Trekkup Dubai ✔

Tucked between Russia, Georgia, Armenia, and Iran, Azerbaijan is a landlocked country that opens onto the vast Caspian Sea—technically the world’s largest lake. Though it's called a “sea,” its waters sit below sea level and are far less salty than oceans, giving it a character all its own.

At the heart of the country is its capital, Baku, whose name comes from the local phrase meaning “city of winds.” With one foot in Europe and the other in Asia, Baku blends history, modernity, and strategic power. Fueled by oil wealth, the city has rapidly transformed—restoring its Old City while rising skyward with glass-and-fire Flame Towers, symbols of national pride and ambition.

But on this trip, we’re leaving the skyline behind and heading into the Great Caucasus Mountains—a wild, untamed region that offers a real escape from the UAE’s summer heat.

Our destination is the village of Xinaliq—one of the oldest continuously inhabited settlements in the world, with over 5,000 years of history. Hidden deep in the mountains, it has resisted change and invasion for centuries. Within its compact boundaries, you'll find 12th- and 15th-century mosques, ancient cemeteries, and caves etched with early human petroglyphs. Surrounded by peaks and meadows like a green quilt, and often brushed by low-hanging clouds, Xinaliq feels like a place caught between time and myth.

Xinaliq’s resilience is legendary. Perched at over 2,300 meters above sea level, isolated by rugged terrain and extreme weather, the village has preserved its unique language, customs, and architecture. It was historically cut off for much of the year by snow, and even today, reaching it requires patience and a sturdy vehicle. Yet its people have built stone homes designed to last, practiced highland herding traditions, and held onto their distinct culture despite wars, empires, and shifting borders all around them. They speak Ketsh, a language unrelated to any other in the region, and live in close-knit communities where oral history and hospitality remain central.

The Greater Caucasus Mountains stretch from the Black Sea in the west to the Caspian Sea in the east, forming a dramatic natural border between Europe and Asia. In Azerbaijan, the range towers over the country's north, creating a stark contrast to the dry plains farther south. The climate in these mountains is highly variable—lush and rainy in lower altitudes, crisp and cool in the highlands, with snow lingering on peaks well into summer. Xinaliq sits above the treeline, where wildflowers bloom in summer and clouds skim the rooftops. It’s a place of alpine beauty, shaped by wind and time, perfect for those who crave altitude, space, and stillness.

The Pamir Mountains, called “The Roof of the World,” stretch across Tajikistan, Afghanistan, China, and Kyrgyzstan. Towering peaks, ancient cultures, and wild, open spaces define this stunning corner of Central Asia. This journey winds through the heart of the Tajik Pamirs along Afghanistan border across areas of unspoken beauty and a crossover of unique cultures.

The Pamir Highway, also known as the M41, was originally part of the ancient Silk Road network, used by traders and caravans crossing Central Asia. During the Soviet era in the 1930s, it was rebuilt as a military and strategic route to secure access through the remote and mountainous regions of Tajikistan and Kyrgyzstan. Built by forced labor in harsh conditions, the road is a feat of engineering, cutting through high-altitude passes and unstable terrain. It became a crucial supply line for Soviet troops and served as a link between scattered mountain communities. Today, the Pamir Highway stands as one of the world’s most dramatic and remote road trips, rich in both history and resilience.

We’ll travel alongside the Afghan border through the Wakhan Corridor, a region filled with ancient forts, Zoroastrian shrines, Buddhist stupas, and villages that haven’t changed much in centuries. This route once echoed with Silk Road caravans—and still carries whispers of that past in every step and stone. Expect massive peaks, alpine lakes, steaming hot springs, and warm welcomes in remote mountain homes.

Not many travelers ever set foot on the trail to Jizev, your soon-to-be favorite hidden village tucked deep in the Pamirs — or take a dip in the healing hot springs of Garmchashma and Bibi Fatima, long cherished by locals.

On this journey, you'll ride a yak across the high plains of Alichur, sip a tea with Kyrgyz shepherds in windswept valleys, and feel the vastness of the landscape press pause on everything else. We’ll drive across Ak-Baital Pass (4,656m), the highest stretch of the legendary Pamir Highway, then bed down in yurts near Tulpar-Kul Lake, right beneath the shadow of towering Lenin Peak (7,134m).

Once we enter Kyrgyzstan, the road takes us over the unforgettable Taldyk Pass, with sweeping views that will make you pause in awe. From there, we descend into the lush valleys of the Alay Range, a striking contrast to the high-altitude desert behind us. Our journey winds down in the ancient city of Osh, one of the oldest in Central Asia, full of history and character.

