What we’re about
Do you feel stranded in a concrete jungle of a city? Do you miss nature? Do you crave for adventure? Do you enjoy active holidays more than lazy hotel resorts on a beach? If you answer YES to any of those questions you’ve just found a right place and the right company :) In search of possibilities to spend time outside the city, we created this space for all like-minded people who would like to join us, and since adventure in a group is always more fun, help us make our own holidays a more amazing experience! We don’t mind missing a night out in clubs to get up at 4 am in the morning to go hiking. We enjoy carrying our rucksack rather than a Gucci bag and prefer swapping Louboutin stilettos for hiking shoes. And finally – we prefer walking a few kilometeres uphill than cruising along Sheikh Zayed Road in an air conditioned Porsche (well, most of the times anyway).
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See yah soon!! xx
Upcoming events
65
Darjeeling Express | Long Weekend in Darjeeling, Northern India
Sharjah Airport, Sharjah Airport, Departures, Sharjah, AEPart Victorian holiday resort, part major tea-growing centre, Darjeeling sits 2200m up in the Himalayas. Over 70 years since the British departed, the echoes of colonialism remain, and the town is as popular as ever with holidaymakers from across the country.
Darjeeling’s greatest draw for visitors has to be its incredible mountain vistas – with Kanchenjunga, the third-highest mountain in the world, and a string of ice-capped peaks dominating the northern horizon.
Of course, the word ‘darjeeling’ immediately brings to mind the delicate black tea produced here, considered one of the finest in the world. Darjeeling’s tea production goes back almost 200 years to when the British first planted tea in the region in the mid-1800s. The climate and soil of Darjeeling proved ideal conditions, and soon the British had established numerous plantations in the area, with most workers being from Nepal and the Indian state of Sikkim.
Following independence in 1947, the estates were sold to Indian owners, and distinctive Darjeeling tea became increasingly popular around the world. Today, there are 87 tea estates spread over the seven valleys of the Darjeeling Hills, which together produce 9.6 million Kgs of tea each year.
Once in Darjeeling, the mountain range looming over the green hills draws your eye wherever you go. The district of Darjeeling spans 2100 sq km and offers some of the best trekking routes in the world. Longer treks afford once-in-a-lifetime views over four of the five highest peaks on the planet.
Day hikes, such as the one to Tonglu and Tumling, are the perfect one-day escape into the fresh mountain air, providing stunning views while passing through villages and encountering friendly locals. It is the ideal for option for those like us, who have limited time here, but can't leave without an encounter with these majestic Himalayan peaks.
DAY 0 // Departure
Meet at the airport at 10pm for our connecting flight to Bagdogra.
DAY 1 // Arrival & Tea Time
Transfer to Darjeeling, check in and drop our bags.
After a tasty local lunch, we’ll head to the Happy Valley Estate tea plantation to discover for ourselves how this globally popular drink is harvested and processed. The 177-hectare estate sits a lofty 2,100 metres above sea level, and we’ll take in the views and learn about tea making traditions that go back centuries.
Next, we’ll treat ourselves to Afternoon Tea at Glenary’s, one of the oldest confectioners and tea shops in Darjeeling – where we’ll enjoy British-style cakes and sip a brew made from local tea leaves.
DAY 2 // Day trek to Tonglu & Tumling (8km)
Mountain time! An early start to make the two-hour drive to the village of Dhotrey (altitude 2,600m). Our trek along the Nepal border will start from here, winding through forests and fields dotted with rhododendrons as we ascend to Tonglu (6km / 3hrs), located at an altitude of 3,080m. If we’re lucky enough to have a clear day, we’ll have a magnificent view of Kanchenjunga’s snowy peaks – and maybe even be able to see all the way to Mt. Everest!
From Tonglu, we’ll descend down winding paths to Tumling (2km) – which is technically in Nepal! In this area, the border between the countries is blurred, and we won’t even be aware when we cross it. Here, we’ll rest and have lunch with views of Kanchenjunga, before driving back to Darjeeling.
DAY 3 // Tiger Hill & Sightseeing
If the weather is clear, we’ll have a 4am wake-up call and drive to Tiger Hill (2,560m) to watch the spectacular sunrise over Mt. Khangchendzongha, which at 8,597m is Earth’s third highest peak.
After breakfast, we’ll hop aboard another icon of the area: the Darjeeling Himalayan Railway. This “toy train” is a tiny, winding narrow-gauge railway with mini steam and diesel locomotives running through the landscape.
