Always check your gear
No matter which company you ride with, always ensure your bike is in good working order before setting off. Both front and back brakes are obviously essential, although you should check the gears, wheel alignment, and tire pressure as well.
There will be oncoming traffic
Despite the construction of a safer new road, some vehicles still use the Death Road as it is the only route that connects certain destinations. With that in mind, never steer into a blind corner without checking for oncoming traffic first.
Oncoming traffic on the Death Road | © Marco Antonio/Flickr
Everyone travels on the left
Contrary to every other road in the country, vehicles must use the left-hand side as this makes passing considerably safer. For downhill riders, this means sticking to the precarious cliff side. Drop-offs can be as high as 600 meters (1,970 feet), so try not to lose control.
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The views are incredible
Los Yungas is truly magnificent, a lush cloud forest rich in vegetation which marks where the Andes drop down into the Amazon. Take in the views, by all means, but try not to get distracted enough to fall off a cliff.
Waterfall on the Death Road | © Gatol fotografia/Flickr | © Gatol fotografia / Flickr
There are lots of unexpectedly large rocks
Big rocks jut out of the road at seemingly every turn, potentially throwing unsuspecting riders over the handlebars or, God forbid, over the edge. Always ride within your limits to ensure you can react to these hazards in time.
It’s a long day
You’ll be up at 6 a.m. and home well after dark, with many of those hours spent negotiating a tough rocky road in the humid tropical sun. For this reason, it’s a good idea to get a good night’s sleep and avoid ordering that extra pint of Paceña at the hostel bar the night before.
Wide shot of the Death Road | © Gatol fotografia/Flickr
The climate varies
Travelers descend from snowy Andean peaks to the thick tropical jungle which means temperatures range from freezing to sweltering. Pack accordingly and bring a backpack to stash extra layers as the temperature heats up. Note that in the rainy season, slippery surfaces and the odd mudslide provide additional challenges.
Valleys of the Yungas Road | © Matthew Straubmuller / Flickr
With this information at hand, you’re now ready to make it to the bottom in one piece and grab one of those coveted “I survived the Death Road” T-shirts for yourself.
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Source link : https://theculturetrip.com/south-america/bolivia/articles/10-things-to-know-before-visiting-the-death-road-bolivia
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Publish date : 2018-04-19 03:00:00
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