From Medellín to Alaska: A Dream Forged on Two Wheels

Andrea and Santiago, a couple hailing from Medellín, Colombia, embarked on an remarkable adventure: traversing the American continent on a motorcycle.Their journey, spanning over 18 countries and thousands of kilometers, is a testament to love, resilience, and the entrepreneurial spirit. This is the story of their quest for freedom on the open road.

The Spark: A Shared Passion for Exploration

Santiago Pérez, a civil engineer with a passion for travel, found himself increasingly drawn to the freedom of motorcycle riding. Initially a practical solution for navigating Medellín’s bustling streets, motorcycles soon became a deep-seated passion. I started with a small motorcycle, but I wanted to go further, he recalls. Andrea joined him in 2018, accompanying him on his first motorcycle trip to Santander. From that moment on, she was hooked. One in Moto appreciates the landscapes more,the present,the trip becomes more conscious, she explains,highlighting the unique connection to the environment that motorcycle travel provides.

South American Beginnings and a Pandemic Interruption

In 2020, Andrea and Santiago embarked on their first major motorcycle journey, exploring South America. Their route took them through Ecuador, Peru, Bolivia, Argentina, Chile, Uruguay, and Paraguay, culminating in Ushuaia, the southernmost city in the world. However, their adventure was unexpectedly interrupted by the COVID-19 pandemic. Thay found themselves stranded in Arequipa, Peru, for three months.During this period of forced stillness, they conceived a new dream: to reach Alaska. They also channeled their entrepreneurial spirit, launching a pet product store, combining Santiago’s import expertise with Andrea’s love for animals.

Planning the Ultimate Road Trip

Despite the setback, the dream of touring the Americas never faded.Upon returning to colombia in 2020, Andrea and Santiago dedicated three months to meticulously planning their epic journey. This involved securing resources, obtaining necessary permits, managing logistics, and ensuring the smooth operation of their business during their absence. The departure date was strategically chosen to avoid the rainy season in Central America and snowfall in the northern regions. It was not like leaving everything thrown and starting. We always plan every step Santiago stated, emphasizing the importance of readiness in their travels.

The Darién Gap: A Perilous Passage

On march 23, 2023, Andrea and santiago finally set off on their journey north.One of the first major challenges they faced was crossing the Darién Gap, a notoriously hazardous and roadless stretch of jungle between Colombia and Panama. They navigated this treacherous region by sea,relying on a series of small boats that tested their resolve for an entire week.

The Allure of Motorcycle Travel: Freedom and Connection

Motorcycle travel offers a unique perspective, allowing travelers to connect with their surroundings in a way that other modes of transportation simply cannot replicate. The sights, sounds, and smells of the environment become amplified, creating a more immersive and memorable experience. According to a 2024 study by the Motorcycle Industry Council, motorcycle tourism contributes billions of dollars to the global economy annually, highlighting the growing popularity of this form of travel.

looking Ahead: The Road to Alaska and Beyond

As Andrea and Santiago continue their journey towards Alaska, their story serves as an inspiration to aspiring adventurers around the world. Their unwavering commitment to their dreams, coupled with their entrepreneurial spirit and love for each other, exemplifies the power of resilience and the pursuit of freedom. Their journey is a reminder that with careful planning, determination, and a sense of adventure, anything is possible.

The Allure of the Open Road: A Motorcycle Adventure Begins

For many,the call of the open road is irresistible. Andrea and Santiago,driven by a thirst for adventure,embarked on an unforgettable motorcycle journey through central America and Mexico. Their story is one of breathtaking landscapes, vibrant cultures, and the inevitable challenges that come with long-distance travel.

Daring dive: Motorcycle Submerged in the Caribbean Sea

Their adventure began with an unexpected twist: a submerged motorcycle in the Caribbean Sea. This incident tested their resolve early on.

