GREAT OUTDOOR ADVENTURES!

Now just one male twin share place available! Please RSVP on the main trip page here (add yourself the waitlist there) and contact the organiser if interested in joining.

Let's discover the wild beauty of Kazakhstan, Central Asia’s hidden gem and land of the great steppe!

Nights - 8. Cost - £1199. Group size - 16. Accommodation: twin share - 5 nights in hotels/guesthouses, 3 nights camping in comfortable twin share tents.

Join us on an epic adventure through the wild heart of south-eastern Kazakhstan, where glaciers, waterfalls, steppes, alpine lakes, and canyons await.

Starting from the vibrant city of Almaty, we venture into the Northern Tien Shan foothills, reaching the Talgarsky Pass and the stunning Bogdanovich Glacier, offering sweeping views of snow-capped peaks.

Next, we descend into the cool, green forests of Turgen Gorge to camp under the stars. From here, we hike to the powerful Kairak Waterfall and cross the vast Assy Plateau, a highland steppe where nomadic traditions still live on and traces of ancient Scythian culture can be found.

Heading south, we explore the spectacular Charyn Canyon, where colourful canyons and wind-sculpted formations contrast with the lush mountains. We’ll hike through the iconic Valley of Castles, known for its towering red sandstone formations.

Further south, we discover the enchanting Kolsai Lakes—blue alpine gems surrounded by fir trees and rugged ridges. Nearby, we visit Kaindy Lake, famous for its eerie submerged forest, where tree trunks rise from the water.

Our journey concludes with a hike in the rugged Bestamak Canyon, followed by some well-deserved relaxation at a spa guesthouse with natural thermal pools before returning to Almaty.

ACCOMMODATION:

Accommodation on this trip will be a combination of twin share rooms in hotels (2 nights)/ guesthouses (3 nights) and camping in comfortable twin share tents (3 nights).

DIFFICULTY:

Hikes will be moderately challenging with some significant elevation gains and this trip is therefore suitable for fit and experienced hikers. You should be comfortable walking on rough, rocky and uneven terrain and have the fitness to hike up to 6 hours per day. We will only need to carry a day pack on our hiking days.

ITINERARY:

Sat 13/06 - Arrival in Almaty: Free time to explore this vibrant city.

Sun 14/06 - Bogdanovich Glacier Hike → Turgen Gorge: Morning pick-up in Almaty. Ride the cable car from Medeo to Shymbulak and up to Talgarsky Pass (3,000 m). Hike to Bogdanovich Glacier (5 hrs round-trip, max altitude 3,500 m) with a picnic lunch at the glacier. Return via cable car and drive to Turgen Gorge (2 hrs). Overnight at Trekking Club camp (1,600 m) with dinner.

Mon 15/06 - Off-road Adventure on Assy Plateau: After breakfast, set out by 4x4 across the Assy Plateau — vast alpine pastures with views of snow-capped peaks, grazing herds, and nomadic yurts. Stops include ancient Scythian burial mounds, Bronze Age petroglyphs, and a visit to the Assy Observatory. Picnic lunch en route. Return to camp for dinner and overnight.

Tue 16/06 - Hike to Kairak Waterfall: Scenic hike to Kairak Waterfall (8 km, ~5 hrs round-trip) — the tallest in the region (70 m), flowing year-round. The trail passes through alpine meadows and spruce forests, with great views along the way. Return to camp, dinner and relaxation.

Wed 17/06 - Charyn Canyon → Kolsai National Park: Transfer to Charyn Canyon and hike the Valley of Castles (2 hrs), known for its red rock towers and canyon walls. Enjoy a picnic lunch under ancient Sogdian ash trees. Continue to Kolsai National Park and check in at a cozy guesthouse. Dinner and overnight in the village.

Thu 18/06 - Hike from Kolsai Lake 1 to Lake 2: Drive to Lake 1 and start the hike to Kolsai Lake 2 (6 hrs round-trip). Follow a mountain trail through forests and alpine meadows with a scenic picnic at Lake 2.
Return to Lake 1 and transfer back to the guesthouse. Dinner and overnight stay.

