Wilderness Hiking

**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 Trekkup Crew [Whatsapp 050 4848238](https://wa.me/971504848238) / [info@trekkup.com](docs@trekkup.com)

**⸻** **🌊 BLUE TRIBE UAE 🌊** **🏝️ SNOOPY ISLAND SNORKELING DAY TRIP** **📍 Snoopy Island** **⸻** **🗓️ Full Day Experience** **⏰ Start: 8:00 AM** **🌅 End: Sunset** **⸻** **✨ WHAT TO EXPECT** **Join us for a full day of snorkeling, relaxation, and ocean adventure around Snoopy Island. Whether you’re a beginner or experienced, this trip is designed for everyone.** **⸻** **📅 PROGRAM SCHEDULE** **🔹 8:00 AM – Arrival & Setup** **Welcome, registration & shaded area allocation** **🔹 8:30 AM – Snorkeling Training Session 🤿** **Basic skills, safety briefing & equipment use** **🔹 9:30 AM – Guided Snorkeling Tour 🐠** **Explore the reefs around Snoopy Island with our guides** **🔹 12:30 PM – Break & Relaxation 🌴** **Refreshments, water & free time under shaded area** **🔹 2:30 PM – Open Snorkeling Session 🌊** **Enjoy the sea at your own pace with supervision** **🔹 4:30 PM – Optional Guided Swim / Exploration 🐢** **Second guided session around the island** **🔹 Sunset – Wrap Up 🌅** **Pack up and departure** **⸻** **💰 PRICE: 150 AED per person** **⸻** **✅ INCLUDED** **✔️ Snorkeling training session** **✔️ Snorkeling kit (mask, snorkel, fins)** **✔️ Guided tour around the island** **✔️ Water & refreshments** **✔️ Safety equipment** **✔️ Shaded area access** **⸻** **🎒 PLEASE BRING** **▫️ Snacks & lunch** **▫️ Sunscreen** **▫️ Towels** **▫️ Beach chairs / mats** **⸻** **⚠️ NOTES** * **Suitable for beginners and families** * **Bring your own snorkeling gear if preferred** * **Follow all safety instructions from guides** * **Contact Kalisa @0562377332**

Beginners Run: Take the First Step Stop thinking about it and start doing it! This run is for all beginners, regardless of your current fitness level. We're focused on building confidence and consistency in a supportive environment. Come join us on the beautiful running track of Al Marjan Island, Ras Al Khaima (25°40'08.8"N 55°44'27.0"E), and make running a habit! Get in touch on +971 55 475 4037.

Join us for a morning snorkelling session under the sun! Whether you're a first-timer or a seasoned snorkeller, this is a relaxed, social event welcoming all experience levels. 🕖Date: **Sunday\, 26 April \| 7:00 AM** 📍 Location: **Fujairah - UAE** 🕖 Meet-up time: **7:00 AM sharp** 🌊 In the water by: **7:15 AM** ⏱ Duration: Approx. **2–3 hours** 🎒 **WHAT TO BRING** **Essential Equipment:** • 🦺 Life jacket – **MANDATORY** for all participants, no exceptions • Fins (open-heel or full-foot, appropriate for your shoe size) • Snorkeling Set • Wetsuit or rash guard (sun & jellyfish protection) - optional • Reef-safe sunscreen (SPF 50+) • Underwater camera / GoPro (optional but encouraged!) **Personal Items:** • Towel & change of clothes • Reusable water bottle (stay hydrated!) • Snacks / light breakfast • Waterproof bag or dry bag for valuables • Prescription dive mask (if needed) **⚠️ SAFETY GUIDELINES – Please Read Before Attending** 1\. 🦺 **Life Jacket**: A properly fitted life jacket is **MANDATORY** for ALL participants without exception. You will not be permitted to enter the water without one. 2\. 🏊 **Swim Ability**: Participants must be comfortable swimming in open water. **This is NOT a learn-to-swim event.** 3\. 👯 **Buddy System:** Always stay with a buddy — never snorkel alone. Always keep your partner in sight. 4\. 🌊 **Conditions Check:** The event may be cancelled or moved if sea conditions are unsafe (strong currents, low visibility, or high winds). **Check our group page for updates the morning of the event.** 5\. 🚩 **Stay Within Bounds:** We'll brief everyone on the designated snorkelling area before entering the water. Do not venture outside those boundaries. 6\. 🤿 **Gear Check:** Test your mask seal and snorkel before entering the water. A leaking mask can be dangerous in open water. 7\. ☀️ **Heat & Hydration:** Early morning helps, but UAE heat kicks in fast. Drink water before, during, and after the session. 8\. 🪸 **Marine Life Respect:** Do NOT touch corals, fish, or any sea creatures. Keep fins away from the reef to avoid damage and injury. 9\. 🤒 **Medical Conditions:** If you have asthma, heart conditions, ear infections, or are pregnant, please consult your doctor before participating and inform the organiser in advance. 10\. 📞 **Emergency Contact:** In an emergency, call 999 (UAE emergency services). ✅ **RSVP & NOTES** • RSVP by Friday 24 April so we have an accurate headcount. Let's explore what's beneath the surface together. See you at the water! 🌊🐙 **Disclaimer:** We are running this as a non-profit community event. While our members possess extensive snorkeling and diving experience in these waters, we are not certified or professional guides. Participation in any of our outings is entirely at your own risk, and all attendees are responsible for their own safety.

