Hear hear, it’s that time again! We are enthused to announce that our annual list of the Top 30 Adventurers in the World Under 30 is finally back again after a long hiatus! We started this list waaaaay back in 2015 (when our editor-in-chief was still eligible to make the cut) and took a break for a few years during the pandemic, but we’re finally back to highlight feats of exemplary travel.
Over the past month, we’ve reached out to various adventure communities for their nominations for top world adventurers under 30 years old. We looked at nominations from a number of different communities and different styles of adventurers — backpackers, world record chasers, adrenaline junkies, extreme athletes, hardcore travelers, long-distance motorcyclists, mountaineers, travel vloggers, and more — to put this cherished list together.
Seeing as how Hollywood has it’s top 30 actors under 30, and Forbes has it’s vaunted 30 businesspeople under 30, we thought: why should they have all the fun??! We decided to acknowledge the top 30 adventurers, trailblazers, and explorers in the world under 30 (who are every bit as impressive – perhaps more so) and give them their due.
Selecting just 30 adventurers is never easy, but after reading all of these incredible stories of these young adventurers we can’t help but feel pumped! And excited! And hope you will too.
Note: For this year’s top 30 under 30, we decided to update our criteria to include individuals who are currently 30, as long as they took part in their adventures prior to their 30th birthday.
Lastly, THANK YOU to everyone who sent in their nominations! This list would not have been possible if not for the countless people who chimed in on social media, reddit, or who sent us direct e-mails with their nominees.
So, without further ado, here they are…
The Top 30 Adventurers in the World Under 30!
Adriana Brownlee (Age: 23)
Why she’s a top adventurer: Adriana Brownlee has made history as the youngest woman to summit all 14 of the world’s 8,000-meter peaks. Beginning her mountaineering career at the age of 20, Adriana set this ambitious goal after summiting Mount Everest in 2021. In just three years, she conquered towering giants such as K2, Annapurna, and Shishapangma, pushing her physical and mental limits along the way. What sets Adriana apart is not just her remarkable pace but also her decision to complete her final peak, Shishapangma, without supplementary oxygen, amplifying the challenge and danger of her climb.
Adriana’s love for mountaineering began at the age of eight, inspired by her father, and she has sacrificed a typical young adulthood—including quitting university—to pursue her passion for high-altitude climbing. She views mountaineering as her form of escape, a way to connect deeply with herself and nature. Now that she has completed her goal, Adriana plans to dedicate her efforts to inspiring and guiding a new generation of climbers through high-altitude mountaineering and trekking experiences.
Adriana’s achievement is even more extraordinary given that fewer than 100 people in history have ever completed the 14 highest peaks, all located in the Himalayas and Karakoram ranges. Her remarkable perseverance and resilience, combined with a strong sense of purpose, make her a standout among today’s top adventurers.
Agnes Plesner Skårup (Age: 27)
Why she’s a top adventurer: Agnes Skarup (@aggiadventures) is a dauntless adventurer from Denmark, whose incredible journeys have taken her across some of the most rugged and remote landscapes in the world. Fond of motorcycles and hiking, her first trip materialized after the realization that she was going to die one day, so she decided, against her parents’ will to drop out of high school to hike 2800 kilometers of America’s Pacific Crest Trail by herself at 18.
Although she did go back to school, the adventuring hasn’t stopped. Upon finishing high school at 21, she went to Australia and spontaneously bought a motorcycle and rode 25.000 kilometers around Australia. That trip almost ended when she had to get airlifted to a hospital after a crash on a remote dirt road, and her motorcycle got stolen while she was in the hospital. The story made national news, and a kind local gifted her his bike to finish her epic trip. The crash didn’t scare her away from motorcycles, and in 2022 she has spent 6 weeks in Northern Pakistan, exploring the rich mountain region. Earlier this year, she spent 5 months walking from Mexico to Canada on the rugged Continental Divide Trail, one of the most challenging hikes in the world.
