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Long Way Down

Long Way Down is a British television documentary miniseries and book that documents the 2007 motorcycle expedition undertaken by actors Ewan McGregor and Charley Boorman, traveling approximately 15,000 miles from John o' Groats in northern Scotland to Cape Town in South Africa.^[1]^[2] The journey, which began in May 2007, traversed over a dozen European countries before entering Africa via Egypt, navigating challenging terrains, border crossings, and logistical hurdles including mechanical breakdowns and health issues.^[3] Riding BMW R1200GS Adventure motorcycles, the duo supported UNICEF by raising awareness and funds for children's causes, visiting projects en route and highlighting issues like poverty and conflict in regions such as Sudan and Ethiopia.^[1] The series, a follow-up to their 2004 Long Way Round adventure, premiered on BBC Two in 2007, earning acclaim for its raw portrayal of adventure, camaraderie, and cultural encounters while exposing the pair to risks like political instability and wildlife dangers.^[4] Despite facing setbacks—such as McGregor's pre-trip leg fracture and Boorman's bout with illness—the expedition underscored human resilience and the logistical complexities of overland travel through diverse and often unstable territories.^[5]

Production and Preparation

Concept and Planning

The concept for Long Way Down originated in the aftermath of Ewan McGregor and Charley Boorman's 2004 Long Way Round motorcycle circumnavigation, which had ignited a sustained passion for extended overland adventures on two wheels. Motivated by McGregor's prior fieldwork as a UNICEF Goodwill Ambassador in African nations, where he witnessed humanitarian challenges firsthand, the pair conceived a southward expedition to traverse Europe and the African continent, aiming to blend personal exploration with awareness of regional issues. This idea crystallized as a deliberate sequel, shifting focus from global circuits to a linear descent highlighting Africa's diverse landscapes, cultures, and obstacles.^[1] Route planning centered on a 15,000-mile (24,000 km) path commencing at John o' Groats, Scotland's northernmost point, and concluding at Cape Agulhas, South Africa's southern extremity, avoiding sea crossings by ferrying motorcycles from Sicily to Tunisia. The core production team—comprising directors Russ Malkin and David Alexanian, who had collaborated on Long Way Round—undertook extensive reconnaissance, securing visas, mapping border protocols across 20 countries, and devising contingencies for unstable regions like Sudan and Ethiopia. Emphasis was placed on feasibility assessments for unpaved roads, variable climates from European summers to African monsoons, and supply chain logistics in areas with limited infrastructure.^[1] Preparation spanned several months leading to the June 2007 departure, involving selection of BMW R1200GS Adventure motorcycles for their proven durability in mixed terrains, outfitted with reinforced frames, auxiliary fuel tanks, and comprehensive toolkits to mitigate breakdown risks. Budgeting incorporated costs for a support vehicle, satellite communications, and medical provisions, while fundraising efforts tied to UNICEF and other charities underscored the venture's dual travel-documentary and advocacy aims. The timeline targeted a four-month duration, though planning acknowledged potential extensions due to mechanical, health, or geopolitical delays.^[1]

Participants and Support Team

The primary participants in the Long Way Down motorcycle journey, undertaken from June 12 to August 4, 2007, were actors Ewan McGregor and Charley Boorman, who served as the lead riders covering the full 15,000-mile route from John o' Groats, Scotland, to Cape Agulhas, [South Africa](/page/South Africa).^[6]^[1] McGregor, known for roles in films such as Trainspotting and Moulin Rouge!, initiated the adventure concept with Boorman, his longtime friend and fellow actor from projects like The Serpent's Kiss.^[6] Boorman, son of director John Boorman, brought prior overland travel experience from expeditions in Africa and Asia.^[6] The support team consisted of a compact crew traveling in accompanying vehicles to handle filming, logistics, and emergencies, mirroring the setup from their prior Long Way Round expedition.^[6] Key members included producers and directors David Alexanian and Russ Malkin, who managed production oversight and route planning.^[6]^[1] Cinematographer Claudio von Planta, a veteran of extreme-location filming, operated cameras from a motorcycle and support vehicle, capturing dynamic footage despite challenging terrain.^[6] Additional crew comprised cameraman Jimmy Simak, responsible for secondary shots, and sound recordist Dai Jones, ensuring audio capture in remote areas.^[6] Eve McGregor, Ewan's wife at the time, joined intermittently during the African leg, providing personal support and assisting with non-riding tasks amid health and security risks.^[6] The team operated with minimal staff—typically four to six members beyond the riders—to maintain mobility, relying on local hires for repairs and a single support truck stocked with spares, fuel, and medical supplies.^[6] This lean structure emphasized self-reliance, though it exposed the group to vulnerabilities like equipment failures and border delays.^[1]

Motorcycles and Logistics

Ewan McGregor and Charley Boorman selected the BMW R1200GS Adventure motorcycles for the journey due to their established reliability, as demonstrated in the prior Long Way Round expedition from London to New York in 2004.^[5] A third bike was ridden by cinematographer Claudio von Planta, who documented the trip. McGregor's bike featured a blue and silver livery, while Boorman's was red and silver.^[7] The 2007 BMW R1200GS Adventure is powered by a 1,170 cc air/oil-cooled boxer twin engine producing 100 horsepower at 7,000 rpm and 115 Nm of torque at 5,500 rpm.^[8] Key features include a 33-liter fuel tank enabling a range of up to 750 km, tubeless spoked wheels for off-road capability, and a robust trellis frame suitable for diverse terrains encountered from European highways to African tracks.^[9]^[10] Logistics for the 15,000-mile trip across 20 countries were coordinated by producers Russ Malkin and David Alexanian, with support from a camera crew affiliated with Big Earth and Elixir Films.^[5] The support team managed spare parts, filming equipment, and contingency transport, such as vehicles used when breakdowns occurred, ensuring continuity amid mechanical issues and border delays. Preparations included route planning from John O'Groats, Scotland, to Cape Agulhas, South Africa, starting in May 2007, with provisions for ferries across the Mediterranean and coordination for visas and permissions in nations like Libya, Sudan, and Ethiopia.^[5] This infrastructure allowed the riders to focus on the journey while addressing the challenges of remote African logistics.^[11]

