An extraordinary journey across Ethiopia aboard a three-wheeled Piaggio Ape, uncovering breathtaking landscapes, ancient traditions, and the resilience of a country where every road tells a story.

Documentary Specifications:

Languages: Italian, English
Versions: 52’, 87’
Produced and directed by Ludovico de Maistre
Cinematography: Ludovico Serra
Edited by Massimiliano Manzo, A.M.C.

Production and Distribution

Produced in collaboration with the Piaggio Group (Commercial Vehicles), the documentary has been selected for distribution on multiple platforms:

Italy: Available on Rai 3 and Amazon Prime Video.
International: Acquired by Docu Bay (India and Sri Lanka), Tubi, Filmocracy, and numerous other on-demand platforms worldwide.

Concept and Journey

Ethiopia by Tuk Tuk is an adventurous documentary born from the idea of rediscovering slow and immersive travel. The project was conceived as a journey across Ethiopia aboard a Piaggio Ape, a three-wheeled vehicle symbolizing resilience and adaptability. The challenge was not just to reach a destination, but to embrace the experience of the road itself—covering 2,500 kilometers in 18 days at an average speed of 38 km/h.

Team and Production Approach

The documentary follows an eclectic team of 11 travelers, each bringing unique skills to the expedition. The crew was carefully selected to ensure a mix of filmmakers, photographers, and logistics experts, allowing for a multifaceted storytelling approach. Beyond capturing Ethiopia’s landscapes and cultures, the team also undertook a GPS mapping of water sources, creating an open-source virtual map of wells and potable water points. Additionally, they recorded 360° images to craft an immersive street-view experience of the journey.

Cultural and Social Exploration

From the bustling streets of Addis Ababa to the remote tribal villages of the Omo Valley, the film delves into Ethiopia’s rich cultural heritage. The journey includes encounters with local artisans, musicians, and community leaders, revealing a country where tradition and modernity coexist. The film also explores social themes, including education, water accessibility, and cultural heritage, through interactions with NGOs, schools, and indigenous tribes.

Key Moments and Impact

The adventure reaches key milestones such as the Great Ethiopian Run, an emotional circus performance by at-risk youth, and a mesmerizing coffee ceremony deep in the Ethiopian highlands. Ethiopia by Tuk Tuk is more than just a travel documentary—it’s a celebration of exploration, human connection, and the power of storytelling on the road.

Ethiopia by Tuk Tuk