Fri 19/06 - Kaindy Lake → Bestamak Canyon → Chunja: Morning visit to Kaindy Lake — known for its submerged forest. Hike the lakeside trail (~2 hrs). Lunch in Saty village. Afternoon hike in Bestamak Canyon (2–2.5 hrs), a lesser-known area with colorful rock formations and views of the Charyn River. Evening transfer to Chunja and check in to a guesthouse with natural thermal pools. Overnight at the hot springs.

Sat 20/06 - Relax at Chunja → Return to Almaty: Enjoy a relaxed morning soaking in the thermal pools. Check out around 11:00 and begin the drive back to Almaty (4.5 hrs), stopping for lunch at a local café. Arrival in Almaty in the afternoon.

Sun 21/06 - Trip finishes in Almaty

WHAT IS INCLUDED:

• Accommodation: 8 nights accommodation in twin share rooms (2 nights hotel, 3 nights guesthouses and 3 nights in comfortable twin share tents.
• Meals: 7 lunches, 5 dinners, 8 breakfasts - Drinking water: 1 litre per person per day (day 2-8)
• All transfers according to the itinerary (comfortable minibus with air conditioning)
• SUVs for Assy jeep-tour and full-day excursion
• English-speaking guide from day 2-8
• 1 Epic Adventure Club trip leader
• Cable car tickets Medeo – Talgarsky Pass and back
• SUV taxi to Kaindy Lake
• All guided hikes: Bogdanovich glacier, Kairak waterfall, Charyn, Kaindy, Kolsai Lakes, Bestamak canyon
• All National Parks/reserves permits and entrance fees: Ile-Alatau, Charyn both sides, Kolsai, Kaindy
• Financial protection in accordance with the Package Travel Law 1992

WHAT IS NOT INCLUDED:

• Flights (see below)
• Airport transfers (it will be easy to take a taxi to/from our hotel in Almaty and we will help to coordinate taxi sharing for those arriving/leaving on the same flights)
• Any other meals not specified
• Travel Insurance

FLIGHTS:

Please note that although the trip starts in Almaty on Saturday 13 June, we recommend booking the direct overnight outbound flight with Air Astana leaving on Friday evening 12 June.

See here the recommended flights with Air Astana:

Outbound Friday 12 June:

Air Astana KC664
Departs 19:00 LHR London Heathrow
Arrives 07:20 (+1) ALA Almaty

Inbound Sunday 21 June:

Air Astana KC663
Departs 11:15 ALA Almaty
Arrives 16:45 LHR London Heathrow

Other airlines such as Turkish Airlines and Lufthansa offer connecting flights to Almaty.

If you decide to book different flights you can meet the group at the hotel in Almaty on Saturday 13 June.

HOW TO BOOK A PLACE ON THIS TRIP:

The trip cost is £1199. To confirm your place a £299 deposit is required. Your RSVP is not enough to reserve a space on this trip.

The remainder is to be paid as follows:
£300 by 13/09/25
£300 by 13/12/25
£300 by 13/03/26

It is of course also possible to pay in one go or in fewer instalments if preferred.

Please send all payments through online banking and use KAZAKHSTAN 1 as your payment reference. The account details are:

Account Name: EPIC ADVENTURE CLUB LTD
Sort Code: 08-92-50
Account Number: 63235003

Please email ingridhansen1@gmail.com as soon as you send payment so that we can confirm everything with you. Thanks! :)

These Terms and Conditions apply to all trip reservations.

IMPORTANT NOTE: We consider safety to be our number one priority and while we never take unnecessary risks, we do recognise that any outdoor activity involves a danger of personal injury or death. Remember that you should be aware of and accept these risks as you are responsible for your own safety and you should not undertake anything beyond your abilities. It is also your responsibility to be correctly equipped for the weather and activity you have chosen to participate in.

Please sign up on our main trip page here.

