Where does Road BR-319 start and finish?
Brazil, south-america
857 km
N/A
hard
Year-round
Ready for a wild ride? Check out the BR-319, a Brazilian highway that's not for the faint of heart! This 857km (532 miles) stretch connects Manaus (the bustling capital of Amazonas) to Porto Velho (the capital of Rondônia) deep in the Amazon.
Built in the '70s to open up the rainforest, the BR-319 crosses through Humaitá, Lábrea, and other small cities, offering a glimpse into remote Amazonian life. It opened in 1973, but by 1988 it was impassible. Repairs started in 2008.
So, is it drivable? Usually, yes, but during the rainy season, it can turn into a muddy mess. Expect a mix of asphalt, gravel, and sand, plus some serious potholes and missing guardrails to keep you on your toes.
Be warned: this isn't your average road trip. Environmental groups are concerned about the impact of rebuilding the highway on deforestation. The original construction wasn't exactly state-of-the-art, built on swampland and prone to floods that washed away bridges. These days, most cargo goes by boat. If you're brave enough to attempt it, be prepared to camp rough and experience the raw beauty (and challenges) of the Amazon. Don't miss the abandoned Viaduct Petrobras for a surreal photo op in the middle of the jungle!
Road Details
- Country
- Brazil
- Continent
- south-america
- Length
- 857 km
- Difficulty
- hard
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