The Journey

Route Overview

The Long Way Down journey covered approximately 15,000 miles (24,000 km) from John o'Groats, the northernmost point of mainland Scotland, to Cape Town, the southernmost major city in Africa.^[12]^[13] The expedition commenced on 12 May 2007 and traversed diverse landscapes, including paved highways in Europe, ferry crossings, and extensive off-road dirt tracks in Africa.^[13]^[12] The European leg began in Scotland, proceeded south through England, crossed to France via ferry, and continued through Italy before a Mediterranean ferry to Tunisia marked the entry into Africa.^[12] This initial phase focused on relatively developed road infrastructure, allowing for faster progress compared to subsequent segments.^[12] Upon reaching Africa, the route shifted eastward along the continent's eastern flank, passing through North African countries including Libya and Egypt, then southward via Sudan and Ethiopia into East Africa, encompassing Kenya, Tanzania, Malawi, Zambia, and Botswana en route to South Africa.^[12] The African portion emphasized challenging unpaved roads through the Sahara Desert, savannas, and highlands, with the path designed to connect UNICEF projects while avoiding unstable regions where feasible.^[12] Overall, the itinerary spanned about 20 countries, prioritizing longitudinal southward travel over direct great-circle routing to experience cultural and humanitarian sites.^[12]

European Leg

The European leg commenced on 12 May 2007 at John o' Groats in northern Scotland, the northernmost point of mainland Great Britain. Ewan McGregor and Charley Boorman, riding BMW R1200GS Adventure motorcycles, proceeded southward through Scotland and England toward Dover. From there, they utilized the Channel Tunnel to cross into France, marking the entry into continental Europe.^[14]^[13] The route continued south through France, incorporating passages via Switzerland before reaching Italy. Predominantly on paved roads, this segment emphasized relatively straightforward motorcycling compared to subsequent terrains. Key stops included navigating urban challenges, such as heavy traffic in Rome, Italy. The leg spanned approximately 18 days, concluding in Sicily with a ferry departure to Tunisia on or around 30 May 2007.^[13] During this phase, the travelers focused on acclimating to long-distance riding dynamics, with minimal mechanical disruptions reported. The journey covered diverse European landscapes, from the rugged coasts of the UK to the Alpine regions and Mediterranean approaches, setting the stage for the more arduous African crossings ahead.^[13]

African Leg

The African leg commenced with the team's ferry crossing from Sicily, Italy, to Tunis, Tunisia, marking their entry into the continent on approximately June 2007 following the European segment. From Tunisia, the route proceeded eastward through Libya, navigating coastal highways and desert tracks toward the Egyptian border at Sallum. In Egypt, McGregor and Boorman paused at the Giza Pyramids near Cairo, a historic milestone en route southward along the Nile Valley.^[12] The journey continued into Sudan, traversing arid savannas and the Nubian Desert, where the team engaged with Riders for Health initiatives supporting medical access in remote areas.^[12] Pressing into East Africa, the motorcycles crossed into Ethiopia via the border at Gallabat, ascending into the highlands around Addis Ababa before descending toward Kenya. Key passages included the Simien Mountains' rugged terrain and visits to UNICEF-supported orphanages in Ethiopia, highlighting child welfare programs amid famine recovery efforts. The path then skirted Lake Turkana into Kenya, proceeding to Uganda via the Busia crossing, where further UNICEF facilities were inspected for maternal health and education projects. Rwanda and the Democratic Republic of Congo presented brief detours near Virunga National Park, involving gorilla conservation areas, before re-entering Tanzania at the Rusumo Falls border.^[12] The southern trajectory accelerated through Tanzania's Serengeti plains and coastal lowlands, entering Malawi at Songwe, followed by Zambia via the Chipata crossing. In these nations, stops at UNICEF sites focused on HIV/AIDS prevention and water sanitation initiatives, with the team documenting impacts on local communities. Botswana's Okavango Delta provided a wetland traverse, leading to Namibia's Kaokoland before the final push into South Africa at the Noordoewer border. The leg concluded in Cape Town on August 4, 2007, after covering thousands of miles through diverse biomes from Mediterranean coasts to Kalahari sands, totaling the journey's African portion at roughly 10,000 miles amid variable road conditions and elevations exceeding 3,000 meters in Ethiopian plateaus.^[12]^[15]

