British adventurer and world-record holder Ash Dykes has embarked on a grueling 700-kilometer (434-mile) expedition through the Congo Basin. This journey serves as the inaugural mission of his ambitious “Project 6” series. It involves navigating the remote Sangha River from Nola in the Central African Republic to Mossaka in the Republic of the Congo.
A High-Stakes Expedition
Dykes, 35, is documenting the journey to provide a firsthand look at one of the most hazardous environments on the planet. The expedition requires the team to travel by inflatable kayak. This choice was made for both agility and safety. According to Dykes, the lightweight equipment allows the team to deflate their vessels and hike overland. This lets them bypass dangerous wildlife, such as pods of hippos or aggressive Nile crocodiles, which frequently patrol the river waters.
The Congo Basin is the world’s second-largest river basin, spanning 500 million acres. Beyond the immediate threat of wildlife-which includes forest elephants, gorillas, and venomous snakes-the expedition faces significant logistical and health risks. Dykes has noted that at many points along the route, the team will be days away from professional medical assistance. This leaves them vulnerable to malaria, dengue fever, and parasitic infections from contaminated water.
Part of the Ambitious Project 6 Series
The Congo trek is the first of six extreme expeditions Dykes plans to complete within a 12-month period. Each mission is designed to test his physical and mental limits in diverse environments. By tackling these challenges in rapid succession, Dykes aims to document the human performance required to survive in the world’s most isolated regions. He also highlights the environmental pressures facing these ecosystems.
Before launching his kayak into the Sangha River, Dykes spent time with the local BaAka communities. He gained essential knowledge regarding rainforest navigation and survival techniques. This collaboration is a cornerstone of his approach. He seeks to respect and learn from the indigenous populations who have managed the forest for generations.
Overcoming Initial Challenges
The expedition has already faced early hurdles. Upon arriving in Cameroon, the team discovered that essential gear-including kayak pumps, tents, and food rations-had been delayed in transit. The team successfully recovered the supplies, allowing the mission to proceed as planned. Despite the risks, Dykes remains committed to the project. He utilizes social media to share real-time updates with his 4.5 million followers.
Expedition Facts and Risks
- Route: 700km down the Sangha River, from Nola (CAR) to Mossaka (Republic of the Congo).
- Primary Transport: Lightweight, portable inflatable kayaks.
- Environmental Hazards: Extreme heat, humidity, and dense jungle terrain.
- Wildlife Risks: Nile crocodiles, hippos, forest elephants, and snakes.
- Health Risks: Malaria, dengue fever, and lack of immediate medical access.
Dykes is a veteran of extreme exploration. He previously set world records for trekking solo across Mongolia and walking the entire length of the Yangtze River in China. His current project continues his career-long effort to push the boundaries of human endurance. At the same time, it brings global attention to the world’s most remote wilderness areas.
