Most dangerous roads in the world

The 8 most dangerous roads in the world

Carretera a los Yungas (Bolivia)

Locally known as the ‘route of death’, this Bolivian road is 80 km long and considered by many as the world’s most dangerous road. But this doesn’t stop many adrenaline junkies from taking on the route which separates Bolivia’s capital, La Paz, and Coroico in the Yungas region.

Guoliang Tunnel (China)

The tunnel is located in the Taihang mountains in the Chinese province of Henan and is one of the most famous in the world. This road was built by local people in the early 70s, but it only provided access to this small town 7 years later.
It replaced the narrow steps up the side of the mountain with 1.2 km of road and a tunnel which passes through the mountain.

Karakorum Highway (Pakistan)

This road is 4693 metres above sea level and is known as the highest asphalt road. It forms part of the Silk Road and is known for its long route through the range, between mountains and glaciers. It has become an important tourist attraction thanks to the impressive landscape along the route, connecting the capital of Pakistan with China.

James W. Dalton Highway (Alaska, USA)

A driver’s worst nightmare in this part of the world are the extreme polar weather conditions. Ice, fog and blizzards are common here, making this one of the world’s most dangerous roads. There are only three towns along this route and, as the conditions are so difficult, you should always take provisions and warm clothes, as you’re likely to become trapped in the middle of nowhere.

It is commonly known as the James W. Dalton Highway, but its official name is Alaska Route 11. Coincidently, it stretches 666 km, from the interior of Alaska State almost to the Arctic Ocean.

Skippers Canyon (New Zealand)

Oceania is also home to some very dangerous roads. Skippers Canyon is truly unique and is characterised by its many hills and non-paved sections. This road was built at the end of the 19th century to aid those who went in search of gold on the mountain slopes.

The canyon follows a very narrow, unpaved course full of sharp bends. It will certainly take your breath away.

El Caracol (Chile-Argentina)

This road is located in the Andean mountains, reaching an altitude of almost 3900 m, and joins Argentina and Chile.

It’s known as the Ruta del Caracol or Paso de Los Libertadores. You’ll find several tight bends, especially on the Chilean side, and it’s particularly hazardous due to the heavy lorries that travel along it, making it one of the most dangerous roads in the world.

Rohtang Pass (India)

This road is still under construction and is estimated to be 8 km long. This spectacular route is located in the Himalayan mountains and known for being one of the longest tunnels in India. It attracts large numbers of tourists thanks to its stunning landscape. It passes through forests, mountains and glaciers. This journey through one of India’s tallest mountains makes for a spectacular adventure. It is, without a doubt, one of the world’s most dangerous roads.

Passage du Gois (France)

This road is located in Vandea, covering 4.5 km and connecting the island of Noirmoutier with France. It’s known for being a route over the Atlantic Ocean, so it’s usually covered by water. It’s only accessible for a few hours each day as it’s dependent on the tide and is very well known for being part of the Tour de France route in 1999.
When visiting Noirmoutier, remember that access to the island depends on the tide. If you’re lucky, you’ll get just 3 hours to use it.