Ep 6. Bolivia
- October 9, 2020
In episode 6 of Long Way Up season 1, titled "Bolivia," Ewan McGregor and Charley Boorman continue their journey north through the vast and varied landscape of Bolivia. This episode showcases the duo's adventurous spirit as they brave extreme altitude, high temperatures, and treacherous terrain to reach their destination.
The duo begins their day by traversing a steep road with hairpin turns that requires intense focus and skill as they ride their electric Harley-Davidsons. They then have to cross a rickety bridge that tests their nerves as they cross a deep chasm. The ride then takes them through bumpy off-road tracks that give them a taste of the region's varied topography, from the high Andes to the lush Amazon rainforest.
In the Andean highlands, the duo faces one of their toughest challenges so far - the altitude sickness. At an altitude of over 14,000 feet, they feel the effects of the low oxygen levels in the air, which causes headaches, nausea, and dizziness. Nevertheless, they continue riding, covering many miles each day as they move closer to the border with Peru.
As they ride through the Andes, they take in the breathtaking landscape dotted with small villages and marketplaces where locals sell their wares and exchange stories. The duo interacts with the friendly locals, trying to understand their way of life and culture. They also learn about the coca plant, a sacred plant to the Bolivian people, and how it is used in traditional medicine and rituals.
As they near the end of their Bolivia journey, the duo takes on the mighty Amazon River, one of the largest and most important rivers in the world. They take a ferry on the river, which provides a welcome break from their long and grueling ride. Along the way, they take in the breathtaking flora and fauna of the Amazon jungle, including exotic birds, animals, and insects.
Their journey through Bolivia comes to a close as they reach the border with Peru, bidding farewell to the friendly people, beautiful landscapes, and challenging terrain of Bolivia. As Ewan and Charley reflect on their experience in Bolivia, they realize that their journey is not just about reaching the end goal, but the experiences and memories gained along the way.
Overall, episode 6 of Long Way Up season 1 is a thrilling and adventure-packed ride through one of the most beautiful and diverse countries in South America. It showcases the challenges and rewards of traveling through unfamiliar terrain and interacting with different cultures, all while promoting sustainable travel and a cleaner planet.