When she isn’t doing elaborate adventures, she does presentations about them, and has done 70+ all over Denmark. She also rides her 1956 Nimbus, studies Environmental Economics and is in a Dostoevsky book club.
Alex Mostert (Age: 30)
Why he’s a top adventurer: Alex Mostert, hailing from Heemskerk in North Holland, Netherlands, has traveled to over 60 countries across nearly every continent, making him a true global adventurer. His adventures include surviving five days in the untamed wilds of Borneo, where he traveled with a native tribe, living without modern conveniences and relying entirely on nature for sustenance. His experiences with wild orangutans and venomous snakes in the jungle honed his survival instincts and deepened his respect for indigenous cultures. This journey encapsulates Alex’s fearless spirit and passion for connecting with the world in its rawest form.
Aside from jungle survival, Alex is also an entrepreneur, combining his love for travel with his keen business acumen. Fluent in five languages and constantly learning, he has fostered connections with people from all walks of life, hosting travelers in Amsterdam and exchanging cultural experiences along the way. Whether navigating the crowded markets of Cairo or exploring ancient ruins in Armenia, Alex thrives on spontaneity and is always seeking the next adventure. His wide-ranging interests—from fitness and poker to stock trading—demonstrate his multifaceted approach to life. Alex embodies the modern explorer, committed to living life to the fullest while sharing his adventures with fellow travelers.
Alyssa Carson (Age: 23)
Why she’s a top adventurer:
Most of us dream of being an astronaut when we are ten. This young lady was actually serious. Alyssa Carson is an aspiring astronaut and one of the youngest space enthusiasts with serious astronaut training. Since childhood, she has been involved in NASA’s space camp programs and has completed numerous advanced astronaut training sessions, including underwater spacewalking simulations and microgravity training.
Alyssa’s dedication to space exploration and her dream to be among the first humans on Mars has inspired countless young people worldwide to pursue careers in science and exploration. Her journey exemplifies the spirit of adventure, not just on Earth but beyond.
Anna Taylor (Age: 24)
Why she’s a top adventurer: Anna Taylor is a pioneering British climber making significant strides in the adventure community. Based in the Lake District, she gained recognition in 2021 as the first woman to complete a self-powered round of the 83 climbing routes in the renowned book Classic Rock. With a strong belief in the potential of UK climbing, Anna has shown that the country offers incredible challenges comparable to exotic locations. Her dedication to the sport is evident in her impressive achievements, including her recent completion of 100 routes from the Mountain Rock guide, which involved physical challenges that required hiking to the climbs.
Anna’s adventurous spirit led her to the Guyanese Amazon, where she scaled Mount Roraima alongside renowned climber Leo Houlding. Her experiences, including camping a mile up a cliff face surrounded by jungle wildlife, highlight her willingness to embrace both the beauty and the dangers of the great outdoors. As a passionate advocate for female climbers, Anna aims to inspire other women to break boundaries and pursue their adventurous dreams, proving that the climbing world is evolving and becoming more inclusive.
Andreas Hvid (Age: 29)
Why he’s a top adventurer: Andreas Hvid, the “daring Danish,” is an adventurer who has traveled to over 70 countries, often seeking unconventional experiences that push boundaries. From trekking through the radioactive Chernobyl Zone with Ukrainian “stalkers” to climbing the Great Pyramid of Giza, Andreas thrives on the thrill of urban exploration and extreme adventures. His journey from Denmark to Dubai without flying at age 20 and rooftopping in Belarus at 22 are just a few highlights that demonstrate his fearless and curious nature. Andreas’ commitment to discovering new perspectives in every country he visits makes him an unforgettable figure in the world of adventure.
What sets Andreas apart is his resilience in the face of personal adversity. Diagnosed with psoriatic arthritis, a condition that affects his mobility, he continues to find joy in planning and undertaking bold new challenges, which he showcases on YouTube. His latest feat—a 23,600-kilometer solo motorcycle trip from Copenhagen to Cape Town via West Africa—was accomplished while battling his condition. Andreas’ determination to keep pushing his limits, despite health setbacks, highlights his relentless spirit and makes him an inspiration for anyone facing their own challenges.
