La Paz | Death Route by Bicycle

Experience one of South America’s most thrilling adventures by cycling the legendary Death Road from La Paz, known worldwide for its breathtaking descent from 4,700 meters above sea level in the snow-capped Andes to the warm Yungas rainforest. No expertise is required, just a thirst for adventure: professional equipment, high-end bikes, and a support vehicle ensure your safety at every stage.

During the ride, you’ll pass waterfalls, cliffs, and tropical landscapes with stops for photos, snacks, and even a refreshing dip under a waterfall. At the end of the journey, a well-deserved rest awaits with lunch and a pool to celebrate conquering one of the world’s most epic descents.

History | Death Road

• The famous Death Road, also known as the Yungas Road, was built in the 1930s by Paraguayan prisoners of war during the Chaco War. Its purpose was to connect the city of La Paz with the tropical Yungas region, enabling the transport of agricultural products to the highlands.
• For decades, it was the only available route, and due to its narrowness, lack of guardrails, constant rain, and precipices of up to 800 meters, it became infamous as one of the most dangerous roads in the world, claiming countless lives.
• In 1995, the Inter-American Development Bank officially declared it the most dangerous road in the world, and with the construction of a new paved highway, the old road was closed to regular traffic and reborn as one of South America’s most exciting adventures.
• Today, thousands of travelers from around the world come to La Paz to cycle it, descending from the 4,700 meters above sea level of the cold Andes Mountains to the 1,200 meters above sea level of the warm rainforest, on a thrilling journey of contrasting climates, natural landscapes, and cultures.

Detailed Itinerary – Death Road Bike Tour

Pick-up from your hotel in La Paz

The tour begins early with pick-up from your hotel and transfer by tourist transport to La Cumbre, the starting point of the route at 4,700 meters above sea level. Along the way, you’ll enjoy snow-capped mountain landscapes and the fresh air of the Andes.

Stage 1: Descent on paved road (22 km)

We begin the descent on a paved road. This section is ideal for gaining confidence and getting used to the bike. After 45 minutes, we reach the police checkpoint, where you pay the entrance fee to the National Park (Bs. 50). During this stretch, we make stops for photos, hydration, and bike checks, always with the security vehicle following the group.

Stage 2: Death Road (10 km)

Here begins the most exciting part: the route of the infamous Death Road, a narrow stretch surrounded by precipices, lush vegetation, and waterfalls. We always travel in a tight group, prioritizing safety. During this section, we also enjoy a light snack of chocolate, fruit, and energy snacks.

Stage 3: Waterfalls and Jungle (32 km)

The descent continues into a warmer, more humid climate, with views of the rainforest. One of the most fun moments is a refreshing and adrenaline-filled plunge into a waterfall. Finally, we arrive in Yolosa, the end point of the route.

Lunch

After the adventure, we enjoy a well-deserved rest and a perfect lunch to relax before the return journey.

Transfer to the hotel and end of service

Upon arrival in La Paz, our guide will arrange a taxi to take you to your hotel, concluding a day filled with history, nature, and Andean culture.

What does the tour include?

Pick-up from your hotel or a central location in La Paz

Punctual service in tourist transportation, valid for hotels located in the historic center or surrounding areas.

Round-trip tourist transportation

Comfortable, safe, and authorized transportation for rural and high-altitude routes, with panoramic windows and adequate space for groups.

Professional bilingual tour guide (Spanish/English)

Specialized cycling and first aid guides accompany you throughout the tour.

Professional mountain bike and equipment

Full-suspension mountain bike with hydraulic disc brakes, adjusted to the participant’s height, a full-face helmet, and protective gloves.

Ongoing assistance throughout the tour

Support from the team of guides and drivers in case of any need during the trip.

What is not included?

Travel or personal insurance

Medical assistance policy is not included. It is recommended to purchase your own travel insurance.

Voluntary tips for guides or the community

These are not mandatory, but a gesture of appreciation is greatly appreciated by the local team and host families.

Personal items (raincoat, sunscreen, hat, etc.)

The tour does not include personal items, and it is suggested that you bring a backpack with everything you need for the day.

Photography equipment or personal cameras

Multimedia equipment is not provided.

Lunch

Lunch is not included in the tour, but there are typical lunch options available, and most restaurants offer vegetarian or vegan options, which can be requested in advance.

Recommendations

Sun and eye protection
Bring sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat. Solar radiation at high altitudes can be strong, even on cloudy days.

Hydration and personal snacks
Although the tour includes breakfast and lunch, it is recommended to bring a water bottle, nuts, or energy bars for the trail.

Camera with sufficient battery and memory
This tour offers numerous photo opportunities, from Andean landscapes to cultural portraits by the bridge.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the service a group or private tour?

This itinerary is a group tour, but it can also be arranged privately with prior coordination.

Is prior mountain biking experience necessary?

It is not mandatory, but basic bike handling skills are recommended. The guides give a safety briefing before starting, and the group pace is controlled.

Is the route dangerous?

Despite the name “Death Road,” the tour follows the old route downhill only, with constant guides and a support vehicle. Following safety instructions, it is a safe and controlled activity.

What should I wear?

• Comfortable athletic wear (long pants or fitted shorts)
• Windproof or waterproof jacket
• Swimsuit or swimsuit for the end at the hotel
• Change of dry clothes for after the tour
• Sunscreen and sunglasses

What is the minimum age or physical condition required?

The suggested minimum age is 14 years old, always with parental authorization. The tour is mostly downhill, so it doesn’t require great physical effort, but it does require stamina and concentration.