You start at La Cumbre pass, somewhere around 4,650 metres above sea level, gasping in thin Andean air while pulling on every layer you packed. The road drops almost immediately, and within the first few kilometres you understand why people come here: the descent is relentless, the scenery is genuinely staggering, and the gravel beneath your tyres keeps you completely honest.
Most riders do this as a single long day from La Paz, typically with a guided group, and that is the sensible call. You are not navigating or carrying gear — you are just riding, watching the cloud forest close in around you, and trying not to fixate on the sheer drop inches from your left wheel.
The road itself is mostly loose gravel and compacted dirt, with sections of rock and mud depending on recent rain. Waterfalls drench you without warning. Visibility can drop to almost nothing in the cloud, then open up to reveal stomach-dropping valley views seconds later.
The surface is rough enough that a well-maintained full-suspension mountain bike matters; hire one from your tour operator in La Paz rather than relying on your own hardtail. Most operators include the bike, helmet, full protective gear, a shuttle back up, and lunch in Coroico, which is where you finish, sun-warmed and slightly disbelieving, with a cold drink in hand.
There is no independent camping along the road itself, and infrastructure is minimal — you are dependent on your operator for everything. Coroico has decent guesthouses if you want to stay overnight before bussing back. Traffic exists, mostly trucks and jeeps, and the road is narrow in places.
Go during the dry season, May to October, and take waterproof gloves regardless — you will be wet from the waterfalls even on a clear day.