Ann-Kathrin Bendixen (Age: 24)
Ann-Kathrin Bendixen, also known as “Affe auf Bike” (Monkey on a Bike), is a German adventurer and social media influencer who has been traveling the world by motorbike since 2019. Drawing inspiration from a life-threatening illness at 19, she set out from her hometown in Schleswig-Holstein with just €400 and a stuffed monkey. Her travels, spanning destinations like Tajikistan, Thailand, and Iceland, have inspired thousands.
In her book BikerGirl, Bendixen shares the realities of her travels, including the emotional and physical hardships she has faced, such as sexual harassment, loneliness, and near-death experiences. She aims to inspire young people to take bold steps toward a life of freedom, addressing common concerns about finances and fear in the process. With a spontaneous spirit, Bendixen dreams of continuing her journey to South America, even if it means finding unconventional ways to get there.
Ben Brown (Age: 28)
Why he’s a top adventurer:
Ben Brown is a British adventurer and filmmaker known for his cinematic travel vlogs. He has documented his adventures from the Arctic Circle to the deserts of Africa, capturing the wild beauty of these remote locations.
Ben’s work is not just about exploration; it’s about storytelling, using stunning visuals to inspire others to seek out their own adventures. His content often highlights the challenges of these expeditions, offering an authentic look at what it takes to explore the world’s most extreme environments.
Christina Voll (Age: 29)
Why she’s a top adventurer: Christina Voll has spent nearly a decade as a digital nomad, exploring some of the most stunning and remote corners of the world. From hiking ancient temples at Angkor Wat to navigating the busy streets of India to immersing herself in the depths of the Amazon Rainforest, Christina’s travels have taken her across continents in pursuit of both adventure and self-discovery.
In Nepal, she completed her yoga teacher training, and more recently, she spent time trekking through Turkey and reconnecting with nature. Whether it’s swimming in rivers, hiking mountain trails, or experiencing new cultures, Christina’s journey is marked by her deep connection to the natural world and her quest for freedom.
Throughout her adventures, Christina has mastered the balance of working remotely while embracing a lifestyle of constant movement. She’s lived nomadically for years, switching between tropical Asia, the beaches of Spain, and the rugged landscapes of Europe. Her stories, often accompanied by reflections on personal growth, showcase her ability to adapt to different environments and cultures. Christina’s experiences not only highlight the possibilities of a remote lifestyle but also serve as a testament to the power of resilience, curiosity, and the pursuit of a life without boundaries.
Connor McMurchy (Age: 20)
Why he’s a top adventurer: Conner McMurchy, 20, is an up-and-coming adventurer on a mission to travel to every country in the world. At just 20 years old, he’s already visited dozens of countries, with experiences ranging from exploring the Middle East and southern Thailand to venturing into war-torn Ukraine. One of his most daring trips took him into Ukraine during the ongoing conflict with Russia, despite the British government’s “Do Not Travel” warning. Undeterred by the risks, Conner traveled by bus from Krakow, Poland, through military checkpoints, and into Lviv, where he found not only stunning architecture but also some of the warmest hospitality he has ever encountered. There he spent time with locals, soldiers, and journalists, immersing himself in the culture and sharing stories over traditional food and drinks.
In addition to Ukraine, Conner has explored many of Europe’s hidden gems, such as Riga’s fairytale streets and Rhodes’ medieval charm. His travels take him off the beaten path, and he loves meeting new people and experiencing local cultures firsthand. Through his adventures, Conner has developed a deep appreciation for Eastern European cuisine, and he is already planning to return to Ukraine to explore more of the country’s resilient beauty. His journey to visit every country is just getting started, and his wide-eyed approach to travel is inspiring many to follow along with his adventures on Instagram.
