Documentary film "Ganz weit weg": Two on a bikepacking adventure through South America
Maik Schröder
· 28.08.2025
Alina, a passionate mountaineer from Switzerland, and Ferry, an experienced mountain biker from Germany, were united by their thirst for adventure. Alina gave up her job as a teacher, while Ferry contributed his experience from previous bike trips. This is how they planned their bikepacking expedition through the Andes. Their incredible adventure trip was captured in a spectacular documentary film.
Far away - a bikepacking adventure through South America: Watch here
Immerse yourself in the adventurous world of bikepacking, lose yourself in a fascinating world of the unknown, create inspiration - the new documentary film about Alina and Ferry's journey on the South American continent aims to deliver all of this. Watch it, it's worth it!
Even more bike adventures:
Bumpy start in Colombia
The journey began for Alina and Ferry with a reality shock at Bogotá airport. Not only the foreign culture, but also the language barriers presented them with challenges. The first evening was particularly dangerous as they cycled through chaotic traffic, unprepared for the early darkness in Colombia. Their goal was to find a campsite outside the city, which ultimately led them to end up in a rubbish dump.
The oppressive Colombian heat was just as much a problem for the two adventurers as the mosquitoes. The search for suitable campsites proved difficult and the heat was often unbearable. Alina had imagined the start of the trip to be completely different, but the hospitality of the Colombians helped them overcome the initial difficulties.
When they finally reached the border with Ecuador, they were relieved. The oppressive heat gave way to the thin air of the Andes. The breathtaking landscape compensated them for their efforts, and the successful summit attempt on Mount Chimborazo marked a high point of their journey.
Challenges in Ecuador and Peru
The journey changed in Ecuador. The thin mountain air of the Andes presented Alina and Ferry with new challenges. The breathtaking landscapes and altitudes of up to 4,800 metres were physically demanding, but also offered unforgettable experiences.
The journey was particularly challenging in Peru, where the rainy season and high altitudes demanded everything from the pair. The extreme conditions repeatedly pushed them to their limits. Despite the adversity, they were overwhelmed by the beauty of the Peruvian Andes and found new inspiration in the breathtaking landscape.
Alina and Ferry experienced both the highest highs and the lowest lows in Peru. The conditions were challenging, but the exceptional hospitality and unique natural surroundings made Peru a highlight of their trip.
From Bolivia to the Chilean coast
After Peru, the two adventurers travelled on to Bolivia. Crossing the Salar de Uyuni, the largest salt lake in the world, offered spectacular views, but also unforeseen hardships. The warm welcome from a Bolivian family offered Alina an important turning point in her journey.
The days in Bolivia passed quickly and Alina and Ferry fell in love with the barren, endless landscape. The rugged nature of Bolivia and their newfound freedom strengthened them as a team and had a lasting impact on their trip.
The journey took them to the Chilean coast, where they were greeted by the salty sea air. The Chilean hospitality and the luxury of the coast offered a welcome respite after the demanding months in the Andes.
The last section: Patagonia and Tierra del Fuego
In Patagonia, they found a landscape that resembled their homeland. The majestic mountains and lakes offered new discoveries, and the feeling of the end of the journey approaching brought mixed emotions. Alina and Ferry enjoyed the tranquillity of unspoilt nature and the company of other cyclists.
The cold increased as they approached Tierra del Fuego. Winter and the feeling of completing their journey accompanied Alina and Ferry on the last few kilometres. With every kilometre, the destination drew closer and the intensity of the experiences increased.
They finally reached Ushuaia, the end of their epic journey. In 210 days, they covered almost 13,000 kilometres and collected unforgettable memories. They returned to Switzerland with a stronger team spirit, and the film documentary is sure to be a great inspiration for many bikepacking enthusiasts. We certainly found the film very stirring and inspiring.
Maik Schröder
Editor
