Trekking..Main..2002

Hills, mountains, fells, himal - If they are there we hike them. Our main activity in Asia, north America, south America, Africa and Europe is trekking up and down them. From a trek up Kilimanjaro to hiking in Chile's Patagonia, from a hike to Everest base camp or beyond to a trek up to the summit of Chimborazo, the nearest mountain summit to the sun.

Please let our trip planners help you plan your next trip, whether it be Fully Supported or Tea House/Hut/Hostel style, we are happy to help.

Kilimanjaro - Various Routes - Grade: Very Hard
Mount Kilimanjaro rises majestically from the savannah to a barren and frigid 3 1/2 mile high peak. It's the highest mountain in Africa and one of the largest free standing mountains in the world. Climbing Kili is high on the list of challenges for almost every trekker and mountaineer in the world.

Kilimanjaro's size and height strongly influence the climate, vegetation, animal life and the climbing conditions. It is made up of three extinct volcanoes: Kibo (5,895m / 19340ft), Mawenzi (5,149 m); and Shira (3,962 m). The height gain from the surrounding plains is about 4570m / 15000ft. To aid altitude acclimatisation we strongly recommend trekking over 7 days rather than the usual 6 (too many people fail to summit and some die from the avoidable AMS - ask for our information pack).

You can climb throughout the year, however, January, February and September are the best months, with July, August, November and December also being good.

This trek to the outer rim of the Nanda Devi Sanctuary follows the route taken by Shipton and Tilman for part of the way and has spectacular views most of the time from the trail. The objective is to get a close view of Nanda Devi and additional highlights are Roop Kund and great views of Trisul.

As part of our programme to reduce the negative impacts of tourism, we are offering two special treks into the Makalu-Barun area of Nepal. The treks give the opportunity to visit community conservation sites as well as the opportunity to help support local conservation efforts, such as Salpa Pokhari Holy Lake Project. The treks feature: environmentally sound camp practices; provide expert leadership knowledgeable about eco tourism and conservation efforts; visits to communities and projects that are working to protect their rich natural environment.

Makalu Base Camp - October
25 days in total (4 nights Kathmandu) for the very fit walker. Off the beaten track into the pristine Makalu-Barun National Park and Conservation Area. The Makalu-Barun Conservation Project (MBCP) has put in place the infrastructure to allow self-sufficient groups to trek into the uninhabited areas and on to Makalu Base Camp.

This somewhat difficult, yet extremely rewarding trek offers a true wilderness experience. The trek starts off in the tropical climate of Tumlingar and progresses through the whole climatic spectrum culminating in the rugged high alpine terrain of rock and ice. Home of the Snow Leopard and the Red Fox, but we need a lot of luck to see them.

Mt. Makalu - fifth highest peak in the world - towers on the northern boundary, straddling the borders of Nepal and Tibet. Just 40 kilometres south-east, the powerful Arun River cuts one of the world's deepest river gorges. Between this high peak and plunging valley stretches the bio-diverse Barun Valley, a botanical zone of immense scientific importance.

Annapurna Circuit - Spring or Autumn is best
This trek circumnavigates the Annapurna massif; starting in the east the trail follows the Marsyangdi Khola for the first half of the circuit; you are then hiking in Tibetan type terrain in the northern areas near the Himalaya and the western side provides dramatic views as you descend the Kali Gandaki Gorge. Much of the trekking is through lowland country (a relative term), but there is one high pass, Thorung La. The pass is not technically difficult, but there can be weather hazards. This is a long trek at high elevation and is to be regarded as strenuous, graded Hard on our scale (Easy / Moderate / Hard / Very Hard / Extreme) with possible Extreme conditions on the la.

Grade: Hard (with one section that could be Extreme in bad weather)

Price Indication per person GBŁ / US$:

Salpa Arun to Khumbu Trek - November
The Salpa-Arun to the Everest area route is one of the three main trekking routes in Makalu-Barun, connecting the Arun River Valley to the Khumbu region. Some 600-800 foreign trekkers follow this route each year (1% of total trekkers in Nepal).

This trek traverses a wide variety of ecosystems as well as cultural landscapes as it climbs gradually from the mighty Arun River (435m) to Tengboche Monastery (3,800m). There is an extension for those that want to continue to Everest Base Camp / Kala Patthar. From the vantage point beneath picturesque Ama Dablam peak there is a perfectly framed view of Mount Everest, Lhotse and Nuptse, three of the highest mountains in the world.

