Death Road Mountain Bike Ride
Overview
The North Yungas Road, known as the Death Road, was once the main route from La Paz down to the Amazon lowlands, a narrow gravel track cut into cliffs above deep valleys. Since a new highway opened, it has become one of the most popular bike rides in South America.
Guided groups start at La Cumbre pass, at about 4,700 m, around an hour's drive from La Paz, among snow and bare rock. The first stretch is on tarmac; then you join the old gravel road and drop through cloud forest, past waterfalls that spill across the track, into warm, green valleys. In total you descend around 3,500 m over roughly 60 km.
Operators provide bikes, helmets and protective gear and set the pace with frequent stops. You need to be confident on a bike, but most of the ride is downhill. Lunch is usually at the bottom near Coroico, before the drive back to La Paz.
Highlights
- Ride one of the most famous roads in South America
- Start at La Cumbre pass at about 4,700 m
- Drop around 3,500 m into cloud forest
- Ride past waterfalls on the old cliff road
- Guides, bike and safety gear provided
What's included
- Guides
- Mountain bike, helmet and protective gear
- Transport from and back to La Paz
- Lunch
- Road access fee, unless stated by the operator
- Tips
Location
Request this activity
Send us your dates and a SkyRay advisor will confirm availability and price.
Frequently asked questions
You don't need to be an expert, but you should be comfortable riding and braking on gravel. Guides set the pace and the support van follows the group.
Cars rarely use the old road now, and reputable operators use good bikes and guides. It is still a cliff road, so follow your guide and ride within your limits.