If the motorcycle was going to the bottom of the sea, I wasn’t sure how to respond. but we wanted to live it.
Santiago Pérez, Paisa traveler and entrepreneur

Despite the initial setback, their determination prevailed, and they managed to recover the motorcycle and continue their journey.

The sea is another planet. The most tense thing was thinking that the motorcycle could go to the background.
Santiago Pérez, Paisa traveler and entrepreneur

Santiago admitted he wouldn’t repeat that particular part of the adventure.

Central America: A Tapestry of Experiences

After overcoming their aquatic obstacle, Andrea and Santiago navigated through Central America, dedicating approximately one week to each country. Their itinerary included Panama, Costa Rica, Nicaragua, Honduras, el Salvador, Guatemala, and Belize. Rather than rushing through, they chose to immerse themselves in the local cultures and appreciate the diverse landscapes.

The region presented its share of challenges, notably the extreme heat and humidity. However, these were offset by the reward of experiencing stunning Caribbean beaches, active volcanoes, and the warmth of the local people. The journey proved to be a rich tapestry of human connection and visual splendor.

Navigating Nicaragua: Bureaucracy and perception

Their passage through Nicaragua highlighted a common concern among motorcyclists: frequent warnings regarding potential issues with authorities. These concerns often revolve around reports of corruption and excessive scrutiny.

Santiago noted, Many people asked us about our experience crossing Nicaragua, especially for the controls, inspections, and the reputation of corruption that circulates among travelers.

During their time in Nicaragua,Andrea and Santiago experienced a higher frequency of stops by authorities. Only in one day they stopped us three times, while in other countries they did not stop us once, Santiago recounted. Despite the increased attention, their bags were never searched, and they even managed to bring a drone into the country without any issues.

Santiago emphasized that every journey is unique. We had no problems, but it does not mean that others will not have them. It is indeed best to comply with all local standards and bring the papers in order. Thus, headaches are avoided and can enjoy how the beauties of this country should.

Mexico’s Embrace: A Month and a Half of Exploration

Mexico proved to be a highlight of their journey, captivating them with its vastness and diversity. They dedicated a month and a half to exploring the country, visiting states such as Yucatán, Quintana Roo, Chiapas, Oaxaca, Hidalgo, and Baja California. The couple fondly remembers the mountain landscapes, the warmth of the people, the appetizing food, and the rich cultural heritage of each region.

From Cabo San Lucas, at the southern tip of Baja California, they spent a week traveling north to Tijuana, where they crossed the border into the United States.

Lessons from the Road: Planning Your Own Adventure

Andrea and Santiago’s journey serves as an inspiration for those dreaming of their own motorcycle adventures. Their experiences highlight the importance of thorough preparation, adaptability, and a willingness to embrace the unexpected. Whether it’s navigating bureaucratic hurdles or recovering a submerged motorcycle, the rewards of exploring the world on two wheels are immeasurable.

Chasing Horizons: A North American Odyssey on Two Wheels

Embarking on a six-month motorcycle adventure,one intrepid pair transformed their wanderlust into a breathtaking reality,captivating thousands online. Their journey, meticulously documented on Instagram, evolved into a daily saga, inspiring others to pursue their own dreams of freedom and exploration. This is their story.

From Coastal California to the Alaskan Frontier

Their adventure began in San Diego,California,snaking up the West Coast through Oregon and Washington. For three weeks, they reveled in the diverse landscapes, from sun-drenched deserts to dramatic coastal cliffs, experiencing the freedom of the open road. This initial leg set the stage for the more challenging,yet equally rewarding,chapters to come.

Crossing into Canada via Vancouver, they set their sights on Alaska. The journey north tested their resilience,confronting them with extreme temperatures and isolated stretches of highway. However,these challenges were offset by the awe-inspiring beauty of the untouched wilderness and the promise of witnessing the elusive Northern Lights.