Dylan Magaster (Age: 28)
Why he is a top adventurer: Dylan Magaster is a filmmaker, adventurer, and YouTuber known for his in-depth explorations of alternative lifestyles and minimalist living. Born in the United States, Dylan’s passion for adventure and storytelling has taken him across the globe, where he documents unique ways of life, from van life in the U.S. to sailing across oceans.
Dylan first gained attention through his YouTube channel, where he began by showcasing van conversions and the stories of people living on the road. His content quickly resonated with a growing audience interested in minimalist living, self-sufficiency, and the freedom that comes with life on the move. His early success with van life videos laid the groundwork for more ambitious projects, including his venture into the world of sailing.
In 2017, Dylan made the bold decision to buy a sailboat, despite having no prior sailing experience. This leap into the unknown epitomizes his adventurous spirit and willingness to learn new skills. Over time, he mastered sailing and embarked on numerous oceanic journeys, navigating the challenges of life at sea while continuing to produce compelling content that blends adventure with education.
Indy Nelson (Age: 29)
Why he’s a top adventurer: Indy Nelson, from California, recently made headlines for setting a world record by traveling to every country globally and flying on 170 different airlines, an adventure he completed in 539 days. His journey began after he visited North Korea during spring break, which inspired him to undertake this ambitious quest. Nelson shared his experiences, including being temporarily detained as a possible spy in four countries: Iran, Russia, Libya, and Papua New Guinea.
His adventure began with a transformative trip to Greece, where he volunteered for Syrian refugees. Inspired by this experience and a subsequent unconventional spring break in North Korea, he set a lofty goal of visiting every country in the world. Over the course of 17 months, he navigated through conflict zones and unique cultures, overcoming challenges that sharpened his problem-solving skills and broadened his worldview.
Despite the risks, he found joy in discovering the beauty of diverse countries and cultures, often prioritizing early flights to maintain a high completion rate. After achieving his record, he is now focusing on a telecommunications startup aimed at providing mobile data to underserved communities, drawing inspiration from his travels. Nelson encourages aspiring globetrotters to embrace the journey and step outside their comfort zones, believing that travel profoundly transforms one’s perspective on life.
Jacob ‘Valhalla’ Myers (Age: 26)
Jacob “Val” Myers, a 26-year-old from North Carolina, is a determined adventurer and endurance athlete who making his mark in the world of outdoor exploration, beginning with his first wilderness experiences in North Carolina, where he lived in his car during college and set his sights on becoming an outdoor professional. His early trials in backpacking during violent storms and subsequent thru-hikes led him to ultra-marathons, where he continued to push the boundaries of his endurance. In 2023, Myers completed a solo, 21-day expedition across Norway’s Hardanger Glacier, solidifying his skills in polar survival. Myers’ adventure portfolio showcases not only his passion for the outdoors but also his commitment to challenging himself physically and mentally.
Last year, Jacob made an ambitious attempt to ski alone and unaided from the edge of Antarctica to the South Pole, aiming to set a world record. While he made a herculean effort, the polar expedition was cut short due to unforeseen challenges after 13 days. Like Earnest Shackleton’s attempt in 1907, it stands as a testament to his resilience and ability to make tough decisions under extreme conditions. Despite the outcome, Myers demonstrated remarkable composure and responsibility, knowing when to prioritize his well-being over the pursuit of a world record—a reflection of his maturity beyond his years.
Jasmine Harrison (Age: 24)
Why she’s a top adventurer: Jasmine Harrison is a remarkable British adventurer and motivational speaker known for her record-breaking feats. At just 21 years old, she became the youngest woman to row solo across the Atlantic Ocean, completing the arduous 3,000-mile journey in 70 days, three hours, and 48 minutes. Her adventure began in December 2020 when she set off from La Gomera in the Canary Islands and reached Antigua, sharing her triumph with fans via social media as she celebrated her achievement on the Caribbean shores.
