Karl Bushby's "goliath expedition" around the globe approaches final stage after 28 years on foot

British adventurer Karl Bushby nears end of his 28-year walk around the world as he reaches the European leg

British adventurer Karl Bushby is nearing the conclusion of a journey that began in 1998, when he set out from the southern tip of South America with the intention of walking around the world without using motorised transport.

Now 56, the former paratrooper is travelling through Europe on what he describes as the final phase of his “Goliath Expedition”.

Bushby has documented several major challenges during the trek. One of the earliest hurdles was the Darién Gap, a remote region separating North and South America. He spent two months navigating the jungle’s difficult terrain, an area known for criminal activity and the absence of infrastructure.

Another significant moment was his 14-day crossing of the Bering Strait, during which he travelled over shifting sea ice and carried a rifle for protection against polar bears.

A prolonged delay occurred on the eastern coast of the Caspian Sea when he was unable to enter either Russia or Iran. Bushby later chose to swim across the Caspian, completing the crossing in 31 days with support from Kazakhstan’s coastguard and two members of the nation’s swimming team.

His most recent update on November 15 2025 placed him in Budapest, Hungary, marking 27 years on the road. Bushby has stated that he expects to return home to Hull, UK, around September or October 2026.

If he completes the journey as planned, he will have spent nearly half of his life walking across multiple continents and navigating some of the world’s most challenging environments.

Bushby’s progress continues to draw attention from followers who have tracked his route online and shared interest in the commitment required for a multi-decade expedition of this scale.