Road trips offer a unique charm, combining the freedom of exploration with awe-inspiring landscapes.
Among the world's top 15 road trip routes, you'll find epic journeys that promise breathtaking scenery and unforgettable memories.
Recent years, influenced by the global COVID-19 pandemic, have reshaped travel habits. Many travelers have opted for the safety and convenience of road trips to avoid crowded spaces and public transportation. Experts suggest that self-driving trips will continue to rise in popularity, offering a safe and relaxing way to explore the world. Here are 15 iconic routes compiled by Bookmundi that should be on every traveler's bucket list.
1. Icefields Parkway, Canada
Stretching 232 km from Jasper to Lake Louise, the Icefields Parkway, also known as Highway 93, cuts through the rugged Rocky Mountains, Banff, and Jasper National Parks. Along the way, you'll encounter forested valleys, turquoise lakes, and majestic glaciers. This route offers one of nature's most mesmerizing journeys, although winter closures are common due to harsh weather.
2. U.S. Route 50, USA
Spanning 657 km from Reno to Great Basin National Park, this route is dubbed the "Loneliest Road" for its sparse population and remote landscapes. The serene isolation and barren beauty of deserts and mountain ranges make it a favorite for those seeking solitude.
3. Ruta Nacional 40, Argentina
Known for its sheer scale and adventure, this 5,224 km route takes travelers from sea level to altitudes exceeding 5,000 meters. Offering a sweeping view of Argentina's diverse landscapes, this road is a test of endurance and promises an unforgettable experience.
4. Costa Verde, Brazil
Running 340 km from Santos to Rio de Janeiro, this coastal road is famed for its picturesque beaches, tropical rainforests, and charming towns. The vibrant marine culture and the warmth of Brazil are highlights of this scenic route.
5. U.S. Route 66, USA
Once a vital artery of American transport, this 3,940 km route from Chicago to Los Angeles traverses eight states. Despite being overshadowed by modern highways, Route 66 remains a symbol of nostalgia and Americana, celebrated in pop culture and history.
6. The Great Ocean Road, Australia
Spanning 243 km from Torquay to Allansford, this iconic Australian road hugs the dramatic cliffs of the Bass Strait. With geological wonders and panoramic coastal views, it attracts over 2.5 million visitors annually, offering a quintessential road trip experience.
7. North Coast 500, Scotland
This 830 km loop starting and ending in Inverness showcases Scotland’s rugged northern coastline. Travelers can experience dramatic cliffs, rolling farmlands, and tranquil rural communities.
8. Amalfi Coast Road, Italy
Although only 56 km long, this scenic road from Sorrento to Salerno encapsulates the essence of the Amalfi Coast, featuring medieval architecture, vibrant towns, and breathtaking seascapes recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage site.
9. Ring Road 1, Iceland
Encircling the entire island over 1,332 km, Iceland’s Ring Road passes glaciers, volcanoes, and remote fishing villages. The route offers travelers an unparalleled glimpse into Iceland’s raw natural beauty.
10. Silk Road, Uzbekistan
This historic 1,000 km route from Tashkent to Khiva takes travelers along a path once trodden by ancient caravans. Along the way, you'll encounter Uzbekistan’s hidden architectural treasures and cultural heritage.
11. Gobi Desert, Mongolia
The 586 km journey from Ulaanbaatar to Dalanzadgad takes adventurers through Mongolia’s vast sand dunes. The Gobi Desert offers surreal landscapes, starry skies, and the serenity of a boundless wilderness.
12. Karakoram Highway
Spanning 1,200 km from Abbottabad to Kashgar, this road ascends to an elevation of 4,600 meters, making it the highest international highway. Traversing the Himalayas and Karakoram ranges, it symbolizes the enduring friendship between two countries.
13. Garden Route, South Africa
Covering 366 km from Port Elizabeth to Mossel Bay, this stretch along South Africa’s eastern coast is celebrated for its lush vegetation, lakes, and mild climate. It is one of the safest regions in the country for travelers.
14. Skeleton Coast, Namibia
This 485 km road from Windhoek to the Skeleton Coast is named for the numerous shipwrecks that dot its shoreline. Despite its eerie moniker, it attracts visitors to its hauntingly beautiful and mysterious landscapes.
15. Southern Scenic Route, New Zealand
Spanning 610 km from Dunedin to Queenstown, this road is hailed as one of the greatest undiscovered routes. Its dramatic scenery includes rugged coastlines, lush forests, and pristine lakes, embodying the natural beauty of New Zealand’s South Island.
The Southern Scenic Route, South Island, New Zealand
Video by Southland NZ
These 15 road trips offer unparalleled opportunities to immerse oneself in the wilderness, culture, and history of diverse landscapes. Whether you're planning your next great journey or dreaming of open roads, these epic routes are sure to inspire wanderlust.