Jasmine didn’t stop with her Atlantic crossing. In 2022, she made history again as the first woman to swim the full length of the British Isles, from Lands End to John o’ Groats. Throughout her journeys, Jasmine has inspired countless young people to pursue their dreams, advocating for stepping outside comfort zones and embracing challenges. Her experiences not only showcase her adventurous spirit but also underline her commitment to environmental and humanitarian causes, raising significant funds for charities along the way.
Jaxon Roberts (Age: 27)
Why he’s a top adventurer: Jaxon Roberts is a 27-year-old Australian surfer and environmental activist, known for his adventurous spirit and commitment to ocean conservation. From remote surf expeditions to snowboarding in the Australian Alps, Jaxon immerses himself in nature’s beauty while promoting sustainable travel. His travels have taken him across the globe, from the mountains of Switzerland to the crystal-clear waters of Sardinia, where he engages with local communities and captures breathtaking moments through his photography. His encounters with marine wildlife, like his iconic shot of a mother humpback whale and her calf, reflect his deep passion for protecting the ocean.
Through his adventures, Jaxon shares not just his experiences but also profound reflections on the sense of awe that nature inspires. Whether island-hopping with friends, playing volleyball with locals on secluded shores, or searching for whales in Australia, he highlights the importance of connecting with the natural world. His advocacy for environmental protection and sustainable travel, combined with his adventurous lifestyle, has made him a top adventurer and a voice for nature conservation.
Jorden Tually (Age: 30)
Why he is a top adventurer:
Jorden Tually is an Australian adventurer, content creator, and social media influencer known for his vibrant and dynamic travel content. Born on August 28, 1993, Jorden has spent much of his life exploring the world, visiting over 70 countries and immersing himself in a wide variety of cultures. His travels are characterized by a deep curiosity for the world, a passion for connecting with people, and a commitment to experiencing life off the beaten path.
Jorden’s journey into the world of travel began after he finished his studies, opting to backpack through Europe, Asia, and the Americas. His adventures range from hitchhiking through remote regions to engaging in spontaneous and sometimes risky explorations that have earned him a loyal following online. On platforms like Instagram and TikTok, Jorden shares his experiences through captivating photos, videos, and stories that inspire others to embark on their own journeys.
Beyond the typical tourist destinations, Jorden seeks out unique experiences—whether it’s navigating the chaotic streets of Indian cities, exploring hidden beaches in Southeast Asia, or discovering lesser-known spots in his native Australia. He’s also a strong advocate for responsible travel, often emphasizing the importance of cultural respect and sustainability in his content.
Krysten Kaladkarin (Age: 28)
Why she’s a top adventurer: Krysten Kaladkarin, the fearless Filipina, has made a name for herself as a global hitchhiker and digital nomad. With minimal resources and maximum determination, she has journeyed through multiple countries, relying on freelance work to sustain her travels. What sets Krysten apart is her commitment to connecting with locals and immersing herself in the cultures she encounters, often staying with families she meets on the road or camping in the wilderness. From hitchhiking across borders to walking 73 kilometers in a single trip, her adventures demonstrate a deep love for the world and a bold refusal to conform to conventional travel norms.
Beyond her explorations, Krysten’s resilience in the face of adversity makes her a standout adventurer. During the war in Ukraine, she chose to stay with her adopted family, teaching students and raising funds for humanitarian aid. Her journey is not just about seeing new places; it’s about making meaningful connections and impacting the lives of those she meets. Krysten’s passion for travel and her humanitarian efforts embody the spirit of adventure, reminding us that the greatest journeys are those that challenge us to grow and give back.
Laura Dekker (Age: 28)
Why she’s a top adventurer: Laura Dekker made history as the youngest person to sail solo around the world at the age of 16, Born during a sailing trip in New Zealand, Laura was drawn to the sea from an early age and overcame immense legal and social challenges to achieve her dream of circumnavigating the globe. After sailing over 27,000 nautical miles in 518 days aboard her ketch, Guppy, she became a global inspiration for young adventurers and dreamers alike. Laura’s solo voyage captured the world’s attention, but her adventures have continued far beyond that record-breaking feat.
