Trekkup World: October 2024
Trekkup World: October 2024
This National Day
we spoil you for choice!
From Panama to Borneo, with a stretch of 18,500 kms over 12 time zones, on 20 trekkups covering 32 countries, this National Day you may get serious dilemma which trip suits best your busy Dubai schedule. Whether on budget or in luxury, locally or on another continents, we re here to help you with the right choice.
Let's go!
Friday off
NOV 29 – DEC 03
That one day off can take you places! Friday NOV 29, unofficial soft edition to 4 off days, marks a substantial difference to proper travel plans. You can unwind on beaches of Socotra or Mombasa, hike through moonscapes of Djibouti, make friends with whale sharks or simply search for rhinos with Victoria Falls thundering in the background. Spots are limited here though, be fast.
Djibouti
Moonscapes trek + Whale Sharks
Djibouti, located right at the horn of Africa, is one of the smallest and safest countries in the region. Falsely perceived as inhospitable place with stones scorching as hell, in fact combines an extraordinary natural laboratory with unique geological sites. The spectacular scenery and mesmerizing strangeness blends with an amazing variety in such a small space. Located far away from beaten tourist tracks remains genuine in its nomadic, Affar culture.
Catch this trip: 29 November 2024
E-VISA
Zimbabwe + Zambia + Botswana
Victoria Secrets MAXX
Welcome to Africa overload! This trip takes us to one of the World’s Seven Wonders, with opportunity to see Victoria Falls from land and sky, all the way to edge of the roaring waters at Angels Pools! With endless safaris on plains of savannah and forest in search of wild game and immersion in rural Zimbabwe, we will experience once in a lifetime adventure at the banks of Zambezi river. Locals calls it The Smoke That Thunders, a waterfall in southern Africa on the Zambezi River at the border of Zambia and Zimbabwe. It is one of the Seven Natural Wonders of the world. Victoria Falls is classified as the largest, based on its combined width of 1,708 meters and height of 108 meters, resulting in the world's largest body of falling water. Victoria Falls is roughly twice the height of North America's Niagara Falls and well over twice the width of its Horseshoe Falls. The most notable aspect of the area's vegetation though is the rainforest nurtured by the spray from the falls.
Catch this trip: 29 November 2024
EASY VISA
Socotra, Yemen
The Lost World
When a whole week in Socotra is just a little too much paradise, why not make this National Day a trip to tranquility, without taking days off and have a little taste of endemic civilization, with a small excursion to an island paradise unlike any you’ve ever seen! Join us for adventure in Socotra, place like no other, where the Dragon Bloods sway and the blue waters spray. You’ll wonder why you didn’t stay a week! Lying in turquoise seas between Arabia and Africa hundreds of kilometers off the coast of Yemen is one of the world’s most untouched archipelagos, the Galapagos of the Indian Ocean, a treasure trove of biodiversity found nowhere else on Earth! From the umbrella-like Dragon Blood trees to the freshwater crabs scurrying across white sandy beaches, even the small population going about their lives unaffected by the world around them, you’ll think you’ve discovered a lost world on another planet.
Catch this trip: 29 November 2024
VISA INCLUDED
Kenya
Bush & The Beach
Ever dreamt of having elephants walk up to your lodge room while you sip a coffee and watch the sun rise over lush savannah and eucalyptus trees? Built on stilts in the tradition of the Taita tribes, you’ll watch the bush unfold from the comforts of this world-class lodge, take game drives from sun up to sun down in search of zebras, buffaloes, giraffes, lions, leopards, cheetahs, antelopes, and oh so many birds. With a salt lick at your feet and an elephant to offer a helpful trunk, you’ll be the lion king or queen of Kenya! Spread over 28,000 acres of gentle rolling hills, forests, and savannah in the southeast corner of Kenya and just a few hours drive from white sandy beaches and turquoise waters, the Taita Hills Wildlife Sanctuary is home to cape buffalo, African bush elephant, leopard, lion, cheetah, Masai giraffe, zebra, hartebeest, impala, waterbuck, Thomson's gazelle, lesser kudu, dik-dik, Hyena, and diversity of birdlife for spotting.
