Full Breakdown
French Adventurers Complete Epic Walk to Shanghai
2/7/2026, 11:43:53 PM
Journey Overview
On February 7, 2026, French adventurers Loic Voisot and Benjamin Humblot completed an extraordinary journey, walking from their hometown of Annecy, France, to Shanghai, China. The duo embarked on this ambitious trek in September 2024, covering approximately 12,850 kilometers over 518 days while traversing 16 countries almost entirely on foot. Their journey was motivated by a desire for adventure and a commitment to reducing their environmental impact by avoiding air travel.
Motivation and Planning
Voisot, 26, and Humblot, 27, sought to experience a unique adventure without contributing to the aviation industry's environmental footprint. The idea for the walk emerged during a casual conversation about their dreams of adventure. They aimed to explore China while adhering to their principle of minimal environmental impact. The pair utilized crowdfunding and sponsorships to finance their journey, which included walking an average of 45 kilometers daily, with occasional breaks every five to seven days.
Challenges Faced
Throughout their journey, the adventurers encountered numerous challenges, including harsh winters and the need to cross the desert in Uzbekistan. Voisot expressed pride in their perseverance, stating, “We had to cross the desert in Uzbekistan,” highlighting the physical and mental endurance required to complete their trek. Despite the difficulties, they maintained a positive outlook, with Humblot noting that they generally enjoyed good food, although they missed French cheese.
Reception and Impact
Upon their arrival in Shanghai, the duo was greeted by a crowd of supporters, including locals who had followed their journey via social media. Salome Gao, a 28-year-old Chinese woman who joined them for part of the walk, praised their achievement, stating, “I think they’re very impressive, to both have this idea and actually turn it into reality.” Another supporter, a 57-year-old woman named Luo, expressed her admiration for their journey, saying it was “incredible to come here all the way from France.”
Future Aspirations
Reflecting on their accomplishment, both adventurers admitted that the magnitude of their achievement had not fully sunk in. Voisot and Humblot expressed interest in continuing their adventure, contemplating a boat journey to the United States, followed by a walk across North America and a return to France. However, for now, Voisot's immediate plan is to rest, humorously stating, “Sleep a lot!”
Official Statements & Responses
Voisot remarked on their pride in completing the journey, emphasizing the uncertainty they felt at the outset: “We weren’t sure we’d make it, but we told ourselves we’d try it out.” Humblot echoed this sentiment, expressing disbelief at their accomplishment and the joy of finally reaching their destination.
Verbatim Quotes
- “We’re having a hard time believing it’s real, that we’ve done all that on foot, that we’re finally here, after having thought of Shanghai for so long,” — Loic Voisot
- “I think they’re very impressive, to both have this idea and actually turn it into reality,” — Salome Gao
- “There were very hard winters, we had to cross the desert in Uzbekistan,” — Loic Voisot
- “It’s a bit of a cliche, but it’s delicious,” — Loic Voisot on missing French cheese.
- “I think first and foremost we’re proud, especially of having dared to do this … We weren’t sure we’d make it, but we told ourselves we’d try it out.” — Benjamin Humblot
This remarkable journey not only showcases the spirit of adventure but also highlights the potential for sustainable travel practices.
