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
Nepal, Ama Dablam, 1983 - Ama Dablam is said to be one of the most beautiful mountains in the world. It was on the back of the Nepali one rupee note. I met a man who had just climbed this peak, a difficult climb at that. He had slipped and saved his life by reaching out and grabbing a rock on his way down. I asked him why he risked his life. His reply stuck with me to this day. He said that after an experience like that, his life was worth ten times more. Many years later I was able to have a similar sensation. Risking my life on Everest was like going through a portal into a new reality. Life is not always about being safe. Doing things without a "safety net" could be a growth experience. This is not only true about climbing. This principle can be applied to daily life and to emotional experience, like allowing oneself to fall in love.
Thailand, Udon Thani Prov, Flying Pigeon
Argentina, Salta Prov, Llama In Hall At Lithium Mine
Congo Zaire, Barge Hits Land, 1984 - The river boat plying down to Kinshasa, with all its attendant barges tied on, hit an island in the middle of the river, causing curiosity among the passengers. The captain backed her off and continued down river.
Slovenia, Preddvor Prov, River
Slovenia, Zetale Prov, Barn
PNG, Jeff Shea In Waterfall, 1983 - This photograph was taken during the walk from Wabia to Top Camp deep in the forest of New Guinea's Highlands. One memorable feature of bush walking in New Guinea is water. There was plenty of it. There was a lot of rain, and you can drink from every stream without fear of sickness: at least in 1983 when this photograph was taken.
Slovenia, Mirna Pec Prov, Bee On Flower
Laos, Houaphan Prov, Two Yao Women