Catch this trip: 29 November 2024
E-VISA
No leave? No problem
NOV 30 – DEC 03
Surprise your boss with your creativity even when your HR goes holidays-khalas. You can still write your own story, and what a story it will be, with no leave days in the pocket.
Ethiopia
Planet Danakil | Danakil Depression + Tigray
Oxygen in norms, water towards lower limits. Life existent but limited due to temperatures, high population of flies. Humans, known as Affars, use camels for extracting salt deposits of crystalized salt from the surface of volcanic lake. Salt mining unlimited on the connection of 3 tectonic plates - geological madness explained. Potassium, salt, Sulphur, coffee, beers - unlimited. Sugar restricted. Volcanic activity at high alert, fuming enormous, precautions taken. Danakil, also known as "Afar Depression" is also one of the hottest and the lowest places on the planet, with an average temperature of 34C, day and night. This is the harshest microclimate in Ethiopia, questioning every single life form around for the choice of habitat.
Catch this trip: 30 November 2024
E-VISA
Bhutan
Tiger Nest & Dragon Hearts feat. Punakha
The legendary Kingdom of Himalayas runs its own life, unlike any other country nearby. Famous for its unique culture, often called the last Shangri-La, this is a place where time is running slower and the main official benchmark is called Gross Domestic Happiness. Home of one of the most spicy cuisines in the world, offers stunning Himalayan landscapes and remarkable authenticity supported by Buddhist philosophy. With stupas and monasteries on every corner, people live here in spectacular harmony with nature.
Catch this trip: 30 November 2024
VISA INCLUDED
Oman
Follow Sun | Jebel Akhdar
The vast landscapes of Oman are dotted with green spots of ancient villages, almost anywhere you look. Their existence for centuries has been dependent on access to water and protection from natural disasters. With origins dating back 500 years, it was only a few decades ago that life began to change here with the introduction of cars, roads, and electricity. The days of transporting farm produce on donkey back for two days to the nearest market are over, as many former farmers now reside in cities such as Muscat. One of the most fertile regions here is called Jebel Akhdar – The Green Mountain, famous for its abundance of springs, labyrinth of wadis and Mediterranean climate on a plateau that is 2000 meters above sea level.
Catch this trip: 30 November 2024
VISA FREE (UAE RES)
Saudi Arabia
Salam Saudi
Before becoming modern day Saudi Arabia, this land consisted of four distinct historical regions: Hejaz, Najd, and parts of Eastern Arabia (Al Ahsa) and Southern Arabia (‘Asir). These regions made up the Arabian Peninsula, that over centuries have played an important role in history as an ancient trade centre, the birthplace of one of the world’s three major monotheistic religions, and our roots as a species. About two-thousand years ago, the Nabatean Empire – the most prominent civilization in the Arabian Peninsula at the time – took control of local trade routes, developing their settlements into cities. They excelled at carving rocks made of sand, and eventually transformed the landscape on both ends of their empire into majestic metropolises.
Catch this trip: 30 November 2024
E-VISA (UAE RES)
Multi country expeditions
Trekkupers favourite selection for anyone with time on their hands. Multi country expeditions are designed to maximize the time spent at locations and experience most of what bordering countries have on offer.
Guatemala, Salvador, Belize, Honduras
Mayans & Volcanoes
One of the most active volcanic regions in the world is Central America, home to the ancient civilizations of the Mayans and Aztecs. Volcanoes do not only bring eruptions, hot lava, and smoke but also provide fertile volcanic soil, rich natural resources, and natural barriers for defense. Despite eruptions that have sometimes led to the destruction of entire cities or agricultural lands, people have chosen to rebuild and reorganize their communities rather than relocate elsewhere. Latin America is not the only region where volcanoes and humans have coexisted in a unique symbiosis; a similar pattern can also be observed in Italy, Indonesia, or Japan. Within two weeks on our cross-country off-beaten paths we will discover FOUR amazing countries together, present and past life in the shadow of volcanoes!
