Descend Bolivia's Death Road: 60km Yungas Bike Adventure from La Paz
Start at a high-altitude Andean pass and ride 60 km down Bolivia’s famed Road of Death into the humid Yungas. This guided full-day descent blends dramatic geology, rainforest encounters and local culture with supplied bikes and safety gear.
The Experience
Before You Go
Acclimate before you ride
Spend 24–48 hours in La Paz to reduce altitude-related issues; hydrate and avoid heavy exertion the day before.
Practice downhill braking
Use both brakes gently and alternate to avoid overheating rims; keep weight back on steep sections.
Dress in layers
Temperatures range from near-freezing at the pass to hot and humid at the finish — quick on/off layers are key.
Protect against sun and insects
High-altitude sun is intense and rainforest zones have bugs — sunscreen, sunglasses and insect repellent are recommended.
Local Knowledge
Hidden Gems
- •La Cumbre viewpoint for quick high-altitude photos before the descent
- •The final town (Coroico) markets and coffee farms — great for post-ride relaxation
Wildlife
- •Tropical hummingbirds
- •Various toucan and cloud-forest bird species
Conservation Note
Erosion and landslides are ongoing concerns; respect marked trails, avoid single-use plastics, and support local businesses that promote sustainable tourism.
Originally carved as a vehicular route in the 1930s, the Yungas Road earned its grim nickname due to steep cliffs and narrow lanes until modern bypasses reduced heavy traffic.
What to Bring
Full-finger cycling glovesEssential
Protects hands on long descents and improves grip in wet conditions.
Lightweight waterproof jacketEssential
Shields against sudden cloudforest showers and wind at higher elevations.
Hydration pack (2–3L)Essential
Keeps water accessible across the full-day descent where services are limited.
Sturdy closed-toe shoesEssential
Provides pedal control and protects feet on rocky or muddy sections.
Common Questions
Do I need prior mountain biking experience?
No advanced experience required, but you should be comfortable riding on loose gravel and controlling your speed on long descents; guides coach technique throughout.
Will I have problems with altitude?
The ride starts very high — spend a day or two in La Paz to acclimate, stay hydrated, and notify guides if you feel severe symptoms; the tour includes gradual transport away from the highest points.
What’s included in the tour?
Typically bikes, helmets and pads, bilingual guides, transport from La Paz, breakfast, lunch, bottled water, photos and videos, and access to post-ride facilities like showers.
Is riding safe on narrow cliff sections?
Guides lead riders and manage traffic; modern tours emphasize safety with protective gear and conservative group pacing, but there is inherent risk on exposed sections.
Book This Experience
Check AvailabilityDuration
9–11 hours
Location
La Paz, La Paz
Difficulty
challenging
Fitness Level
Good cardiovascular fitness and comfort with long descents; some prior mountain biking helpful but novices can participate with caution.
Ready to Explore La Paz?
Book your guided walking tour and discover the hidden stories of this historic mountain city.
Check Availability & Book Now