The Siberian Arctic is a land where the earth's extremes come together in an unforgiving display of nature’s raw power. A place where temperatures plunge to -70°C, where vast expanses of permafrost conceal a landscape both beautiful and treacherous, and where only the most resilient forms of life—human and animal—can survive. It is into this remote and formidable environment that I will soon venture on a solo expedition along the Lena River, a journey that will push the limits of endurance and test the very essence of survival. But as I prepare for this monumental challenge, the specter of past tragedies looms large, none more haunting than the story of America Hill.

Preparing for a solo expedition through the unforgiving Siberian Arctic will be no small feat. The region's extreme conditions, from temperatures plunging to -70°C to the constant threat of unpredictable weather and wildlife, demand more than just physical endurance they will require a deep understanding of survival techniques and mental resilience. To equip myself with the necessary skills, I will turn to the experts at Jadat Adventures, a renowned Arctic survival training organisation run by former Royal Marines Toby Cowern and Sam Cox. This blog post will take you through the rigorous training process that will be essential for surviving one of the most inhospitable environments on Earth.

Our Amazon expedition began with days of preparation in the sweltering town of Mitú, Colombia. Equipped with a modest dugout canoe and essential supplies, we set off, only to face an immediate disaster when our overloaded canoe capsized in the Rio Negro. This brush with death prompted us to enlist a Brazilian boat captain, but plans took a twist when we found ourselves abandoned in the remote community of Tainá. Surviving on minimal food, including worm-infested fish, we navigated rapids and encountered frequent checks by Brazilian soldiers. Awaiting the aid of a seasoned pastor from São Gabriel, we learned invaluable lessons in resilience and adaptability. Despite the hardships, the true essence of our Amazon adventure was just beginning.

In the world of adventure and exploration, there are journeys that push the boundaries of human endurance and curiosity. Today, we're diving into an extraordinary narrative of relentless ambition and the countdown to an unparalleled expedition. This expedition, following in the footsteps of challenging past journeys down the Essequibo River, across the Darien Gap, and through untouched regions of three South American nations, promises to eclipse them all in terms of its audacity and isolation.

When it comes to testing my fitness and endurance, I've always sought out extreme challenges. These are the crucibles in which I push my limits, preparing myself for even greater adventures. This time, I decided to tackle the Yorkshire Three Peaks, a challenge that would not only test my physical strength but also allow me to support a cause close to my heart.
The Yorkshire Three Peaks is a renowned trekking challenge in Northern England. It involves summiting three of Yorkshire's highest peaks in a single day: Pen-y-ghent, Whernside, and Ingleborough, covering a total distance of 24 miles. The terrain is rugged, the ascents are steep, and the descents are unforgiving. It's a true test of endurance, and I was ready to take it on.

Endurance events have a way of pushing us to our limits, testing our physical and mental strength in the most challenging conditions. Last weekend, I embarked on a grueling 30-mile endurance event in the picturesque but unforgiving landscapes of the South of England. With a full kit weighing 25kg and the unpredictable weather at play, this journey was not only a gauge of my current fitness level but also a testament to my determination and preparation for an upcoming expedition.

January, the coldest and most unforgiving month in Britain, isn't exactly the prime time for outdoor escapades. Yet, for me, it presented the perfect opportunity for a unique birthday celebration. Rather than the usual partying, I decided to test my limits and create unforgettable memories by attempting the legendary Fan Dance in the heart of Brecon Beacons National Park. And to make it even more special, I convinced my brother, a boxing world champion with no prior hill or rucking experience, to join me on this exhilarating journey.

First of all, I set out a budget for the trip, I usually aim for a round figure but it is always upwards of £5,000 - more than enough for a trip anywhere in the world for four to six weeks.
Don’t think you can load up the credit card and a way you go either.
Remember, travelling to rural, remote locations cash is king!
Money talks anywhere in the world, from bribes to transport costs to all in between.

You would think I would need a break from travel after my last expedition, but, it isn’t long before I find my feet itching and the desire to fly away calling me.
However, planning an expedition is not a simple case of sticking a pin in the map and away you go.
No, it takes time. In my case, planning an expedition takes up to two years of research.
Firstly, you have to be drawn to a particular location. For me, there is always a reason behind why I want to go to a certain country.
It could be an animal I would love to see in its natural habitat, or simply the culture of the location that draws me in, making me want to experience it for myself.

I've lost track of the number of times I'm asked how and what I eat in those situations. There is an idea that people that explore or spend extended times away from villages towns or even people, like me can rustle up a meal from the wild in any situation. Popular TV channels have reinforced this idea repeatedly over the last decade. However, the truth is that learning how to survive on wild fruit, berries, and bugs is a complex and often dangerous process. Unless you know what you have stumbled across, without any doubt, there is a good chance of poisoning yourself.