We’ll jump off at Ghoom (2,225 m), known for its Buddhist sites with mountain views. Our final stop of the trip is the colorful Yiga Choeling Monastery, popularly known as Ghoom Monastery – famous for its 4.5-meter statue of the Maithreya Buddha, painted in gold and encrusted with precious stones.
After lunch, we’ll head to the airport for our evening flight back home.
Level of difficulty: Easy to moderate
Activities: Sightseeing, hiking
Accommodation & meals: Hotel, double sharing rooms.
Cost: AED 4,350 incl. flights until JAN 03.
Specifically excluded: Visa
Visas: Most of nationalities can obtain e-visa to India: otherwise you ll need to visit BLS to obtain the same.
See yah in Darjeeling x
Trekkup Crew
Whatsapp 00971 50 4848238 / docs@trekkup.com
Find all trekkups at linktr.ee/trekkup4 attendees
The Forgotten Kingdom | East Sikkim, India
DXB Terminal 1, Dubai airport terminal 1, Dubai, AESo you’ve been to Bhutan and enjoyed the good vibes of Gross National Happiness…you’ve scaled mountains in Nepal and had your fill of tasty momos…but have you heard about Sikkim? In an often-forgotten corner of the Eastern Himalayas, sandwiched between Bhutan, Nepal and Tibet, this tiny Indian state punches above its weight in terms of beauty, culture and dramatic scenery.
If you’re looking for fresh air and wild nature with a side of cultural discovery, this one’s for you! Almost 35% of the state is a protected area covered by Khangchendzonga National Park. Sikkim is home to frosty glaciers, alpine meadows blanketed with wildflowers, and jagged peaks – including the 8,586m Kangchenjunga, India’s highest mountain and the third highest on Earth. Amid these landscapes, winding paths lead to clifftop Buddhist monasteries such as Pemayangtse, built more than three centuries ago.
With our base in the capital city of Gangtok, this Trekkup takes in the highlights of the East Sikkim district. We’ll trek to waterfalls, visit glacial lakes, feel the zen at working monasteries, meet a high-altitude ghost, and take in the kind of stunning panoramic views that cameras just can’t seem to capture.
Sikkim has had a tumultuous timeline, and a somewhat controversial present. Originally founded as a kingdom in the 17th century, ruled by Buddhist priest-kings known as the Chogyal, it became a state of the British Indian Empire in 1890. Following Indian independence, Sikkim continued as an independent protectorate with its own monarchy. However, several decades later in 1975, the Sikkim Parliament deposed the king and declared the kingdom to be an official state of India – a move quickly ratified by India’s Parliament, and protested by the Sikkim people.
Across this fascinating history, important questions arise, ones that even those living in Sikkim can’t always agree on. Was the annex by India a good or bad thing? Is independence always the best scenario? You’ll find an answer for yourself by the end of this Trekkup.
Let’s go!
DAY 0: Departure
Meeting at DXB T1 for a connecting flight via Delhi.
DAY 1: ARRIVAL & TRANSFER TO GANGTOK
We’ll arrive at Bagdogra Airport in Siliguri, West Bengal and set off on the 135km drive (3 - 4 hours) to Gangtok, the high-altitude capital of Sikkim, which will be our base for the next few days. With the city sitting at an elevation of 1600 meters (5250 feet), the surrounding areas of East and North Sikkim contain wild and remote landscapes of peaks and valleys, monasteries and mystic rituals.
Upon arrival we’ll check into the hotel and have a free evening to explore the local market and stroll the Mahatma Gandhi Marg, a pedestrianised street which is Gangtok’s main hub for shopping, dining and entertainment.
DAY 2: WATERFALLS, MOUNTAINS & MONASTERIES
After breakfast we’ll head out for a full day of exploration. Just a few kilometres from the city we’ll find the Lhasa and Bakthang waterfalls, their beautiful flowing waters surrounded by tranquil forest. We’ll keep an eye out for the rare orchids and butterflies that the area is known for. At the popular Tashi Viewpoint, we’ll be treated to a stunning vista of the mountains, with panoramic views of the Kanchenjunga and Siniolchu peaks.
We won’t be neglecting our spiritual sides today – first we’ll make a visit to the Dalai Lama-blessed Gonjang Monastery, where students receive a monastic education, learn the Tibetan and English languages, and research Indian and Tibetan Buddhist philosophy. At an altitude of 1850 meters (6000+ feet), we’ll get more panoramic valley and mountain views.
Next up is Do-drul Chorten, a 27-meter high domed stupa surrounded by an impressive 108 prayer wheels. The stupa was once considered haunted, and the king of Sikkim invited famed Tibetan monk Trulshik Rinpoche, one of the teachers of the Dalai Lama, to consecrate it and dispel negative spirits. Ritual objects were placed inside to ensure it became a protective monument rather than a place of evil.
