Chris McCaffrey: A Global Cycle Across 21 Countries (The Silk Road, Pamirs & Beyond)

Adventure Diaries

Content provided by Chris Watson. All podcast content including episodes, graphics, and podcast descriptions are uploaded and provided directly by Chris Watson or their podcast platform partner. If you believe someone is using your copyrighted work without your permission, you can follow the process outlined here https://podcastplayer.com/legal.

2M ago 1:38:12

MP3•Episode home

🎙️ Please make sure to click the 'Follow' the show – It really helps the show, Thanks!

Today on Adventure Diaries I sit down with Chris McCaffrey — better known as @chrisinthecold — an adventurer who has tested himself on some of the toughest human powered challenges imaginable. From sailing as a teenager to attempting an unprepared row across the North Atlantic, to cycling 16 months across 21 countries, Chris has a knack for throwing himself into the unknown and coming back with stories of resilience, awe, and human connection.

In this conversation, Chris shares what it’s like to face hurricanes at sea, capsizes, rescues by oil tankers, and the daily grind of pushing a bike across continents. His global cycle took him from Europe through the Silk Road, into the Pamirs, across Southeast Asia, and beyond. Along the way he battled illness, typhus, road collisions, and moments of collapse — yet also found kindness in strangers, moments of stillness in vast landscapes, and the perspective that comes from living on the edge of your limits.

We cover the highs, lows, and the lessons that come with chasing audacious dreams. Chris reflects on fear, risk, and the difference between physical endurance and mental endurance. There are stories of six-foot monitor lizards in the road, collapsing in a Thai guesthouse, being taken in by strangers with no common language, and the stark beauty of cycling across the Pamir Mountains.

Most of all, this is a story about why people step into the unknown, and what they learn about themselves when they do.

What You’ll Learn in This Episode

How Chris attempted to row the North Atlantic without rowing experience.
The realities of long-distance cycle expeditions across 21 countries.
Surviving hurricanes, capsize, illness, and isolation.
The role of human kindness and connection in endurance adventures.
Reflections on risk, fear, and pushing beyond personal limits.

Resources & Links Mentioned

Follow Chris on Instagram: @chrisinthecold
Adventure Diaries on Instagram: @AdventureDiaries__
Follow the show: Adventure Diaries Podcast

If you enjoyed this episode, please share it with a friend, and don’t forget to 'Follow' the show. Every follow helps us bring more authentic stories of adventure, exploration, and the natural world.

Send us a text

Support the show

Thanks For Listening.

If you enjoyed this episode, please leave a comment and subscribe for more exciting content.

Have a topic suggestion? Email us at [email protected].

AdventureDiaries.com
#AdventureDiaries #AdventureStories #NationalGeographic #Discovery #NaturalWorld

Chapters

1. The Beginning of the Adventure (00:00:00)

2. Meeting Ray and the North Atlantic Row (00:00:11)

3. Unexpected Birthday Party in Tajikistan (00:01:01)

4. Introduction to Chris McCaffery (00:01:38)

5. Chris's Early Life and Sailing Beginnings (00:03:13)

6. Growing Up in Atlanta (00:03:30)

7. Transition to Adventure Sports (00:06:48)

8. University and Environmental Sciences (00:09:30)

9. The Rowing Expedition (00:10:37)

10. The Hurricane and Rescue (00:16:06)

11. Life on the Oil Tanker (00:21:52)

12. The Global Cycle Expedition (00:29:44)

13. Epic Journey Through North America (00:36:07)

14. European Adventures and Challenges (00:36:56)

15. Navigating the Middle East and Central Asia (00:37:53)

16. Struggles with Borders and Visas (00:38:05)

17. Health Challenges and Determination (00:39:47)

18. Bike Repairs and Maintenance (00:40:13)

19. Battling the Heat (00:41:36)

20. Encounters with Wildlife (00:45:18)

21. Severe Illness in Southeast Asia (00:46:38)

22. Cultural Experiences in Central Asia (00:55:43)

23. Reflecting on the Adventure (01:08:13)

24. The Best Butter Chicken in India (01:09:00)

25. Travel Mishaps and Funny Stories (01:11:48)

26. Returning Home: Mixed Emotions (01:13:55)

27. Future Adventures and Career Changes (01:22:23)

28. Closing Traditions and Reflections (01:23:42)

113 episodes

#Society #Travel #Chris Watson #Sports #Outdoor #Adventure #Wildlife #Natural #Adventure Travel #Camping #Hiking #Survival #Wilderness #Science #Environment #Exploration #Trail