Key Milestones and Border Crossings

The journey commenced on 12 May 2007 from John o' Groats, the northernmost point of mainland Scotland, marking the initial milestone as Ewan McGregor and Charley Boorman set off southward through the United Kingdom.^[14] The European leg involved traversing England, France, the Czech Republic (with an extended stop in Prague), and Italy, covering approximately 2,000 miles before reaching the port in Bari, Italy, for a ferry crossing to Tunisia on 22 May 2007.^[16] This maritime transition to Africa represented a pivotal milestone, bypassing unstable regions and enabling entry into the continent via the Mediterranean.^[14] Upon landing in Tunisia, the riders faced their first African border crossing into Libya at Ras Ajdir on 23 May 2007, navigating bureaucratic delays typical of North African frontiers.^[16] Subsequent crossings included Libya to Egypt at the remote Sallum border post, involving desert tracks and permit inspections, followed by Egypt to Sudan via the Wadi Halfa ferry across Lake Nasser on the Nile, a logistical challenge requiring motorcycle disassembly and reloading.^[17] The Sudan-Ethiopia border at Gallabat-Matema proved especially protracted, with processing times extending over days due to customs scrutiny and limited facilities, as documented in contemporaneous logs.^[17] Further south, key milestones included arrival in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, by 26 June 2007, after navigating highland terrain, and crossing into Kenya at Moyale, where improved infrastructure facilitated smoother passage compared to prior borders.^[17] The sequence continued with Uganda via Busia, a brief incursion into the Democratic Republic of Congo near Kisangani for UNICEF-related detours, then Rwanda at Cyanika, Tanzania at Rusumo Falls, Malawi, Zambia at Songwe, and finally Botswana and South Africa, culminating in Cape Town after approximately 15,000 miles total.^[16] ^[13] These African borders often entailed health checks, vehicle quarantines, and negotiations over documentation, highlighting the expedition's reliance on pre-arranged visas and local fixes amid variable enforcement.^[14]

Challenges Encountered

Mechanical and Vehicle Issues

The primary motorcycles used in the Long Way Down journey were two BMW R1200GS Adventure models, selected for their suitability to diverse terrains from European highways to African off-road tracks. These bikes were equipped with aftermarket upgrades, including Ohlins rear suspension shocks to handle expected rough conditions. However, the extreme demands of the African leg exposed vulnerabilities in these components.^[18] A notable mechanical failure occurred in Sudan, where Charley Boorman's motorcycle suffered an alternator malfunction, halting progress and necessitating repairs with local assistance from contacts like Mazar, who had been involved in prior overland support. This incident underscored the challenges of sourcing parts in remote regions, though it was resolved without derailing the itinerary significantly.^[19] Further into the African continent, particularly on severely rutted and rocky paths, the Ohlins shocks proved inadequate for the overloaded bikes navigating deep sand and boulders. Multiple failures ensued, with reports of three shocks blowing out in a single day of punishing terrain, requiring the support team to swap in spares and revert to stock BMW units in some cases. These breakdowns highlighted limitations in aftermarket suspension durability under prolonged heavy abuse, prompting on-the-spot adjustments to riding techniques and load distribution.^[20]^[21]^[22] Tire punctures were a recurring minor issue, typical for adventure touring in unpaved areas, but managed through the carried spares and tubeless tire kits without major delays. Overall, while the BMWs demonstrated robust engineering, the journey's mechanical toll emphasized the importance of redundancy in components for such expeditions, with the support vehicles aiding in rapid fixes to maintain momentum.^[18]

Health, Safety, and Personal Incidents

Prior to departure, McGregor, Boorman, and their support team underwent intensive hostile environment and first aid training to prepare for potential risks including kidnapping simulations, weapons handling, and medical emergencies in remote areas.^[23] This five-day course, provided by specialists in expedition safety, emphasized survival skills and threat assessment tailored to overland travel through unstable regions.^[24] During the African leg, the group encountered several near-miss safety incidents involving wildlife and road hazards. In the Okavango Delta, McGregor experienced a close encounter with an aggressive elephant that charged toward him, forcing a rapid evasion to avoid collision.^[25] In Uganda, Boorman ditched his motorcycle to prevent striking a chicken crossing the road, resulting in minor damage but no injuries. Support rider Claudio von Planta also suffered a significant off-road fall that day, though he emerged unharmed.^[26] These events underscored the perils of unpaved tracks and unpredictable animal behavior, with the team relying on evasive maneuvers and quick decision-making to mitigate harm. No major injuries or serious illnesses affected McGregor or Boorman personally during the 15,000-mile expedition, despite exposure to tropical diseases; prophylactic medications and medical support prevented issues like malaria or dysentery.^[27] The journey's physical toll included fatigue from extreme heat and rough terrain, but routine health checks by the accompanying medic ensured ongoing monitoring without escalation to personal crises.^[26]

Logistical and Environmental Obstacles

The motorcycle expedition encountered substantial logistical hurdles stemming from infrequent transport links and administrative bottlenecks across multiple borders. The ferry from Sicily to Tunisia operated only weekly, compelling the team to adhere to a rigid timeline and endure a crossing marked by rough seas that heightened crew tensions and physical strain.^[25] Similarly, the subsequent Nile River ferry from Aswan, Egypt, to Wadi Halfa, Sudan, demanded arrival by day 24 of the journey to align with its limited schedule, amplifying pressure amid prior delays.^[28] Border procedures compounded these issues, involving protracted customs checks, motorcycle documentation, and negotiations with officials, particularly at transitions into North African nations where visa stipulations and import regulations for vehicles created bottlenecks.^[29] Environmental factors posed equally formidable barriers, particularly in arid regions where sandstorms and degraded infrastructure impeded travel. During the Libyan segment, intense sandstorms reduced visibility to near zero, forcing cautious navigation over unstable desert surfaces and straining bike stability.^[30] In Sudan, extreme heat exceeding 40°C (104°F) combined with rudimentary road conditions—characterized by potholed gravel and sand drifts—exacerbated rider fatigue and vehicle wear, as the terrain frequently transitioned from paved highways to unmaintained tracks unsuitable for loaded adventure motorcycles.^[25] Further south, the African interior presented ongoing challenges from dust-laden winds and seasonal rains that turned paths into mud slicks, slowing progress and increasing the risk of immobilization in remote areas lacking support infrastructure.^[30] These conditions not only delayed daily mileage targets but also necessitated adaptive routing to mitigate erosion and flooding impacts on accessibility.

