Trekkup Dubai ✔

The Islands of the Moon, Comoros, are a small cluster of volcanic isles drifting between Africa and Madagascar, blending African and Arab cultures with a French accent.

The name "Comoros" comes from the Arabic word Qamar, meaning moon, a name given by old sailors who saw something magical in these shores. And in many ways, the moon still fits in a distant, beautiful reference, that’s always pulling the tides and the past together.
Their flag proudly flies four stars, even though only three of the islands are truly part of the country today. The fourth star belongs to Mayotte, which chose to stay with France after independence in 1975, despite the rest of the islands voting to break away. Still, Comoros keeps Mayotte on the flag, not just out of habit, but out of hope, memory, and maybe a little stubbornness too.

The four islands of the Comoros are home to 500 plant species, 21 bird species, 9 reptile species, and 2 species of fruit bats that are found only in this archipelago. However, deforestation has caused significant changes to the landscape and threatens the survival of these rare plant and animal species. The Comoros are reminiscent of Madagascar. Most of the species found in the Comoros are related to those from the "eighth continent" (Madagascar) and Africa. A small number also originate from Asia.

The archipelago was formed by volcanic activity. The oldest island is Mayotte, and the youngest is Grande Comore. It is on this last island that eruptions of the Karthala volcano (over 2,300 masl) still occur.
Today Comoros enjoy their independence to the full extent. Since gaining independence, the islands have changed hands many times, experiencing over 20 coups, more than the number of years under stable governance. It has rightfully earned the nickname “the Coup Capital of the World.”

Country has zero traffic lights and roads are so chill and bumpy that no one bothers. Locals say, "We have goats and patience instead." Thanks to vast ylang-ylang plantations, parts of the islands literally smell like perfume., the air is often scented with flowers and yes, people do stop and sniff the air. In fact, this cousin of custard apple with yellowish flowers is a key ingredient in luxury perfumes, ie. Channel no. 5. Although the plant came to the Comoros from the much larger Indonesia, it is the African country that is the largest producer of ylang-ylang oil, an important ingredient in many perfumes. The Comoros is also the second largest producer of vanilla in the world.

Despite being a sovereign nation, the Comorian franc is still tied to the euro and printed in France. However, in rural areas, vanilla and cloves are so valuable they’re sometimes used in bartering.

The Livingstone’s fruit bat and Comoros drongo are among the national wildlife symbols. Bat curry is still a local delicacy in some villages. They're fruit bats, and apparently... "tastes like chicken,"

But in a background, it is still an untouched tropical paradise where volcanic peaks meet coral reefs, ancient Islamic culture shapes daily life with a quiet rhythm of tradition and hospitality. Spice-scented beachside villages with sacred mosques blend seamlessly with passing sea turtles and whales, all moving to the gentle rhythm of island time. Inshallah, it could be your perfect off-the-beaten-path adventure: raw, real, and refreshingly undiscovered.

Let’s go!

Day 1 // Grande Comore: The Historic Town of Itsandra

Arrival to Moroni International, immigration and check–in to our beach side hotel. After short refreshment head out to discover the historic town of Itsandra.

Once the beating heart of Swahili civilization on the island of Ngazidja (Grande Comore), Itsandra has roots stretching back to the 14th century. It was once the capital of the island and its first seaport, a hub where merchants and travelers converged. Today, remnants of this vibrant past still linger. The fortress of the 17th century, once linked to the city by a walled corridor, stands proudly, while fragments of ramparts dotted with observation holes whisper tales of bygone days.

The Arab quarter, with its mausoleum of Al Habib Omar Bin Sumet and centuries-old mosques, offers a spiritual glimpse into the island’s layered past. As you stroll through public squares framed by monumental gates, you’ll feel the timeless rhythm of a place where history and community converge. Before returning, we’ll explore a local handcrafts shop, where fine woodcarvings and artisanal creations celebrate the artistry of the Comorian people.

Day 2 // Mohéli: a UNESCO Paradise

The morning begins with an early transfer to Ouroveni, in the south of Grande Comore, where a boat ride carries us across the ocean to Mohéli. Known as a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve, Mohéli is the smallest and most untouched of the Comoros islands, home to lemurs, coral reefs, and uninhabited islets brimming with life.

