Thor Pedersen
Joined Atlas Obscura in 2026
Known as the first person to visit every country in the world in one unbroken journey without flying, Danish adventurer Thor Pedersen spent nearly a decade proving that extraordinary goals can be achieved through persistence, patience, and human connection.
Thor began his journey in October 2013 with a single rule: reach every country on Earth without boarding an airplane. Traveling by cargo ship, train, bus, and overland routes, he navigated closed borders, logistical challenges, and even a multi-year delay during the COVID-19 pandemic.
Throughout the expedition, Thor also served as a goodwill ambassador for the Red Cross, visiting the Red Cross and Red Crescent Movement in 190 countries while raising funds and awareness for humanitarian work around the world.
In 2023, he completed the historic journey, becoming the first person to reach every country without flying. His story is told in the international bestseller The Impossible Journey and through talks and media appearances worldwide.
