RIBEX - World Wide Expeditions

18/05/2024

18/05/2024

Introducing "Adventures on the Edge"

At a very young age, I made what many considered a bold and reckless decision to venture into the world and explore the places I had dreamed of throughout my youth. Many years later, with a wonderful family including two young boys and a loving wife, I have decided that next year will mark my final river expedition, concluding 20 years of navigating rivers and Oceans across the globe.

For the past two years, I have been diligently working on documenting my memories of these extraordinary expeditions and trips. My goal has been to preserve these experiences for my closest friends and, most importantly, for my family. With over 30,000 photos and film material from some of the world's best photographers and filmmakers, alongside thousands of my images—some more than 50 years old—I was amazed at the quality and stories they held. Learning to edit from scratch was a challenge, but month by month, year by year, I improved. Now, I present the result: six books filled with hilarious, thrilling, and inspiring tales. From sailing on Boogie Schooners in the China Sea while being chased by pirates and officials to working as a Gaucho in Argentina and encountering countless adventures, these stories are now immortalized in my books.

As you all know, my love and admiration for water have driven me to travel oceans and rivers, teaching me profound lessons about nature and human impact on our planet. I hope this book grounds my children and reminds them of their modern explorer Papa, Andy Leemann.

Perhaps one day, they will embark on these same journeys, inspired by my adventures.

02/05/2024

1978. After our two-year journey, which took us through Africa and South America, I found myself grappling with some serious tropical illnesses, necessitating a year-long recovery. During this time, Paolo—whom I consider my brother—and I sat together and decided it was time to embark on another adventure. So, with little cash but enough determination, we began saving up for our next journey.

Our sights were set on Southeast Asia, starting with the vibrant city of Bangkok and venturing onwards to explore the region's countless islands and breathtaking landscapes. Little did we know, this humble beginning would eventually culminate in an epic voyage around the world.

23/02/2024

14/02/2024

That's for my new book about the Ganges Expedition, which will be soon in print.

01/02/2024

Dear friends,

I invite you to take a moment and watch this eye-opening BBC documentary that delves into the perilous state of the Amazon and, by extension, rivers worldwide. Having embarked on numerous expeditions in Amazonia, engaging with locals, including shamans and elders, I've witnessed first hand their struggles with diminishing water levels. They share stories of walking their canoes for miles to reach the main rivers, underscoring the urgent need for attention to this global crisis.

During many River expeditions, in India, Africa, and South America, we encountered similar challenges. We walked for kilometers, pushing inflatable boats through shallow waters, symbolizing the profound impact of climate change on our rivers. As we face unprecedented climate shifts, it's crucial to acknowledge that while climate change is a natural occurrence, the current pace is alarming.

I share these concerns not as an isolated issue but as a global challenge that demands collective action. Our rivers are the lifeblood of our planet, providing sustenance, livelihoods, and ecosystems. The signs of distress are evident, and the call for action is louder than ever.

Climate change is not a distant threat—it's here, affecting communities, ecosystems, and our very way of life. It's time to transcend indifference and embrace a shared responsibility for our environment. Let's educate, advocate, and implement sustainable practices to safeguard our rivers and the future of our planet.

I urge you to watch this documentary, reflect on its message, and join hands in preserving our precious waterways. The fate of our rivers is intertwined with our own, and together, we can be the force of change.

Watch the documentary, spread the word, and let's act before it's too late.

Sincerely, Andy Leemann

The Amazon rainforest experienced its worst drought on record in 2023. Villages became unreachable by river, wildfires raged and wildlife died. Click here to...

17/01/2024

Thank you Shai. I just finished the Ganges Expedition Book. You supported us a lot , and for that a big “Thank You”.
A Glimpse into
Turtle Breeding
Centers
Lucky to have a friend with such great knowledge, we just called him the Professor:

Shai is looking at the recovery and conservation of all threatened freshwater turtles and tortoises in India.

This includes species like the northern river terrapin, red-crowned roofed turtle, narrow-headed soft shell turtle, crowned river turtle, black soft shell turtle, Assam roofed turtle, Asian brown tortoise, impressed tortoise, and many more.

He is also working on the Crocodile Conservation project and the Gangetic River Dolphin Rescue project.