In short
- A 2006 bypass removed over 90% of vehicle traffic from the old road.
- Top tours provide full-suspension bikes and mandatory safety gear.
- A support van follows your group in case you need to stop riding.
In this article
Riding the Death Road is a thrilling 64-kilometer mountain bike descent. While the cliff drops are real, the traffic danger is mostly history. Modern tour operators rely on strict rules, proper gear, and experienced guides to minimize risks on the dirt track.
Are there cars on the Death Road?
Very few vehicles use the old dirt road today.
A new paved highway opened in 2006. This modern bypass removed over 90% of vehicular traffic from the original cliffside route. Today, the old road is primarily used by guided cycling groups and local support vehicles.
Do tour companies provide safe bikes?
Yes, reputable operators maintain high-quality mountain bikes.
Tour packages cost between $60 and $120 USD. The price difference usually reflects the bike quality and guide experience. Top companies provide full-suspension bikes, which handle the rocky terrain better than hardtail models.
Mechanics inspect brakes and components after every ride. You will also receive a helmet, gloves, and protective outerwear.
Why do cyclists ride on the cliff side?
Local law requires all traffic on this specific road to drive on the left.
This is the only road in Bolivia with a left-hand traffic rule. The rule dates back to when the road was heavily used by trucks. Driving on the left allowed truck drivers to look out their window and see their outside tire on the edge.
You must stick strictly to the left side during your descent. This puts you closest to the sheer 600-meter drops.
What happens if I cannot finish the ride?
A support van follows the cycling group for the entire descent.
You are never forced to complete the 64-kilometer ride. If you feel tired, scared, or unwell, you can simply stop. The operator's support van trails the group down the mountain.
You can load your bike onto the van and ride inside the vehicle to the finish line in Yolosa. The van also carries your extra layers and daypacks.
How do guides keep riders safe?
Guides control the pace and enforce strict spacing rules.
Your tour begins with a safety briefing at the 4,650-meter La Cumbre pass. Guides ride at the front and back of the group. They stop frequently to regroup and point out upcoming hazards.
- Do not attempt to race or ride recklessly.
- Keep a safe distance from other riders on gravel corners.
- Pull over completely if you want to take photos.
Does weather affect safety on the route?
Yes, rain makes the unpaved track slippery and reduces visibility.
The Death Road is open year-round. However, the dry season from May to October is the safest time to ride. The dirt terrain is less muddy, and you get clearer views of the drops.
Even in the dry season, you will encounter water. You must ride directly underneath the San Juan Waterfalls, which pour onto the track.
Questions travellers ask
How dangerous is the Death Road in Bolivia?
The road is much safer today than it was in the past. The 2006 bypass removed almost all heavy traffic. However, you are still riding down a steep gravel road with 600-meter cliffs and no guardrails.
Do I need to be an experienced mountain biker for Death Road?
You do not need to be an expert, but basic cycling skills are required. You must be comfortable using hand brakes on steep, rocky descents for 4 to 5 hours.
What is the minimum age for biking the Death Road?
Most tour operators enforce a minimum age requirement. This is typically 10 or 14 years old, depending entirely on the company's specific safety policies.