This trip is run in partnership with a superb local operator ⭐, renowned for their expertise in hiking adventures across Spain. You’ll be guided by an experienced, certified, English-speaking local guide 🧗‍♂️🗺️ who knows these mountains inside out. 🏔️

Epic Adventure Club Representative:
We’re thrilled to have Laura Hill joining this trip! 🌟 With her passion for the outdoors and friendly, sociable approach 😄, she’ll help make the adventure fun, inclusive, and seamless for everyone, ensuring the group has an unforgettable experience. 🙌

Duration: 6 nights
Group size: max 16
Accommodation: 2 nights in twin share rooms in a comfortable rural hotel, 4 nights in shared rooms/dorms in cosy mountain huts/hostel
Meals: 6 breakfasts, 6 dinners
Trip cost: £849

Tackle an epic hut-to-hut journey through rugged limestone peaks in one of Europe’s quietest yet most spectacular mountain regions! 🏔️✨

The Picos de Europa, a hidden gem in northern Spain 🇪🇸, offer untamed landscapes far from the crowds — deep gorges, alpine meadows, and ancient woodland create a breathtaking backdrop for adventure. 🌲🌄

Over five incredible days, you’ll traverse dramatic mountains, lush valleys, and forested trails that reveal sweeping panoramas at every turn 🌿👣, with a few short, playful scrambling sections 🧗 adding to the fun.

Spend your nights in welcoming mountain refuges 🛏️, sip local cider as the sun sets 🍎🌅, and enjoy hearty Asturian and Cantabrian dishes 🥘. Keep an eye out for chamois 🐐, Griffon vultures 🦅, and other wildlife as you explore this diverse and captivating landscape.

From limestone gorges to vibrant valleys, the Ring of the Picos trek combines exhilarating adventure, stunning scenery, and authentic mountain culture into an unforgettable experience 🌟💚.

ITINERARY:

Sat 18/07 (-/-/D) – Transfer from Bilbao airport, dinner and accommodation in the picturesque Asturian town of Cangas de Onis. Briefing with the guides.

Sun 19/07 (B/-/D) – Trek from Covadonga Lakes to Mirador de Ordiales and Cotalba peak (2026m), with breath-taking views in the Western massif of the Picos de Europa, where chamois are often spotted (13 Km +950m/-650m). Dinner and accommodation at Vegarredonda refuge.

Mon 20/07 (B/-/D) – This challenging stage climbs to Collado Les Merines, crosses the rocky karst of Pozas Jou and Vega Huerta, then descends through beech forests past the Dobra River source to Vegabaño’s ancient oak. (16KM, +1000m/-1100m). Dinner and accommodation at Vegabaño refuge.

Tue 21/07 (B/-/D) – Trek from Vegabaño through the Valdeón Valley to Caín, gateway to the spectacular Cares Gorge. (17KM, +300m/-1100m). Dinner and accommodation at Albergue Diablo La Peña.

Wed 22/07 (B/-/D) – Trek through the Cares Gorge, crossing tunnels and bridges, then tackle the steep Canal de Trea to Vega de Ario, where stunning views of the central massif reward our effort.
(7KM, +1300m). Dinner and accommodation at Vega de Ario refuge.

Thu 23/07 (B/-/D) – From Vega de Ario refuge to Covadonga lakes with ascent ofJultayu peak (1,940 m). (10KM. +350m/-900m). Farewell dinner and accommodation in Cangas de Onis.

Fri 24/07 (B/-/-) – Trip finish, transfer back to Bilbao airport (drop off at Santander airport also possible).

Please note that this itinerary may be altered depending on weather conditions or other unforeseen circumstances.

DIFFICULTY:

This hut-to-hut trek is best suited for fit and active hikers. You’ll cover 10–17 km per day (around 5–9 hours), with some steady ascents and descents over rocky terrain and a few short scrambling sections. Daily elevation gains can reach up to 1,300 m, and confidence on uneven paths and a head for heights is important. You’ll carry a backpack with your gear for the five trekking days. Breakfast and dinner are provided at the refuges, and lunch packs are available along the route.

