Our Human Story


HUMAN IMPACT As you read, think about how explorers communicate experiences and ideas about Earth.


By National Geographic Explorer Sarah Marquis


with Lynn Brunelle T he early morning sun beats down. It is


already 40° Celsius. T e Mongolian desert stretches for miles in front of me. I need water, shade, and rest. My head is pounding, and the light is almost


blinding. In the distance, I see a stand of trees. Shade! I slowly trudge to the thicket. I drag my cart full of gear over the uneven ground. Finally, I reach the shaded spot and collapse.


Finding the Rhythm It is only the third day of my three-year, solo hike that will take me more than 16,000 kilometers from Siberia to Australia. Although the coolness of the shady area feels better as I begin to walk again, my pack is heavy. T e cart is hard to drag, and my whole body aches. I have not yet found my rhythm. T en I crest a small hill and cannot believe


my eyes. A carpet of green unfolds before me. Trees rise up. I see something move to my leſt , something


big. I freeze. T ere before me, a large deer calmly nibbles on some leaves. He looks right at me and then leaps off into the trees. Suddenly, I am energized. My pain


disappears. My pack and cart feel light as a feather. At last, I have found my rhythm.


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