Some would argue that Interstate 95 on the east coast and Interstate 405 in California are the most treacherous roads in the world.
But spending an afternoon in bumper-to-bumper traffic with irate drivers who are late to their Yoga class or another budget meeting doesn’t hold a candle to roads like Zoji La in India.
Read on to learn about these roads where every second is a crucial moment between life and death.
Proud American Traveler has previously reported on the most dangerous airports in the world, where a safe landing is the most thrilling part of the entire trip.
But before there were airports, famous roads of the Bronze Age to the Romans’ Appian Way played a pivotal role in defining a region.
Let’s look at some dangerous roadways that are not for the faint of heart.
1. The Atlantic Ocean Road, Norway
Seeming to defy all laws of construction, this winding and hilly roadway actually goes over parts of the Atlantic Ocean.
Depending on the weather, you can see the waves crash over the roadway as people try to drive through.
Some of the road is built into the sides of the mountains, while others parts just dip and rise over mounds protruding from the ocean.
Proudly boasting the title “Norwegian Construction of the Century,” the 5.1 mile stretch of County Road 64 connects the island and municipality of Averøy with the mainland at Eide.
2. The Canning Stock Route, Australia
The country down under features one of the longest historic stock routes in the world, the Canning Stock Route.
Built in the early 1900s by tradesmen, the route runs a rough 1,150 miles long.
The road, while still used, is not a completed work of construction art and is a bumpy ride – and did we mention there are no fuel stops along the way?
3. The Caucasus Road, Georgia
We spoke earlier of the Romans’ Appian Way, which was an inspiration for roads around the world, like the Caucasus Road which dates back to Roman times.
Also called the Georgian Military Road, the breathtaking route was used by invaders trying to take over Georgia and Russia, as well as tradesman throughout history.
Catch views from Tbilisi, to Vladikavkaz in Russia, through some of the most beautiful rural areas in the world.
4. The Zoji La, India
Are you afraid of heights? Then you may not want to test your bravery driving Zoji La, a pass which runs across the highest peaks of the Himalayas.
As you weave through the clouds, this route is the closest feeling to flying you’ll ever get in a car.
Cruising at 11,000 miles above sea level, this route connects the Kashmir Valley with the Dras and Suru Valleys to the northeast, and the Indus Valley further east.
Test your driving skills with this road trip of a lifetime.
5. Guoliang Tunnel Road, China
Be the driver of your very own roller coaster with a trip down Guoliang Tunnel in China.
Carved out along – and through – the Taihang Mountains in Henan Province, this “road” will leave you holding your breath until you pull over to admire the view.
The Guoliang Tunnel has an impressive history. Only 13 workers built the entire passageway – using only hammers and chisels!
So if the nickname “the road that tolerates no mistakes” doesn’t deter you, then go admire the construction and experience the thrill of one of the world’s most dangerous roadways.
Choosing these routes are far from your typical road trip. With adventure and experiences as unique as they are daring – they may even scare your overzealous teenage driver!
(h/t Proud American Traveler)