How Long Does It Take to Walk Around the World?

Walking around the world is a remarkable feat of endurance and adventure. While this idea may seem like a far-fetched goal for most, many have embarked on journeys covering vast distances on foot. Understanding the complexities of walking across the globe requires an in-depth look at geography, pace, climate, and the physical toll of such an undertaking.

Key Metrics for Walking the Globe

Before diving into the logistics, let’s break down the essential factors involved in walking around the world:

• Total Distance: The Earth’s circumference is approximately 40,075 kilometers (24,901 miles) around the equator. However, due to the shape of the continents and the need for accessible routes, most estimates suggest that walking around the world on a practical path would span roughly 50,000 to 55,000 kilometers (31,000 to 34,000 miles).
• Daily Walking Distance: For an average individual, walking at a pace of 5 kilometers per hour (3 miles per hour) is realistic. Assuming an individual walks for 8 hours a day, this equates to 40 kilometers (25 miles) per day.
• Total Days Needed: Based on this pace, it would take approximately 1,250 to 1,375 days, or 3.4 to 3.8 years, to walk around the world—assuming no significant breaks or unforeseen delays.

Route 1: round the equator

• 24,901.461 miles at 3 mph
• 24,901.461 ÷ 3 = 8300.487 hours
• Or, as there are 24 hours in a day:
  8300.487 ÷ 24 = 345.85 days without stopping

Route 2: through the poles

• 24,817.971 miles at 3 mph
• 24,817.971 ÷ 3 = 8272.657 hours
• Or, as there are 24 hours in a day:
  8272.657 ÷ 24 = 344.69 days without stopping

Factors Impacting the Journey

1. Terrain and Geography

Walking across the world requires a route that crosses a variety of terrains, including:

• Mountains: High-altitude paths will slow progress significantly, reducing daily walking distance due to steep inclines and reduced oxygen levels.
• Deserts: Extreme heat and lack of water can force walkers to cover shorter distances and require strategic planning for survival.
• Urban Areas: Although cities provide access to food and shelter, navigating crowded streets and adhering to local rules can slow travel.
• Forests and Jungles: Dense vegetation and unpredictable wildlife require careful preparation and can greatly extend the time needed.

2. Weather Conditions

Weather plays a major role in how much ground can be covered each day:

• Cold Climates: Snow, ice, and freezing temperatures can reduce walking speed and increase the risk of frostbite or hypothermia.
• Hot Climates: Excessive heat can cause dehydration and heat exhaustion, forcing walkers to take frequent breaks.
• Rainy Seasons: Monsoons and torrential downpours can make roads impassable and halt progress for days at a time.

3. Political and Legal Barriers

Walking across borders presents additional challenges:

• Visa Requirements: Travelers need to ensure they have the proper documentation to cross into different countries. This often requires planning and waiting times.
• Conflict Zones: Active war zones or politically unstable areas may force walkers to take lengthy detours to avoid danger, which can add significant time and distance to the journey.

4. Health and Fitness

Stamina and health maintenance are critical to long-term travel:

• Physical Strain: Walking for years on end places immense strain on the body, especially the legs, feet, and back. Injuries, even minor ones, can cause major setbacks.
• Nutrition: A balanced diet with sufficient calories is essential to sustain the energy needed to walk long distances. Finding reliable food sources in remote areas can be challenging.
• Mental Resilience: The isolation and repetitive nature of such a journey can take a toll on mental health, requiring strong psychological resilience.

Notable Walkers and Their Achievements

Several adventurers have attempted, and some have completed, the monumental task of walking across the world. Their experiences provide insight into the realities of such a journey:

• Jean Béliveau (Canada): Between 2000 and 2011, Béliveau walked over 75,000 kilometers (46,600 miles) across six continents, promoting peace. His journey took 11 years, underscoring the unpredictable nature of global travel.
• Karl Bushby (UK): Bushby began his walk in 1998 and continues his journey, attempting to traverse the globe entirely by foot without using transportation. His route includes walking across the frozen Bering Strait.

Expected Costs and Logistics

1. Travel Expenses

Walking is often seen as a budget-friendly way to travel, but there are still significant costs involved:

• Accommodation: While some walkers rely on camping, others may stay in hostels, motels, or with locals, which adds to expenses.
• Food: High-energy foods like nuts, dried fruits, and protein-rich snacks are essential, but their cost can add up over time.
• Gear: High-quality walking shoes, durable clothing, and camping gear are required for such a journey. Replacements may be needed multiple times due to wear and tear.

2. Safety Considerations

Personal safety is a major concern when walking alone across the world. Walkers need to be prepared for:

• Wildlife Encounters: Particularly in remote areas, encounters with large animals like bears, wolves, or venomous snakes can be dangerous.
• Crime: Theft and violence are potential risks, especially in urban environments or conflict-prone areas.
• Medical Emergencies: Without immediate access to medical care, injuries or illnesses can quickly become life-threatening.

How to Plan Your Route

To walk around the world, one needs to carefully plan the route to maximize safety and accessibility. Here are some tips:

• Start in a Country with Developed Infrastructure: Beginning in a well-developed country will allow you to fine-tune your equipment and adjust to the demands of long-distance walking.
• Cross Continents by Land: Europe, Asia, and Africa offer the most extensive connected land routes. Planning your path through these continents can minimize the need for costly flights or boat travel.
• Avoid Impassable Regions: Areas like the Arctic or dense rainforests should be avoided, as these places present insurmountable challenges for walkers.

Conclusion

Walking around the world is a monumental undertaking that requires years of preparation, physical endurance, and mental fortitude. While it's possible to achieve this incredible feat, travelers must be ready for the myriad challenges that come with navigating the globe on foot.