Grade: Very Hard

Price Indication per person GBŁ / US$: GBŁ600 - Ł1450 / US$1000 - $2350

Kangchenjunga Base Camp
32 days in total (4 nights Kathmandu) for the fit and experienced walker. An area which is off the beaten track and is destined to become very popular. Taking in the North Base Camp, the remote village of Walungchung Gola and the lone Buddhist Monastery in the district. Fully supported tented camping only.

Everest Gokyo Jiri
26 days in total (4 nights Kathmandu) for the fit walker. The long walk in gives the opportunity to explore the often overlooked area between Jiri (the end of the road) and Lukla (where most people fly in and out of). The area is rich in diverse cultures and terrain and not many trekkers either. First we go to Gokyo then into the Khumbu to Everest (Sagamartha as the Nepalese call her) Base Camp and also Kala Patther, one of the best vantage points in the Himalaya.

Langtang and Gosainkund Trek
18 days in total (4 nights Kathmandu) for the fit walker. Exploring these wonderful areas with the Snow capped peaks providing the backdrop to forests and Alpine Meadows. Not far from Kathmandu but you will experience a glorious isolation, far from the madding crowd.

The Flora & Fauna Trek
From 5 to 13 days (3 nights Kathmandu & 2 nights Pokhara) for the moderately fit but not necessarily experienced walker. No age limit on this easy / moderate trek. Part of this trek takes us through forest which should give us the opportunity to see exotic flora, fauna, birds and maybe monkeys. The trail takes us only to moderate heights. Time is also spent sightseeing and relaxing in Pokhara and Kathmandu. Luxury coach between Kathmandu and Pokhara.

The Jomsom Trek
This itinerary takes you to fairly high altitudes on a linear hike up the western side of the Annapurna Circuit. Fly from Jomsom for post trek relaxation at the lakeside area of Pokhara.

Kamchatka - Trekking the Rim of Fire
Wildlife viewing & hiking trip on the Pacific Rim of Fire - the unique Kamchatka peninsula. The area has about 190 volcanoes, some of which are active, as well as more than 200 mineral springs. We will be trekking in an area that is home to the largest brown bears in Siberia, magnificent sea eagles and six species of salmon.

The Rockies (Kootenay Valley) - Multi Activity
4 Days in total - Lodge-based, all-inclusive: mountain biking; river rafting; half-day hike; cultural and wilderness activities, based on native teachings.

The Rockies (Cross River Valley & Banff NP)
5 Days - Lodge (2nights) & camping (3 nights), all-inclusive:
3+ days of hiking; cultural and wilderness activities, based on native teachings.

The Rockies (Kootenay & Cross River Vallies, nr Banff NP)
8 Days - Lodge (2nights) & camping (3 nights), all-inclusive:
3+ days of hiking; very special native American cultural and wilderness activities with a native American elder. Sweat Lodge and other ceremonies are included for those who are open minded.

Located in Mexico's Sierra Madre Mountains, the Copper Canyon is four times larger than the Grand Canyon and almost 300 feet deeper.

We have a number of scheduled 9 day hikes into the Copper Canyon, this particular set of dates gives exposure to a wider range of experiences. This trip is a rugged adventure taking in the awesome canyons of Northern Mexico. It is ideal for active travelers wanting to combine remote hiking in pristine wilderness settings and wildlife viewing opportunities with visits to indigenous villages and towns very much off the beaten path.

Plenty of hikes along the coastal area where the Pacific Gray Whale nurse the young.

Tibet - Saga Dawa Festival - Lhasa - Kailash - Manasarovar
A classic journey through southern Tibet culminating in south west of Tibet at the time of the Saga Dawa Festival. The highlight is a kora around Mount Kailash - This trip is open to all, it does not matter what your beliefs are, as long as you respect other beings.

Saga Dawa Festival
In May or June each year - the holiest festival in Tibet. The coincidence of Buddha's birth and later his enlightenment on the same day.

Southern Tibet - Lhasa and the Yarlung Valley plus Everest North Base Camp
This is a grand tour of southern Tibet, starting with a flight into Tibet from Nepal and then an overland journey back to Nepal. There are side journeys into the Yarlung Valley, Sakya County and time to trek near Everest base camp. During the overland section there are frequent options to hike - allowing you to get closer to the real Tibet.