Humanitarian Aspects

UNICEF Partnership

The partnership between the Long Way Down expedition and UNICEF centered on raising awareness for the organization's child protection and humanitarian efforts in Africa, leveraging Ewan McGregor's role as a UNICEF UK Goodwill Ambassador since 2004 and Charley Boorman's subsequent involvement as a UNICEF UK Ambassador.^[31]^[32] The collaboration integrated visits to UNICEF-supported projects into the motorcycle journey from John O'Groats, Scotland, to Cape Town, South Africa, which commenced on 12 June 2007, allowing McGregor and Boorman to document and promote initiatives addressing issues such as landmines, child soldiers, HIV/AIDS, and conflict-affected children.^[33]^[31] Key stops included Ethiopia, where the duo supported landmine awareness programs by visiting affected communities and interacting with children impacted by explosive remnants of war, highlighting UNICEF's demining and rehabilitation work in collaboration with local partners.^[34] In Uganda, they engaged with UNICEF efforts to rehabilitate former child soldiers, meeting demobilized children and observing reintegration programs aimed at providing education and psychosocial support amid ongoing regional conflicts.^[31] Further visits in Malawi focused on HIV/AIDS prevention and care for orphans and vulnerable children, where the travelers witnessed community-based interventions funded by UNICEF to combat the epidemic's effects on youth.^[33] These engagements were not merely observational; McGregor and Boorman provided hands-on assistance and used the televised series to amplify UNICEF's on-the-ground impact, though quantifiable fundraising outcomes specific to Long Way Down remain undocumented in primary reports.^[35] The partnership extended the model from their prior Long Way Round journey, emphasizing experiential advocacy over direct financial appeals, with the BBC-produced series serving as a platform to showcase UNICEF's causal interventions in high-risk environments.^[36] Critics of such celebrity-driven initiatives have noted potential risks of superficial engagement, but the documented visits yielded tangible visibility for UNICEF's empirical programs, including data on reduced landmine incidents and improved child soldier reintegration rates in visited regions post-2007.^[37] Overall, the collaboration reinforced McGregor's ambassadorship by grounding advocacy in firsthand exposure to verified humanitarian challenges, prioritizing child welfare amid Africa's developmental obstacles.^[31]

Specific Aid Visits and Outcomes

During the Long Way Down expedition in 2007, Ewan McGregor and Charley Boorman, as UNICEF UK Ambassadors, integrated visits to specific UNICEF-supported projects into their route through eastern Africa to document and highlight child protection efforts. In Ethiopia, they observed land-mine awareness programs aimed at educating communities in high-risk areas about detection and avoidance, emphasizing prevention of injuries among children in post-conflict regions affected by unexploded ordnance.^[31]^[32] Further south in Uganda, the pair met former child soldiers whom UNICEF was assisting in demobilization, providing psychosocial support, family reunification, and vocational training to facilitate their return to civilian life amid ongoing regional conflicts involving groups like the Lord's Resistance Army. These interactions underscored UNICEF's role in rehabilitating over 8,000 child soldiers in northern Uganda by 2007, with programs focusing on trauma recovery and community reintegration to reduce recidivism rates.^[33]^[31] In Malawi, where approximately one million adults were living with HIV/AIDS at the time, McGregor and Boorman visited "Children's Corners"—UNICEF-supported childcare centers offering education, nutrition, and psychosocial care to orphans and vulnerable children impacted by the epidemic. These centers, numbering over 2,000 by later assessments, provided safe spaces for play-based learning and early childhood development, helping mitigate the effects of parental loss on an estimated 680,000 AIDS orphans in the country. The visits resulted in on-camera testimonials from beneficiaries, amplifying awareness of the programs' efficacy in supporting child survival and development amid high orphanhood rates exceeding 20% in affected communities.^[33] Collectively, these engagements contributed to broader outcomes by raising public visibility for UNICEF's work, with the televised series and accompanying media coverage helping secure donations exceeding £1 million for the organization, though direct causal links to individual project funding increases remain unquantified in available reports. No specific delivery of material aid during the visits was documented; instead, the emphasis was on advocacy and firsthand reporting to inform global audiences about ongoing challenges and program successes.^[36]

Media and Broadcast

Television Series Production

The television series Long Way Down was produced by Big Earth, the company founded by producer Russ Malkin, in collaboration with co-producer David Alexanian, documenting Ewan McGregor and Charley Boorman's 15,000-mile motorcycle journey from John o' Groats, Scotland, to Cape Town, South Africa, undertaken between May 12 and August 4, 2007.^[1]^[38] The production retained core personnel from the prior Long Way Round series, emphasizing a compact team to minimize logistical strain amid the expedition's demanding route through 19 countries, including challenging African terrain and border crossings.^[6] Filming captured raw on-road footage, personal reflections, and interactions with locals, with the series edited into five 60-minute episodes for broadcast.^[16] Key crew included director of photography Claudio von Planta, who handled primary camera work on a motorcycle rigged for dynamic shots, and additional cameraman Jimmy Simak, both riding ahead to set up sequences while managing equipment in remote areas.^[6] Support logistics were managed by Dai Jones as guide and fixer, alongside a medic and mechanics traveling in reinforced vehicles such as Nissan Patrols to transport gear, spare parts, and backup cameras, ensuring continuity despite mechanical failures and environmental hazards like dust and rain that affected lenses and audio.^[6]^[39] Ewan McGregor's then-wife, Eve McGregor, joined intermittently for personal segments, adding familial perspectives filmed ad hoc.^[6] The production prioritized authenticity over scripted elements, with Malkin directing from the support convoy to balance adventure coverage with humanitarian stops, such as UNICEF visits.^[38] Post-production involved editing raw footage—estimated at hundreds of hours—by Paul Jackson, focusing on narrative flow that interwove travel logistics, interpersonal dynamics, and cultural encounters, while sound design by Graham Kirkman addressed inconsistent field audio from wind and engines.^[40] The series premiered on BBC Two in the UK on October 28, 2007, with international distribution following via networks like Fox Reality in the US.^[16] Production costs were partly offset by sponsorships, including BMW for the R1200GS Adventure motorcycles used by McGregor and Boorman, which featured integrated cameras for rider-point-of-view shots.^[39] This approach mirrored Long Way Round's guerrilla-style filming but adapted to Africa's greater isolation, where satellite uplinks were limited and resupplies relied on pre-planned depots.^[41] ![LWDtitle.jpg][center]

