Karl Bushby's 28-year global walk nears its end after 36,000 miles

Karl Bushby is nearing the conclusion of his expedition after being away for 28 years, according to BBC News ^[1]. The global walker has covered 36,000 miles, a distance that has taken him across every continent on Earth.

As he approaches the finish line on Monday, Bushby admits he is unsure if he is ready for the journey to finally stop. The Independent reported ^[2] that the 28-year trek has seen him overcome dense jungles, scorching deserts and the endless bureaucracy of international borders.

The adventure began decades ago with the goal of completing the first unassisted walk around the world. The sheer length of the expedition means the world he is returning to has changed beyond recognition. For Bushby, the physical end of the walk is now just weeks away, but the psychological adjustment to normal life remains the final hurdle.

He has already navigated the most hostile environments on the planet, including the Darien Gap and the icy terrains of Siberia. The red tape he mentions refers to the visa issues and legal disputes that frequently halted his progress. Despite these obstacles, his resolve never broke.

Now, with the finish line in sight, the uncertainty is palpable. He has spent nearly three decades on foot, and the concept of stopping is foreign to him. The community that followed his progress is eager to see him complete the final miles, but Bushby himself is contemplating what comes next.

The journey is set to conclude in London, marking the end of one of the longest human-powered expeditions in history. Whether he takes a victory lap or simply walks into his home is yet to be seen.