What do you do when you hit your sixties? For me, the answer was clear: take on a 40,000 km solo motorcycle trip! I’ve always wanted to do a long-distance ride, and now, everything has aligned perfectly for me to finally embark on this epic journey.
South America has always fascinated me, partly because of a personal connection. My grandfather lived in Santiago, Chile, and would often go on camping and fishing trips in the wild, remote regions of Chile. I still have a collection of his black-and-white photos showcasing the stunning landscapes he visited. These images, full of rugged beauty and mystery, have stayed with me over the years, fueling my curiosity and desire to explore that part of the world.
So, naturally, Chile is a great place to begin my journey. From there, I will be heading even further south through the Patagonia to Ushuaia, Argentina—the southernmost city in the world. After that, it’s all about heading north. And that’s where the real adventure begins: tracing a route from Ushuaia to Alaska, through every type of terrain and culture imaginable.
This trip isn’t just about covering ground; it’s about soaking in everything that comes with it. The language barrier won’t be an issue in Latin America since I’m fluent in Spanish, which will definitely make things smoother as I cross countries and connect with locals. I’ve been inspired by the Long Way Up series and countless YouTube videos of fellow riders who’ve tackled this same route. Even some of my friends have made the journey from the tip of South America to the top of North America. If they can do it, so can I!
On a deeper level, this adventure represents more than just a motorcycle trip. It’s a way to clear my head and gain perspective after facing some personal challenges that I have recently overcome. The road, the open sky, and the pleasure of riding through vast, ever-changing landscapes will offer the kind of clarity and peace that only an adventure like this can provide.
I plan to document every step of the journey, sharing it all on YouTube and across social media. I’m starting the adventure in October 2024, just as spring blossoms in the Southern Hemisphere. I’m in no rush; I’ve given myself almost two years to reach Alaska. The only time constraint is the weather—I need to arrive in Alaska during the summer to avoid the harsh Arctic winter.
Accommodations will be a mix of everything: hotels, hostels, and nights under the stars in a tent. Packing everything I need into three small bags strapped to the back of a motorcycle will be a challenge, but I’m determined to keep it minimal and practical. I’m avoiding the main highways, favoring back roads and dirt trails that reveal the true character of each region.
I’m beyond excited about what lies ahead—the thrill of the ride, the new places, the people, the local food, and the stories waiting to be discovered. And I’m eager to share it all through videos, hoping you’ll join me for the ride.
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