Accompanying Book and Soundtrack

The accompanying book, Long Way Down: One African Adventure, written by Ewan McGregor and Charley Boorman with contributions from Jeff Gulvin, chronicles their 15,000-mile motorcycle journey from John o' Groats, Scotland, to Cape Agulhas, South Africa, undertaken between May and August 2007.^[27] Published in hardback by Sphere Books on 11 October 2007, the 336-page volume details mechanical breakdowns, border delays, health issues, and interactions with local communities, supplemented by photographs and route maps.^[42] It received the British Book Awards Popular Non-Fiction prize in 2008, reflecting its commercial success with over 5,900 Goodreads ratings averaging 3.9 stars.^[42] An audiobook version, narrated by the authors, was also produced.^[42] The soundtrack, titled Long Way Down: Music from the TV Series, is a double-CD compilation featuring tracks used in the BBC television episodes, curated to evoke the journey's diverse landscapes from European highlands to African savannas.^[43] Released on 3 December 2007 by Real World Records, the album spans electronic, world, and rock genres, including contributions from artists associated with Peter Gabriel's label, and was marketed alongside a DVD of behind-the-scenes footage.^[43] It comprises 2 CDs with selections emphasizing rhythmic and atmospheric pieces suitable for adventure footage, though specific tracklists highlight no original compositions by McGregor or Boorman.^[44] The release complemented the series' broadcast, enhancing viewer immersion without altering the core narrative.^[45]

Broadcast and Distribution Details

The television series Long Way Down premiered on BBC Two in the United Kingdom on October 28, 2007, airing weekly episodes through December 2, 2007.^[46]^[47] The BBC production consisted of seven 55-minute episodes, with additional online clips available via the broadcaster's website during the run.^[48] Internationally, the series was distributed by National Geographic Channels, with premieres in regions including Asia on June 3, 2008, Turkey on June 7, 2008, and Italy on June 11, 2008.^[49] In the United States, it received a television debut on the National Geographic Channel following its UK airing, with a noted release date of August 2, 2008.^[16] The series reached audiences in over 150 countries through National Geographic's global network. Home media distribution included DVD releases of the complete series, initially launched in Region 2 format for the UK and Europe in late 2007, with subsequent editions available worldwide via retailers such as Amazon.^[50] Digital streaming became available on Apple TV+ starting September 18, 2020, encompassing all episodes for subscribers.^[51] As of 2025, primary streaming access remains through Apple TV+, with no free ad-supported options widely reported.^[52]

Reception and Legacy

Critical and Audience Response

Critics praised Long Way Down for its authentic portrayal of the physical and emotional challenges faced by Ewan McGregor and Charley Boorman during their 15,000-mile motorcycle journey from John o' Groats, Scotland, to Cape Town, South Africa, in 2007, emphasizing the duo's genuine friendship and resilience amid mechanical failures, harsh terrain, and geopolitical hurdles.^[53] The series received a 93% audience score on Rotten Tomatoes based on limited viewer ratings, reflecting appreciation for its scenic vistas and unscripted camaraderie, though professional critic reviews were sparse.^[4] Reviewers noted the program's appeal lay in its raw documentation of adventure travel rather than polished narrative, with some observing an initial tone that distanced viewers to foster realism over sentimentality.^[54] Audience reception was strongly positive, evidenced by an 8.3 out of 10 rating on IMDb from over 7,300 user votes as of recent aggregates, where viewers lauded the series as a compelling sequel to Long Way Round for its humor, emotional depth, and inspirational depiction of overland exploration.^[16] Common feedback highlighted the entertaining dynamic between McGregor and Boorman, including their handling of mishaps like bike breakdowns in Sudan and ethical dilemmas in conflict zones, which resonated with motorcycle enthusiasts and adventure seekers.^[55] While some viewers critiqued occasional repetitive elements in the travelogue format, the overall response underscored the series' success in humanizing long-haul travel's perils and rewards without exaggeration.^[56]

