A 25,000 kms drive around South America - Oct/Nov 2001

Starting and finishing on Copacapana Beach, Rio de Janeiro. Driving 25,000 kms through six countries: Brazil, Argentina, Bolivia, Peru, Chile and Uruguay. One hundred cars: fifty classics and fifty 4x4's.

Rio de Janeiro

Lots of organising to do! We went to a camping shop in Ipanema for sleeping bags etc,to replace the things that had been stolen from the car in transit.  Then, the BIG PACK.

Once the packing was finished we had lunch with Colin on the terrace of the hotel and then I went with Colin to take our spare cases to Nicky and Steve's to be stored while we are on the rally. Wendy walked to the local shops for more supplies.

Tonight there is a big pre-event start dinner at Porcao Rio's, then it's back to more packing! Wendy I know would like to stay in the Sofitel for the next 8 weeks. It might be more comfortable than what we are going to experience! We were all bussed to the restaurant and met the Wheelers there. We were welcomed with 2 drinks each - one soft, one a caipirinha! Loads of meat and salmon, salads etc. Speech from John Brown and deputy Mayor of Rio. Good fun. Back by 10.15 to continue packing. Early start tomorrow!!