**We ask a lot from our bodies and minds every single week.** Deadlines. Screens. Noise. Holding it all together. This Sunday morning, let’s take an hour for ourselves — outdoors, in good weather, among trees, joggers, families, and the gentle buzz of life around us. We’ll move consciously and gently, letting breath guide each pose. We’ll work through stiffness, release built-up stress, and allow emotions to soften and settle. And we’ll finish grounded and relaxed — learning how to find calm even when the world doesn’t pause. If this feels like something you need, you’re already halfway there 🙂 👉 **Join the WhatsApp group for updates & to RSVP:** [https://chat.whatsapp.com/BoOK6ejVkPEEzjIbasXccL](https://chat.whatsapp.com/BoOK6ejVkPEEzjIbasXccL) 🗓 **Sunday \| 7:30 AM** 📍 **Barsha Pond Park** — under the trees, surrounded by morning life 💳 **Event fee: AED 50** **Bring:** • Your yoga mat • A bottle of water • Your restless mind (this is a great place to practice with it Let’s meet on the mat and practice calm — not away from life, but right inside it.

**PADI® Advanced Open Water Diver Course** _“ Seek Adventure , Explore More ”_ Continue your Scuba Diving journey with the PADI Advanced Open Water Diver course. Experience new adventures , Fine-tune your buoyancy skills, Build confidence in your navigation abilities, and Try new activities like _wreck diving , night diving, or drift diving._ Your Advanced certification opens the door to dive sites deeper than 18m/60ft and a variety of dive sites you will able to explore . **PADI AOW Course consists of Two main portions :** Much easier online study eLearning + Much enjoyable 5 Open Water Dives . On the first day, you will do three Shore Dives , then we arrange for another day for two Boat Dives , then we can celebrate. 🥳 You may schedule the sessions with your instructor during weekdays or weekends every day or on separate days as the conditions and time permits. **How can you start and what will you do :** ♡ Booking your course, provide your name , birth date, profile picture, and e-mail. ♡ Redeem the eLearning code received on your email , fill and sign the liability and medical release forms, and start the course in your preferred language. ♡ Your instructor will select with you what you need to read and arrange to schedule your first 3 dives. ♡ Then, you may schedule your other 2 dives on the nearest convenient date. ♡ Once successfully completed all of the requirements the instructor will happily process your certification. **Requirements , Terms and Conditions :** ● AOW students should have gained an Open Water Diver certificate, be at minimum age of 12 years old , be able to swim and medically fit for diving. ● The course is a complete package , with a duration of 2 days as described. _We are pleased to answer any further questions and inquiries regarding the course._ See Your Bubbles 🐬 & Many Thanks Sea Secrets Scuba seasecrets@yandex.com IG Sea_Secrets_Scuba https://instagram.com/sea_secrets_scuba?igshid=MzMyNGUyNmU2YQ== +971562050943

