TikTok explorer Ash Dykes missing for 16 Hours during Congo river expedition, team raises concern

Welsh adventurer and TikTok explorer Ash Dykes has reportedly been out of contact for more than 16 hours during his expedition through the Congo Basin, prompting concern from his team as he navigates a remote stretch of the Sangha River.

Dykes’ team shared an update on Instagram and TikTok on Wednesday,October 21, 2026, revealing that they had not heard from the explorer or his crew for more than 16 hours.

“It’s been more than 16 hours since we last heard from Ash and the team which is concerning,” the statement read. “We will endeavour to keep you posted and let you all know as soon as we hear more. Thank you.”

The team has not confirmed the reason for the communication blackout or whether the group is facing an emergency. The lack of contact does not, by itself, confirm that Dykes or his companions are missing or in immediate danger.

Dykes began his 434-mile journey down the Sangha River on October 8 as part of his Project Six challenge.

He is travelling through the remote Central African rainforest in an inflatable kayak, accompanied by a local guide and a videographer. The expedition is expected to take three to four weeks.

The journey presents several challenges, including crocodiles, hippos, tropical diseases and difficult river conditions.

Dykes has also documented setbacks during the trip, including a painful sting from an unidentified insect.

His team previously indicated that satellite communications would be used to share updates from the rainforest, although connectivity can be limited in remote areas.

The expedition team has pledged to provide further information when contact is restored. No additional details about their whereabouts were included in the latest statement.