The Pan-American Highway, stretching across two continents and thousands of kilometres, is the longest road in the world.
Travelling along this monumental highway requires your full attention and caution.
This impressive route can be completed in one unforgettable journey, provided that you manage to avoid its most dangerous section.
While other long-distance routes allow you to immerse yourself in the rhythm of your favourite music and enjoy snacks, travelling along this monumental highway requires your full attention and caution.
Starting at the very top of Alaska (Prudhoe Bay) and ending at the tip of Tierra del Fuego in South America (Ushuaia), it is over 30,000 kilometres. The Pan-American Route runs through both American continents, passing many countries and famous cities such as Los Angeles and Las Vegas.
The concept of creating this epic route was born in the United States in 1923. The goal was to bring nations together and perhaps also increase sales of cars manufactured in the USA and their exports.
After reaching an agreement, the countries involved- Argentina, Bolivia, Canada, Chile, Colombia, Costa Rica, El Salvador, Guatemala, Honduras, Mexico, Nicaragua, Panama, Peru, and the United States -signed the Pan American Highway Convention in 1937.
Construction of the road began, but as could be predicted, it did not proceed quickly. The highway’s original route runs from Laredo in northern Mexico to Buenos Aires, Argentina, with various branches to continue the journey.
Since the road covers so many miles, there are naturally areas that make the journey more appealing than others, offering scenic views and amazing stops along the way.
However, the Pan-American Highway passes through one particularly dangerous region: the Isthmus of Darién, which connects Panama with Colombia.
This approximately 160 km long area is densely covered with jungle, rich in diverse fauna and inhabited by indigenous communities, making it a risky place for a grand tour.
As a result, even though the Isthmus of Darién is located in the middle of the Pan-American Highway, it is impossible to drive through this section – forcing travelers to make a detour.
While it may seem disappointing to have to avoid this region, it is the best option due to the risks it carries. The area is frequented by armed militias, dangerous gangs and drug-trafficking groups, which means it’s not a place you’d want to stop for a roadside picnic.
Still, if you are determined to proceed, you can fly over the troublesome region, with the car delivered by container on the ship.
Despite the gap in the road, the Guinness Book of Records still recognises the Pan-American Highway as the longest route that can be traversed by car.