Tibet - S. W. Tibet - Kailash Manasarovar
This is for those who only want the south west of Tibet - no time is devoted to Lhasa on this trip. We visit Laka Manasarovar and complete a kora of the holy Mt. Kailash. This a very special journey for all, but is aimed at pilgrims. Mount Kailash is very sacred to Buddhists and Hindus alike.

S. W. Tibet - Kailash Manasarovar - Extended Version
This is for those who only want the south west of Tibet - no time is devoted to Lhasa on this trip. The whole area of Laka Manasarovar and Mt. Kailash is very auspicious to Buddhists and Hindus alike.

Lhakpa Ri
30 days of high adventure expedition style trekking with the option to climb Lhakpa Ri - Fly from Kathmandu to Lhasa - guided tour over 2 days. Trekking to Camp III on Everest's north route - Optional easy climb to the summit of Lhakpa Ri (7045m.)

Duration: 30 Days
Departure Dates: May & September
Suitable for: Experienced high altitude trekkers. The climb to Lhakpa Ri summit is over easy snow fields.

Sikkim - Kangchenjunga - Gocha La
13 days in total trekking through magical rhododendron and fir forest and airy ridges to the Gocha La (5030m) and back over 8 days. Plus sightseeing in Sikkim's capital Gangtok.

Sikkim - Kangchenjunga & Singalila Ridge
23 days in total for the reasonably fit walker. Sunrise on the east face of Kangchenjunga (8598m) will stay in your memory forever, the world's third highest mountain can be seen from the Darjeeling area. We proceed to a 5 day trek along the Singalila Ridge where the panoramic views are magnificent. Drive on to Yuksom & trek to the Gocha La (5030m) and back over 8 days. Sightseeing in Sikkim's capital Gangtok and other British Raj Hill Stations before heading back to Delhi.

Ladakh - Markha Valley
18 days in total (2 nights Delhi, 5 nights Leh) for the very fit and experienced walker. "little Tibet" as it is known is remote and rugged. Fly into the capital, Leh and spend 3 days sightseeing and acclimatisation to the altitude, as we are deep in the Himalayas. We trek for 10 days, starting in the winding canyon below Stok Kangri Peak. Over Stok La (4848m) and the Ganda La and down into the Markha Valley with breathtaking views including the snow capped Karakoram. After enjoying the green valley we ascend again to the Kongmaru La (5274m) and down into the Martselang Valley. Return to Delhi by road and air.

Mount Chomolhari
22 days in total (3 nights Kathmandu, 1 night Thimphu) for the fit/very fit walker. Visit the Kingdom of the Thunder Dragon on this trek with some sightseeing in the capital, Thimphu. Off the beaten track into a hidden world from long ago. Starting from Paro we head towards Bhutan's North West border, encountering Sub Tropical and Alpine forests. The villagers are still unaccustomed to travellers and a warm welcome is given everywhere we go. As the trail gets tougher we take a welcome break at the hot springs of Gasa, as we head closer to Mount Chomolhari (7315m). The highest point we reach is on two passes which are nearly 4870m high. The sightseeing in Thimphu will soon convince you that Bhutan is very special, with architecture and style of dress etc., so different to elsewhere.

Culture and Sights
4 to 29 days in the Dragon Kingdom to sample the delights of this hidden land. Easy walking, mostly around towns will allow you to appreciate the beauty and colourful experience that is Bhutan. Combine this with another trip based in Kathmandu.

In the footsteps of Genghis Khan
Follow in the footsteps of Genghis Khan, who spent much of his youth in the forested hills of the Khentii Mountains. This journey takes us deep into the valleys, hills and meadows of what is known as the Baga Khentii Mountain Range - Baga meaning small as this range is the smaller sister of the mightier Khentii Mountain range found further to the north.

The trek is within the bounds of the Gorkhi Terelj National Park. This Park encompasses some of the most beautiful peaks in Mongolia, with a landscape of pine and birch and a proliferation of wildflowers in the summer months. In the autumn the trees produce an amazing display of golden leaves.

