Interview - Mike Horn

The renowned Swiss-South African explorer chats about his latest environmental expedition, life at sea and how to travel more sustainably.

By Dominique Lamberton

In 1997, Mike Horn set out on his first major expedition: a 4,350-mile, 171-day solo journey across South America.

Since then, the professional explorer has traversed the Arctic in the dark, crossed Antarctica by himself and clocked more than 100,000 miles on land and sea. But there’s still more to do. In May, Horn embarked on his latest odyssey, What’s Left, a four-year-long environmental voyage that has him circumnavigating the globe once again.

“The sheer diversity of landscapes, cultures and wildlife on our planet continues to leave me in awe,” Horn says. Now, he’s bringing that sense of wonder to fellow travelers as a brand ambassador for new luxury cruise line Explora Journeys, developing itineraries that prioritize environmental conservation, cultural exchange and exploration.

In September, Horn will swap his 115-foot icebreaker sailing yacht, Pangaea, for Explora I during its leg along the coast of Greenland, leading hikes in Paamiut and Qaqortoq. “We want to create transformative journeys that not only provide unforgettable experiences for guests but also contribute to the preservation of the destinations we visit.”

Range Tell us about your expedition, What’s Left.

Mike Horn The goal of What’s Left is to shed light on pressing environmental issues and to inspire action towards a more sustainable future. We’re headed to various regions around the globe, focusing on areas that are particularly vulnerable to the effects of climate change and human impact. The expedition aims to tackle issues such as deforestation, ocean pollution, loss of biodiversity and the consequences of global warming.

R What’s life like aboard Pangaea?

MH It is a well-orchestrated routine that revolves around exploration and teamwork. On a typical day, my crew and I conduct environmental assessments, document our findings and engage with local communities.

R For someone who isn’t used to cruising or sailing, any tips on how to find your sea legs?

MH Life at sea can be both enchanting and demanding. My advice is to embrace the journey with an open mind and a willingness to adapt. Building your sea legs takes time, so start by spending time on the deck, getting accustomed to the motion of the ship. Above all, be prepared for the unexpected, and appreciate the unique serenity that comes with life at sea.

R Your Pangaea X program kick-starts youth climate projects. Why is this important to you?

MH Empowering and educating the next generation is essential for long-term environmental change. Through Pangaea X, we support young people in taking an active role in addressing the climate crisis. By investing in their ideas, projects and initiatives, we’re creating a network of change-makers who can make a real difference in their communities and beyond.

R What’s your advice for traveling the world in a sustainable and meaningful way?

MH I like to prioritize quality over quantity by selecting fewer destinations and spending time exploring each one in depth. You can also seek out community-based tourism initiatives that respect and support the local culture, economy and environment. At the same time, try to engage in meaningful interactions with locals, learning from their experiences and understanding their perspectives. And embrace responsible travel practices, such as minimizing waste, conserving water and energy, and respecting wildlife and natural habitats.

Photo by CHRIS BRINLEE JR.