Catch this trip: 23 November 2024
USA VISA ENTRY
Rwanda + Uganda + Burundi
Rwandagandarundi
This is a cross-country East African journey through Uganda, Rwanda, and Burundi! Waterfalls that quake at your feet, gorillas that make you shake in your shoes, and high-jump drumbeats that’ll have you tapping your toes! It’s Rumble in the Jungle meets Lords of the Drums with a little wanda’in Rwanda. The Bwindi Impenetrable Forest, on the south-western edge of Uganda, along the Albertine Rift, contains nearly half the world’s population of mountain gorillas. Coming face-to-face with these KINGS, the silverback is overwhelming, a little bit scary, enough to leave you breathless. He’s imposing, majestic, elegant, strong … and gorgeous! Their eyes speak as much as a human gaze, their lips can tell us if they’re smiling, worried, or angry, and their hands nearly identical to ours, you’ll want to reach out and introduce yourself.
Catch this trip: 26 November 2024
E-VISA + VOA
Sao Tome + Ghana
Twin Green
Welcome to the unknown paradise! From waterfalls in the middle of the jungle to banana-shaped beaches passing through a national park , these islands of the Gulf of Guinea boast of being one of the least visited places on the planet and of being that exotic destination and Paradise that you thought you could only dream of. It is the part of land closest to the center of the planet - coinciding with the passage of the Equator and very close to the zero meridian. Are you coming on a trip to a country so unusual that few manage to locate it on the map? São Tomé and Príncipe marvel at their Portuguese colonial mix, their beaches and their laid-back atmosphere in the Gulf of Guinea. To define themselves, Santotomenses use a very graphic expression, derived from Portuguese: they are leve-leve. That is, calm, relaxed. And it is that relaxation seems to preside over this country that is both the center and the end of the world.
Catch this trip: 27 November 2024
VISA FREE / VOA
DRC Congo + Rwanda
Chilla with Silverback Gorilla
Welcome to Africa second largest country – DRC Congo. Bordering nine countries, Congo represents over 200 ethnic groups, with nearly 250 dialects spoken throughout the DRC. Politics aside, the DRC is one of the most beautiful countries you will ever experience, with the people, the land, the landscapes, the wildlife, and its raw nature capturing your senses, and igniting your soul, like only the most special of places can! On this version of our Congo adventure, we will be taking you off the beaten path and transporting you to equatorial wilderness. Trekking deep into the jungle of the Kahuzi-Biega National Park in search of gorillas, we’ll be slipping and sliding on a maze of tree vines on the way, all just to catch a glimpse of these peaceful mountain beasts.
Catch this trip: 30 November 2024
DRC VISA INCLUDED + VOA
Different Africa
Exotic and intriguing, forgotten vast territories of Africa dance to the beats of unheard drums. On our menu you will find 3 ex Portuguese colonies always serving a healthy dose of picture-perfect landscapes with a pinch of adrenaline. Although French speaking Mauritania stands out here, you can’t go wrong atop an iron ore train, if you are an adventure seeker.
Cape Verde
Far Off the Map
Cape Verde, 500 km west of Senegal, lies the archipelago of vertigo-inducing mountains, crystal blue and white sandy beaches with seaside villages. From craggy peaks to green valleys of flowers and sugar cane, throbbing nightlife of Creole West Africa beats from alleys all the way up the towering peaks down to the sparkling bays. Uninhabited until the 1500’s when Portuguese explorers first discovered the island and used it’s strategic location for cross-Atlantic trade, the population has rarely exceeded 500,000 people and the majority creole ancestry is of European and West African descent. The geologic origins of the island chain are from a volcanic hot spot deep in the Atlantic, creating steep craggy mountains and dramatic landscapes. Highlight is surely the dizzying vertical island of Santo Antão, ruptured with canyons, gorges and valleys. The second largest island in the chain, its lush green landscapes hidden until you find yourself surrounded by sugar cane plantations, deep ravines of tropical flora and fauna in steamy valleys.
