This website illuminates my life and adventures. My longing for freedom has led me to over 2600 of the world’s 3978 provinces, to every country on earth and to the summit of the highest peak on each continent (thank heaven for good weather!). In my travels, I learned to respect the intelligence and ingenuity of people of all races and callings both past and present. Come see the world as I see it: as a peaceful place, full of nature and beauty. With the right spirit and intent, we can make our world a virtual Garden of Eden.
DISTINCTIONS: BBC 2017 Travel Pioneer • Journal Articles • Explorer’s Club Flag Expeditions
World Parks Project • Walk Across South America • Jeff Shea Travel Map
UK, Derby Prov, Blonde
Congo Zaire, Jeff Shea with Leopard Tooth Necklace, 1984 - A pygmy in Mt. Hoyo in eastern Zaire sold me this leopard tooth necklace from around his neck for scarcely a dollar. I proudly sported it. It did not occur to me in those "innocent ages" of the connection to preservation of wildlife. It is not recommended to buy any animal parts, for that reason. With that said, loss of habitat (by deforestation for example) is by far the greatest threat to animals. I was told in Cameroon in 1999 that the bush meat market in Africa was thriving. I was told that even gorilla meat was popular. There is an enormous disconnect between Western ideologies and the reality on the ground, especially when hunger is involved. The answer is to preserve large tracts of land in great World Parks, one on each continent.
Turkey, Canakkale Prov, Troy Inscriptions
South Georgia, Salisbury Plain, Penguins Couple, 2006 - These two penguins perform a mating ritual with each other.
Bangladesh, Sirajganj Prov, Girl Walking Palm
Greenland, North Coast, Arctic Knot Chick, 2007 - This arctic knot chick was one of four chicks that came out occasionally from under its mother's belly. The chicks ventured close to me, within about 8 feet, after I'd been there for awhile. The mother seemed to trust me. I moved very slowly for a good half hour. The markings are incredibly beautiful. This is taken at the landing site at Bliss Bugt. (Ref: Birds.)
Andean Falcon at the Pass to Molulu, 2010 Argentina, Jujuy Province
Greenland, Warming Island, off coast of Liverpool Land, Tent After Storm And Pinnacles, 2006 - After the storm of Sept 8, 2006, the snowdrift reached the top of my vestibule (on the other side of this tent). The three pinnacles of Warming Island above the new strait were dusted with snow.
Chile, Antofagasta Prov, Aguas Calientes Landscape
Estonia, Valgamaa Prov, Leaves On Black Water -