead postpone it for another time, that is what’s generally recommended. We decided to book a Death Road bike tour mid-January and there were times when we couldn’t see a metre ahead of us through the fog or the sheets of rain – it was thanks to poor visibility that Lozzy drove through a giant pothole in the main road at speed, falling off and completely mangling the gear mechanism of her bike.

How difficult is it to cycle Death Road?

Believe it or not, the Death Road tour form La Paz is not particularly hard. There’s really barely any pedalling involved at all as it’s so downhill. However, if you’re a scaredy cat like Lozzy you’ll probably be screeching on those brakes way more that usual – ironically the first part of the road which was smoothly-paved, main road was the scariest as you could go so very fast.

Your speed is kind of limited once things get rocky on Death Road itself. Ironically, the best thing to do to not skid is actually to attack rocky areas with a bit of speed so the tyres just roll on over. Easier said than done for Lozzy, though. We’d say this tour is more mentally challenging that physically.

Our group ended up naturally being split into 3 groups of confidence and speed (guess which team Andy was in), so a lot of time for the faster people was spent waiting on the laggards (Lozzy), though there were lots of down-time waiting for the mechanic to fix broken bikes. There was a guide at the front and one at the back, but those in the middle didn’t really have much interaction with them.

What to wear on the Death Road bike tour?

The key here is LAYERS. At the beginning of the Death Road bike tour, the van will drop you off right at the top of a mountain in the Andes. As with anywhere at high altitude, this place is COLD, rainy season or not. You’ll be given an overall and gloves for protection, but you’ll want at least a long-sleeved top and trousers underneath.

It’s cold for the first half of the day, however, by the middle of the Death Road cycle you’ll be back into the heat of low altitude, so you’ll be starting to strip off those layers bit by bit. By the end, we wanted a light t-shirt and shorts or leggings.

Now that you’ve reached the end of this post on how to book a Death Road tour from La Paz, Bolivia, you may also find these guides helpful:

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Last Updated on 11 March 2022 by Cuppa to Copa Travels

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Bolivia Trekking & Cycling Death Road

Get set for your adventure of a lifetime with this extreme 7-day Bolivia Trekking and Cycling Death Road tour. Experience the great outdoors with a trek and camping excursion in Condoriri National Park and a mountain biking excursion on one of the deadliest roads in the world. A stay in the breathtaking city of La Paz is also included before your tour ends, providing you with a taste of the many thrills Bolivia has to offer.

Trekking Bolivia’s Condoriri National Park

After a night in the bustling city of La Paz, you’ll head north to Condoriri National Park for a three-day trekking and camping adventure. When it comes to Bolivia trekking tours, this region is home to the best of the best.

Condoriri National Park itself is massive and offers a serene natural landscape of shimmering lakes and sky-touching snow-capped mountain peaks. Your first day on the trails showcases the beauty and quiet of the natural elements found here. On your second day of hiking, you’ll start early and reach the gorgeous summit of Huayna Potosi, which sits at just over 6,000 meters above sea level.

After completion of the Condoriri to Huayna Potosi trek and your return back down to the park, you’ll continue exploring the area with a visit to Milluni Lake. The village here is mysterious in its own way, with a famous cemetery serving as a monument to mountain climbing. Afterward, you’ll return to La Paz for the night.

Transition back into the noise and bustle of modern-day life during a full day in the charming city of La Paz. Discover the many indigenous, colonial, and modern features of the city and roam its historic center, bustling squares, and local landmarks. Discover cathedrals and palaces, and enjoy the tastes of the local cuisine. You’ll also visit the nearby lunar landscape of Moon Valley and take a ride across the sky aboard the Teleferico, the longest and highest cable car in the world.

Cycling Death Road

Just northeast of La Paz lies the Yungas Mountains rainforest, and this is the location for your next extreme adventure. Here you’ll traverse one of the deadliest roads in the world on mountain bikes, stopping along the way for lunch and to capture spectacular views. Your guides will assist you in navigating narrow ledges and avoiding steep drop-offs as you cycle along while also keeping the experience thrilling and memorable. All gear is provided and maintained during the adventure by your expert bi-lingual guides as well.

At the end of this incredible day, as you settle into your hotel in La Paz for one last night, you’re sure to have plenty of stories to tell of your experience cycling Bolivia’s “Death Road” and so much more.

