Nacho Dean: The First and Only Man to Walk Around the World

In an era dominated by technology and convenience, Nacho Dean stands out as a modern explorer who combines the adventurous spirit of history’s great pioneers with a passionate commitment to environmentalism. Born in Málaga, Spain, Dean is a naturalist, adventurer, and motivational speaker whose feats of endurance and exploration are as impressive as they are inspiring. His extraordinary undertakings—the first documented walk around the world and the subsequent linking of the world's five continents by swimming—have placed him among the ranks of the most daring explorers of the 21st century. His story is not merely one of endurance but also a profound message about the interconnectedness of humanity and the environment.

Walking Around the World: The Earthwide Walk

Nacho Dean’s first monumental journey began in 2013 and concluded in 2016. Over the course of three years, he traversed four continents, walking over 33,000 kilometers (more than 20,000 miles) entirely on foot. Dean started his journey in Madrid, Spain, and walked across Europe, Asia, Oceania, and the Americas, before returning to Madrid to complete the circle.

The exact route of his journey is as follows:

1. Europe: Starting in Madrid, Dean walked across Spain, France, Italy, and Eastern Europe, passing through countries such as Slovenia, Croatia, Serbia, and Bulgaria. He crossed into Turkey to reach Istanbul, marking his transition to Asia. Each country presented unique landscapes and challenges, from the snow-capped Pyrenees in Spain to the historic bridges and bustling streets of Istanbul.

2. Asia: In Turkey, Dean continued eastward, traversing Iran, India, and Southeast Asia, including Thailand and Malaysia. His journey through Asia was marked by stark contrasts, from the deserts of Iran to the tropical jungles of Southeast Asia. He encountered vibrant cultures, diverse cuisines, and enduring hospitality even in the most remote locations.

3. Oceania: After reaching Indonesia, Dean traveled to Australia, where he walked across the country’s vast landscapes. The Australian segment included treks through arid outback regions, encounters with kangaroos, and the breathtaking coastal areas near Sydney. The sheer size of the country tested his stamina, yet offered some of the most serene moments of his journey.

4. The Americas: Landing in South America, Dean began his trek in Argentina and walked through Chile and Bolivia, making his way north through Peru, Ecuador, and Colombia. His route then continued through Central America, where he passed through countries such as Panama and Costa Rica, before entering Mexico and the United States. This part of his journey was marked by diverse ecosystems, from the Andean mountains to the Amazon basin and the deserts of Mexico.

5. Return to Europe: From the U.S., Dean returned to Europe to complete his circle, walking back to Madrid where he was greeted by supporters and well-wishers. This triumphant conclusion was a moment of reflection on the immense physical and emotional challenges he had overcome.

This ambitious project, titled Earthwide Walk, was not simply an exercise in endurance but also a message to humanity about the urgent need to care for the planet. Dean documented his encounters with diverse cultures, ecosystems, and wildlife, creating a tapestry of interconnectedness that underscored his environmental mission. Along the way, he faced extreme weather—from monsoon rains to blistering heat—and moments of danger, such as navigating politically unstable regions and remote areas without immediate access to help. Despite these challenges, Dean’s determination never wavered, and his achievement stands as a testament to human resilience and a call to action for global sustainability.

Uniting the Continents: The Expedition Nemo

After conquering the terrestrial, Nacho Dean turned his attention to the aquatic. Between 2018 and 2019, he embarked on a mission to connect the world’s continents by swimming across the straits that separate them. Named Expedition Nemo, this project aimed to highlight the importance of ocean conservation and the critical role seas play in sustaining life on Earth. His commitment to the oceans was driven by an acute awareness of the challenges they face, from overfishing to plastic pollution and climate change.

Dean successfully swam across five iconic straits:

1. The Strait of Gibraltar (linking Europe and Africa): A 15-kilometer swim in strong currents and busy shipping lanes, testing his ability to navigate in open water while contending with constant waves and commercial vessel traffic.

2. The Bosphorus Strait (linking Europe and Asia): A culturally significant crossing through Istanbul’s historic waters, where ancient empires once thrived. The mix of urban surroundings and natural beauty made this swim unique.

3. The Dardanelles Strait (linking Europe and Asia): A challenging 6-kilometer swim through the waters of Turkey, with historical significance tied to both World War I and ancient Greek myths.

4. The Strait of Magellan (linking South America and Oceania): One of the most treacherous crossings due to frigid temperatures and unpredictable weather, showcasing Dean’s mental toughness and physical preparation.

5. The Bering Strait (linking Asia and North America): An extraordinary feat through icy Arctic waters, marking the culmination of his mission. Swimming in near-freezing temperatures, Dean demonstrated exceptional endurance and a profound connection to nature’s raw power.

By completing these crossings, Nacho Dean not only achieved a world first but also brought attention to the fragility of marine ecosystems. His expeditions reinforced the urgent need for collective action to protect the oceans. His advocacy extended beyond swimming, as he worked with environmental organizations and shared his experiences to inspire broader awareness.

The Philosophy of Adventure

What makes Nacho Dean unique is not just his physical accomplishments but the philosophy that drives him. Dean’s explorations are deeply rooted in a desire to inspire others to reconnect with nature and recognize the planet as a shared home. His expeditions serve as platforms to educate and advocate for environmental sustainability, emphasizing the interconnectedness of all living things.

Nacho Dean’s work extends beyond his personal adventures. As a speaker and author, he shares his experiences to motivate others to step outside their comfort zones, embrace challenges, and make meaningful contributions to the world. His book, Libre y Salvaje (Free and Wild), chronicles his journey around the globe, offering readers a glimpse into the joys and struggles of an explorer's life. Through vivid storytelling, Dean not only recounts his achievements but also reflects on the deeper lessons learned from his encounters with humanity and nature.

Legacy and Future Endeavors

Nacho Dean’s legacy is one of courage, endurance, and environmental advocacy. His accomplishments remind us of the boundless potential of human determination and the pressing need to protect our planet for future generations. As he continues to inspire audiences worldwide, Dean is likely to embark on new challenges that blend adventure with purpose. His vision includes working on initiatives to combat climate change, promote sustainability, and foster global cooperation.

In an age when humanity often feels disconnected from the natural world, Nacho Dean stands as a symbol of what is possible when we embrace our shared responsibility to preserve the Earth. His story is not only one of extraordinary personal achievement but also a rallying cry for collective action to safeguard the wonders of our planet. His ongoing efforts inspire hope that together, we can build a future where humanity and nature coexist in harmony.