Catch this trip: 26 November 2024
VISA FREE / VOA
Angola
Vibe Sanctuary
On the coast of West Africa to the north of Namibia along the Atlantic Ocean, packed with diamonds, and oil, spread across green savannahs, tropical jungles, and coastal deserts, beating to the rhythms of semba, rivet, and kizomba, and thundering waterfalls from Luanda to Cabo Ledo, Angola is where the bold go to dance and seekers of adventure find the final frontier of African discovery! One of the largest waterfalls in Africa, fed by the Cassoco Hills and the Catumbela and Lucala Rivers at the, the Kalandula Falls drop 105 meters down with 570m3/s of water raging over the rocks. We’ll earn our views from above and below, getting sprayed at the foot of the falls and taking in the enormity of the drop from the trails above. The Black Rocks of Pungo Andongo, a mystical place full of myths and legends, according to the locals this was once the capital of the Kingdom of Ndongo, with the footprints of her monarch Queen Ginga, carved into the rocks. These extensive monolithic formations, millions of years old, jut out of the savannah in black towers, with the commune of Pungo-Andongo all that remains of this ancient kingdom and the ruins of the Fortress of Pungo-Angongo from the days of Portuguese colonialism still haunting this mysterious place.
Catch this trip: 26 November 2024
VISA FREE / E-VISA
Libya
Mafi Ghaddafi
First appearing in a hieroglyphic inscription of Ramesses II, Libya – part of the Maghreb region – is one of the Africa’s largest nations with a landscape that is a true feast for the senses. Home to a stunning stretch of Mediterranean coastline, pristine beaches and azure waters, Libya was also once home to great ancient civilisations of the Phoenicians, Greeks, and Romans. Its historical legacy offers a fascinating glimpse into the past, and one of this country’s crown jewels is the UNESCO World Heritage site of Leptis Magna. Once a bustling Roman city of the Carthaginian Empire lining the Mediterranean coast, its grand arches, amphitheatres, and column-lined streets will take you on an immersive journey through time as you meander some of the best-preserved, and most impressive, ancient ruins in the world. As captivating for history buffs as it is for explorers, Leptis Magna is distinguished for being the most famous Roman city in Africa. Yet that’s only the start of the treasures this North African gem has to offer the most curious of explorers.
Catch this trip: 30 November 2024
E-VISA
Mauritania, Western Sahara
Iron Ore Express
Hop on board rail journey of a lifetime on longest train in the world for TREKKUP to Mauritania. Atop heaps of iron ore and below the stars we journey most daring way and surely you will earn star status as true adventure seeker! Journey begins in Nouakchott along the Atlantic Ocean before our 4x4 caravan heads into the vast dunes of the Sahara. Most attractive Moorish oasis town of Chinguetti along the “coast” of the great Saharan sand ocean with labyrinthine lanes along stone mosques and libraries. We’ll trade wares and ride camels along ancient trade routes and watch sunsets on oceans of sand. Highlight of our journey will be hopping on board train in Choum along the eastern corner of Western Sahara. We’ll pack our provisions and warm blankets for the night before climbing on board the longest train in the world at nearly 3 kilometres of rail cars packed with iron ore. As it lumbers through the desert sands we’ll sit atop heaps of ore for comfy night under stars and truly unforgettable experience!