Itinerary & Prices

All itineraries are subject to change due to seasonal weather conditions (and resultant variations in river and tributary water levels) affecting accessibility to locations. Thus navigation routes, times and excursions may need to be modified at the cruise captain’s or your guide's discretion.

Welcome to La Paz!

Welcome to Bolivia! After arriving at La Paz Airport you’ll be warmly greeted by your awaiting bilingual guide and private tranportation for the half-hour journey downtown to your chosen hotel. Along the way, your guide will provide their passionate insight into this breathtaking Bolivian city, the highest de facto capital city in the world at 3,650 m (11,975 ft) above sea level.

Condoriri National Park

On your second day, you’ll head out into Condoriri National Park, which is just north of La Paz. You’ll spend two nights camping in this serene natural landscape, nestled among mountains and lakes galore. You also don’t have to worry about carrying your own luggage – your guides will have pack llamas to do that for you.

This national park is massive, encompassing a huge chunk of Bolivia. Here you can see nature the way it was before civilization, complete with snow-capped peaks, wildlife, and tons of greenery. As you climb the various peaks, you’ll rediscover your love of Mother Earth as you get to see gorgous views that you can’t find anywhere else in the world.

Another benefit of this two-night trek is that you get to get away from the cities and experience quiet isolation. The atmosphere from La Paz to Condoriri is somewhat extreme. At night, you get to camp under the stars with only the sounds of wind and animals to help you fall asleep. You’ll also visit Chi ‘Yar Quta Lagoon and the nearby village. By the end of the day, you’ll be at about 4,600 meters above sea level.

Meals (B, BL, D)

Huayna Potosi

There’s nothing like waking up in nature next to snow-capped peaks. Day three will start early with a light Andean breakfast prepared by your guides. Be ready for lots of hiking, as you’ll explore two mountain passes, including Huayna Potosi, which is one of the most gorgeous summits in the whole country. You might also see other tours as this mountain gets plenty of visitors throughout the year. At its highest point, you’ll be over 6,000 meters above sea level.

Overall, you’ll spend about seven to eight hour hiking in Condoriri National Park, and you’ll be provided meals along the way. At night, you’ll camp again at about 4200 meters above sea level.

Condoriri National Park, Milluni Lake & La Paz

Today is the last day exploring Condoriri National Park. In addition to exploring the mountains, you’ll visit Milluni Lake. Milluni has a famous cemetery, complete with many gravestones and mausoleums, both for locals and hikers who died in the area. This cemetery is a monument to mountain climbing and the fact that it is both an awe-inspiring and dangerous hobby.

You’ll only be hiking for half the day today, as a truck will meet you in Milluni to take you back to La Paz. You’ll spend the rest of the evening in the city, which you’re free to explore before heading to bed. There are many excellent restaurants in La Paz that can remind you of some of the pleasures of modern life.

Meals (B, BL)

La Paz, Moon Valley & Teleferico

Enjoy a hearty breakfast at your hotel ready for this morning’s half-day city tour of La Paz, including a visit to Moon Valley and chance to take the Teleferico. Beneath the majestic Illimani mountain, La Paz is a chaotic carnival of color and noise, where indigenous, colonial and modern worlds meet and new adventures lurk around every street corner. Explore the local landmarks of its historic center, taking in the bustling squares, palaces and cathedrals, not to mention the mysterious Witches’ Market. Later, visit the lunar landscape of the nearby Moon Valley – a nickname given by Neil Armstrong himself in 1969 when he came to La Paz after the region reminded him of his famous moonwalk – and admire its colossal clay spires steeped in legend.

For the finale, you’ll hop aboard the city’s towering Teleferico for a sky-ride between the depths of Zona Sur to the heights of El Alto, and enjoy the incredible views that only the world’s longest and highest cable-car can afford. The afternoon is yours to spent at your leisure, a chance to rest up after the morning’s exertions or for the adventurous to discover the city’s hidden treasures. Why not head out in search of the House of Congress’ backwards clock, paying homage to Bolivia’s indigenous heritage, or the ‘hidden’ works of famous architect Eiffel in the form of the bus station and Museum of Contemporary Art.

Biking to the Death Road

You’ve already spent three days and two nights hiking the peaks and valleys of Condoriri National Park, and now your biking adventure awaits. After breakfast at the hotel, your guides will take you to Yolosa, which is northeast of La Paz. There, you’ll take mountain bikes through the Yungas Mountains rainforest.

