The Yungas Road, also known as the Road of Death, is a 43-mile stretch of road that connects the cities of La Paz and Coroico in Bolivia. It is considered to be one of the most dangerous roads in the world, due to its narrow width, sharp curves, and steep drops. Despite the dangers, the road is still traveled by locals, tourists, and truckers who use it to transport goods across the country.
History
The Yungas Road was built in the 1930s, during the rule of the dictator Germán Busch. The road was built as a way to connect the city of La Paz to the town of Coroico, and to provide access to the Yungas region of Bolivia. It was originally built as a single-lane road, with no guardrails or safety features.
The road quickly gained a reputation for being dangerous, with numerous accidents and fatalities occurring along its length. In 2006, the Inter-American Development Bank declared the Yungas Road to be the world's most dangerous road.
Amazing Facts
The Yungas Road is 43 miles long, and is said to be one of the most dangerous roads in the world. It has an average elevation of 11,800 feet, and is known for its narrow width, sharp curves, and steep drops. Its maximum grade is 18%, and its minimum width is just 10 feet.
The road is traveled by locals, tourists, and truckers who use it to transport goods across the country. It is estimated that around 200-300 people die on the road every year.
Things to Do at Yungas Road
Despite its dangers, the Yungas Road is still a popular tourist destination. There are numerous activities that can be enjoyed along the length of the road, such as hiking, biking, and even bungee jumping.
Hiking is a popular activity, as the road passes through some of the most stunning scenery in Bolivia. There are numerous trails that can be taken, and many of them offer spectacular views of the surrounding mountains and valleys.
Biking is another popular activity, as the road is relatively flat and easy to navigate. It is also a great way to get a feel for the local culture, as many of the locals use the road to get to and from their homes.
Finally, bungee jumping is a popular activity for thrill-seekers. The Yungas Road is one of the few places in the world where bungee jumping is allowed, and there are numerous companies that offer the activity.
Overall, the Yungas Road is a dangerous but thrilling place to visit. It is a great way to experience the beauty of Bolivia, and to get a feel for the local culture. Despite its dangers, the road is still traveled by locals, tourists, and truckers, and is a great way to experience the country.