WHAT IS INCLUDED:

• 6 nights accommodation: 2 nights in twin share rooms in a comfortable rural hotel, 4 nights in shared rooms/dorms in mountain huts/hostel
• Meals: 6 dinners, 6 breakfasts
• 5 guided trekking days
• Local certified English speaking hiking guide and Epic Adventure Club representative
• Airport transfers from/to Bilbao
• Transport to/from the start/finish of the trek
• Financial protection in accordance with the Package Travel Law 1992

WHAT IS NOT INCLUDED:

• Any other meals not specified (picnic lunches can be purchased in the refuges or local shops)
• Flights
• Travel Insurance

FLIGHTS:

Airport transfers for this trip will be scheduled to align with the following flights:

Outbound Sat, 18 July 2026:
Vueling Airlines VY6632
09:20 LGW London Gatwick - 12:25 BIO Bilbao

Return Fri, 24 July 2026:
Vueling Airlines VY7296
14:45 BIO Bilbao - 15:40 LGW London Gatwick

Please note that on the return, a drop off at Santander airport is also possible.

We highly recommend extending your stay to explore the vibrant city of Bilbao after the trip. Vueling offers direct flights to Bilbao every day and so do other airlines such as Wizzair (not every day) or Iberia (with a stopover). If you choose to book a different flight for your outbound then you will need to meet the group at Bilbao Airport on Saturday 18 July at 12:45.

HOW TO BOOK:

The trip costs £849. To secure your place, either full payment or a £299 deposit is required. RSVPing alone won’t reserve your spot.

If you’re paying in instalments, the remaining balance is due on the following dates—please kindly make a note of them in your calendar:

£275 by 30 January 2026
£275 by 30 March 2026

Please make all payments via bank transfer and use 'PICOS TREK' as your payment reference. The account details are:

Account Name: EPIC ADVENTURE CLUB LTD
Sort Code: 08-92-50
Account Number: 63235003

After you’ve sent your payment, just drop us an email at ingridhansen1@gmail.com so we can officially confirm your spot on the trip!

These Terms and Conditions apply to all trip bookings.

IMPORTANT NOTE: Safety is our top priority. While we avoid unnecessary risks, all outdoor activities carry a potential risk of injury or death. You should be aware of and accept these risks, as you are responsible for your own safety and should not attempt anything beyond your abilities. It is also your responsibility to ensure you are properly equipped for both the weather and the activity you choose to participate in.

***

If you don't want to miss out on any new Epic Adventure Club trips, please join our WhatsApp group for trip announcements here!

TO RSVP VISIT: https://www.meetup.com/backabush/events/310601832/

Please sign up on the main trip page here.

Duration: 16 nights
Accommodation: 3 nights 3 star hotel (twin share) and 13 nights in teahouses/guesthouses (twin share where possible)
Meals: 16 breakfasts, 13 lunches, 14 dinners
Trip cost: £1499 (£299 deposit required)

The magnificent Manaslu Circuit Trek circles the world’s eighth-highest mountain, Mount Manaslu (8,163m), on one of Nepal’s most spectacular and rewarding high-altitude journeys. Blending true remoteness with awe-inspiring scenery, this is a bucket-list Himalayan adventure filled with unforgettable moments.

The trail winds from lush terraced lowlands and rhododendron forests through the dramatic gorges of the Buri Gandaki River, across exhilarating suspension bridges and into timeless mountain villages where we stay in welcoming traditional teahouses.

As we ascend, the landscape opens to wild alpine meadows and remote Tibetan-influenced communities before the ultimate highlight: crossing the magnificent Larkya La (5,106m), rewarded with sweeping views of glaciers and soaring snow-capped peaks.

Often described as the “new Annapurna Circuit,” the Manaslu Circuit remains far less crowded — an unspoiled, off-the-beaten-path experience in the heart of the Himalaya.

Please see here a detailed day by day itinerary for the trip.

This trip is run in partnership with a trusted and highly rated local operator renowned for their expertise in hiking adventures in Nepal. The trek will be led by an experienced, certified, English-speaking local guide who knows the Manaslu Circuit inside out.

Epic Adventure Club Representative:

Combining her enthusiasm for the outdoors with a friendly, sociable approach, we’re delighted that Laura will be joining to help make the trip fun, inclusive, and smooth for everyone!