**To attend this practice and for more enq please connect directly on WhatsApp at +971 545367991** **\|\| Our session includes \|\|** 🤗 Breathwork 🧘 Meditation 🤸 Stretching Asanas (Postures) 🫶 Connecting with the Divine within 🌅 Shavasana (Relaxation) 🎯 Mindfulness Activities Games 💚 Additional features and yogic practices will be included. We will meet at 5:00 PM at Kite Beach, beginning the practice by the sea. The exact location will be shared privately on WhatsApp after confirming your attendance, as this is a selective group for committed practitioners. **Session Overview:** Join us for a refreshing evening of Stretch Yoga and meditation, crafted to energize your day. This class combines gentle stretching, strength-building poses, and mindful breathing to enhance flexibility, balance, and mental clarity. Perfect for all levels, you’ll leave feeling revitalized and centered. **What to Bring:** \*Yoga mat \*Water bottle \*Towel \*Positive energy 🚧 **Important**: Participation is at your own risk. Please ensure you are aware of any health conditions and take necessary precautions. The organizers are not liable for any injuries or accidents. If you have concerns or health issues, contact the organizer before attending. ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ We look forward to sharing this peaceful practice with you. Namaste 🙏

Hello! Welcome to our weekly social event. It's fun, free & open for everyone (including beginners, excluding kids). \-\- You will love: \* The morning coffee in the park \* The activities: Sketching, journaling, group discussions, or simply reading... \* The Picnic in the park (bring your picnic or group delivery) \* Meeting new friends \-\- Information & booking: IMPORTANT: BOOKING by sending a WhatsApp message through the link below & wait for CONFIRMATION : [https://chat.whatsapp.com/LdM6ecgZH7BCuJefUaBxXz?mode=hqrt2](https://chat.whatsapp.com/LdM6ecgZH7BCuJefUaBxXz?mode=hqrt2) Please feel free to follow and share our Instagram page: [https://www.instagram.com/nomad.sketchers](https://www.instagram.com/nomad.sketchers?igsh=MTg1NW5ybXR1bWYwOA==) \-\- Fees FREE. You pay what you order (coffee, picnic...). \-\- What to bring: \* Notebook, journal, books \* Optional: whatever sketching/painting materials you have: pencils, pens, watercolor palettes, brushes... \* First-timers do not need to bring anything & can use shared materials Looking forward to seeing you!