You’re heading into the heart of Central Asia’s wildest frontier—a journey through the legendary beauty of the most breathtaking mountains in the former Soviet Union. This is where travelers’ dreams of raw, little-visited lands become reality. You’ll cross towering high-altitude passes, walk along the shores of crystal-clear alpine lakes, stand face-to-face with the dramatic cliffs of the Hindu Kush, and gaze up at the mighty Lenin Peak, one of the true giants of the Pamirs.

Along the banks of the River Congo on the western side of Central Africa are two capital cities, the Democratic Republic of Congo’s Kinshasa, and the Republic of Congo’s Brazzaville, both home to dapper Sapeurs, gateways to vibrant tribes of mystical dancers, gorillas, geologic wonders in heart of darkness rainforest jungles, and kingly incarnations among ancient tribal kingdoms.

If you haven’t heard the term before, Sapeurs are followers of a fashion culture in Brazzaville and Kinshasa, members of the Society of Ambiance-Makers and Elegant People, made up of day labourers, taxi drivers, or even gardeners, but dressed to impress in dapper designer suits and treated like rock-stars in their communities for the joy and colour. We’ll find these Ladies and Gentlemen of the Congo in both capital cities and they’re looking forward to meeting you!

Beyond Brazzaville and into the heart of the Republic of Congo we’ll find the Téké Kingdom and it’s own capital village Mbé where we’ll meet the modern incarnation of their King Makoko. The village has preserved the vestiges of this once heroic kingdom which once spread across 85,000 square kilometres extended into Congo and the former Zaire. Expect to hear stories from village elders, chieftains painting their faces in bright yellows and reds, and tribal ceremonies to keep you up at night.

Our trip would not be completed without meeting eye to eye with lowland gorillas, for which one of best spot is on our way in Lesio Louna.

Further on into the rainforests is the Nkila Ntari Caves, a descent of more than a kilometers deep underground will take us past cave paintings. Last stop at Pointe Noire, on the Atlantic Ocean, for a breezy beach stop and our last toast to the Kings of Congo!

Let’s go!!

Day 1 // Kinshasa Arrival
After arrival and immigration formalities, we’ll have a first look around Kinshasa and take in the high fashion of the Sapeurs before dinner and overnight at hotel.

Day 2 // Zongo Falls
Congo coffee and fufu breakfast before we hit the bumpy road to Zongo Falls. We’ll trek around the falls in search of beautiful shots and perfect spots to wash off the mud before exploring local safari and our jungle reserve for dinner and night in the park.

Day 3 // Crossing to Brazzaville
We’ll drive back to Kinshasa and head to port for boat crossing to Brazzaville! Take in the Sapeurs performance on the other side and wander around town before we check-in to hotel. Enjoy a dinner and toast to our border crossing into the Republic!

Day 4 // Lowland Gorillas and Teke Kingdom
Departure to Lesio Louna Reserve for encounters with the Lowland Gorillas. Then we’re off to Mbé village to meet King Makoko in the capital of the old kingdom of the Tékés! Village elders will tell tales of the old kingdom, chiefs will paint their faces in red and yellow, and we’ll have a chance to talk to the King himself. After our encounters with kings, head to our lodge in Ngabé for dinner and rest.

Day 5 // Queen Ngalifuru and Kebe-Kebe in Ngabe
This morning we meet Queen Ngalifuru and deliver a few gifts as tribute. Be mindful, she has a few magical powers! We have much to explore and people to meet in Ngabé before the mystical dance of the Kébé-Kébé in the evening, a performance not to miss! We’ll spend the night here in Ngabé.

Day 6 // Nkila Ntari Caves and Punu Tribe
Very early breakfast before drive to the Nkila Ntari Caves where we’ll have a speleologist-led look around the rock arts and formations of this kilometre-long tunnel. Afterwards continue on to Nkayi to meet and see the Punu tribes’ performances. We’ll spend the night at camp.

Day 7 // Nkayi to Pointe Noire
Today we’re headed to port city of Pointe Noire, at the terminus of the French Colonial Congo Ocean Railway, and many other colonial curiosities. We’ll enjoy quick view at the city over relaxing afternoon at the beach and finish the day in style at our resort with Atlantic views.

Day 8 // Departure
Last minute souvenir shopping, transfer to airport for return flight home.