Just 500 meters away is the Namgyal Institute of Tibetology, an impressive example of Sikkimese architecture that holds a museum, libraries and a research center. Founded in the 1950s, a time of great political turmoil for Tibet, to preserve invaluable Tibetan texts on history, religion, literature and science, the institute is a highlight of any visit to Sikkim. Today we’ll explore its museum’s rare collection of Himalayan Buddhist art, from statues and ritual objects to painted scrolls and ancient manuscripts.
On the way back to Gangtok, we’ll stop at the Ganesh Tok, a small Hindu temple dedicated to Lord Ganesha. Situated atop a hill, the temple overlooks the city and provides stunning views of the valley below, as well as Kanchenjunga, which can be seen in the distance in all its glory.
Back in town, we’ll pass by the Flower Show Exhibition Complex, which showcases flowers from the different parts of Sikkim, as well as the Handicraft and Handloom Fair, where we’ll see artisans making traditional crafts and have the chance to find some souvenirs.
To close out the day with more spectacular views, we’ll make our way to the Deorali Bazar neighborhood to ride the Gangtok Ropeway, a nearly kilometre-long aerial cable car journey that offers birds-eye views of Gangtok city and the surrounding landscape.
Evening is free to dine and explore Gangtok on foot.
DAY 3: CHANGU (TSOMGO) LAKE, BABA MANDIR & NATHU LA
Get ready, because today we’re taking it higher! We’ll watch our altitude climb as we make our way to the area’s most beautiful body of water and take on a dizzying mountain pass. The drive today will be a fascinating one, as we witness stark changes in the landscape and vegetation the higher we go.
Our first stop is Changu Lake, also known as Tsomgo Lake, sitting pretty at 12,400 feet, or nearly 3800 meters. This glacial lake is a jewel of East Sikkim, its trout-filled waters considered sacred by the local people. It’s as serene as it is striking, with the lake’s surface changing color with the seasons and weather – sometimes a deep blue, sometimes a silver refection of the clouds. Surrounded by jagged peaks and alpine meadows, we might spot a yak or two by the water’s edge.
From there, we ascend to the windy heights of Baba Mandir, at nearly 13,000 feet (3900m). This unusual shrine, maintained by the Indian Army, is dedicated to Baba Harbhajan Singh, a soldier whose story is a mix of truth and legend. Said to have continued guarding the Indo-China border even after his passing, Baba remains a revered protector of the region, and his temple draws visitors who come to pay their respects to his spirit.
Finally, we push on to the dizzying altitude of Nathu La, a dramatic mountain pass sitting at 14,600 feet (4450m). Once a vital stretch of the Silk Route to Lhasa, it now serves as both a historic gateway to Tibet and a reminder of the region’s strategic importance. Standing here, with the high Himalayas spread out before us and the border with China close by, we’ll feel the weight of history – and the thrill of being on the roof of the world.
We’ll make our way back down to lower ground and drive back to the city, where we have a free evening to spend as you choose.
DAY 4: DEPARTURE
After breakfast we’ll say bye-bye to magical Sikkim and hit the road back to Bagdogra Airport (4-5 hour drive), to make it in time for our afternoon flight back home.
Activities:
Sightseeing, leisure trekking, cultural immersion.
Duration:
4 days
Cost:
AED 4350 incl. flights, until JAN 03.
Accommodation & Meals:
Hotels - double sharing. Meals excluded.
Visas:
Most of nationalities are eligible for E-visa: https://indianvisaonline.gov.in/.
For more information:
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Visa_policy_of_India.
See yah in Sikkim x
Trekkup Crew
Whatsapp 00971504848238
Find all trekkups at linktr.ee/trekkup2 attendees
Horn of Africa | Journey Across Somalia and Somaliland
Dubai International Airport, 1 Airport Avenue, Dubai, AELocated in the Horn of Africa, Somalia is one the least developed and stable countries in the world. For a long time now, it struggles with an unfriendly climate and civil war but recently, due to global warming, the waves of droughts and floods are even bigger than before.
Among the most Godforsaken places on this planet, Mogadishu is way up there. Known as the capital city of the “failed state” of Somalia, it has been plagued by pirates, civil war and sectarian violence for years. So, it’s no wonder that it is the least annually visited tourist destination, worldwide. And if it wasn’t for the brave journalists who venture into these parts, the world wouldn’t actually know the extent of the volatility taking place.