In the years since, Laura has remained an active adventurer and advocate for sailing, launching the Guppy Foundation to help young people learn maritime skills. She continues to embark on ambitious voyages, most recently leading expeditions and sailing programs across the Atlantic and Pacific, ensuring her place on this list by her ongoing exploration, leadership in the sailing world, and her efforts to share that passion with others.
Lauren Elaine (Age: 28)
Why she’s a top adventurer: Lauren Elaine is an adventurous spirit from Somerset who has embarked on an extraordinary journey through Africa on her trusty Honda CG125. At just 28 years old, she has already traversed 23 countries, embracing the thrill of wild camping and off-road riding despite her relatively new experience on a motorcycle. Her commitment to exploring the world on two wheels has led her to share captivating stories about her travels, from the stunning landscapes of Lesotho to the hospitality she encounters throughout the continent. As she continues to conquer each destination, her enthusiasm for the open road shines through, inspiring others to embark on their own adventures.
Her travels have not been without challenges, including mechanical setbacks and navigating unfamiliar territories. From experiencing a bike failure in Eymet to searching for essential supplies in Dakhla, Lauren showcases her resourcefulness and determination in the face of adversity. Despite the hurdles, she emphasizes the kindness and warmth of the people she meets along the way, who often go out of their way to help her and her partner on their journey. With a mission to take her small bike around the world, Lauren embodies the spirit of exploration and the power of human connection, reminding us all that every adventure, no matter how daunting, is filled with opportunities for growth and discovery.
Lexie Alford (Age: 26)
Why she’s a top adventurer:
Lexie Alford holds the record as the youngest person to visit every country in the world, a journey she completed at the age of 21. Since then, she has become a motivational speaker and travel influencer, sharing her experiences and encouraging others to push beyond their comfort zones.
Lexie’s adventures are about more than just travel; they’re about challenging the status quo and proving that anything is possible with determination and a bit of daring.
Her story is a source of inspiration for young adventurers everywhere.
Liam Garner (Age: 20)
Why he is a top adventurer: Liam Garner’s story is an inspiring testament to adventure, resilience, and self-discovery. At just 20, this courageous Californian biked the Pan-American Highway from Prudhoe Bay, Alaska, to Ushuaia, Argentina, over a period of 527 days. His journey was fueled not only by a love for nature and camping but a desire to escape the confines of routine and the struggles he faced in school due to Asperger’s syndrome.
Garner’s trek was marked by profound experiences and lessons learned along the way. The journey was not without its challenges, including multiple instances of being robbed and a serious accident in Colombia that led to significant injuries. Despite the hardships, Garner emphasized the kindness of strangers he encountered, which became a beacon of hope during his travels. He managed to keep his travel expenses surprisingly low, living on about $400 to $450 a month, demonstrating that budget travel is feasible even for extended journeys.
Garner’s adventure highlights the importance of following one’s passion and the transformative power of travel, making his journey not just a physical crossing of continents but a profound exploration of personal growth. His story encourages others to embrace their dreams and take things one step at a time, proving that even the most daunting goals can be achieved with determination and belief in oneself.
Lucy Shepherd (Age: 30)
Why she’s a top adventurer: Lucy Shepherd is a bold British explorer who has tackled some of the world’s most extreme environments, from polar ice caps to dense rainforests. Known for her solo expeditions into challenging terrains, Lucy’s adventurous spirit is matched by her meticulous planning and unwavering determination. One of her most impressive feats includes navigating the untouched and perilous Amazon rainforest, leading a team on a dangerous 50-day journey through unexplored territories. This expedition, riddled with hazards such as venomous wildlife and intense weather conditions, exemplifies her courage, resilience and leadership under pressure.
Lucy’s exploration achievements span across polar, jungle, and mountainous environments, making her a versatile and seasoned adventurer. Her mission to explore the world’s wildest places is not just about physical challenges but also about understanding the ecosystems and cultures that thrive in these remote regions. With her ability to adapt to some of the harshest conditions on Earth, Lucy Shepherd stands out as one of the top adventurers of her generation.
