Colonel John Blashford-Snell CBE
John Blashford-Snell (JBS) is one of the world’s most renowned and highly respected explorers. With a career spanning over five decades, JBS has led more than 100 expeditions across some of the most challenging and remote regions on Earth. His work has contributed significantly to scientific discovery, international goodwill, and youth development.
A former British Army officer, John first gained international recognition in 1970 as leader of the legendary Blue Nile expedition. From navigating uncharted rivers in Africa to uncovering lost cities in South America, he has continually pushed the boundaries of exploration. In 1977, he led the Trans-Americas Expedition, the first successful journey from Alaska to Tierra del Fuego by land, including the first motorised crossing of the treacherous Darien Gap.
As the founding father of the Scientific Exploration Society, JBS’s vision was not simply to explore the unknown but to combine adventure with meaningful scientific and humanitarian work. Through SES and related programs, he has empowered countless young people to develop leadership skills, build resilience, and contribute to global understanding. His legacy is a testament to courage, curiosity, and compassion; values that remain at the heart of everything the SES does today.
In John's own words, "We explore not to conquer nature, but to understand it, and to share that understanding where it is needed most".
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A former British Army officer, John first gained international recognition in 1970 as leader of the legendary Blue Nile expedition. From navigating uncharted rivers in Africa to uncovering lost cities in South America, he has continually pushed the boundaries of exploration. In 1977, he led the Trans-Americas Expedition, the first successful journey from Alaska to Tierra del Fuego by land, including the first motorised crossing of the treacherous Darien Gap.
As the founding father of the Scientific Exploration Society, JBS’s vision was not simply to explore the unknown but to combine adventure with meaningful scientific and humanitarian work. Through SES and related programs, he has empowered countless young people to develop leadership skills, build resilience, and contribute to global understanding. His legacy is a testament to courage, curiosity, and compassion; values that remain at the heart of everything the SES does today.
In John's own words, "We explore not to conquer nature, but to understand it, and to share that understanding where it is needed most".
Find out more
