Ever wondered where the world’s most hair-raising drives are?
From China’s mountain-carved tunnels to Bolivia’s “Road of Death”, these 11 routes will make your palms sweat. They’re not just thrilling – they’re downright dangerous.
Steep drops, hairpin turns, and extreme weather are just the start.
Ready for a journey that’ll test your nerves? Buckle up and read on! 😊
1. Guoliang Tunnel Road (China)
Bring the adventure to the next level with a trip to Guoliang Tunnel Road. Chiseled on the mountainside, the pathway is bound to send your pulse racing.
It’s a tunnel-like road with windows carved into the rock surface. Navigate through the dramatic route surrounded by a combination of dim lighting and sharp turns.
Before we forget, there are no guardrails to prevent plunging to your death. One wrong maneuver and you’ll find yourself at the edge or at the bottom.
2. Los Caracoles Pass (Chile)
An aerial view of Los Caracoles Pass gives you a peek at the road ahead. Its serpentine paths send a thrill to your senses, making you question your decisions.
Even so, the pathway is an essential part when traversing from Chile to Argentina.
So, get ready for a road filled with a series of hairpin turns. You are expected to be all set for a treacherous trip with steep climbs and sharp drop-offs.
3. The Stelvio Pass (Italy)
Featuring 48 hairpin turns within a 15-mile trip, the Stelvio Pass is like no other.
Keep a tight grip as you ascend to nearly 9,000 feet above sea level. Along the way, you’ll come across narrow lanes and sheer descents.
Without a doubt, this path is a true test of your driving skill — and courage. It’s recommended for anyone who’s up for a challenging route with rewarding and gorgeous scenery.
4. The Taroko Gorge Road (Taiwan)
Don’t be too occupied with the mesmerizing nature views ahead. The Taroko Gorge Road demands your full attention every second.
Conquer the path carved through the side of the marble gorge. Watch out for the narrow bridges and natural hazards. Rockfalls and landslides are added risks to your pursuit.
Foggy surroundings are also a constant threat while navigating the road. No wonder it’s a highly dangerous route, challenging even experienced drivers.
5. The Zoji Pass (India)
Set your nerves on edge as you pass through Zoji Pass. It’s renowned for its hairpin bends and high altitude that puts your skills to the next level.
From winding routes to steep drops, the road is simply treacherous. In addition, there are no guardrails to protect from falling over 11,000 feet.
Come winter, it’s even more challenging. Heavy snow transforms the path into a slippery ice rink. And if you have respiratory issues, this poses a serious risk because of the high altitude.
6. North Yungas Road (Bolivia)
Just a precaution — this path is called the “Road of Death” and all for the worst reasons.
North Yungas Road is unlike most places you’ve ever experienced. You need to drive on a single-lane with jagged cliffs and sheer drops.
Plus, you are sharing the road with the other lane. Stay focused on the road because a small miscalculation can be disastrous.
Exceptional driving skills and a dash of courage are essential when driving here.
7. Jalalabad–Kabul Road (Afghanistan)
Tight turns and steep grades make up your trip to Jalalabad–Kabul Road. This road stretches between two cities in Afghanistan through dangerous cliffs.
Narrow passages create a perilous route that one must be ready to conquer. Beyond environmental challenges, you must also consider possible Taliban attacks.
Kidnappings can happen while traversing the road. Plus, reckless drivers make it difficult for a smooth and relaxing journey. Brave the path only if you must.
8. Skippers Canyon Road (New Zealand)
One can’t deny the beauty surrounding Skippers Canyon Road — so are its risks. This road is a treacherous path that gets your blood pumping.
Conquer the narrow gravel route coupled with sheer drop-offs. There are no guardrails to protect you in case of accidents.
Due to its danger, most rental companies do not allow exploration here.
Travel at your own risk even with the stunning vistas. Navigate the white-knuckle route that’s been in existence for more than a century.
9. Sichuan-Tibet Highway (China)
Are you up for a long and winding journey? Brace yourself for the grueling pursuit through the Sichuan-Tibet Highway.
The 1,500-mile is set to push your limits. It’s a test of endurance and courage with the arduous weather conditions.
Altitude sickness may also happen, that’s why some opt to bring canned oxygen.
Landslides can happen, especially during the rainy season.
Avalanches become a serious threat when winter strikes. Adding to the risk are the unpaved roads, making it tough to maneuver.
10. Eshima Ohashi Bridge (Japan)
Elevate your excitement levels as you course through the Eshima Ohashi Bridge. This architectural creation is impressive and terrifying at the same time.
With a gradient between 5.1% to 6.1%, drivers may have their palms sweating. But fret not because this is probably the safest among all others on the list.
Japan is known for its durable and safe structures. So, even if it feels like driving a steep mountain, you’re out of harm’s way. It’s more of an optical illusion that you need to conquer.
11. San Boldo Pass (Italy)
Stir up your excitement with a trip to San Boldo Pass. This small yet dangerous pass is filled with tough hairpin turns. Some of which are even perched inside the mountain scape.
The limited visibility of the tunnels requires drivers for their laser-focused attention. Keep your focus at all times to avoid a collision or tumbling down the curvy surface.
What’s even worse is the narrow road you’re sharing with oncoming traffic. Maneuver the tight corners and steep gradient that make up the wild ride.
