About this route
The long way there
Once called the world's most dangerous road, Bolivia's North Yungas Road plunges from 4,650 meters near La Paz to 1,200 meters in the Amazon basin. The original single-lane road with no guardrails is now mostly used by mountain bikers, while a new paved route handles most traffic. It remains one of the most dramatic descents on Earth.
Must-see highlights
Where to pull over
1
La Cumbre Pass
Starting point at 4,650 meters with Andean views
2
The Descent
3,600 meter drop through cloud forest
3
Waterfalls
Cascades tumbling over the road
4
Cloud Forest
Transition from highlands to jungle
5
Coroico
Subtropical town for recovery drinks
Field notes
Traveler tips
- 1
Most visitors bike down with tour operators
- 2
Check operator safety records carefully
- 3
Altitude can cause issues - acclimatize in La Paz first
- 4
Wet season makes the road even more dangerous
- 5
The new road is safe for regular vehicles