Room & Meals: Lodges and hotels - double sharing, 1 night camping. Restaurant meals excluded.

Cost: 10,800 AED excl. flights until JULY 8th.

Specifically Excluded: international flights, restaurant meals, insurance.

Flights on Ethiopian, approx. 5000 AED.

Welcome to Damavand challenge!

Here comes one unforgettable journey to the highest volcano in Asia – the majestic Mount Damavand, standing tall at 5,671 meters. Located in northern Iran, in the heart of the Alborz Mountain Range and overlooking the southern coast of the Caspian Sea, this dormant volcano is not only a natural wonder but also a proud landmark of the Middle East.

As the highest peak in the region and the second tallest volcano in the Northern Hemisphere, Damavand offers a thrilling, high-altitude challenge for anyone seeking both beauty and adventure.
While technically straightforward, climbing Damavand is not to be underestimated. The true challenge lies in the high altitude and unpredictable weather. That’s why our 4-day itinerary includes a buffer day, giving us flexibility should conditions delay our summit attempt. Most importantly, we prioritize proper acclimatization every step of the way to help everyone reach the top safely and confidently.

Our expedition however starts with acclimatization day at Damavand’s lower brother – Tochal (3,962m) to reassure proper adaptation to the altitude. Further on we hit the road to tranquil Polor village and begin our gradual ascent. The trek to the base camp at 4,200 m, reached on Day 3, is a delightful and scenic hike – a perfect warm-up to prepare your body and spirit. With breathtaking landscapes, alpine air and the blooming meadows, each step brings you closer to the summit.

Trekking Damavand is comparable to Kilimanjaro, both have a very similar profile.

Let's go!

Day 1: Touchdown and Acclimatization at Mt. Tochal
Meeting at airport for a direct flight to Tehran. After arrival and completing immigration procedures, we'll take a short rest before heading straight out for our first hike. A cable car will take us up to 3,550 meters, where our hotel for the night, Tochal Hotel is located.
For those who want to catch two birds with one stone, there's even an optional hike to Tochal summit at 3,962m. It’s a relatively short, two-hour ascent and a great way get acclimatized. Highly recommended as a warm-up! Tonight, we'll sleep at altitude at Tochal Hotel, getting a head start on the days ahead.

Day 2: Down the Cable Car, Off to Polor Camp 1
After breakfast, we’ll hop on the Tochal cable car for a scenic ride back down, then hit the road to Polor Camp (our first Damavand base). This is a chill day to rest, acclimatizee a bit more, and get prepped for the real trek. We’ll stay overnight at Camp 1 in Polor.

Day 3: Trek Begins – Up to Camp 3
We’ll have breakfast and drive up to Camp 2, located at around 3,000 meters—this is where the real adventure starts. From there, we’ll hike up to Camp 3 at 4,200 meters, where we’ll settle in Bargah Sevom shelter and rest up for the big day ahead.

Day 4: Summit Day!!
Today is the day! Early wake up call around 4am, breakfast and straight into our summit push. It’s a long, steady climb to Damavand’s 5,671m peak. We will pass the screes, Sulphur exhaust crater, greet the sunrise and slowly ascent towards the sky. The trek will take about 10–12 hours round-trip, depending on conditions. Fingers crossed (Inshallah!) we all make it to the top! Descent down to Camp 3 to rest for the night.

Day 5: Back to Civilization & Celebration
After breakfast, we’ll descent to the pick-up point where our van will be waiting for us. On the way back to Tehran, we’ll stop for a well-earned lunch. Once we check into the hotel and freshen up, we’ll celebrate our climb with a feast at a beautiful traditional restaurant in Tehran’s historic old town.

Day 6: A Taste of Tehran
After checking out, we’ll explore a bit of Tehran: visiting the Sa’dabad Palace complex, set in lush gardens, and browsing the colorful Tajrish Bazaar. One final lunch together, then we’ll head back to the airport for flight home, with summit selfies or two, certificate and a lifetime memories! Inhsallah.

Temperatures: 20C at 2,200m to -10C at the peak, 5-10°C in the shelter.

Requirement:

• Trekking shoes and socks.
• 0°C Sleeping bag,
• Main backpack and a daypack
• Trekking poles - Gloves - Hat/wool hat
• Glacier sun glasses with Side Covers 100% UV, IR.
• Warm clothes,
• Sunscreen cream min. SPF 50
• Water Bottles
• Cup,
• Toiletries
• Camera.
• Headlamp and spare batteries