Levison Wood reveals how walking the Nile transformed his life

Ten years ago, Levison Wood embarked on an extraordinary journey that lasted nine months, walking the entire length of the Nile River from its source in Rwanda to the Mediterranean Sea in Egypt. This expedition covered more than 4,000 miles through diverse landscapes and challenging environments that included swamps in South Sudan, and encounters with wildlife such as crocodiles and elephants. Throughout the journey, Wood experienced significant dangers, including being shot at by rebels during the civil war in South Sudan. In addition to the physical hazards, the journey presented profound emotional challenges for Wood. He experienced homesickness, particularly when he formed an unexpected bond with a young vervet monkey named Florence, who accompanied him for a week. This companionship underscored the deep connections that can form during such adventures, emphasizing the human experience amidst the perils of travel. As time passed, Florence grew and returned to the wild, serving as a reminder of the fleeting yet impactful interactions we have with other living beings. However, Wood highlights that it wasn't just the dangers or companions that marked his journey—the True essence of the trip lay in the relationships he built with local people along the way. Everywhere he traveled, Wood encountered warm hospitality and friendliness, even in war-torn regions. He recounts instances where locals invited him into their homes for tea, often refusing to accept his refusal of their hospitality. Such moments have resonated with him and changed his perspective on the regions he traversed, including Tanzania, Uganda, Sudan, and Egypt. Reflecting on this decade-long journey, Wood has realized that every aspect—whether it be the breathtaking landscapes, the perilous situations, or the moments of kindness—has contributed to shaping not only his understanding of the world but also his personal growth. The journey has instilled in him valuable lessons about following dreams and cherishing each encounter with people in diverse cultures. Wood concludes that what defines us at the end of such epic adventures is not merely the challenges we have faced or the distances we have traveled, but rather the compassion and understanding we demonstrate toward one another and the environment around us.