Ep 3. Bolivia

Buckle up for another adrenaline-fueled episode of "World's Most Dangerous Roads." In season three, episode three, the crew travels to Bolivia, where they investigate the treacherous road that connects the country's capital city, La Paz, to the lowlands. This highway, known as "Death Road," is notorious for its steep drop-offs, lack of guardrails and frequent landslides that can send cars plummeting hundreds of feet to the valley floor below.

The team starts their journey in La Paz, where they meet a local guide who will help them navigate the treacherous terrain. The crew soon learns that the road's reputation for danger is well-earned. The road is only a single lane in many places, which means that drivers must skillfully navigate around hairpin turns while dodging oncoming traffic. If they misjudge their speed or angle, the consequences can be deadly. To make matters worse, several sections of the road are unpaved, which can cause cars to skid on loose rocks and gravel.

Despite these challenges, the team presses on, stopping along the way to speak to locals who use the road regularly. They hear harrowing stories of vehicles careening off the side of the mountain and locals who have lost loved ones on the treacherous highway. One woman recounts watching her brother-in-law's car tumble off the road and into the valley below. She tells the crew that she believes the road is cursed and that it's only a matter of time before another tragedy occurs.

As they near the halfway point of their journey, the crew encounters a particularly dangerous section of the road known as "The Devil's Curve." This sharp turn has been the site of numerous accidents over the years, and it's easy to see why. The road suddenly narrows, and the curve itself is so sharp that drivers can't see what's coming around the bend. The crew watches in horror as a truck narrowly avoids careening off the cliff, swerving at the last possible moment to avoid oblivion.

The team eventually reaches the end of the Death Road, but their journey is far from over. In the second half of the episode, they meet up with a group of off-road enthusiasts who are attempting to traverse Bolivia's rugged backcountry. The team joins the group as they navigate through mountain passes, across rivers and over rocky terrain. Even though they're not on Death Road anymore, they soon discover that the danger is still very real.

A sudden rainstorm causes the river they're crossing to swell, and the team's vehicle is nearly swept away. They're forced to find higher ground and wait out the storm while they consider their options. The off-roaders discuss the various risks they face, including the possibility of rockfalls, landslides, and treacherous river crossings. They all agree that the key to staying safe is to stay alert and focused at all times.

As they continue their journey, the crew learns just how important it is to have the right gear when traveling in such dangerous terrain. They speak to a mechanic who specializes in off-road vehicles, who explains the importance of having reliable brakes, upgraded suspension, and other safety features. He tells the team that when you're traveling in remote areas with no cell phone signal, you have to rely on your equipment and your wits to get you through.

Ultimately, the crew's journey through Bolivia is a harrowing reminder of the risks we take every time we get behind the wheel. Whether you're navigating Death Road or crossing a raging river, there's no way to completely eliminate the danger. But with the right tools, the right mindset, and a healthy dose of caution, it's possible to survive even the world's most dangerous roads.