Driver's notes: the most dangerous roads in the world
Wise men say, the distance is not the problem, it’s the condition of the road itself. There are roads in our world that are still dangerous and require great concentration and confidence in your vehicle.
Most deserted and extended
Australia is one of the most sparsely populated continents on earth. It's not a surprise that the most deserted and extended route lies right there. It’s nearly 1800 kilometres (1100 miles) long. The route crosses the Little Sandy Desert so you have to prepare yourself to extreme heat in day time. Only thrill-seekers pretend to overcome Canning Stock Route as such journey will last for nearly three weeks. You will see no cars and only a few villages of aborigines while you travel. That’s why all travellers have to calculate reserves of water, food and gas extremely accurate. Otherwise you journey becomes a nightmare.
Most dangerous
Originally, the road from Hurghada to Luxor in Egypt looks pretty fine. The way is wide and straight but robbers know their business. These well armed gangs assault tourist coaches and cars even in day time, never mind after dark. There are even cases when tourists were hijacked for ransom. So it’s a good idea to pass the road quickly and without stops.
Most terrible and unpredictable
North Yungas Road in Bolivia has been often referred to as the most dangerous road in the world. Until recently it was the only road which connected La Paz and Coroico cities. North Yungas Road lies on the side of the mountain surrounded by a rock face on one side and a sheer drop on the other. You will experience a full range of conditions including frequent fogs, poor visibility and slippery road caused by landslip. It was named the Road of Death because of dozen cars falling into deep each year.
Most impassable
The road to Yakutsk, Russian Federation, lies along the course of the Lena River. The federal route M-56 frequently disappears under a sheet of water and mud during heavy downpours. There are often cases when drivers get stuck in this swamp for a whole day. A particular accident blackspot scares all drivers. Cars collide here head-on without particular reason. Survivors never remember what actually had happened.
Most dangerous tunnel
In the Taihang Mountains, China, there is a tunnel called “the road that doesn’t excuse mistakes”. Guoliang Tunnel Road is more than one kilometre long, nearly 4 metres wide and 5 metres tall. Mood lighting is installed along the length of the tunnel. This is provided by cutouts in the walls. You can feel a mysterious atmosphere there. A great view of the scenic ravine greets you from these windows. According to locals, Guoliang Tunnel Road is dangerous only for speed freaks who break the speed limit.
Most winding and high-mountain
The Col de Turini high mountain pass located in the French Alps is often compared to roller-coasters. It snakes on 1.5 kilometres height showing picturesque highland sceneries to travellers. The road tests the drive with sharp curves, ups and downs all the time. Furthermore, heavy rains and mudslides are very common for this place making the road extremely slippery and unpredictable.
Most scenic
Beautiful Norwegian fiords have always attracted a lot of tourists. The serpentine mountain road Trollstigen and fabulous landscapes around it will definitely take your breath away. The road consists of sharp curves and 11 hairpins. Observation platforms are fitted in the most picturesque places for travellers to enjoy the view. But take into consideration that the road is accessible only in spring and summer. Trollstigen is closed during other seasons, it’s too dangerous.
Definitely, it’s better not to push your luck, but if you still desire to experience one of such roads, you are advised to find a native driver who knows the road and local highway markings.