The constant presence of rickshaws on the rough roads creates a somewhat perfect blend of Sudan and Bangladesh.
So yes, although not exactly a coveted holiday destination, visits are possible – and worth it – for the most daring of travelers. Most of the buildings that line the streets of Mogadishu, some would say, look like swiss cheese because of the sheer amount of bullet holes in them. While shop signage is literally spray painted on, graffiti style. And the multi-coloured, cardboard-shaped facades almost symbolically emphasize the fragility of the reconstruction of Somalia, as the seeds of commercialisation make an appearance on a shot-up canvas.
Somaliland’s status may be unofficial, but its hidden gems are officially amazing! Having declared independence from Somalia in 1991 but not yet recognized, it’s a country that’s not technically a country. For over three decades, Somaliland has now established many embassies worldwide, but remains unrecognized by the UN.
Hargeisa, the capital of a non-existent state, still makes an impression. It doesn't have spectacular monuments, but it has its own ambience. The buildings are mostly white, looking like they have been scorched by the sun, as the temperature here reaches up to forty degrees in the summer.
With curiosities around every corner, there are many tales to tell here: from friendly bustling camel markets to money exchanges with towers of bills, it’s surely one of Africa’s most unique destinations.
The cave paintings of Laas Geel (meaning “Well Camel”) spread over 10 alcoves are some of the most vivid rock arts in all of Africa. With depictions of horned cattle in ceremonial robes accompanied by their human herders with animals as varied as giraffes and even a domesticated dog. It’s estimated that these paintings originate nearly 20,000 years ago!
From the jaw-dropping wonders of Las Geel, to fish-heavy Mogadishu, horn of Africa holds many surprises, waiting for your curiosity to be unveiled!
Let’s go!!!
Day 1 // Somaliland :: Hargeisa
Meeting at DXB T2 at 2am for a direct flight to Hargeisa. After arrival and immigration, transfer to hotel for a quick rest before heading into town for a walking tour of central market, war memorial, and a stop at livestock exchange for those who want to purchase a goat or a camel. Afterwards we’ll head to dinner at restaurant run by Yemeni refugees. We’ll have a chai with the locals before heading back to hotel.
Day 2 // Somaliland :: Laas Geel + Berbera
After breakfast drive to the caves and rock arts of Las Geel. We’ll explore the colourful paintings estimated to be nearly 20,000 years old and the second oldest in all of Africa! Continue to Berbera and Batalale beach. Return to Hargeisa.
Day 3 // Somalia :: Mogadishu
Short flight to Mogadishu, immigration clearance and check in to the hotel in Green Zone. After lunch we ll head to the roof of Sahafi hotel for a view of metropolis. From here we ll head for Makka Almukarama Road, one of the busiest street followed by city highlihgts: Daljirka Dahsoon and city monumnets. Short break for coffee and head to Lido beach for a boat trip and interaction with local or two. Back to Green Zone for overnight.
Day 4 // Somalia :: Mogadishu
Today we start with fish market for some day catch of sharks, tune and perhaps a turtle. Follow to Mogadishu lighthouse and old port with Ottoman buildings, where fisherman unload the tuna on their backs. Followed by Shanghai old city, we will make a stop at Bakara market, Black Hawk Down site for a selfie with remaining tank. Quick look at camel market, as Somalia is a home to 20% of worldwide population of 35m.
Day 5 // Departure
In the morning return to airport for a flight back home. Bye, bye Horn of Africa!
Activity: sightseeing, short hiking, boating, cultural immersion.
Accommodation and meals: 4* hotels, single rooms. Meals excluded.
Cost: 9,850 AED all incl. flights and visas, until JAN 07. Past this date cost will change.
Specifically excluded: visa on arrival fees in Somaliland ~60 USD, evisa Somalia ~64 USD, restaurant meals, insurance, photography fees if any.
Yellow Fever Certificate is mandatory for this trip.
See yah in Horn of Africa x
Trekkup Crew
Whatsapp 050 4848238
Find all trekkups at linktr.ee/trekkup3 attendees
THE EQUATORIA | Journey Across Equatorial Guinea, Gabon and Sao Tome
Dubai Airport, Dubai, AENestled under the shoulder of northwest Africa, crossed by the equator, the three nations of Equatorial Guinea, Gabon and São Tomé & Príncipe are some of the least visited in the world – but offer a treasure trove of sights, sounds and experiences.
As we trace the equatorial line across sprawling volcanic peaks and lush forest wilderness, indigenous villages and wildlife sanctuaries, we’ll discover the beauty of lands unscathed by mass tourism and catch glimpses of the roots of human civilisation.
