13 most dangerous roads in the world: Flying by plane is, of course, a faster and more comfortable form of travel. But, although the journey by car may take longer, it will give you the opportunity to get a good view of the surroundings. If you are an inexperienced driver, this material is for you. Here we get to know some of the scariest roads around the world.
13 most dangerous roads in the world
Death Road, Bolivia
Officially known as North Yungas Road, this route usually goes by a more sinister name. The narrow track curves through densely forested mountain slopes, and there are no barriers to protect cars from falling from a height of 600 meters. Despite the risks, it is popular with tourists.
Karakoram Highway, from Pakistan to China
This ancient Silk Road route leads to the 4,700-meter-high Khunjerab Pass, which translates as “Valley of Blood” due to its former popularity as an ambush site for robbers. Although you are unlikely to be attacked by bandits at the moment, the route is still fraught with dangers in the form of landslides, floods, and earthquakes.
Big Gate Road, China
An incredible 99 turns (most of which are very tight) around this 11-kilometer route on the dizzying slopes of Tianmen Mountain. If the road itself doesn’t scare you, take a walk across the glass-bottomed bridge winding around the rocks, about 1400 meters from the ground.
Skippers Canyon Road, New Zealand
The route is so dangerous that car rental companies do not insure trips taken on it. This road glides through a deep gorge cut by the rushing Shotover River. The road was built by miners in the 1800s when the Shotover River gleamed with gold.
Taroko Gorge, Taiwan
Blind turns, frequent typhoons, and monsoons make this route dangerous. It is a narrow road carved into the rock, with frequent low, unlit tunnels (some 450 workers are said to have died during its construction from 1956-to 1960). The brave ones are rewarded with great views as the road passes through the Taroko National Park.
Pan American Highway, from Alaska to Argentina
The Pan American Highway is the longest road in the world, passing through 14 countries. Its highest point is at Cerro de la Muerte (“Mountain of Death”) in Costa Rica. Here, a steep climb passes through fog and clouds over the lush green jungle. If you want to experience even more unpleasant moments, continue down to Ecuador and head along the Cotopaxi Volcanic Road, a 40 km dirt road plagued by flash floods and an active volcano.
James Dalton Highway, Alaska
There are only three villages along this 666 km permafrost-covered trail: Wiseman and the ominously named Coldfoot and Deadhorse. Called the loneliest road on Earth, it cannot be traveled without life-saving equipment. However, here you can see charming views beyond the Arctic Circle.
Road of Bones, Russia
Do you believe in ghosts? The Kolyma Highway was built by Gulag prisoners, many of whom died building it (hence the name). Drive along with it in winter and you will see beautiful views of frozen rivers and snow-covered blue forests.
Zoji La, India
This high Himalayan mountain pass connects the Kashmir, Dras, and Sura valleys with the Indus Valley to the east. Its zigzag route, located at an altitude of 3528 meters above sea level, is subject to strong winds, has no fences, and is prone to landslides and mudflows. In winter, roads are often closed due to heavy snowfalls.
Stelvio Pass, from Italy to Switzerland
A difficult route even for the most experienced drivers. The Stelvio Pass follows a winding route through the Alps with steep descents and hairpin turns, including a “wall” of 48 hairpin turns in a row. Its scenic views draw crowds – come after hours if you prefer a more relaxed ride.
Highway D915, Turkey
The D915 is full of hairpin bends so narrow that vehicles often take more than one turn to turn. The road is in poor condition, there are no fences – not recommended for tourists.
Guoliang Tunnel Road, China
The old Guoliang Tunnel Road was built back in the 1970s. Carved into the side of the steep Taihang Mountain, it cuts into several sheer cliffs, meaning you’ll be inside the mountain for most of the route. Rectangular “windows” let in light.
Hana Highway, Hawaii
The Hana Highway wraps around the coast of Maui, Hawaii, and offers breathtaking views of the ocean, lush rainforests, waterfalls, and scenic bridges. However, this route is so strenuous that it is also called the “Divorce Highway“.
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