**History** The history of [Blendon Woods Metro Park](https://www.metroparks.net/parks-and-trails/blendon-woods/) began long before its 1951 opening, rooted in a landscape of rugged ridges and deep ravines that made the land unsuitable for traditional farming. In 1945, a report proposing a metropolitan park system for Franklin County specifically highlighted these cliffs of Bedford Shale as some of the "wildest land in the vicinity". Following this recommendation, the recently formed park district purchased the first 229 acres in early 1949. Because the terrain was so uneven, developers had to cut a mile-and-a-half-long roadway through dense woods just to bring in heavy equipment. This initial preservation effort ensured that the mature second-growth hardwood forests remained largely untouched by the urban expansion spreading toward Westerville. Opening day arrived on Labor Day, September 3, 1951, marking Blendon Woods as the second park in the Columbus and Franklin County Metro Parks system. The final push to open was a frantic race; the State Highway Department only finished the primary gravel access road four days before the gates opened. Early staff members, consisting of just four full-time employees, had to hand-dig pit toilets and learn construction skills on the fly to build the first picnic shelters. Despite the dusty conditions and limited facilities, the park was an immediate success, drawing massive crowds from across Central Ohio. By the end of the 1950s, annual visitation had already climbed to over 190,000 people. As the surrounding suburbs grew in the 1960s, the park faced severe overcrowding that threatened its natural habitats. In response, Franklin County voters passed the first Metro Parks levy in 1960, providing the funds necessary for a decade of steady expansion. During this era, the park nearly doubled in size, growing from 264 acres to over 570 acres by 1968. Planners also addressed a critical water shortage by collaborating with the U.S. Soil and Conservation Service to build a lake in 1964. This body of water originally served as a temporary reservoir before its role shifted toward conservation and wildlife support. The 1970s marked a transition toward the specialized wildlife and educational focus for which the park is known today. In 1971, the Walden Waterfowl Refuge was established around the 11-acre Thoreau Lake, creating a sanctuary that remains restricted to provide a quiet habitat for migratory birds. A formal nature center was also developed during this period, expanding on the guided Sunday walks that had been a park staple since the early 1950s. The park’s famous "Monarch Mansion" also became a prominent fixture, starting a long tradition of raising and releasing thousands of monarch butterflies each September. These initiatives cemented the park’s reputation as a premier destination for birders and nature enthusiasts. In more recent decades, Blendon Woods has continued to modernize while maintaining its wilderness character. The 10-acre Natural Play Area was added in 2017, encouraging kids to explore the ravines and woods off-trail. This was followed by the opening of a $1.5 million inclusive playground in April 2025, designed to accommodate children of all physical abilities. The nature center also underwent major renovations to include immersive, three-dimensional exhibits and a new butterfly house. Today, the park encompasses 653 acres, preserving a unique geologic and biological corridor amidst the bustling Westerville and Northeast Columbus area. **Map of the Park** Here is a map of [Blendon Woods](https://www.metroparks.net/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/BLN_map_Inclusive-Playground-and-Butterfly-Trail_May-2025_1980px.png). **Summary** For this event, we will hike the Lake View, Hickory Ridge, Ripple Rock, Overlook, Brookside, and Sugarbush Trails. This sounds like a lot, but it will really be only a little over five miles. Blendon Woods has a few hills here and there, but it's not one of the more strenuous metro parks. **Where We'll Meet** We'll meet just in front of the Nature Center. This is about a mile into the park from the main entrance. You have to go past the Ranger Station and the Shadblow Reservable Area to get to it, so don't stop too early at the Ranger Station and get it confused with the Nature Center. **After the Hike** Afterward, we will head over to [Forbidden Root Restaurant & Brewery](https://forbiddenroot.com/restaurants/columbus-ohio/) at Easton for [drinks](https://forbiddenroot.com/restaurants/columbus-ohio/#dinner-menu) and [food](https://forbiddenroot.com/wp-content/uploads/Cbus-Food.pdf). We should be there by 5 if you can't make the hike and just want to join us for drinks. The brewery's actual address is [4080 Worth Ave, Columbus, OH 43219](https://www.google.com/maps/place/4080+Worth+Ave,+Columbus,+OH+43219/data=!4m2!3m1!1s0x88388a86d10b6619:0x4d42b470a5cf11d3?sa=X&ved=1t:242&ictx=111); however, I recommend pointing your GPS to the [Worth Garage](https://www.google.com/maps/place/Worth+Garage/@40.0542293,-82.9137962,17z/data=!3m1!4b1!4m6!3m5!1s0x88388b4df6082825:0x17582f0eccd9dda1!8m2!3d40.0542293!4d-82.9137962!16s%2Fg%2F11rzfvvv8b?entry=ttu&g_ep=EgoyMDI2MDQxNS4wIKXMDSoASAFQAw%3D%3D) across the street. Parking in this garage is free as long as you're not on the first floor, and it is literally right next to the brewery.

Hi ladies. Let's hike the Edward Thomas, Spring Creek, and a little multi-purpose trail - approximately 4 miles. Please bring a water bottle as needed and appropriate shoes. Meet in the Maple Grove Picnic area.

Hi ladies. We will meet in front of the Nature Center and head to the two Observation decks. We will then hike Hickory Ridge, Ripple Rock, Overlook and Sugarbush trails to get approximately four miles total distance. We will walk approximately a 18 minute mile pace. Please wear appropriate hiking shoes.

Hi ladies. Let's hike the Edward Thomas, Spring Creek, and a little multi-purpose trail - approximately 4 miles so please wear your shoe of choice. Please bring a water bottle as needed and appropriate shoes. Meet in the Maple Grove Picnic area.

This is a small but pretty park with a 1.7-mile loop. We will walk it 2 times. It goes along a ridge and has moderate elevation changes.

June 17, 2026: Worthington Library. Wild Ohio: The Best of Our Natural Heritage. Jim McCormac. Worthington, Ohio. 7 pm.