At the end of the year, The Asunción Times is looking back on some extraordinary stories we published in 2025. One of those was the story of the Australian cycling couple Justin and Sharon Scholz, who arrived in Asunción during their 200,000-kilometre journey around the globe on a tandem bicycle. The Asunción Times met them in August and has now followed up to hear what happened after they left Paraguay’s capital. And what their cycling plans are for 2026!
73,000 kilometres through 44 countries
An extraordinary testament to dedication and teamwork, Justin and Sharon are navigating a 10-year journey across the globe. And they are doing so on a single tandem bicycle. Their adventure, which began in May 2022, has already seen them cycle over 73,000 kilometres through 44 countries.
The Scholz’ trajectory after Asunción
The cycling couple initially entered Paraguay from Argentina, traversing the country through Asunción, onward to Ciudad del Este. Not long after, they were leaving for North America, precisely British Columbia, Canada.
“Upon landing in Vancouver we cycled to the Canadian and American Prairies southbound. Two weeks ago we finished a visit to the Gran Canyon”, says Justin. “Days later, we were finished our journey in the Americas.”
2026 plans: Africa, and Europe
As for 2026, Justin says, “On 6 January we fly to Cape Town in South Africa, and will cycle north into Namibia and Angola. Then, about July 2026, we fly to Oslo, and cycle to Stockholm, then Helsinki, then a ferry to Tallinn and on to Hungary.”
Their journey does not stop from participating in extra sporting activities. Sharon will be participating in a 6-day walking event in Hungary in September 2026. From there, they will leave Europe towards Egypt via Türkiye. For Christmas 2026, they should be in Cairo, Egypt.
The philosophy of living
The Scholz view their journey not merely as a physical challenge, but as a philosophy of living, driven by curiosity and the setting of achievable, tangible goals. They have successfully forged connections with diverse local communities throughout their travels.
To follow their journey around the world, follow Justin Scholz on Facebook.
Yearly targets
Starting their international leg in Amsterdam, the Netherlands, the Scholz have consistently exceeded their yearly targets, currently averaging about 20,000 kilometres annually. Their meticulously planned route, often determined via Google Maps, has offered them a rich tapestry of global experiences, from savouring the coffee of Ethiopia to exploring Argentine cuisine. Significant stops have included Cairo, Egypt, and in 2025, the vibrant atmosphere of Asunción.