Price Indication per person GBŁ / US$: Ł826 - Ł1200 / $1240 - $1800
dependent upon group size and dates

Itinerary

Vietnam - Land of Adventure
Discover the excitement and charm of Vietnam as we explore the country by land, sea, river and air. From trekking in the country’s mountainous north and staying with ethnic people in their own homes, to kayaking amid the stunning backdrop of Ha Long Bay. This trip has it all. We visit the country’s cultural heartland in Hue and Hoi An before heading south to the lush flood plains of the Mekong Delta.

As above plus time in Cambodia. From the magic of the Mekong to the awe-inspiring temples of Angkor.

Two multi-activity adventures across the diverse land and costal waters of Costa Rica. Explore the diversity of Costa Rica’s tropical terrain while challenging yourself with a variety of human-powered adventure activities. A healthy spirit of adventure is all you need, you do not have to be super fit, just conditioned to regular exercise.

Argentina - Los Glaciares NP - Fitzroy
Trekking and sightseeing in Argentina's Los Glaciares NP is very exciting and awe inspiring. With around 2300 square miles of the Patagonian Andes, including over 40 major glaciers, there is much to see. We will hike in the northern section of the park near the Fitzroy massif, with its sheer, 6000 foot rise from the glaciers at its base.

Torres del Paine - 7 day
This 7 day trek takes in the Grey glacier and lake, French Valley, Los Cuernos pass and Las Torres. This is our most popular trekking trip in Patagonia suitable for the active traveller who is sensitive to nature and physically fit to make moderate 5-6 hours walks during 5 days. All the day hikes start from the "door" of your tent at either of our two Camps.

Trip Ref: CE025
Departures: Most Mondays during Nov - April.
Best Period: Dec - Mar.
Highest Point: 1100m above sea level.
Activity Grade: Moderate trekking. Distance Covered: 39 kms
Ground Transport: Public & Private.
Accommodation: Tented camping.

Torres del Paine - 10 day
The Torres del Paine trek is one of the world´s classic trekking routes. Breathtaking views together with glaciers, rivers, lakes, forests and abundant wildlife provides constantly changing scenery and experiences. The full circuit, rated moderate to hard, is normally done in seven to nine days, depending on the itinerary, and covers a distance of about 80 kms. The trek is best done in an anticlockwise direction this saves the hardest sections until last and prevents the walkers from being exposed to strong head winds. During summer (Dec-Mar) there are 18 hours of daylight which gives plenty of time each day to enjoy the trek and spare time.

Trip Ref: CE017
Departures: Most Wednesdays during Nov - April.
Best Period: Dec - Mar.
Highest Point: 1300m above sea level.
Activity Grade: Moderate / Hard trekking. Distance Covered: 80 kms
Ground Transport: Public & Private.
Accommodation: Tented camping.

2 people Ł1300 - Ł1500 / $1900 - $2100
3 people Ł1100 - Ł1230 / $1500 - $1700
4 - 6 people Ł970 - Ł1050 / $1340 - $1470

Chile & Argentina - Torres del Paine & Fitzroy
Tackle the Torres del Paine trek and also trek into the Los Glaciares National Park in Argentina to provide breathtaking views of glaciers and mountains.

Trip Ref: CE026 / 090
Departures: Various during Nov - April. Best Period: Dec - Mar.
Highest Point: 1120m above sea level.
Activity Grade: Moderate / Hard trekking. Distance Covered: 80 kms
Ground Transport: Public & Private.
Accommodation: Tented camping / Hostals.

Ecuador - Chimborazo
A non-technical limited exposure trek, although the very physically demanding approach makes Chimborazo a classic big trek, it is achievable by novice (but very fit) trekkers. Good planning, careful supervision by our guides and acclimatisation are essential to avoid the problems of Altitude Sickness and frostbite.

The Inca Trail to Machu Picchu
Machu Picchu is a hard trek due to the altitude and you need to be quite fit. Porters can be hired to carry your main backpack, whilst you carry a day pack. The terrain is fairly rugged, with many gullies and streams fed by glaciers which eventually pour into the Urubamba River. The river has formed a deep valley which runs through the granite base of Vilcabamba for more than 40 km providing a variety of ecosystems. The natural surroundings are impressive and the balance achieved between nature and the Inca architecture is striking.

We also Tailor Make trips to you design. We would be pleased to help you turn ideas into trips so please let us know what you have in mind or what you would like to achieve.