Sometimes tourists can put themselves in dangerous situations to see some of the best sights in the world. It can mean harsh environments that they have to be incredibly careful around. Here are 18 of the world’s most dangerous tourist locations.
Death Road, Bolivia
The BBC writes that so many people died on this road in the 1990s. It was built by Paraguayan prisoners during the Chaco War (1932–35). It’s known as Death Road thanks to its steep cliffs and narrow pathways. Even though it’s considered one of the most dangerous roads in the world, it still attracts many thrill-seeking tourists.
Lake Natron, Tanzania
The water in Lake Natron may look picturesque, but it’s actually known for its high pH level, which can cause severe burns to both humans and animals. It’s been known to reach a pH level of 10.5, which has caused many animals to look as though they’ve been turned into stone when they’re actually burned.
Oymyakon, Russia
Known as the coldest city in the world, Oymyakon has reached temperatures of -58°F. This extreme coldness makes it difficult for human survival as food becomes scarce and shelter is still too cold. However, this doesn’t stop people from visiting the city to feel the icy conditions for themselves.
Death Valley, California, USA
This desert in California holds the record for the highest temperature ever recorded. Death Valley reached a sweltering temperature of 134°F in 1913. Even though temperatures are abnormally high in Death Valley, people still want to visit the national park; they just make sure to take a large amount of water.
Skeleton Coast, Namibia
Thanks to the strong currents on Namibia’s coast, many whales, sea creatures, and boats have washed up on its shores. This has caused skeletons to litter the coastline, giving it its infamous name. It’s both an eerie and beautiful destination, which is what attracts tourists from across the world.
Danakil Desert, Ethiopia
Also known as the Danakil Depression, Brilliant Ethiopia writes that it was formed from the continental drift of the African and Asian tectonic plates. The constant drifting has created a depression at 100 meters below sea level. The Danakil Desert is one of the driest places in the world, with its volcanic activity attracting many visitors.
Gates of Hell, Turkmenistan
The Darvaza gas crater, which is more commonly known as the “Gates of Hell,” is a pit that’s been burning since 1971. The site finds many people coming to visit, but spending too long here can be dangerous thanks to the toxic gases that are emitted.
Villarrica Volcano, Chile
This is one of South America’s most active volcanoes. It regularly erupts, which is why it’s such a dangerous destination for tourists to visit. If people really want to feel the thrills of the volcano, then they climb to the summit, but they must be prepared for it to erupt at any moment.
Yellowstone National Park, USA
Yellowstone National Park is the home of many hot springs and geysers, and getting too close to these can cause severe burns. It’s also common to encounter many deadly animals, such as grizzly bears. However, this doesn’t seem to deter people, as it’s one of America’s most visited national parks.
Chernobyl Exclusion Zone, Ukraine
Chernobyl is where the world’s most deadly nuclear disaster happened. It happened in 1986, but radiation is still lingering to this day. There are tours available but people must adhere to strict safety regulations. The abandoned city is an eerie site that almost looks like it’s from a horror movie.
El Caminito del Rey, Spain
Also known as “King’s Little Pathway,” El Caminito del Rey is a narrow walkway along a steep cliff. It’s thought to be one of the most dangerous pathways in the world and recently had to be renovated to ensure it was safe enough for visitors to walk along. The walk has some breathtaking views of southern Spain.
Koorana Crocodile Farm, Australia
Located in Queensland, Australia, this crocodile park was founded in 1981 and was created as a way to prevent wild crocodiles from entering public areas. The park is also a way for visitors to get very close to one of the most deadly predators in the world. It’s a thrilling experience that attracts many tourists.
Victoria Falls, Zimbabwe/Zambia
Victoria Falls is also referred to as “Devil’s Pool,” as it’s a natural infinity pool that then falls off the edge of a cliff. It’s extremely dangerous, as it looks so calm before the falls. The slippery rocks can also make it hard to hold on against the currents. Even though it’s a risky destination, it’s still popular with tourists.
Running of the Bulls, Pamplona, Spain
The Running of the Bulls is an annual event that happens between July 7th and 14th. Participants run ahead of raging bulls in the small Spanish streets and have to outrun them to keep safe. If they don’t, there’s the chance of being trampled on or gored to death.
Mount Washington, Vermont, USA
Mount Washington attracts many hikers and climbers each year, even though it’s a dangerous mountain to climb. The mountain is known for its unpredictable weather, which could change for the worse at any moment. Temperatures can also drop, especially at night, making people more susceptible to hypothermia.
Volcano Boarding, Nicaragua
An extreme sport to try in Nicaragua is volcano boarding. Visitors have the chance to slide down the side of a volcano on nothing but a wooden board. These boards zoom down slopes at such fast speeds that they can become very dangerous. However, tourists still love the thrill that comes with this.
Half Dome, Yosemite National Park, USA
The National Park Service writes, “Rising nearly 5,000 feet above Yosemite Valley and 8,800 feet above sea level, Half Dome is a Yosemite icon and a great challenge to many hikers.” The climb to the top of Half Dome can be very tiring and you’re likely to experience severe weather changes.
Devil’s Island, French Guiana
Devil’s Island used to be a penal colony, but it’s since been deserted and is now an eerie tourist destination. It’s a difficult island to access thanks to its tough waters and how isolated the island is. There are still remains of a prison that visitors can access, reflecting just how haunting the island’s history is.
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