While escaping the everyday routine to go on an extreme vacation is certainly something many people crave, some risky places require a lot more preparation and forethought than others. Locations like Kabul, Damascus, and Mogadishu are currently some of the most dangerous places on Earth, and tourists know to stay away from these war-torn hotspots. However, there are other tempting tourist destinations that present the gravest of perils, too. Here are a handful of dangerous places that you might dream of visiting, but utmost caution is advised.
1. Kokoda Track, Papua New Guinea
Due to its high crime rate and appalling poverty, Papua New Guinea rarely gets much of a mention in the tourist industry, but it is home to some spectacular landscape that beckons intrepid travelers.
The Kokoda trail stands as an icon for Australian participation in World War II just as Gallipoli serves the same purpose for World War I. The Kokoda trail is also significant in a symbolic sense. When Australians remember the First World War they think of the landing at Gallipoli. When they think of the Second World War the word ‘Kokoda’ looms large.
The Kokoda Track presents many challenges and dangers to the increasing number of adventurers that it accommodates. The scenic trail takes visitors through sixty miles of lush jungle landscape, but by far the greatest danger is the perpetual infestation of malarial mosquitoes.
2. Death Road, Bolivia
Claiming around 250 lives per year, the aptly named Death Road in Bolivia is one of the most infamous and dangerous pavements in the whole world. One wrong move and your vehicle could end up plummeting down a 2,000-foot vertical drop.
It has become a badge of honor for daredevil cyclists to brave the hairpin turns at breakneck speed, but breakneck is the operative word. Is the photo-op really worth the risk?
Known locally as the North Yungas Road, the Death Road connects the Bolivian capital of La Paz to the city of Coroico. At its highest, the road reaches over 15,000 feet before descending to only 3,900 feet above sea level.
3. Cliffs of Moher, Ireland
Ireland is known for its beautiful landscape, particularly its picturesque coastline. The Cliffs of Moher reach a maximum height of 700 feet, but with the huge vertical drops right into the sea and frequent high winds, you certainly won’t want to veer too close to the edge. The cliffs are a popular tourist destination, but they also have a reputation of attracting self-destructive and even suicidal behavior. Don’t be silly around here, or one false step could prove deadly.
