We continue Stephen’s journey as he checks out of Chile and into Bolivia, where crossing the border proves to be more complicated than expected. Since Malta was not on their official list of recognized countries, Stephen had to make an unusual change, registering the bike under Italy before being allowed through.
With the paperwork finally sorted, he set off towards Uyuni, home to the famous salt flats. There, he took time to explore some of the area’s most well-known landmarks, including the Dakar Monument and the Plaza de Banderas, before venturing onto the vast, white expanse of the salt lake itself, a surreal and unforgettable ride.
From Uyuni, Stephen continued to the historic city of Potosí, where the charm of the old town drew him in. Here, he stumbled upon a lively group of residents dressed in traditional attire, dancing to local music, an unexpected cultural highlight of his journey. His travels then took him to Santa Cruz, Bolivia’s largest city. While the city lacked a strong collection of historical sites, Stephen found inspiration in the story of Don Antonia, an Italian who dedicated his life to helping children with cerebral palsy.
In Cochabamba, Stephen enjoyed a brief but memorable pause at one of the most beautiful cafés he’s visited so far, a simple coffee becoming a welcome morale boost after days of constant travel. From there, he rode into the colourful streets of La Paz, where he met fellow travellers Alan and Florian, who gave him a local’s perspective of the city. Before leaving Bolivia, Stephen tackled the infamous Death Road, a treacherous stretch known for its narrow paths, steep cliffs, and breathtaking scenery.
Now, as he makes his way steadily north towards Central America, Stephen remains determined and focused, eager to see what new experiences and encounters await.