How to Plan Your Tour: La Paz – Mountain Bike Down the World’s Most Dangerous Road

Do you crave adventure and breathtaking scenery? Then La Paz, Bolivia, is the place for you. Mountan biking down the self-named “Death Road” or the “World’s Most Dangerous Road” is an extreme activity that will make your adrenaline rush. But before jumping on a bike, you need to plan your tour. This article will guide you step by step on how to plan your thrilling mountain bike tour in La Paz.

Overview of the Experience

The tour starts in La Paz, where you will be driven up to the mountain pass, La Cumbre, located at 4700 meters above sea level. From there, you will cycle down 64 kilometers on the North Yungas Road, which is affectionately called the “Death Road.” With hairpin turns, narrow passes, and steep cliffs, it’s undoubtedly not for the faint of heart. But you will also take in magnificent Andean landscapes, riding on one of the best bikes in Bolivia that is always maintained by experienced mechanics. Your professional and knowledgeable English-speaking guides will ensure your safety, and you will end your journey at an animal sanctuary, located 3500 meters below where you started.

Highlights of the Tour

• Experience the thrill and excitement of cycling down the Death Road.
• Take in incredible Andean scenery seen over 64 kilometers of dramatic descent.
• Ride on one of the best bikes in Bolivia maintained after every ride by highly qualified mechanics.
• Stay safe with your highly trained knowledgeable and fun guides.
• Finish at an amazing animal sanctuary 3500 meters below where you started.
• Rest easy knowing your guides have the best safety record in Bolivia, using international safety standards.

How to Book Your Tour

To book the tour, visit the following link: book the tour here. GetYourGuide, the renowned online travel agency, provides you with hassle-free booking and quick confirmation of your booking.

What to Expect on the Tour

Before embarking on your mountain bike tour, you’ll need to keep in mind the following:

What to Bring

• Comfortable non-cotton clothes
• A waterproof jacket and trouser
• A change of clothes (in case you get dirty or wet on the road)
• Closed-toe shoes (such as hiking boots or trainers)
• Sunglasses
• Sunscreen and insect repellent
• A camera or phone to take pictures
• Money for souvenirs and tips

Physical Requirements

Mountain biking down the Death Road isn’t for everyone. You must have the following physical requirements:

• Age of 14 or older
• Minimum height of five feet (1.5 meters)
• A good level of fitness and flexibility to balance on a bike on a bumpy road over long hours
• No recent surgery or injury that may be aggravated by cycling or falling off the bike

Tour Duration and Departure Times

The tour lasts approximately nine hours, starting at 7:30 am and ending at 4:30 pm.

Safety Measures and Equipment

Your safety is the tour operators’ primary concern. That’s why they have implemented the following safety measures:

• All bikes undergo a rigorous maintenance process after every ride.
• All riders are provided with full-face helmets, elbow, and knee pads suitable for their size and weight.
• Their guides have an excellent safety record in Bolivia, using international safety standards. Each guide has years of experience riding the Death Road.
• You will receive a thorough safety briefing before you start your descent.
• The tour vehicle follows the riders throughout the tour, and medical assistance is available if necessary.

Conclusion

Mountain biking down the Death Road in La Paz is an experience you will never forget. But before starting your descent, it’s crucial to plan your tour efficiently. By following the steps outlined in this article, you can have a safe and enjoyable adventure of a lifetime. So, what are you waiting for? Book your tour, prepare your gear, and get ready to be amazed!

An Insider’s Guide to La Paz

La Paz, the capital of Bolivia, is a city brimming with culture, history, and breathtaking landscapes. Known for being the highest capital city in the world, La Paz nestles in between mountains with a stunning backdrop of the snow-capped Andes Range. The city offers a unique blend of indigenous culture, colonial charm, and modernity. This insider’s guide will take you off the beaten path, showcasing hidden gems and experiences that will make your trip to La Paz unforgettable.

Local Attractions

While many tourists flock to the famous Witches Market and Cable Car Ride in La Paz, there are plenty of lesser-known yet equally impressive spots to explore. A must-see is the Cementerio General, the city’s largest cemetery that acts as a museum of local history, architecture, and art. Another hidden gem is the Palacio Quemado, the official presidential palace that is only open to the public on weekends. Additionally, visit the Valle de la Luna (Moon Valley), where the rocky landscape looks like it’s from another planet.

Dining Spots

La Paz boasts a unique food culture, with local dishes such as salteñas, a baked pastry filled with meat, vegetables, and spices – perfect for a breakfast or snack. Another must-try is the Silpancho, a traditional Bolivian dish consisting of rice, potatoes, beef, and toppings such as onions, eggs, and chili sauce. Head to the local Mercado Lanza, where you can indulge in delicious street food at affordable prices. Don’t miss the famous Cholitas Wrestling matches where female wrestlers perform in traditional clothing, and local food and drinks vendors create a festive atmosphere.

Cultural Experiences

La Paz’s culture is thriving with traditional festivals, unique art, and music events. Being a city with a large indigenous population, traditional Aymara and Quechua festivals such as Alasita and Carnaval de Oruro are worth planning your trip around. Visit the Museo Nacional de Arqueología, the home of ancient artifacts and artworks that date back to pre-Colombian times. Another unique experience is witnessing a Cholita Fashion show, where local designers showcase the traditional clothing fused with modern fashion.

Local History

Discover La Paz’s fascinating and turbulent history by visiting its historical landmarks. Plaza Murillo is the heart of the city and surrounded by impressive colonial architecture. The Museo de la Lucha Contra La Corrupción showcases the fight against corruption in Bolivia and its impact on the country’s history. The Muela del Diablo, a rook jutting out of a hill, served as a mark along the Inca Trail, and also as a strategic lookout during the Chaco War.

Off-The-Beaten-Path Suggestions

La Paz is renowned for the “Death Road,” a narrow and winding road that used to be the only route to the town of Coroico, which mountain bikers from all over the world come to bike down. If you are looking for a more relaxed experience, take a cable car to the El Alto neighbourhood and have a bird’s eye view of the city. Discover the Chacaltaya Ski Resort, where you can admire the nearby glacier with stunning panoramic views of the city.

In conclusion, La Paz offers a unique and exciting experience for travelers who are interested in exploring beyond the typical tourist spots. From hidden gems to local cuisine, rich history, and cultural events, La Paz brims with captivating experiences. Happy travels!