This excursion is not for the faint of heart, as you’ll be traversing one of the deadliest roads in the world. There are around 200 to 300 fatalities per year as buses and other vehicles careen off the steep edges. Since you’ll be on mountain bikes, the trip won’t be as dangerous. Plus, your guides can help you navigate the narrow ledges and steep drops as you go.

For lunch, you’ll stop next to a river within the rainforest so that you can get some incredible views with your meal. Then, you’ll return to your hotel with plenty of tales to tell your friends and family back home. Dinner is not provided, but you can find food in La Paz once you get back.

Meals (B, L)

Farewell to Bolivia

Today we bid a fond farewell to Bolivia with treasured memories of the amazing adventures you’ve had. At proper time you’ll be transfered from your hotel to La Paz Airport, approximately half an hour from downtown, in good time for your international flight home.

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'DEATH ROAD' MOUNTAIN BIKE TOUR

The famous Full Day ‘Death Road’ tour is characterized by having the 4 seasons in one day, from an elevation of 4,680 m.a.s.l. in the Andes to the Amazon Basin at 1.200m. As we descend, the landscape gradually changes into the tropical region, with the presence of exuberant vegetation and small waterfalls that can be seen along the way and spectacular panoramic views.

The famous Full Day ‘Death Road’ tour is characterized by having the 4 seasons in one day. As we descend, the landscape gradually changes into the tropical region, with the presence of exuberant vegetation and small waterfalls that can be seen along the way and spectacular panoramic views.

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Bolivia’s Death Road: Mountain Biking Down The Most Dangerous Road

Bolivia has no shortage of impressive sights and natural attractions, but a  mountain biking adventure on Bolivia’s Death Road,  located outside of La Paz in the Yungas region, is a trip like no other. Winding beneath the mountain peaks, this scenic road was built by Paraguayan prisoners in the 1930’s. At the time, it was one of the few roads used to connect La Paz to the Amazon rainforest region to the north.

*This post may contain affiliate links, as a result, we may receive a small commission (at no extra cost to you) on any bookings/purchases you make through the links in this post. As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases. Read our full disclosure

The Death Road (known locally as El Camino de la Muerte or simply Yungas Road) is considered by many to be  one of the most dangerous roads in the world . The narrow 3-metre wide road stretches for over 40 miles with sheer cliffs and very few guard rails. In 2006, it was estimated that over 300 people die on this road every year, yet the danger of the experience is precisely the appeal!

About the Death Road

Besides sharp turns and steep drops, other hazards include loose stones, oncoming traffic that includes trucks carrying goods and livestock, and mudslides during the rainy season. Depending on the time of year, you might also encounter fog and mist, both of which reduce visibility. For several years, this was the only road connecting La Paz to the Amazon Basin in northern Bolivia, so it used to get even more traffic! While the snowy Andean peaks of this region are stunning, they make for difficult terrain for travel, and few routes run through this area.

Before other roads were built to connect La Paz to other areas, there were so many fatalities on the Death Road that the Inter-American Development Bank declared it “the world’s most dangerous road”. It was so bad that in 1983, a bus fell down a cliffside, and over 100 people died. Since then, other routes have been built with two lanes to allow bigger vehicles to travel safely. Safety measures have also been put in place, like requiring drivers to drive on the left side of the road in order to have better visibility of the vehicle’s wheel placement. In fact, this road is one of the few places in South America that enforces left-hand traffic. 

There was no way in hell Oksana was going to join me on this little adventure, so I took it upon myself to take one for the team.

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Choosing An Operator For Biking On Death Road In Bolivia

Choosing a reputable operator is the key success factor for any type of trip, but when it comes to Death Road, Bolivia, bikes…then it’s even more important! One failed break; one less-than-perfect bike can make you lose control and result in injury, or worse!

Trip Advisor reviews for  Bolivia tours , and a few local recommendations helped us select Barracuda Biking as the operator for the trip down this infamous road. Their  Certificate of Excellence  and hundreds of  Excellent reviews  made me feel confident that I was in good hands. Seeing their equipment on the day (original Kona bikes and full suspension with hydraulic disc brakes) confirmed that I’d made a good choice for my adventure on the Death Road, Bolivia.

Biking On The Death Road In Bolivia

Our day started with an early morning meet-up in La Paz’s Central District. After meeting the guide, Gustavo, and the rest of the riders in the capital city, we all jumped in the van  heading for the Mirador La Cumbre .

