Don’t Risk Driving On The World’s Most Dangerous Roads

While the thought of danger and the ensuing adrenaline rush may excite thrill-seekers and daredevils, the world’s most dangerous roads may give them pause. Sure, hundreds if not thousands of locals traverse these deadly roads day-in and day-out, but for the inexperienced drivers and tourists, these international roads, routes, paths, and highways will most likely mean certain doom. From rocky and gravel roadways to near isolation to extreme weather, the world’s most dangerous roads certainly live up to their name. 

“Road Of Death” – Bolivia

Drawing around 25,000 tourists each year, the “Road Of Death” is formally known as Yungas Road. Because of its narrow one lane of traffic, steep slopes (and cliffs), lack of guardrails, and consistent rainy and foggy weather, it’s no surprise that Yungas Road has garnered such a name for itself. Despite its dangerous conditions, the Road of Death still caters to touring mountain bikers.

Killer Highway – Philippines

Now recognized as Commonwealth Avenue, this Philippine highway was once named in honor of former President Ferdinand Marcos’ father, Don Mariano Marcos Avenue. Regardless, Commonwealth Highway receives its harsh moniker as the six to eighteen-lane highway is known for its high rate of accidents and deaths. In fact, a 37 MPH speed limit was established as unenforced speeding caused many of these accidents.

James Dalton Highway – Alaska

While locals may refer to this highway at North Slope Haul Road, many recognize it today as James W. Dalton Highway. This 414-mile route was built to supply materials needed in the construction of the Trans-Alaska Pipeline. As this mainly gravel road is one of the most isolated routes in the US, travelers are suggested to bring survival gear in case of any mishaps. 

“The Highway of Death” – Brazil

Running the North-South directions of Brazil, BR-116 stands as the second-longest highway in the country. The 2,790-mile route, making its way through famous urban centers like Sao Paulo and Rio de Janeiro, is nicknamed “The Highway of Death” due to various dangerous weather conditions and the threat of robbery.

Himalayan Road Network

Officially, the Himalayan Road Network is acknowledged as the Trans-Himalayan Multi-dimensional Connectivity Network. In 2019, Chinese President, Xi Jinping, enthusiastically announced that Nepal was transforming “from a landlocked to a land-linked country.” Still, the roads are tight, unpaved, and marked by crashed commuter buses and cars.

Guoliang Tunnel Road – China

In 1972, the Gioliang Tunnel was “carved” into a nearby mountain to allow the Guoliang village access to the outside world. Using hammers and chisels, thirteen villagers carved the .75 mile, 16-foot tall, 13-foot wide tunnel in about five years. The tunnel road can be deadly as no protection from falling or driving off the mountainside exist.

Taroko Gorge Road – Taiwan

Situated in one of Taiwan’s national parks, Taroko Gorge Road is beautiful… from a distance. As the road quickly ascends in altitude, the dangers of mountain driving are present. Swift and blind turns also cause safety concerns.

Pasubio – Italy

Located in Italy, the “Road of 52 Tunnels” (referred to as “Strada Delle 52 Gallerie” in Italian), was first constructed in 1917 for use during World War One. Amongst the 52 carved tunnels, travelers are dealt extreme darkness, sheer cliffside drops, narrow roadways, and overall difficult terrain.

Halsema Highway – Philippines

Halsema Highway is the second-highest altitude highway in the Philippines, being dethroned as the first in 2019. Interestingly, the highway is named after an American engineer who facilitated the construction of the 1920s foot trail. In the midst of the rainy season, the highway pavement will become slippery. Then, there’s also the real concern for landslides.