Mack Rutherford (Age: 19)
Why he’s a top adventurer: Mack Rutherford is a British-Belgian aviator renowned for becoming the youngest person to fly solo around the world. His remarkable journey began on March 23, 2022, when he took off from Sofia, Bulgaria, in a high-performance ultralight aircraft. Over the course of five months, he navigated geopolitical challenges, including the Ukrainian-Russian war, which required him to alter his route significantly. Despite these hurdles, Mack successfully completed his mission on August 24, 2022, landing back in Sofia after an incredible adventure that included a grueling 10-hour flight over the Northern Pacific Ocean and an unexpected overnight stay on an uninhabited island.
Mack’s accomplishment is underscored by his four Guinness World Records, including not just the youngest person to fly solo around the world, but also the youngest to fly a microlight solo around the globe, a record previously held by his sister, Zara Rutherford. ‘With this journey I’m also trying to show that young people can make a difference’, Mack says.
Mack’s passion for flying is deeply rooted in his family history, as he comes from a lineage of aviators. At the age of 14, he began his pilot training, earning his first license at just 15. He is currently studying at Stanford University while also working as a professional ferry pilot and public speaker. Mack’s adventures continue to inspire the next generation of aviators, proving that age is no barrier to achieving extraordinary feats in the skies.
Miguel Navarro (Age: 30)
Why he’s a top adventurer: Miguel Navarro is a motorcyclist from California on an epic journey around the world. Starting in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, he has ridden over 22,000 kilometers across nine countries, including Thailand, Laos, China, and the rugged terrains of Central Asia, from Kyrgyzstan to Armenia. Along his way, Miguel has braved snow-capped mountains, lush jungles, and arid deserts, documenting his experiences as he goes. His passion for adventure also extends to the slopes, as he combines his travels with ski-touring expeditions in Japan. His next goal is to continue his ride from Armenia to the northernmost point of Europe, Nordkapp, Norway, before heading to Africa and South America.
What makes Miguel stand out is his unwavering dedication and love for exploration, even when facing challenges like navigating remote roads, extreme weather, and unpredictable terrain. Whether crossing high-altitude passes in Tibet or sneaking through roadblocks in Nyingchi, his resourcefulness and determination keep him moving forward. Miguel’s unique blend of motorcycle travel and backcountry skiing showcases his adventurous spirit and determination to experience the world’s most diverse landscapes, making him a true globetrotting adventurer.
Mike Barr (Age: 29)
Why he’s a top adventurer: Mike Barr is a photographer, writer, and adventurer who recently completed a 65,000-mile solo motorcycle journey from New York to Patagonia. Spanning three years from ages 25 to 28, Mike’s epic overland trip took him through diverse landscapes, cultures, and experiences across the Americas. His love for photography and travel became inseparable during this transformative journey, allowing him to capture the essence of life on the road and the people he encountered. Currently working on a memoir and photobook documenting his experiences, Mike is dedicated to sharing the stories and perspectives he gained during his time exploring remote and untamed regions of the world.
What started as a childhood fascination with photography has evolved into a lifelong passion that guides Mike’s travels and creative endeavors. His motorcycle trip was not only a test of endurance but also an artistic quest, where every mile brought new opportunities to document the raw beauty of the world. Through his photography, Mike seeks to inspire others to embrace the freedom of the open road and to find adventure in the unexpected. Now, as he crafts his memoir, he continues to build upon his journey, solidifying his place as one of the top young adventurers of today.
Nastya Mameshina (Age: 30)
Why she’s a top adventurer:
Wherever adventure is to be had, Nastya Mameshina is your gal. She is an experienced traveler whose dream is to devote half her time to travel and half of her time to sleep. She has nearly a decade of travel experience under her belt, often traveling by plane, boat, camping, kayaking or hitchhiking to unique destinations all over the globe and never spends too long in any one place.