Short coastal drive to beachfront bungalows, set against a backdrop of rainforest and turquoise sea. Time to relax and indulge into paradise.
As dusk settles, massive green turtles emerge from the ocean, hauling themselves ashore to dig nests and lay eggs under the moonlight. With a bit of luck, we may also witness tiny hatchlings breaking free and scrambling toward the waves, a moving reminder of the fragile wonders of nature.

Day 3 // Mohéli: Waterfalls and Whales

The day begins with a forest hike to Wallah’s hidden waterfalls. Following a clear mountain stream, we’ll ascend into the rainforest until we reach a double cascade tumbling into a natural pool. Here, you can take a refreshing swim and even snorkel among freshwater fish and small eels, while the sounds of the forest create a soothing harmony.

The seas surrounding Moheli offers many marvels. We’ll set off for a boat trip to reveal Mohéli’s seven uninhabited islands, their deserted beaches, and coral reefs teeming with a tropical you-name-it-fish, an unforgettable snorkelling paradise in a UNESCO sanctuary.

Day 4 // Grande Comore South

After breakfast return by boat to Grande Comore, docking once more at Ouroveni. From here, the southern coast unfolds in a tapestry of culture and volcanic landscapes.

In Chindini, the gateway to Mohéli, we’ll enjoy a short tour before continuing to Singani village. Here, the scars of the 1977 volcanic eruption remain visible. The lava that once devastated the community has now become the very material with which its people rebuilt, a striking symbol of resilience.

Later, in Iconi, the former sultan’s capital, history reveals itself in dramatic form. From its volcanic cliffs, women once leapt to escape enslavement by Malagasy pirates. At the heart of town, the coral and lava palace of Kaviri Djewé still stands, while the bangwes (the traditional meeting squares) echo with centuries of community debates. Beyond the medina lies Lake Marabou, a tidal pool fringed with mangroves, where birds nest under the towering presence of Mount Karthala.

Day 5 // Mount Karthala (2,361m)

Today, the adventure reaches new heights with a trekkup Mount Karthala, the largest active volcano in the world. From Mvouni village, vehicles take us partway up the slopes, before we hit a 6k trail (700 m altitude).

The trail winds through lush forest and volcanic rock, eventually opening onto the vast caldera at the summit. Here, steam vents rise from the earth, and the crater within a crater offers a breathtaking reminder of the island’s geological power. A picnic lunch at the rim allows time to absorb the view of the island below, of the endless sea beyond, and of the raw forces that continue to shape Comoros. It’s definitely one of the most spectacular hikes in the Indian Ocean.

Day 6 // Grande Comore North

Today we are set to explore the scenic northern coast and its volcanic history. As we follow the western coast we will see where lava flows enter the sea and how the mangrove forests are now growing in the lava beds.

One of the day’s highlights is the island’s largest baobab tree, so huge a dozen visitors can stand inside its hollow trunk. From there, we continue to two volcanic craters: Lac Salé, whose mineral waters are said to hold healing powers, and the Dragon’s Back, a submerged crater whose curving rim forms a dramatic peninsula.

In Bangwa Kouni village, we’ll visit the “Miraculous Mosque,” said to have appeared overnight, as well as the tombs of some of the earliest Arab travelers to the islands.

Lunch today is at Trou du Prophète, a tranquil bay shaded by baobabs, followed by time to relax on Maloudja Beach, where the coconut palms lean gracefully toward the sea.

Unfortunately, it’s time to bid farewell to Comoros. It will not be easy to wave bye-bye and transfer to airport for flight back home…

Activities: Trekking, boating, snorkelling, sightseeing, encounter of wildlife, cultural immersion.
Accommodation & meals: beach side 4 star hotel and lodge - shared rooms. Meals on Moheli included.

Cost: 7,100 AED excl. flights until APR 17.
Flights by Ethiopian, you can use any alternative connection.

Specifically excluded: Insurance, visa, meals on Grand Comore.
Visa: Nationals of any country can obtain a visa on arrival.
Note: Wildlife spotting can not be guaranteed.

See yah in Comoros xx

Whatever fantastic tales you’ve heard of Sri Lanka is surely correct! Gigantic jungle chunks, every square meter infused with thousands of plants, blended with tea plantations, roaming elephants, and monkeys swinging from tree to tree. Picture perfect country-wide, central Sri Lanka draws our attention with rock fortresses among rolling hills and lush green plains.

