Italian adventurer Francesco Cappello rows across the Atlantic and heads to the Amazon

Published on January 26, 2026 | Translated from Spanish
Francesco Cappello rowing in a rowboat in the middle of the Atlantic Ocean, with a clear horizon in the background.

Italian adventurer Francesco Cappello rows across the Atlantic and heads to the Amazon

The explorer Francesco Cappello has achieved a milestone by sailing the Atlantic Ocean solely with the strength of his arms. His epic journey does not end on the coast, as he now embarks on a new phase to cross on foot some of South America's most challenging terrains. 🌍

From ocean waves to jungle thickets

After setting sail from the Canary Islands, Cappello rowed for weeks to reach the coast of French Guiana. This maritime stage was just the prelude. His current plan is to venture into the vast Amazonia and then climb the peaks of the Andes mountain range in Peru. The central goal is to connect three distinct natural worlds in a single continuous route.

Key stages of the expedition:
  • Maritime phase: Solo rowing crossing across the Atlantic.
  • Land phase 1: Advance through the dense Amazon tropical jungle.
  • Land phase 2: Ascent and crossing of the high Andean mountains.
"It seems like he's changing scenery, but he doesn't stop seeking challenges that make him wonder why he started this."

A project to live and show the connection with the planet

Beyond the physical challenge, this adventure seeks to document and perceive the planet's diversity. Cappello plans to record the entire process to show the contrasts between the open sea, the jungle, and the mountains. His method is based on experiencing the connection with these spaces without altering them.

The challenges he faces:
  • At sea: Dealing with solitude and eating dehydrated food.
  • In the jungle: Facing insects like mosquitoes and extreme humidity.
  • In the mountains: Withstanding low temperatures and altitude.

The journey as a symbol of global connection

This expedition is part of a larger project that aims to link different world ecosystems. By moving continuously from one environment to another, Cappello symbolizes the fragility and interconnection of Earth's major biomes. His journey is a test of endurance and a reflection on humanity's relationship with nature. πŸ—ΊοΈ