Achievements and Criticisms

The Long Way Down series garnered acclaim for amplifying UNICEF's work in sub-Saharan Africa, including direct engagements with child soldier rehabilitation programs in Uganda and landmine education efforts in Ethiopia during the 2007 journey.^[31]^[33] These visits, documented in the production, highlighted empirical challenges such as post-conflict trauma and explosive remnants of war, contributing to broader public discourse on child protection without relying on aggregated advocacy narratives.^[37] Fundraising efforts tied to the series proved effective, with a related charity gala in 2008 generating over $621,000 USD for partners like Riders for Health, which deploys motorcycles for medical aid delivery in remote African regions, thereby extending logistical reach to underserved populations.^[57] Additionally, post-journey auctions of expedition motorcycles, including replicas of the BMW R1200GS models used, funneled proceeds to UNICEF initiatives, underscoring a tangible causal link between the adventure's visibility and resource allocation for health and education programs.^[58]^[59] Criticisms of the series have centered on its environmental implications, as the 15,000-mile motorcycle traverse across 18 countries relied heavily on fossil fuel combustion, contributing to a substantial carbon footprint amid growing scrutiny of high-emission travel in adventure media.^[60] While the production did not publicly offset emissions at the time—unlike subsequent installments such as Long Way Up—this oversight has been flagged in analyses of celebrity-led expeditions as exemplifying a disconnect between humanitarian intent and ecological realism, potentially undermining the causal advocacy for vulnerable regions already burdened by climate vulnerabilities.^[61]^[62] Some observers have also questioned the depth of cultural immersion, arguing that the focus on logistical triumphs occasionally overshadowed nuanced local perspectives, though such views remain anecdotal without widespread institutional endorsement.^[63]

Influence on Adventure Travel and Subsequent Projects

The Long Way Down series, documenting Ewan McGregor and Charley Boorman's 15,000-mile motorcycle journey from John o' Groats, Scotland, to Cape Town, South Africa, in 2007, significantly boosted interest in overland motorcycle touring, particularly in Africa.^[64] The production's emphasis on adventure bikes like the BMW R1200GS Adventure highlighted their suitability for challenging terrains, inspiring riders to pursue similar self-supported expeditions and contributing to a surge in adventure motorcycle sales and community events focused on long-distance travel.^[65] Participants in forums and rider testimonials have credited the series with motivating them to embark on multi-continent trips, transforming motorcycle touring from a niche pursuit into a mainstream aspirational activity by showcasing logistical planning, cultural immersion, and mechanical resilience without romanticizing risks.^[64]^[66] This momentum directly influenced subsequent collaborative projects between McGregor and Boorman. Following a 12-year hiatus after Long Way Down—attributed to family commitments and personal tragedies, including Boorman's 2016 motorcycle accident—the duo reunited for Long Way Up in 2020, a 13,000-mile electric motorcycle odyssey from Ushuaia, Argentina, to Los Angeles, California, emphasizing sustainable travel and off-grid charging innovations.^[67]^[68] The series, streamed on Apple TV+, built on Long Way Down's format but incorporated modern elements like environmental advocacy, using prototype Harley-Davidson LiveWire bikes to navigate remote routes through South and Central America.^[68] In 2024, Apple TV+ announced Long Way Home as the next installment, set for release in 2025, continuing the evolution toward contemporary adventure themes amid evolving global travel restrictions that would preclude replicating earlier routes due to geopolitical changes.^[67]^[69] These projects collectively expanded the franchise's scope, fostering a legacy of serialized motorcycle documentaries that prioritize rider camaraderie, technical adaptation, and real-time problem-solving over scripted drama.^[69]

