The Worlds Most Dangerous Road

the starting point of the bike ride
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Hello again!  Though it took much longer then  expected, I have finally made it back to Canada!  I still have many more photos and stories to share with you guys, so eventhough  it will not have the same effect, I will continue to post them on this site.

My official tour with GAP ended on this day as I took my life into my own hands and decided to ride down "the world's most dangerous road" on a mountain bike.  The road has acquired this name due to the fact that some 32 vehicles per year on average  fall off this rediculously narrow road from La Paz to Coroico...in some places it is said that the road drops off 2000M  and from what I saw I would have to agree.  The craziest part about it is the drivers have no fear and the roads have no guard rails.  It is said that the safest way down this road is actually via mountain bike, and from my experiences, I would concur.  The road plunges nealry 3600M (nearly 12000ft) over 64KM of winding roads carved out of the mountain.  All in all it took us about 6 hours to complete but that included a number of stops to take in the breathtaking surroundings.  Thankfully there was only one section which actually required us to peddle.  Though it was not very long or very steep, the altitude made it extremely difficult!  The rest of the way was all downhill, at times (on the paved section) I would say we reached speeds of 60km/h...on the dirt road section, that just wasn't possible..nor recommended.  Aside from the sheer adreneline rush, as you will see, the scenery made it all the more enjoyable...though it is certainly not for anyone who fears heights.

part way down it started to get pretty cloudy...this is one of the steepest cliffs on the trail
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Our destination in Coroico (Hotel Esmerelda) was located atop the lush semi-tropical valley allowing for spectacular views of the area.  The hotel was quite impressive in and of itself, offering a pool, sauna, jacussi and all you can eat buffet.  I decided I would spend 3 nights in  luxurious comfort..besides, at $12 a night how can you go wrong??

Enjoy the pics!