HIGHLIGHTS:

• A spectacular, peaceful Himalayan wilderness trek — far more authentic and quiet than the classic busy routes.
• Spectacular views of majestic Mount Manaslu (8,163m).
• Crossing the remote Larkya La pass (5,106m).
• Overnight stays in welcoming teahouses in charming, hillside villages.
• Walking through traditional Tibetan-influenced communities rich in culture and heritage.
• Following the dramatic Budhi Gandaki River and crossing its many thrilling suspension bridges.
• Discovering ancient monasteries, beautiful mani walls, and ornate stupas along the trail.

DIFFICULTY:

This is a longer and challenging trek (12 days of walking, with some days up to around 8 hours), best suited to those with a good level of fitness and a sense of adventure. The pace is steady and achievable, with time to acclimatise and enjoy the journey, but you should be comfortable hiking for several hours a day and tackling occasional steep sections.

INCLUDED:

• Airport transfers in Kathmandu.
• Accommodation for 16 nights: 3 nights 3 star hotel in Kathmandu (twin share rooms) with breakfast. 13 nights in tea houses (basic Nepalese style guesthouses), rooms here will be twin share where possible but may be multi-share on some nights (at least one).
• Welcome dinner in Kathmandu on the first night.
• All meals (breakfast, lunch and dinner) during our trekking days.
• All necessary trekking permits (Manaslu Special, Manaslu Conservation Area, Annapurna Conservation Area, TIMS card).
• Professional, English-speaking, government-registered and first-aid-trained guide (a senior leader and an assistance
  guide).
• A porter for every 2 people (10kg each max).
• Transfers from Kathmandu to Machhakhola and Dharapani to Besisahar by jeep.
• Transfer from Besisahar to Kathmandu by private vehicle.
• Epic Adventure Club representative.
• Complimentary duffel bag, trekking map, and complimentary rental of four-season sleeping bag and warm jacket, if needed.
• Rescue arrangements, if necessary.
• Financial protection in accordance with the Package Travel Law 1992.

NOT INCLUDED:

• International airfare and Nepal visa fee.
• Any other meals not specified (lunches and two dinners in Kathmandu).
• Personal insurance, personal expenses, loss of property, theft.
• Sightseeing costs (temples, monasteries, etc).
• Beverages, snacks, and additional expenses such as laundry, hot showers, battery charging, WiFi.
• Tips for our Nepalese staff.

FLIGHTS:

You will need to make your own travel arrangements to arrive in Kathmandu on or before Saturday 31/10. The trip finishes on Monday 16/11 and you can take any return flight on that day.

Multiple airlines fly to Kathmandu from the UK with a stopover, such as Turkish Airlines, Emirates and Qatar Airways. If you require any help with finding suitable flights please contact the organiser.

We highly recommend arriving a few days early to explore vibrant Kathmandu!

HOW TO BOOK:

The trip cost is £1499. To secure your place, a £299 deposit is required. RSVPing alone won’t reserve your spot.

The remaining balance is due on the following dates—please kindly make a note of them in your calendar or set up a standing order:

£400 by 31/03/2026
£400 by 30/06/2026
£400 by 30/09/2026

Please make all payments via bank transfer and use 'MANASLU' as your payment reference. The account details are:

Account Name: EPIC ADVENTURE CLUB LTD
Sort Code: 08-92-50
Account Number: 63235003

After you’ve sent your payment, just drop us an email at ingridhansen1@gmail.com so we can officially confirm your spot on the trip!

These Terms and Conditions apply to all trip bookings.

IMPORTANT NOTE: Safety is our top priority. While we avoid unnecessary risks, all outdoor activities carry a potential risk of injury or death. You should be aware of and accept these risks, as you are responsible for your own safety and should not attempt anything beyond your abilities. It is also your responsibility to ensure you are properly equipped for both the weather and the activity you choose to participate in.

***

If you don't want to miss out on any new Epic Adventure Club trips, please join our WhatsApp group for trip announcements here!