Set on plateaus of tea plantations and tropical rainforests surrounded by mountain-scapes sits the city of Kandy, famed for its sacred Buddhist sites and temples and the last capital of the ancient kings of Sri Lanka.

The Temple of the Tooth within the royal palace complex of the former Kingdom of Kandy houses the relic tooth of the Buddha, it is believed that whoever holds the tooth, holds the governance of the country. For many reasons, this temple is considered one of the most sacred places of worship in the Buddhist world!

The surrounding city of Kandy, with its architectural gems of shrines and temples of Indian and Sinhalese designs set among the grand structures of the British colonial period make for picture perfect strolls along the lake and city streets.

Situated in the Central Province of Sri Lanka close to Dambulla lays Sigiriya, or “Lion Rock”, a fortress complex of ruined palace atop a massive 200-meter rock among the jungle plains. A UNESCO World Heritage Site and the most treasured historical monument in Sri Lanka, this spectacular fortress features ancient frescoes painted high above the ground along the famous mirror wall, with legends of drama and fate of the ruler who built it awaiting you at the top!

Let’s go!!!

Day 0 // Departure
Meeting in Dubai Airport in the afternoon for a direct flight to Colombo.

Day 1 // Elephants + Ambuluwawa
Arrival, immigration formalities. Overnight in nearby guesthouse. After breakfast hit the road to elephant orphanage for some unforgettable views of bathing and river crossing. Next, we will head to spiral tower of Ambuluwawa for bit of thrilling experience during narrowing climb to the peak, awarded quickly with breathtaking views from the top. From here we drive to hill county of Nuwara Eliya, famous for tea plantations and stunning waterfalls. Here we will visit Ramboda Falls and one of tea factories.

Day 2 // Scenic train + Kandy
Sri Lanka can easily compete with Switzerland over the most the scenic train routes, so get your camera ready as we start the day with the train ride across bridges, jungle, villages and tea plantations. When in Kandy, we will start with Tooth Temple and glimpse on the colonial quarter near lunch hour. Shortly after it’s a time to hit the road to Sigiriya. Overnight in the jungle lodge, surrounded by the chirping of the Jungle Fowl.

Day 3 // Ballooning + Sigiriya
Early morning optional ballooning above Sigiriya plains. Back to hotel for breakfast and start short trek through the scrub jungle to the world-famous Lion Rock fortress. As the trek unfolds, we’ll take in views of this ancient fortress from every angle, every step from the entrance to the top is a marvel of constantly changing surroundings. Climb to the top takes less than an hour.

Further on, we’ll stop for a walk along village paths and dry zone lakes before we jump on a bullock cart to village house where we’ll start picking vegetables for our lunch as the head man’s wife explains recipes. We’ll take a quick boat ride while lunch is getting ready. If time allows, we can wander across the cultivation lands to help the villagers work on a small tractor.

Time for souvenir shopping and a dinner before heading to airport for return flight, with pockets full of memories! Bye, bye Sri Lanka…

Level of Difficulty: Easy

Activities:
Hiking, sightseeing, boating, swimming, tuk-tuking, train riding, optional ballooning (approx. 260 USD – early booking required).

Duration: Long weekend

Room & Meals: 4 star hotels - double sharing, lunches excluded.

Cost: 2920 AED excl. flights / 4720 AED incl. flights until APR 20.

• Optional ballooning: 960 AED.

The Republic of Moldova is a small country located between Romania and Ukraine. Little known in Europe, it blends the charms of unspoiled nature with unique history and even more intriguing present. Often referred as a hidden gem of Europe, proves its unique character on every corner. Hundreds of kilometers of cellars filled to the ceiling with millions of wine bottles, cave monasteries, Transnistria – the soviet era stronghold are just a few curiosities awaiting travelers here.

A short distance outside Chisinau is two of the countries most unique gems. Milestii Mici is a vineyard with the world’s largest underground wine cellar, with literally millions of bottles and more like an underground city with endless kilometers of tunnels best explored on a bike! And the ancient city of Orheiul Vechi between the narrow bend of the Raut River with eroded limestone rocks and the archaeological vestiges of the Trypillian civilization. You’ll find cultural layers of different epochs from the Paleolithic, Eneolithic, and Iron Age. Inhabited since ancient times to this day, Orthodox monks still guard the churches and grottos of this natural fortress.

