For 20 years, Compass Expeditions has led riders to some of the planet’s most remarkable horizons, delivering acclaimed and meticulously crafted adventure tours, just the kind of journeys The Bear loves to write about.
Australia’s Compass Expeditions trips are more than ordinary tours, they’re life-changing journeys crafted for the select few adventurous enough to take them on. To uncover what makes these epic rides so unique, The Bear sits down with Pete Vorst to dig a little deeper.
“For almost two decades, Compass Expeditions has been leading riders into the world’s wildest corners on our award-winning, fully guided adventure motorcycle tours. And nothing compares to our three Major Expeditions for sheer life-changing adventure. These are epic journeys of between 85 and 100 days that redefine adventure motorcycling. Traversing vast regions and some of the most spectacular landscapes on earth, they are odysseys that will leave you with stories to last a lifetime.”
Okay, Pete. Sounds good. Got any more details?
“Sure. Whether you dream of laying eyes on the soaring Andes or exploring Machu Picchu, visiting the Great Wall or the Terracotta Warriors of China, or experiencing the glow of the red sands of the Namib Desert and the surreal wonder of seeing gorillas in their natural habitat, our Major Expeditions are the go. For those chasing an epic two-wheeled South American adventure, our Ultimate South America expedition is the very pinnacle. Over 100 incredible days, this expedition will take you through seven countries and across more than 20,000 kilometres (12,500 miles) of the most awe-inspiring landscapes on earth.
“From the steaming jungles of the Amazon to the high passes of the Andes, every mile delivers new discoveries. You’ll marvel at the legendary Machu Picchu, stand dwarfed by the surreal salt flats of Uyuni, and trace the spine of the Atacama Desert, one of the driest places on the planet. Further south, ride into the wilds of Patagonia, where jagged peaks, endless steppe, and turquoise lakes form one of the most dramatic backdrops in the world. Ultimate South America 2026 is almost sold out, and bookings are now open for 2027.”
Great. But you said that there were other Major Expeditions as well?
“Yes, there are. Take Asian Overland: From the equatorial heat of Singapore to the cultural heart of Beijing, Asian Overland is a journey that stitches together ancient trade routes, vibrant cultures, and some of the most breathtaking landscapes on earth. Over 90 unforgettable days, you’ll cross five countries and cover more than 13,000 kilometres (8,000 miles.
“Ride north through Malaysia and Thailand before stepping back in time among the gilded temples and French-colonial charm of Luang Prabang, Laos. From there, the road climbs ever higher onto the vast Tibetan Plateau, where fluttering prayer flags and timeless monasteries mark the path across the ‘Roof of the World’. With the Himalayas as your backdrop, the ride east into China is nothing short of spectacular, culminating in visits to the awe-inspiring Terracotta Warriors of Xi’an and the majestic Great Wall of China before rolling triumphantly into Beijing. Bookings are now open for Asian Overland 2027, running from 16 February to 17 May 2027.”
Okay, cool. That sounds like a top ride!
“I reckon the third expedition might be even better, this one is only run once every two years, making it one of the most sought-after journeys on the planet. It’s Ultimate Africa. Over 85 days, you’ll journey through 11 captivating countries and ride more than 17,000 kilometres (10,675 miles). Spaces for our 2027 departure are limited, and demand is high.
“You’ll begin in South Africa, tracing the rugged coastline and soaring passes through Namibia’s desert dunes. You’ll taste silence in vast, arid landscapes, watch wildlife in Etosha National Park, glide along the Caprivi Strip, and feel the pulse of Botswana’s Chobe River. You’ll chase waterfalls at Victoria Falls, ride the shores of Lake Tanganyika, and trek into Uganda’s ancient forests in search of mountain gorillas. Each stage of the journey reveals sweeping vistas, remarkable wildlife encounters, and an ever-changing rhythm of cultures that make Africa unlike anywhere else on earth.”
Anything to add, Pete?
“Because the Expeditions are unique, we understand you’ll have questions. That’s why we offer a personalised consultation with a member of the Compass Expeditions team. We’ll walk you through the details, answer your questions, and help you decide if one of our expeditions is right for you. Contact us by phone on +61 3 9747 2379 or let us know your phone number with the best times to call and we’ll get back to you ASAP. Meanwhile, for more information jump on our website here.