Banff National Park impacted us: Turquoise lakes, bears in front, unreal sunsets
Andrea, Travel and Entrepreneur

The allure of the open road continues to captivate adventurers. According to recent statistics from the Adventure Travel Trade Association, motorcycle touring has seen a 15% increase in popularity over the last five years, reflecting a growing desire for immersive and authentic travel experiences.

The Return Journey: A Transcontinental sweep

After experiencing the magic of Alaska, their journey took them south through Alberta, Canada, and into the united states, traversing Montana, Wyoming, Idaho, Utah, Nevada, and Colorado. This leg of the trip showcased the diverse beauty of the American West, from the towering peaks of the Rockies to the arid landscapes of the desert Southwest.

Their transcontinental adventure culminated with a cross-country ride from California to New York,passing through Ohio,Washington D.C., the Carolinas, and Miami. From there, their trusty motorcycle was shipped back to Bogotá, marking the end of an unforgettable chapter.

Inspiring a New Generation of Adventurers

The couple’s journey resonated deeply with their online audience, transforming their Instagram feed into a source of inspiration for aspiring travelers. Their stories went viral, prompting one Colombian couple to replicate their route, step-by-step, fueled by the daily updates and insights shared online.

“They wrote us to tell us: ‘Thanks to you we dare to make this trip,’” they recall with excitement. The impact of their journey extended beyond mere entertainment,empowering others to embrace the unknown and pursue their own adventures.

Destiny is not critically important. It is the way,what you learn,what you feel on the way. And that, in motorcycle, you live differently
Santiago Pérez, Traveler and Entrepreneur

From Medellín to the Alaskan Wilderness: A journey of Love and Determination

For Andrea and Santiago, a couple hailing from Medellín, Colombia, a recent trip to Alaska wasn’t just a vacation; it was a profound lesson in the power of planning, courage, and unwavering determination. Their journey serves as an inspiring example of how meticulous preparation and a strong partnership can transform ambitious dreams into tangible realities.

The Power of Planning: Turning Dreams into Actionable Goals

Santiago emphasizes the critical role of strategic planning in achieving any significant goal. He reflects on the experience, stating:

The most critically important thing is to understand that, if you want something, you must date it and plan it. It is not just dreaming, it is acting.
Santiago

This philosophy underscores the importance of moving beyond mere aspirations and actively charting a course toward one’s objectives. According to a recent study by the Project Management Institute, projects with clearly defined goals and detailed plans are 50% more likely to succeed. Santiago’s approach exemplifies this principle.

Leadership and Faith: Navigating the Unknown

The Alaskan expedition presented Santiago with a unique challenge: planning a complex journey with no prior experience or readily available resources. He explains:

I had no referents that would have made that journey. I had to plan everything from scratch. But I succeeded.
Santiago

His success highlights the significance of leadership, resourcefulness, and unwavering faith in one’s abilities when venturing into uncharted territory. This resonates with the broader entrepreneurial spirit, where individuals often face novel challenges requiring innovative solutions.

A Complementary Partnership: Strength in Unity

Andrea emphasizes the admiration she holds for Santiago’s organizational skills and his ability to make sound decisions under pressure. She notes the dynamic of their relationship:

I am more emotional, I like to register everything, keep memories. He is more rational,structured. We complement each other.
Andrea

Their contrasting personalities and skill sets create a balanced and effective partnership, demonstrating the power of collaboration in overcoming obstacles and achieving shared goals. This synergy is a key ingredient in their success,both in their travels and in their pet business back in medellín.

Future Adventures: Europe, Africa, and asia on the Horizon

Back in medellín, Andrea and Santiago are not resting on their laurels. They are already setting their sights on new adventures, with Europe, Africa, and Asia topping their list of potential destinations. Their story serves as a reminder that travel is not solely about the destination, but about the transformative journey itself.

Ultimately, Andrea and Santiago’s journey underscores a profound truth:

The trips are not only done with gasoline: they are done with love, courage and determination… the trip is not about destiny,but about the road.