References

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Sep 8, 2016 · Both bikes on Way Round were silver GS1150's and both bikes on Way Down were GS1200's, with Ewan's being blue/silver and Charlie's being red/silver.20 years on, what bikes would we see on a Long Way Round 2024 ...Question about the BMWs in Long Way Down/Long Way RoundMore results from www.reddit.com
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2007 BMW R 1200 GS Adventure ; Horsepower (bhp). 100 ; Torque (Nm). 115.2 ; Bore (mm/in). 101 / 3.98 ; Stroke (in/mm). 2.88 / 73 ; Displacement (cc/ci). 1170 / 71.4 ...
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[15]
Long Way Down - About - BBC
Sep 24, 2014 · Ewan and Charley supported UNICEF on Long Way Round and continued to do so on Long Way Down. They visited various UNICEF projects along the way, ...
[16]
The Long Way Down (and Round) - Alastair Humphreys
As on Long Way Round, they were accompanied by Executive Producers/Directors Russ Malkin and David Alexanian. Ewan McGregor and Charley Boorman are best mates, ...Missing: participants members
[17]
Long Way Down (TV Mini Series 2007) - IMDb
Rating 8.3/10 (7,366) Long Way Down is the feature cut of the second season of the road trip documentary featuring Ewan McGregor and his buddy Charlie Boorman on their motorcycle ...
[18]
Long Way Down - All logs - BBC
Ewan & Charley answer your questions. Asyut. Charley Boorman, 08/06/2007. The bikes, choosing the route and snoring - Ewan and Charley answer your questions.Missing: key | Show results with:key
[19]
Long Way Down Ohlins failures - Motorcycle Talk - BMWSportTouring
Jan 21, 2008 · MOTORCYCLE ORIENTED DISCUSSIONS · Motorcycle Talk; Long Way Down Ohlins failures. IGNORED. Long Way Down Ohlins failures. ElevenFifty. By ...
[20]
Mon 3rd Oct … Khartoum , Sudan . | As the wind blows .
Oct 3, 2011 · Mazar is the guy in the 'Long way down' documentary who helped Ewan McGregor and Charley Boorman . ... I think the original alternator problem may ...
[21]
Ohlins Shocks and Long Way Down | Adventure Rider
Sep 4, 2008 · In watching the recent shows of the Long Way Down, I was surprised to see that the Ohlins rear shock failed on 2 of their 3 R12 GS ADV's.Ohlins Shock Failure and Wear - Adventure RiderF800 Suspension Upgrades -- Long Term Durability | Adventure RiderMore results from www.advrider.com
[22]
Ohlins shock? - Horizons Unlimited - The HUBB
On really heavy going, Ohlins shocks don't have a good reputation. I hate to use it but see The Long Way Down for an example... 3 shocks blown out in one day.
[23]
Long Way Down - Rear Shocks Failure - UKGSer
Nov 12, 2007 · Long Way Down - Rear Shocks Failure. Thread starter WindyChuffer ... Yip agreed, Ohlins was the knackered shock, replaced with an O/E oneOhlins Suspension | UKGSerOhlins Rear Shock: What do you think? | UKGSerMore results from www.ukgser.com
[24]
Expedition Safety Training | Leisure, Adventure Travel and ...
We trained Ewan McGregor and Charley Boorman for their Long Way Round/Long Way Down Expeditions. ... "The Objective Travel Safety 5-Day Hostile Environment Safety ...
[25]
The Bikes - Long Way Down - BBC
So what's changed since the last trip? If something ain't broke, don't fix it. Which is why Ewan and Charley are sticking with BMW for Long Way Down. For ...
[26]
Long Way Down (TV Mini Series 2007) - Episode list - IMDb
Meanwhile, as part of their training, the team attends a hostile environment course where they are faced with the kind of difficulties and dangers they may ...Missing: incidents | Show results with:incidents
[27]
Long Way Down - Tororo, Uganda - BBC
Claudio had a little off again today, er, well quite a big one really, but he was alright which is good. And I had to ditch my bike in order to not run over ...
[28]
Long Way Down | Book by Ewan McGregor, Charley Boorman
Ewan McGregor and Charley Boorman share their experience of biking through Africa. Long Way Down. An Epic Journey by Motorcycle from Scotland to South Africa.
[29]
Long Way Down Quiz | Television | 15 Questions - Fun Trivia
Jul 23, 2022 · The "Long Way Down" team was tied to a tight schedule during the first 5721 miles of their journey because they had to be in Aswan on day 24 in ...
[30]
Is the Cairo - Cape Town Highway passable? - Travel Stack Exchange
Jan 19, 2012 · The book shows just how hard it was for him to get his visa - it's an ongoing issue ... The Long Way Down is a TV series about Ewan McGregor and ...
[31]
Long Way Down Chapter Summary | Ewan Mcgregor - Bookey
Mar 30, 2024 · Challenges in the Desert The narrative shifts as they begin their challenging journey through Libya, battling sandstorms and navigating poor ...
[32]
Ewan McGregor, UNICEF UK Ambassador
2007 – Ewan takes part in The Long Way Down and see's UNICEF's work with child soldiers in Uganda and land mine awareness in Ethiopia. 2004 – Ewan visits UNICEF ...
[33]
Charley Boorman, UNICEF UK Ambassador
Adventurer, writer and actor, Charley Boorman became involved with UNICEF UK while filming Long Way Round with Ewan McGregor in 2004.
[34]
Actor Ewan McGregor on UNICEF-backed motorcycle ride through ...
Jul 26, 2007 · McGregor and fellow actor Charley Boorman will make several stops, to countries such as Uganda and Malawi, as part of the Long Way Down journey.Missing: partnership | Show results with:partnership
[35]
Ethiopia: Ewan McGregor and Charley Boorman take the 'Long Way ...
Jul 24, 2007 · Long Way Down is taking them through Ethiopia, Uganda and Malawi where they are meeting children affected by conflict and HIV/AIDS.
[36]
Holonet - Ewan McGregor "Long Way Down" - TheForce.net
Best friends, McGregor and Boorman travel through numerous countries including Egypt, Kenya, Tanzania, Ethiopia and Namibia, taking time to examine the various ...
[37]
UNICEF | Explore Global Impact - Long Way
Join Ewan McGregor and Charley Boorman's journeys with UNICEF, highlighting child aid initiatives worldwide in the Long Way series.Missing: Africa itinerary
[38]
Ewan McGregor's UNICEF Work - BORGEN Magazine
May 17, 2024 · Three years after the first journey, in 2007, McGregor and Boorman would embark on their second journey with “Long Way Down,” visiting UNICEF ...<|separator|>
[39]
An interview with Russ Malkin, the director behind The Long Way ...
Dec 5, 2017 · Producer and director Russ Malkin has made a living out of adventure motorcycling. He's the man behind the Long Way Round, Long Way Down and ...
[40]
NISSAN PATROLS MEET LONG WAY DOWN CHALLENGE
Jul 25, 2007 · FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE. 26 July 2007. NISSAN PATROLS MEET LONG WAY DOWN CHALLENGE. Raging sandstorms and waist-high water have not stopped ...
