5 Most Dangerous Roads in the World

For some, driving is a daily routine, but for others it can be a life-threatening adventure. Some roads in the world are so dangerous that even the most experienced drivers fear them. These roads combine dangerous conditions, extreme elevations, sharp turns and unpredictable weather to turn a simple drive into a nerve-wracking journey.

The world’s most dangerous roads

Here are five of the world’s most dangerous roads that will test your driving mettle.

1. North Yongas Road (Road of Death), Bolivia

Bolivia’s Norte Yugas Highway, nicknamed the “Road of Death” for its steep drop-offs, narrow roads and deadly history, tops a list of the world’s most dangerous roads. The road stretches about 61 kilometers (40 miles) from La Paz and winds through the Andes, perched on a cliff with no guardrails and just enough space for a car.

  • Hazards: Steep cliffs, landslides, fog and oncoming vehicles.
  • Altitude: Starts at 15,260 feet above sea level and descends to 3,900 feet.

Despite its dangers, the North Yongas Road remains a popular destination for thrill seekers, especially cyclists, who brave the turns and enjoy the adrenaline rush.

2. Bazhong Karakoram Highway

The Karakoram Highway is the world’s highest international highway, connecting Pakistan and China across the towering Karakoram Mountains. The road is not only dangerous because of its height, but its sharp turns, narrow passages and frequent landslides also make it extremely dangerous. The highway is more than 800 miles (1,300 kilometers) long and passes through some of the most rugged terrain.

  • Hazards: Rockfalls, floods, avalanches and altitude sickness.
  • Altitude: Maximum elevation exceeds 15,400 feet.

Travelers need to be prepared for severe weather changes, lack of oxygen, and stunning glaciers and mountain peak vistas.

3. James Dalton Highway, Alaska

This desolate road stretches 414 miles across Alaska’s frozen wilderness, from Fairbanks to Deadhorse near the Arctic Ocean. The Dalton Highway is notorious for its remoteness, making it one of the most dangerous roads in the world, especially during the harsh winter months. The highway is 414 miles (666 kilometers) long and consists mostly of gravel roads.

  • Hazards: Icy conditions, lack of services, freezing temperatures and wildlife.
  • Altitude: Although relatively flat, climate extremes are a major challenge.

Truckers use this route to service the oil fields, and while the scenery is breathtaking, only the most prepared and skilled drivers should attempt this icy journey.

4. Zojila Pass, India: Gateway to Ladakh

The Zojila Pass is a high-altitude pass in the Indian Himalayas, connecting Kashmir and Ladakh. During the winter, roads are closed for months due to heavy snowfall and poor conditions. Even in summer, roads are prone to landslides and rockfalls. The Zojila Pass stretches over 119 miles (193 kilometers) and is known as one of the highest motorable roads in India.

  • Hazards: strong wind, heavy snow
  • Altitude: Operating altitude is approximately 3,528 meters (11,575 feet)

Travelers must exercise caution when traversing this challenging route and be prepared for unpredictable weather conditions.

5. Guoliang Tunnel Road, China

The Guoliang Tunnel Highway is both an engineering marvel and a dangerous trap. Carved by villagers into the side of the Taihang Mountains, the road is only 1.2 kilometers (0.75 miles) long and towers over a cliff. The tunnel was dug by hand in the 1970s by 13 villagers.

  • Dangers: Narrow tunnels, no obstacles, steep drops and falling rocks.
  • Elevation: The trail is just 16 feet high and 13 feet wide, with open holes overlooking a 2,000-foot drop.

One wrong step on this narrow path could spell disaster. The road’s beauty attracts tourists, but only the brave will venture through its dark, narrow tunnels.