Surprisingly, all three are off the main tourism radar, but are filled with stunning, unique natural gems that will make you crave to return.
We will dive straight into this African adventure in Equatorial Guinea, to the fascinating island of Bioko, home to the capital Malabo, three volcanic craters and long-established coffee and cocoa plantations.
Colonization of Bioko began with the arrival of Portuguese sailors in 1474, and following hundreds of years of oppression, resistance and uprisings, independence for Equatorial Guinea was eventually declared independent from Spain in 1968. Today, Bioko’s farms and plantations are locally owned, and the island is an off-the-beaten-track paradise, ringed by black-sand beaches, covered by waterfall-filled jungle and overlooked by imposing crater peaks.
Occupying an 800km stretch of the continent’s Atlantic coast, Gabon is a conservationist’s dream. Its land, 10 per cent of which is protected territory, houses 13 national parks, and the highest concentration of elephants across all of Africa. Gabon’s topography is so varied it rivals the diversity of all wildlife here, with landscapes ranging from tropical forests, mangroves and white-sand beaches to savannas and mountains.
This former French colony is a melting pot of 40 ethnic groups, among them the Fang, Tsogo, Teke and the Babongo Pygmies, while the sleepy capital of Libreville is also home to Lebanese, French, Central and West African immigrants. Outside the city, ancient rituals still prevail, including the traditions of Bwiti, a belief system whose costumed followers mark spiritual enlightenment with riotous ceremonies of drumming and dancing.
Next we discover a little-explored Shangri-la, in the Jurassic Park-like landscapes and coastlines of São Tomé and Príncipe. Bisected by the equator and close to the zero meridian, most people wouldn’t be able to locate these islands off the Gulf of Guinea on the map. Known for its mix of Portuguese colonial and local traditions, picture-postcard beaches and “leve-leve” (laid-back) atmosphere, this playground for adventure is sure to tick a number of experiences off your list.
Nature lovers will be in their element, with Obô National Park covering about 30% of the island of São Tomé. Expect dramatic landscapes, with volcanic chimneys emerging in the middle of nowhere, and rich biodiversity, with many endemic species on land and in the surrounding waters. Here we’ll trek through jungle terrain to reach rushing waterfalls, snorkel in waters teeming with marine life and taste some of the world’s finest chocolate.
This epic adventure wraps up in Ghana, the economic powerhouse of Western Africa, where one day is enough to get to know the highlights of capital Accra and witness a unique tradition: the making of elaborately decorated Ghanian fantasy coffins.
This is a journey through wild jungles, impenetrable forests, cascading waterfalls and black sand beaches. Are you ready to explore the unknown, and venture far away from anything resembling a tourist trail?
Let’s go!
DAY 1 // Equatorial Guinea: Malabo
DAY 2 // EG: Lake Moka jungle trail
DAY 3 // EG: Ureca
DAY 4 // Gabon: Sipopo & Islote Horacio --> Gabon
DAY 5 // Gabon: Libreville & Mangroves
DAY 6 // Gabon: Bwiti Ceremony
DAY 7 // Gabon: Pongara
Day 8 // Gabon: Pongara --> Sao Tome
Day 9 // São Tomé: Waterfall, Channels & Chocolate Refinery
Day 10 // São Tomé: Santana
Day 11 // São Tomé: Ilhéu das Rolas --> Ghana
Day 12 // Ghana: Accra
All details available to confirmed RSVPs.
Level of Difficulty: Easy, raw Africa with limited facilities at places.
Duration: 12 days.
Activities: Trekking, boating, canoeing, swimming, snorkelling, sightseeing, wildlife and indigenous tribes encounter.
Rooms & Meals: African upmarket standards – double sharing, single at extra cost subject of availability. Restaurant meals excluded.
Cost: 3,100 EUR + 9500 AED flights.
Cost valid until DEC 23. Past this date, please inquire about cost and availability.
Meals: Restaurant meals excluded. Breakfasts included.
Requirements: Yellow Fever Vaccination certificate, malaria prophylactics compulsory.
Visas:
Equatorial Guinea: E-visa
Gabon: E-visa or Consulate visa in Equatorial Guinea
Sao Tome: visa free or e-visa 30 USD,
Ghana: Transit visa on arrival.
YELLOW FEVER Vaccination Certificate is mandatory for crossing inter-african borders.
See yah in Equatoria x
Trekkup Crew
Whatsapp 00971 50 4848238
Find all trekkups at linktr.ee/trekkup2 attendees
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