Immense Fear on Bolivia's Death Road in La Paz!
In the heart of La Paz, Bolivia, lies Death Road - a notorious mountain biking route known for its treacherous terrain and high fatality rate. This article recounts a personal journey down Death Road with the tour company, Altitude, and the key tips that helped one rider face their fears and embrace the thrilling adventure.
With a heart full of determination and a spirit of adventure, the writer embarked on a five-month-long South American expedition, including paragliding in Colombia, white water rafting and sandboarding in Peru, and a daring stunt with Urban Rush in Bolivia. However, Death Road presented a unique challenge - a narrow track of loose gravel and rocks, winding down into the valley between a stark grey cliff on one side and a sheer drop on the other.
The writer, with little mountain biking experience, was afraid of heights, not confident on a bike, and badly affected by the altitude around La Paz. The equipment for the ride included knee and arm guards, thick, plasticky trousers and matching jackets, racing helmets, and gloves. The writer was immediately overtaken by the entire group and felt their confidence shake.
Fortunately, the tour was led by experienced guides who ensured safety, controlled the pacing, and provided support throughout the descent. The writer was advised to go at their own comfortable speed, which helped manage fear and maintain control during the challenging downhill. Good helmets, gloves, and pads were provided, reducing injury risk and boosting confidence.
Being comfortable with bike handling skills like power sliding was crucial for navigating the tight curves and rough terrain. Some tours offer brief training or advice on these techniques before the ride. The writer focused on these techniques and found them invaluable in managing the bike on the treacherous track.
The writer was terrified while cycling on Death Road and saw crosses, shrines, and flowers marking those who had plunged over the edge. However, as the day progressed, the writer caught themselves and started to enjoy the experience. The road became wider, the drop was easily forgotten, and the terrain didn't feel as loose.
The writer struggled with fear but was encouraged by the guides, who cheered them up by stopping the bus under a couple of waterfalls for a wash. The writer stopped berating themselves for being slow and focused on enjoying the scenery and sunshine. The day tour with Altitude was more expensive than some competitors but the bikes and equipment were new and in great condition.
The writer's change of mindset allowed them to enjoy the rest of the trip. They felt they had earned the 'Death Road Survivor' t-shirt. Despite the initial fear, the writer found that facing Death Road was an unforgettable experience, offering a unique adrenaline rush that was part of conquering fear. The tour companies and past riders emphasize safety, well-organized support, and that the ride is suitable for a wide age range (18–99 years) and experience level with proper guidance.
- The writer, initially intimidated by Death Road's challenging terrain, found comfort in the tour guides' expertise and the equipments provided, such as helmets, gloves, and pads, which boosted confidence.
- Effective bike handling skills, like power sliding, were essential for navigating Death Road's tight curves and rough terrain, a crucial aspect the writer learned after brief training sessions offered by some tours.
- As the writer progressed through the Death Road descent, encountering a series of waterfalls along the way, the guides provided a welcome relief from the initial fear, cheering them up with a refreshment break under the cascades.
- Despite the initial terror, the writer was able to overcome their fear and appreciate the unique adventure of biking down Death Road, an experience that offered a memorable adrenaline rush and contributed to a broader 'adventure-travel' lifestyle.