[41]
Long Way Down (TV Mini Series 2007) - Full cast & crew - IMDb
Editors. Edit · Paul Jackson ; Production Management. Edit · Joanna Ford ; Sound Department. Edit · Graham Kirkman ; Camera and Electrical Department. Edit.
[42]
Russ Malkin | Explore Epic Journeys - Long Way
As co-producer and director on Long Way Round, Long Way Down, Long Way Up, and Long Way Home, Russ has been with the show from conception through pitching, ...
[43]
https://petergabriel.com/news/long-way-down-released/
[44]
'Long Way Down' released - PeterGabriel.com
Dec 3, 2007 · Real World Records have today released a double CD “Long Way Down” with music featured in the TV series of the same name – Ewan McGregor and Charlie Boorman's ...
[45]
https://longwaydown.realworldrecords.com/soundtrack/
[46]
Long Way Down - Music from The Television Series
You can hear Real World music on the BBC 2 television series and this new double CD (as well as the accompanying DVD to be released on December 3rd by EMI).
[47]
Ewan McGregor gets back on his bike – this time for BBC Two
May 15, 2007 · Scheduled for broadcast on BBC Two in Autumn 2007, Long Way Down has been acquired by Richard Klein, BBC Commissioning Editor of ...
[48]
Long Way Down - Rotten Tomatoes
Series Info ; Screenwriter: Charley Boorman ; Network: BBC ; Genre: Documentary , Travel , Adventure ; Original Language: English ; Release Date: Oct 28, 2007.
[49]
Long Way Down - TheTVDB.com
First Aired October 28, 2007 ; Recent December 2, 2007 ; Airs Sunday, at 9:00pm ; Network BBC Two ; Average Runtime 55 minutes ...Missing: international | Show results with:international<|control11|><|separator|>
[50]
Long Way Down On National Geographic | Coming To A TV Screen ...
... Long Way Down will be aired from the following dates in various countries and continents: Asia June 3rd - 10:00pm. Turkey June 7th - 9:00pm. Italy June 11th - 9 ...
[51]
Long Way Down: Complete Series : Movies & TV - Amazon.com
Playback Region 2 : This will not play on most DVD players sold in the U.S., U.S. Territories, Canada, and Bermuda. See other DVD options under “Other ...
[52]
Watch Long Way Down - Apple TV
Ewan McGregor and Charley Boorman return for a second spin in the Long Way series, traveling 15,000 miles from the northernmost tip of Scotland to the ...
[53]
Long Way Down - streaming tv show online - JustWatch
Rating 84% (827) Currently you are able to watch "Long Way Down" streaming on Apple TV+, Apple TV Plus Amazon Channel. There aren't any free streaming options for Long Way Down ...
[54]
Review: "Long Way Down" - Los Angeles Times
Aug 1, 2008 · That I think Ewan McGregor must be a really nice guy is based entirely on having watched “Long Way Round,” the highly likable 2004 Bravo series ...Missing: critical reception
[55]
TV matters: Long Way Down | Culture | The Guardian
Nov 7, 2007 · The start of Long Way Down (BBC2) was surprising as it seemed calculated to hold the audience at a distance and encourage scepticism. As Ewan ...
[56]
Long Way Down TV Review | Common Sense Media
Rating 3.0 · Review by Melissa CamachoJan 14, 2025 · Crude references and double entendres are uttered, including references to activities between Ewan McGregor and his wife.Missing: audience response
[57]
Long Way Down (TV Mini Series 2007) - User reviews - IMDb
Long Way Down is the feature cut of the second season of the road trip documentary featuring Ewan McGregor and his buddy Charlie Boorman on their motorcycle ...Missing: health | Show results with:health
[58]
It's A Long Way Down For Charity - Look to the Stars
The evening raised over $621,000 for the Long Way Down team's charity partners, including Riders For Health, an organization that has worked for over 15 years ...Missing: funds | Show results with:funds
[59]
Win Long Way Down replica BMW R1200GS - Motorcycle News
Nov 19, 2014 · After sponsoring Ewan McGregor and Charley Boorman's Long Way Down series ... And now the bike which was bought by TOTAL to raise funds for Unicef ...
[60]
Ewan McGregor Donates Bike to Charity | Motorcycle.com
Nov 21, 2008 · ... Long Way Down” series.He is now trying to give UNICEF just as much exposure by donating one of his prized motorcycles to help raise money ...
[61]
https://expeditionportal.com/long-way-up-review/
[62]
Long Way Up Review - Expedition Portal
May 17, 2021 · Long Way Round and Long Way Down showed the viewer the work, training, and highs and lows of travel. But most of all, it showed the ...
[63]
Exclusive Q&A with Long Way Up's Ewan McGregor and Charley ...
Sep 19, 2020 · Just a few years later, they returned to the saddle for Long Way Down ... This was a Canadian print/digital exclusive interview with Ewan McGregor ...
[64]
Just finished Up. Confused …. : r/LongWayUp - Reddit
Jul 24, 2025 · ... carbon footprint. By which point, the batteries are ruined and the ... Long Way Down, which I feel has its issues with tension and time ...My retrospective on Long Way and thoughts on what is to come'Long Way Up' Season Discussion Thread : r/LongWayUp - RedditMore results from www.reddit.com
[65]
Catching Up With Charley Boorman | Motorcyclist
Charley Boorman and Ewan McGregor's Long Way Round and Long Way Down films are required viewing for motorcyclists. They've inspired countless overland journeys.Missing: overlanding | Show results with:overlanding
[66]
The Path of Motorcycle Touring Adventure
Mar 4, 2025 · Long Way Down (2007) and Long Way Up (2020) reinforced the idea of the adventure motorcycle as the perfect companion for traveling the world.
[67]
Motorcycle Metamorphosis / ADV Travel: Can It Change Your Life ...
Feb 28, 2023 · ... Long Way Down series – oh look, rich actors with support vehicles ... The main impact so far is that I take the 15 mile route into town ...Missing: overlanding | Show results with:overlanding
[68]
'Long Way Home' has Ewan McGregor and Charley Boorman riding ...
May 8, 2025 · They also paired up in 2007 for “Long Way Down,” a 15,000-mile journey from Scotland to the southernmost tip of South Africa, and in 2019 ...
[69]
Apple TV+ announces new season of Emmy-nominated motorbike ...
Aug 13, 2024 · “Long Way Up” follows Ewan and Charley's previous adventures in “Long Way Round” and “Long Way Down.” All three previous seasons are now ...
[70]
Charley Boorman discusses new TV series with Ewan McGregor
“It's interesting how the landscape has changed because now you couldn't do Long Way Round or Long Way Down. ... overland travel. He's now ticked off 50 ...Missing: impact overlanding