“Тэнгэр эхийн тэврэлт мэт, түүний доорх бүх зүйлийг бүрхэв.” “Like a mother’s embrace, the sky covers everything beneath it.” This ancient Mongolian proverb introduces the latest chapter of Esplora’s ongoing journey—a modern odyssey through the physical, social, and primal art of bikepacking. This new adventure reflects Esplora’s drive to expand its mission, born from Italian outdoor creativity, by exploring the world’s most beautiful landscapes and broadening perspectives along the way.

Now in its fifth year, Esplora marks this milestone by deepening its identity around the concept of nomadism. A small team of three (co-founders Marco Ricci and Davide Ciarletta, along with seasoned traveler Giuseppe Papa, who has already joined them on Nepalese routes) set off for Mongolia—the ultimate haven for nomadic living, where 30% of the population has chosen a life without a fixed abode, connected to animal husbandry, vast steppes, and an endless sky the likes of which you’ve never seen.

This journey would not have been possible without the support of Briko, a long-standing partner of the Esplora odeporic philosophy. We retrace it through the testimony of Davide Ciarletta and the visual gallery captured by the ever-evocative Esplora lenses.

STEPPES, FUSION, AND TRADITIONS

“We started in Ulaanbaatar, Mongolia’s capital. Here Soviet architecture, modern trade routes with Russia and China, and Buddhist monasteries blend together in a fascinating mix. The city buzzes with market stalls and bazaars, from towering buildings to coal-fired factories,” recalls Davide Ciarletta, “From there, we headed across Mongolia to Lake Khuvsgul near the Russian border, covering 1,200 kilometers over 20 days. With wind, snow, and rugged dirt roads, it wasn’t an Ultracycling expedition—it was true bikepacking, demanding both endurance and resourcefulness.”

Along the way, Esplora’s team faced challenging terrain, logging around 80 kilometers daily and relying on local resources to find food, water, and shelter. “One unforgettable moment was when we encountered sand dunes stretching as far as the eye could see, surrounded by steppes and distant mountain ranges. It was surreal. Only a motorcycle or truck could have crossed those dunes, so we ended our journey with this powerful image etched in our minds.”

A DEAFENING SILENCE, A LAND OF CONTRASTS

“In Mongolia, silence is alive. It’s a place where desolation blends with grandeur, where being alone makes you feel deeply connected. The sound of the wind, water flowing, animals grazing—it all speaks its own language. With every pedal stroke, our senses sharpened, and we became more attuned to the subtle rhythms of the universe. Mongolia revealed a raw beauty that felt primordial,” says Davide Ciarletta.

The team uncovered the wild heart of Mongolia: vast herds of wild horses, condors soaring over animal remains, and nomads living in tune with the natural world. “Mongolia’s nomadism is like stepping back in time. These people live simply, yet with profound wisdom, deeply connected to their surroundings.”

NOMADISM: A LANGUAGE OF ITS OWN

“We crossed paths with the real lives of these men who live alone with their horses, grazing goats or cows. They are nomads in the truest sense of the word. We were housed in the yurt, or gher, as it is called. It’s a mobile structure typical of this country and its nomads with an open roof that lets you gaze at the sky. In Mongolia, it feels like you’re constantly under a brilliant dome that changes color, ranging between shades of blue and green. Nomads are very hospitable and live in constant motion. Although the language barrier was real, they understood that we, too, were nomads in our own way. One memorable moment came when we shared time with a family, communicating through drawings. It felt like we were speaking in a universal language born from shared experiences.”

THE INVALUABLE SUPPORT OF OUR PARTNER, BRIKO

Esplora’s Mongolian adventure was made possible by the support of Briko. “Our partnership has grown over time, allowing us to push boundaries, exploring new types of travel. In Mongolia, we relied on Briko’s Gravel BLOWN collection. The AeroPlus helmet and STARLIGHT 2.0 eyewear, in both polarized and photochromic lens versions, were vital, especially in the dynamic light conditions during sunrise and sunset,” notes Ciarletta. “Having gear that’s light, compact, and functional is crucial for bikepacking. These tools allowed us to travel efficiently and focus on the journey.”

As Esplora’s adventures continue, so too does its collaboration with Briko. “We’re already planning new destinations, and we’ll continue to grow this amazing partnership together.”