Catch this trip: 29 November 2024
VISA FREE
Connoisseurs’ choice
Little known to the worldwide tourism, soaked with the traditions and ceremonies, you will find here selection of interesting gems to add to your travel CV. You will meet tribal elders, go ballooning or watch 2 oceans at the sunrise. This is where your challenge eventually becomes the lifetime achievement.
Indonesia, Borneo
Welcome to the Jungle!
Along countless islands of Indonesia lies Borneo, the world's third-largest island. Although divided among three countries - Malaysia and Brunei in the north, and Indonesia to the south - it is completely covered by equatorial rainforest. The Borneo Indonesian District, Kalimantan, is renowned for its uber rich jungle biodiversity, housing a variety of wildlife including orangutans, proboscis monkeys, and pygmy elephants. The island's rivers wind their way through the jungle, flowing into the sea. Traveling by boat is essential here, but there is something truly magical about this journeying, being completely surrounded by ancient rainforest and breathing in the untouched nature. The indigenous Dayak people of Kalimantan were once known for their headhunting practices, but those traditions have disappeared with the influence of colonial rule in the 19th century. For thousands of years, they live in harmony with nature. During this trip, we will have the opportunity to connect with them, learning about their diminishing traditions as they adapt to modern life.
Catch this trip: 27 November 2024
VOA
Myanmar
Tribal Burma: Bucket List of Myanmar
Without a doubt Myanmar, aka Burma, tops the list for one of the most diverse countries on the map. And that’s mostly due to its climate and history, but its geographical location, between the Subcontinent and the Far East, also plays a major role in its mix of unique culture roots. From ancient temples and Buddhist monasteries to remote untouched cultures hailing from a fascinating and complex history, there is so much on offer in Myanmar for the curious travelers. Home to quaint traditional villages, sweeping landscapes, and warm and welcoming people, Myanmar, it can be said, is truly a photographic jewel of Southeast Asia. For this Trekkup, dedicated to photographers, we have chosen two of the most fascinating spots – Bagan and Mandalay – amongst many others. Bagan for its spectacular pagoda horizon and Mandalay for its ancient Kingdoms and mesmerizing Ubein bridge.
Catch this trip: 25 November 2024
E-VISA
Panama
Panamax feat. Volcan Baru
Are you ready for the expedition of a lifetime? Panama, a land where ancient cultures collide with modern marvels invites you for an adventure across its diverse landscapes. From volcanic peaks, through colourful plains to the rain forests, to archipelagos of 1600 islands, Panama does not disappoint the travel connoisseurs. It is the only place in the world where you can admire the Pacific and Atlantic oceans at once. Panama serves as a connecting link between North and South America. The country's shape resembles the letter S, with a width varying from about 50 to 200 km. When visiting Panama, it is essential to explore the capital city, which is home to the Panama Canal. This engineering marvel was constructed in 1904 and showcases modern-day engineering expertise. One must not miss the intricate functioning of Miraflores, one of the three locks that form the canal. Further on, the real challenge awaits! We are heading to the top of the country's highest peak - Baru (3474m), the only place in the world where you can see both oceans at once...
Catch this trip: 24 November 2024
USA VISA ENTRY
Cuba
Cubalicious
Stepped in revolution history, salsa and sun, Cuba is a truly magnificent island. Havana boats arresting architecture, unparalleled culture and dynamic nightlife, while further afield you’ll find sugar – sand beaches, time – warped colonial towns and superb trekking through palm – studded mountains and valleys. Trekkup is dedicated to providing you with an authentic and unforgettable Cuba experience. You will get an unrivaled access to local people from all walks of life while you experience an island that simply has so much to offer. Our tours are focused on introducing you to the Cuba that is seen by locals’ eyes. You will spend time immersing yourself in Cuban culture, stay in casas particulares, eat home food and support the Cuban people through your responsible tourism.
Catch this trip: 24 November 2024
EASY VISA
+971 50 48 48 238 info@trekkup.com
Trekkup World Newsletter: Edition One
Issue No. 1 | 24th November 2019
