BREAKING: After nearly 30 years of relentless travel, Hull adventurer Karl Bushby has revealed the two most terrifying locations of his epic journey around the world. The former paratrooper, who began his monumental trek in November 1998, is set to return to the UK as he approaches the final leg of his 36,000-mile Goliath Expedition.
UPDATE: As of November 6, Bushby is nearing Budapest, Hungary, on his way back to his home city of Hull. His extraordinary journey has taken him through some of the world’s most perilous terrains, including the infamous Darién Gap and the treacherous Bering Strait.
Bushby, 56, described the Darién Gap—a notorious 60-mile corridor linking Central and South America—as a “war zone.” He encountered formidable challenges, stating, “And then there’s a whole layer above that of cartels and drug plantations, and then really, really tough jungle.” The Darién Gap, located between Panama and Colombia, is infamous for its extreme dangers, including human trafficking and harsh environmental conditions like sweltering temperatures and venomous snakes.
In another harrowing experience, Bushby crossed the Bering Strait, where he faced a polar bear. He remarked, “You’re in a very serious world that will kill you in 20 minutes if you mess up.” This vital waterway between Alaska and Russia is home to wildlife like polar bears and gray whales but is also fraught with peril.
Despite the dangers, Bushby successfully navigated ice flows and open waters with companion Dimitri Kieffer, only to be arrested by Russian authorities for illegal entry upon their arrival. They were subsequently deported, marking just one of many challenges the duo faced.
As he prepares to conclude his journey in 2026, Bushby reflected on the emotional impact of returning to “normal society.” He noted, “It’s going to be hard,” emphasizing the struggle many long-distance travelers face when reintegrating into daily life. “The key will be throwing myself into another mission, to have another goal,” he added.
Despite the frightening encounters, Bushby maintains a positive outlook on humanity, stating, “99.99% of the world is good.” His journey has not only been a physical challenge but a profound exploration of the human experience.
As Karl Bushby approaches the end of his remarkable expedition, his insights and experiences continue to resonate, reminding us of the extraordinary resilience of the human spirit. Stay tuned for more updates on his journey home and the completion of this monumental trek.
