The Perilous Road of Death: A Journey Through Bolivian Yungas

💀The road of death in Bolivia is notorious for its dangerous terrains, making it one of the most perilous roads in the world.

🌊Truck drivers face the challenges of river crossings, where they must carefully navigate their vehicles to avoid accidents and maintain the safety of their cargo.

🌄The journey takes drivers through the breathtaking landscapes of the Yungas region, offering a mix of beauty and danger.

🍃Coca farmers in Bolivia consider the coca plant sacred and believe in its therapeutic properties, separate from its association with cocaine production.

🚚Truck drivers like Omar and Jaime play a vital role in transporting goods through the treacherous Yungas region, facing risks and challenges to keep the supply chain moving.

Why is the road in Bolivia called the road of death?

—The road in Bolivia gained the nickname 'the road of death' due to its treacherous terrains, sharp turns, and lack of safety measures, leading to numerous accidents and fatalities.

What challenges do truck drivers face on the road of death?

—Truck drivers on the road of death face challenges such as steep cliffs, unpredictable weather conditions, river crossings, and encounters with other vehicles on narrow roads.

What is the significance of coca leaves in Bolivia?

—Coca leaves are considered sacred in Bolivia and have cultural, traditional, and medicinal uses. Coca farmers believe in their therapeutic properties and their association with indigenous rituals and beliefs.

How do truck drivers overcome the dangers of the road of death?

—Truck drivers overcome the dangers of the road of death by relying on their experience, cautious driving, knowledge of the road conditions, and sometimes seeking assistance from fellow drivers or local authorities in challenging situations.

What is the role of truck drivers in the Yungas region?

—Truck drivers play a crucial role in transporting goods through the Yungas region, connecting communities and ensuring the flow of supplies. They navigate challenging roads, carrying essential cargo and supporting economic activities in the area.

00:10Introduction to the treacherous road of death in Bolivia, known for its dangerous terrains and high rate of accidents.

01:20The journey starts in Ixiamas, situated in the tropical lowlands, and leads 500 kilometers up to the plateau of the Andes.

02:48Spiritual healers perform rituals to protect drivers from accidents on the road of death.

09:23Truck drivers and passengers experience the fear and adrenaline of driving through narrow, unpaved roads with steep cliffs.

16:59Coca farmers harvest coca leaves, considering them sacred and separate from their association with cocaine production.

18:40Truck driver Omar faces a flat tire, showing the challenges and delays that can occur during the journey.

19:36Truck drivers pass through Cincuentos, a village where repairs can be made if needed.

20:19Albertina and Valerio, coca farmers, share their perspective on coca cultivation and its cultural significance.