Jow Bowermaster is a hero of mine. For years I've read his articles written for the world's best adventure mags and dreamt of taking trips like his. His current project is called Oceans 8 and seeks to explore the world's oceans from the seat of a sea kayak.

I mean, how simple an idea, and yet, how cool? Last spring, he did an expedition to western equitorial Africa. Accompanied by photographer Peter McBride and two Gabonese eco-guides, they circumnavigated Gabon Loango national park. They kayaked and portaged more than 200 miles around the park's perimeter, and saw river-swimming elephants, manatees, tarpon, surfing hippos, gorillas and more. Check out details of Bowermaster's amazing trip here.

Filed under: Arts and Culture, Paddling, Festivals and Events, Gear, Gabon