An accomplished musician and dancer, she often dresses up as the locals and spreads her energy and enthusiasm wherever she goes. To fund her travels, she teaches English and math online and exports Chinese teas.
Her personal philosophy is “your wishes must be fulfilled, and your fears must be faced.”
Nima Rinji Sherpa (Age: 18)
Why he’s a stop adventurer: Nima Rinji Sherpa is a Nepali teenager who has set the world-record to be the youngest person in history to summit all 14 of the world’s 8,000+ meter peaks. Nima’s journey began at the age of 16, and within a mere two years, he completed this monumental feat. His latest conquest, Mount Shishapangma in Tibet, cemented his place in history as the youngest person to ever summit all the “eight-thousanders,” an accomplishment that most lifelong mountaineers can only dream of.
Known for his speed and resilience, Nima set a record by climbing both Everest and Lhotse within just 10 hours, showcasing his extraordinary skills and physical endurance in some of the harshest environments on the planet. As a native Nepali sherpa, his mission is to showcase Sherpas as elite athletes worthy of recognition in their own right.
Sam Bencheghib (Age: 27)
Why he’s a top adventurer: A real-life Forrest Gump, 27 year-old Sam Bencheghib is not only an adventurer but a passionate environmental activist using his expeditions to raise awareness for plastic pollution. In 2019, Sam embarked on a monumental 3,000-mile run across the United States, from New York City to Los Angeles, to draw attention to pollution in the world’s oceans. Running an average of 20 miles per day, he completed 117 marathons in six months. His mission to “run for the oceans” garnered widespread media attention and mobilized a movement toward cleaner seas, shining a spotlight on environmental conservation in a way few adventurers have.
Sam is also the co-founder of Make a Change World and Sungai Watch, committed to promoting sustainability through storytelling, action, and innovative solutions. Prior to his U.S. run, Sam, along with his siblings, took on challenging kayaking expeditions in the most polluted rivers of Southeast Asia to raise awareness about river pollution. His relentless dedication to adventure, combined with a deep sense of purpose, makes Sam a standout figure in the world of eco-conscious exploration.
Samuel Elkins (Age: 27)
Why he’s a top adventurer:
Samuel Elkins is a professional photographer and adventurer known for his road trips across the U.S. and Canada, where he captures breathtaking landscapes and moments of adventure. Samuel’s work is characterized by his ability to convey a sense of wonder and exploration through his images, often highlighting the beauty of nature and the thrill of the journey.
His adventures are a testament to the power of visual storytelling, inspiring others to hit the road and explore the great outdoors.
Taylor Demonbreun (Age: 29)
Why she’s a top adventurer:
Taylor Demonbreun holds the Guinness World Record for being the youngest person to travel to every country in the world. She achieved this incredible feat in just 573 days, driven by her passion for exploration and determination to push the boundaries of what’s possible.
Taylor’s journey is a testament to the power of goal-setting, perseverance, and the belief that the world is full of opportunities for those willing to take the leap. Her story continues to inspire others to pursue their travel dreams and explore the world.
Zara Rutherford (Age:22)
Why she’s a top adventurer: Zara Rutherford is a Belgian-British aviator who made history at just 19 years old by becoming the youngest female pilot to fly solo around the world. Her remarkable journey began on August 18, 2021, from Kortrijk, Belgium, and concluded on January 20, 2022, after five months of flying in a Shark UL aircraft. Along the way, she not only set records for the youngest female and fastest solo circumnavigation but also sought to raise awareness about the gender gap in STEM fields and inspire young girls to pursue careers in aviation and technology. Coming from a family of aviators, Zara had already earned her pilot’s license in 2020, further solidifying her passion for flight.
Zara Rutherford’s solo flight around the world not only set a record but also epitomized the spirit of adventure and exploration. Her story is a powerful reminder that, with determination and courage, anyone can chart their own course—literally and figuratively.
Congratulations to everyone who made the list!
Join the discussion in the comments below. What do you think of this list? Did we leave anyone out? We’d love to know.