Pékin Express is set to make its anticipated return for its twentieth season on January 16, 2025, whisking contestants away on another thrilling adventure.
To celebrate its significant anniversary, the popular travel competition series will take place entirely within Africa. This season's contestants will traverse four captivating countries: Tanzania, Mozambique, Lesotho, and South Africa, culminating the adventure with the final leg of the race taking place in Johannesburg. This marks the show’s first-ever exploration of Mozambique, promising to showcase stunning scenery and rich cultural experiences.
During this special anniversary season, contestants will encounter local tribes, including the Maasaï, Swahilis, and Zulus, as they engage with diverse customs and traditions across the region. The excitement surrounding this latest installment of the series is palpable, with plans for the participants to face unique African landscapes and wildlife, from majestic elephants to lions.
Returning to this new series is the exciting element of mystery guests, which had been absent from the show for over 11 years. This season, well-known personalities such as former Miss France Élodie Gossuin, comedian Bruno Solo, and chef Glenn Viel will join teams for specific challenges, adding another layer of unpredictability to the competition.
Stéphane Rotenberg, who has been the face of the show since its inception, emphasized the significance of returning to Africa during a recent press conference, stating, “We were eager to come back, and this season will be an African odyssey with many surprises.” The participants will also face the added challenge of competing within the less populated regions of Lesotho, where getting around can be quite complicated.
"This season promises lots of unforgettable interactions and encounters," added Rotenberg, highlighting the educational opportunities for contestants interacting with various tribes. Contestants will need to navigate through culturally rich environments, adjusting to different social codes as they move between regions.
One notable aspect of this season is the return of fan-favorite duo Ryad and Louison from season 18, who will be featured prominently in their own spin-off segment titled 'Qui peut battre Ryad et Louison?'. This new format will have them competing against other standout contestants from previous seasons, ensuring they face tough challenges once more.
Fans of the show can also expect to see the revitalization of the mystery guest format, with celebrities being introduced at various points throughout the race. These guests will take on some tasks for the contestants, adding extra pressure, excitement, and the potential for hilarious outcomes. Rotenberg notes, “Having mystery guests brings unexpected tension to the race—some contestants might just crack under pressure!”
Each new episode promises to combine themes of adventure, collaboration, and cultural exploration, staying true to the essence of 'Pékin Express,' which originally premiered with contestants hitchhiking from Paris to Beijing with just one euro per day back in 2004.
Over the years, the show has become emblematic of French television and has showcased more than 200 contestants who traveled across nearly 50 countries, bringing the adventure lifestyle to millions of viewers. Original contestants from the first seasons will join new racers who represent various walks of life, demonstrating the show's ability to unite people through shared experiences.
With fresh challenges, memorable character dynamics, and the introduction of engaging cultural elements, Season 20 of 'Pékin Express' is poised to be one of the most exciting yet.
Fans are unaware of various surprises and twists waiting along the contestants' exhilarating path across the African continent. It is certain to bring moments of both humor and tension as the show continues to expand its legacy of fostering genuine human connections through travel.
Looking forward, the response from the public remains enthusiastic as social media buzzes with anticipation for the upcoming episodes. Encouragingly, as discussions about the show grow, the themes of friendship, resilience, and cultural appreciation underpin the concept of the beloved adventure series. Together, Rotenberg and his production team will continue to shape the narrative for future generations of viewers, providing not only entertainment but also enriching stories from around the world.