Once at the top, we got a serious safety briefing (these guys don’t joke about safety), got our gear, tested our brakes, and started our descent on Death Road, La Paz.

The first part of the road was fast but easy; it  was paved and gave everyone in the group a chance to get used to the gear and find their own pace. Then, after a quick 10km ride back in the truck (the uphill part of the road), the paved road disappeared, and we found ourselves on the narrow Death Road, Bolivia.

We hopped on our bikes and started the ride, passing through some  pretty spectacular scenery  as we descended into the rainforest. There were plenty of stops and picture ops along the way, and while the ride was an adrenaline-filled  experience , thanks to my bike riding experience, I never felt unsafe or like I was pushing my limits or the limits of the bike.

By the time we reached the bottom, we were more than ready for lunch. Biking down the Death Road Bolivia certainly works up an appetite! Luckily, a hearty buffet lunch awaited us, along with a dip in the swimming pool and hot showers. We had about an hour to rest, clean up and get ready for the long bus ride back to La Paz.

The Death Road, Bolivia – Should You Do It?

It was an awesome day and definitely a highlight of my time in Bolivia . If there is one thing I’ll note for anyone thinking about conquering the famous Death Road, it’s  don’t hesitate and DO IT.  If you go with a reputable operator with good gear (Barracuda Biking was awesome), follow the safety instructions and  make sure you aren’t pushing your own limits during the ride , you’ll enjoy the trip and the spectacular scenery along the Death Road. If you’re coming from an area that’s closer to sea level, it’s a good idea to let your body adjust to the altitude for a day or two beforehand, as altitude sickness can hit you quickly and have disastrous consequences.

If at any point along the way, you find yourself feeling uncomfortable with the narrow road, the bike, or anything else, remember you can stop halfway through, jump into the support vehicle that follows the riders and  enjoy the scenery  from the safety of the bus. 

Essential Travel Info For Conquering The Death Road, Bolivia:

Getting there: Mountain biking trips along the Death Road can be organized from La Paz, where many tour operators run this Bolivia tour as a day trip (7am-9pm). You don’t need to pre-book and can sign up for the tour the day before.

Cost:   Barracuda Biking  offers these Bolivia tours for $72.

Skill Required:  To safely conquer the Death Road Bolivia, you must be comfortable riding downhill on a mountain bike. Those who aren’t can still experience the road by tagging along in the support vehicle that follows the riders throughout the day.

Things To Do In La Paz

While you’re in the  La Paz  area, it’s well worth it to spend a day or two  exploring this beautiful city . It’s a great way to adjust to the altitude! It’s a beautiful, bustling city, filled with a mix of ornate Spanish Colonial architecture and modern buildings, amazing eateries, and colourful markets. 

Located in the heart of Old Town, this is the best-preserved colonial road. Calle Jaen is lined with colonial-era homes that house small museums, cafes, galleries, and shops. This is a great place to wander, people-watch, and take some great photos.

Take a Cable Car Ride Over the City

Mi Teleferico  is a 10 km aerial cable car system, and consists of 26 stations all over the city. A sustainable solution to the traffic problem in La Paz, Mi Teleferico’s cable cars utilize solar power. Each of the system’s five lines has several stops, and the views of the city below are simply amazing.

Mercado de Las Brujas

The so-called “Witches’ Market” is a fascinating place to  explore and learn about Bolivian culture . You’ll see vendors selling offerings to Pachamama, medicinal herbs, and implements used in rituals alongside spiritual workers reading fortunes and providing guidance to locals. 

Disclaimer:  Max was a guest of Barracuda Biking on this tour of the Death Road. However, all opinions expressed in this article are my own.

READ NEXT:   Exploring Southern Bolivia on a Salar de Uyuni Tour

About The Author

Oksana & Max St John

3 thoughts on “bolivia’s death road: mountain biking down the most dangerous road”.

We took Barracuda as well. It was a great adventure. I have to admit your pictures are a lot better than ours. We had clouds and fog most of the day, but we had no rain. It is an awesome experience. Thank you for sharing your experience.

Glad to hear that you also had a good experience! We lucked out with weather 🙂

We lucked out with weather too. The day before it had rained. We had some mist and clouds, and the rest of the day was full of sunshine. Loved the ride.

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