How One Mercedes-Benz G-Class Became a Legend After 20 Years on the Road
Günther Holtorf, a man who turned an 18-month road trip into a 20-year global adventure, passed away on October 4th, 2021. Alongside his late wife Christine, he drove a single Mercedes-Benz G-Class across 177 countries, covering over half a million miles in one of the most extraordinary journeys ever undertaken.
The adventure began in 1988 when Günther and Christine Holtorf purchased a Mercedes-Benz 300 GD, a rugged SUV they affectionately named Otto. Their original plan was modest: an 18-month expedition across Africa. But what started as a short-term trip soon grew into something far greater.
By 1990, the couple set off, navigating without modern aids like GPS. Instead, they relied on paper maps, a camera, and a stock of spare parts. For two decades, Otto became their home, carrying them through deserts, mountains, and cities across the world. Tragedy struck in 2010 when Christine was diagnosed with cancer and later passed away. Despite the loss, Günther continued the journey alone, refusing to abandon the adventure they had shared. Finally, in 2014, after 24 years and 177 countries, the epic voyage came to an end. After returning, Günther and Otto were honoured with a permanent place in the Mercedes-Benz Museum. Before his death in 2021, he spent his final years revisiting parts of Europe, including Germany, France, Spain, Portugal, Italy, and Austria. One of his most memorable reflections on travel was: 'The more you travel, the more you realize how little you've seen.'
Günther Holtorf’s journey remains one of the longest and most remarkable overland expeditions in history. His story, along with Otto, now stands as a testament to adventure, resilience, and the enduring spirit of exploration. The Mercedes-Benz Museum preserves their legacy, ensuring their incredible feat will not be forgotten.