Transnistria, officially the Pridnestrovian Moldavian Republic, is a breakaway state, unrecognized internationally part of Moldova, under military occupation by Russia. It’s territory is a narrow strip of land between the Dniester River and the Moldovan-Ukrainian border. To enter Transnistria is to take a time-machine back to Soviet era, you’ll think you were still in a cold-war geopolitical no-man’s land, with strange flags, statues of Lenin, vodka for a dollar, and more hammers and sickles than you’ll see anywhere else!

Let’s go!!

DAY 1 // Chisinau
We reach Chisinau in the afternoon and first we’ll stretch our legs on a walk through the greenest capital in Europe! Pass by Cathedral Park and Bell Tower, Victory Arc, neoclassical monuments and quaint bookstores. Time for dinner and first taste of Moldovan cuisine. Check in to hotel for overnight.

Day 2 // Orheiul Vechi + Milestii Mici
After breakfast we’ll head to Orheiul Vechi and discover the countryside. We’ll explore the ancient monasteries and cave complexes filled with grottos, churches, and hermitages in this open-air museum. Within a small area, you can see here many typical elements of this country: traditional rural culture, picturesque churches, meandering river, white cliffs, and lush green steppes. In the afternoon, we’ll hit the road to Milestii Mici for an underground bike ride through the world’s largest wine cellar! With a few tastings along the way, we’ll head back to hotel for a well-deserved rest and dinner, perhaps a quick look at local nightlife.

Day 3 // Transnistria
After early breakfast of brânzoaice and strong coffee, we start our journey to Transnistria, the self-proclaimed independent republic with its own currency, border guards, and government. First stop will be the 16th century Tighina Fortress on our way to Tiraspol, the capital of Transnistria, founded by the Russian general Alexandr Suvorov in 1792. We’ll pass by his statue in the square as we walk around the city, with stops at monuments, theatres, parliament houses and all manner of curiosities. Return to Chisinau for overnight.

Day 4 // Departure
Free time at leisure before transfer to airport. Bye Bye Moldova!

Grade: easy, available to everyone.
Activities: sightseeing, leisure cycling, immersion in Soviet era (Transnistria).
Accommodation & meals: 4 star hotel, double sharing rooms, meals excluded.

Cost: 2920 AED excl. flights util APR 25th.

Specifically excluded: flights, visa (Schengen grants entry), insurance, meals except breakfasts.

Join us for adventure in Socotra, place like no other, where the Dragon Bloods sway and the blue waters spray.

This time the flights are available from Jeddah, so short 3hrs flight from UAE is now required to reach the departure point.

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.

Used since antiquity as a medicinal cure-all, the crimson-red resin of the Dragon Blood tree earned its name through legends of battles between dragons and elephants and withstood millennia on this island paradise since the dawn of humankind. Recognized for its strange appearance, like an upside-down umbrella, it’s found only on Socotra and cannot survive anywhere else on Earth.

Besides the Dragon Blood tree, Socotra is home to more than 300 species of flora and fauna endemic to the island, from tiny Socotri scorpions and terrestrial reptiles to countless birds, ghost crabs, bats, and chunky, pink-flowered bottle trees, the entire island is a UNESCO World Natural Heritage Site!

Life evolves on Socotra uninterrupted from the modern world, before the airport was built in 1999, the only way to see the island was on a cargo ship! When such paradise is in our own neighborhood, making extended weekend possible to a place where such beauty is not long for this world to the Island of Happiness.

Let's go!!

Day 1 :: Qalansiya / Detwah Lagoon / Shuab Beach
After arrival and immigration clearance we kick start our expedition with heading westbound. Our first stop is Qalansiya, a traditional fishing village. From here, we will take a boat to Shuab Beach, where we might see spinner dolphins and beautiful rock formations. At Shuab, you can swim, relax, and explore the white sand with rock formations and crystal clear water.

After returning to Qalansiya, we head to Detwah Lagoon, a protected area known for its amazing scenery. You can also swim in the lagoon or just relax on the beach.

