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What is the longest road in the world?

Published in Longest Road 2 mins read

The longest road in the world is the Pan-American Highway.

The Unrivaled Pan-American Highway

Connecting the Americas, the Pan-American Highway spans an immense distance from Alaska in North America all the way to Argentina in South America. This monumental road network is recognized globally for its extraordinary length and the diverse landscapes it traverses. It serves as a vital artery, linking numerous countries and cultures across two continents.

A Journey of Epic Proportions

Stretching approximately 18,640 miles (29,997 kilometers), the Pan-American Highway covers a vast geographical area. Along its winding path, it passes through 14 different countries, showcasing a remarkable variety of climates, terrains, and ecosystems. Travelers embarking on this epic journey would also experience six different time zones, highlighting the sheer scale of the route.

Navigating Challenges: The Darién Gap

While often described as a single highway, the Pan-American Highway is actually a network of interconnected roads. Its continuity is famously interrupted by the Darién Gap, a dense, untamed stretch of jungle and swampland roughly 60 miles (96 kilometers) long, located between Panama and Colombia. This challenging natural barrier makes it impossible to drive continuously from North America to South America without specialized off-road vehicles or, more commonly, a detour via sea or air transport. This gap is a significant factor in understanding the true nature of this vast road system.

Key Facts at a Glance

For a quick overview of the Pan-American Highway's impressive statistics, refer to the table below:

Attribute Detail
Name Pan-American Highway
Approx. Length 18,640 miles (29,997 km)
Start Point Alaska, North America
End Point Argentina, South America
Continents North America, South America
Countries 14
Time Zones 6
Notable Feature Darién Gap (unconnected section)