Ash Dykes Sustains Sting During Congo River Journey
The adventurer is navigating a 434-mile stretch of the Sangha River as part of his latest exploration project.
Updated on Oct. 20, 2026 in Adventure Travel
Explorer Ash Dykes sustained an insect sting on his back while traveling down the Sangha River in the Congo Basin. The incident occurred during his 434-mile expedition using an inflatable kayak.
Why it matters
This trek represents the first of six planned adventures in Dykes' Project Six. The current journey spans from the Central African Republic to the Republic of Congo, highlighting the physical challenges of remote exploration.
The expedition covers a total length of 434 miles along the Sangha River. The journey uses robust inflatable rafts to facilitate transport and necessary portaging through the Congo Basin.
The players
Ash Dykes
Ash Dykes is an explorer and adventurer currently undertaking a series of six expeditions known as Project Six.
The details
Dykes previously navigated travel hurdles, including an overland trek from Cameroon to the Central African Republic after his initial visa applications were denied. He also faced the temporary loss of his luggage before successfully recovering it during the ongoing trip.
Timeline
September 2026: Ash Dykes discussed the expedition with PEOPLE magazine.
October 20, 2026: The explorer shared a video documenting the sting.
Travel Outlook
This trek follows the operational patterns established by the Project Six expedition series. It marks the initial stage of a larger multi-part global journey that prioritizes extreme geographical variety.
Travelers planning to navigate the Congo Basin should prepare for significant logistical challenges, including complex visa requirements and the risk of insect encounters. Expedition participants must prioritize specialized, portable gear like inflatable rafts to handle remote water routes.
The takeaway
Expedition logistics often require flexibility, evidenced by the need for alternative overland routes when primary travel plans are disrupted. Maintaining gear adaptability remains essential for those attempting remote, multi-week river crossings.
What happens next
Ash Dykes plans to begin his second adventure exactly two weeks after completing this Congo Basin journey. That upcoming project location is forecast to reach temperatures of approximately 5°F.
Further reading
For more on extreme expeditions, visit Adventure Travel.