Dinner and overnight at Detwah campsite.

Day 2 :: Dixsam Plateau / Derhur Canyon / Fermhin Forest
After breakfast, we will drive towards Dixsam Plateau via Shebahon viewpoint, at elevation of 700m, for the first views of the famous Dragon’s Blood trees. These umbrella-shaped species are the symbol of Socotra, and their red sap, called “Dragon’s Blood” is used for medicine and cosmetics.

We will continue into Derhur Canyon, lined with palm trees, where we will swim in clear natural pools.

Next is Fermhin Forest, known for the largest concentration of Dragon’s Blood trees.

Dinner and overnight at Fermhin Forest campsite.

Day 3 :: Aomq Beach / Dagub Cave / Hayf and Zahaq Dunes
Wake up early to enjoy serene walk in Fermhin Forest before breakfast.
Today we head to the southern coast of Socotra, where to see the turquoise-blue Indian Ocean and endless white sand beaches.
In the evening, we will visit the Hayf and Zahaq sand dunes, beautiful and peaceful spots perfect for photos, especially at sunset. Time allows, we will visit Dagub Cave. Inside the cave you will find stalactites, stalagmites, and a small stream of fresh water, a rare sight on the dry south coast.

Lunch, dinner, and overnight at Aomq campsite.

Day 4 :: Wadi Defarhu / Dihamri
Today we will travel from the south to the north of the island, crossing Wadi Defarhu. Along the way, we will cross the traditional villages, date palms, freshwater pools, and desert rose trees on the canyon walls.
After lunch, we will visit the Dihamri Marine Protected Area, which has one of the richest coral reefs in Socotra with 70 endemic coral species.
Dinner and overnight at Dihamri campsite.

Day 5 :: Homhil & Wadi Kalisan
After breakfast at camp, we’ll pack up and drive to Wadi Shafa and start our trek up to the Homhil protected area with more fabulous sceneries, you’ll think you’re in prehistoric times! The moderate ascent takes approximately 1.5 hours up the ravine.

Once we reach the top, we will explore surrounding walking trails through the dragon blood and bottle trees. Some of the most spectacular views await while floating above the sea and mountains. After we’ve explored the area, we’ll descend back down the ravine and move onwards to Wadi Kalisan.

We’ll take a short walk down the wadi and take a dip in smooth white stone pools before heading to our camp for the night in Delisha surrounded by stunning mountain views and Dragon Blood trees.

Day 6 :: Hoq Cave / Arher Beach and Freshwater Creek

After an early breakfast, we will drive to Terbak village to visit Hoq Cave, also known as Treasure Cave. Archaeologists found ancient Aramaic writings here dating back to 258 AD.
We will hike about 1.5 hours to the cave entrance and spend about 1 hour inside exploring stalactites, stalagmites, and underground water pools.

Then we will continue to Arher Beach, where white sand dunes meet the blue ocean. Next to Ras Erisel, the eastern tip of the island, where the Arabian Sea and Indian Ocean meet.

Dinner and overnight camping at Arher Beach.

Day 07 // TBC

Day 08 // Farewell Socotra
If you wake up early, you can take a final climb up the dune and bathe in the freshwater stream at Arher.

After breakfast. we will leave for Socotra Airport. On the way, we will stop at a heritage and souvenir shop run by Socotri women, which helps support local families.

Bye, bye Socotra!

Level of Difficulty: Moderate with limited facilities ahead.
Activities: Trekking/swimming/caving/camping.
Duration: 7 days
Trip Start & End: Direct flights from JEDDAH, SAUDI.
Accommodation & Meals: Camping, all meals included.

You'll need light sleeping bag; tents and mattresses provided.

Cost: AED 9,700 all incl. flights and visa, until APR 25th. Past deadline we do not guarantee availability or the cost.

Flights:
JED – SCT 11:00-14:30 Report at check-in at 08:00AM
SCT – JED 14:45 19:10

Connections from Dubai to Jeddah on Emirates, flydubai, Saudia, flynas starting at 1,100 AED.

Visa:
Yemen - included in trip budget.
Saudi - no visa for transit, otherwise visa on arrival or e-visa for UAE residents.

Specifically Excluded: Insurance - compulsory.

See yah in Socotra x

Trekkup Crew