It is often the most difficult challenge of an overland journey that leaves the longest-lasting impression that will be reminisced and, eventually, laughed about beside the campfire.
Getting your vehicle bogged in the middle of nowhere, far from home, is a rite of passage for overlanders, an opportunity to face your fears, and a learning experience. Note that the spoken language in this video is German, and subtitles are available (but not always correct; note the hilarious translation blooper at 25:15).
Over the past eighteen months, Travely’s Valeria & Lukas’ travels have led them across diverse terrains and cultures, from Europe to Turkey, traversing the Caucasus, experiencing the allure of the Arabian Peninsula, journeying through Russia, and exploring the heart of Central Asia. The German couple’s adventures recently took them to Tajikistan’s stunning mountains and the Pamir Highway’s desolate expanses. Their latest adventure brings them to the secluded Zorkul National Park in southeast Tajikistan, a location unbeknownst to them, poised to present the most formidable challenge of their journey thus far.
As they progress towards the southeast, the amicable couple navigate lonely, seldom-used slopes, driving across barren plateaus for approximately two days. Their only encounters in this no man’s land are with wildlife, including large Marco Polo sheep with spiraling horns, marmots, and large birds of prey, without a single human in sight. However, the weather takes a turn, bringing snow to the higher elevations and a significant drop in temperature as they approach a mountain pass.
Their adventure takes an unexpected turn when they find themselves stuck in the soft mud at an altitude of 4,300 meters. Their inexperience and the challenging conditions turn an inconvenience into an emergency (stop spinning the tires when they lose traction!) as they struggle to recover their vehicle. Despite their efforts, including attempts to use a spare wheel as a ground anchor, they are unable to free themselves, facing the harsh reality of their situation.
Spoiler alert: it all ends well and in the best way, except for some damage to the Toyota.
Bonus, if you enjoy watching friendly young people bogging their vehicles in exotic places, our friends Blue Landy have managed to get their Defender stuck again! You can watch that video here.
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