Trekkup Dubai ✔

Among the most amazing natural wonders of the world, the mountains of the national forest park of Zhangjiajie rank so high that they even inspired famous film director James Cameron. In fact, one of them has even been renamed after one of Cameron's blockbusters: It is now called Avatar Hallelujah Mountain. Here, in south central China, we won't need much fantasy, we will find ourselves in a different world all the way through. So welcome to the real Avatar!

The Zhangjiajie National Forest Park is a UNESCO World Heritage Site located in the Wulingyuan Scenic Area. Prominent in the park are the pillar-like formations, often depicted in ancient Chinese paintings, resembling karst terrain but not formed by limestone dissolution. Instead, they've been shaped over time by physical erosion, notably from expanding ice in winter and plant growth.

It might come as a surprise to us UAE residents, but the park is also home to the world's longest and highest pedestrian glass bridge as well as the "hundred dragons sky lift" (Bailong Elevator), the world's tallest outdoor lift.

In Avatar's footsteps, we will have the chance to reconnect with nature's primal energy while hiking in the most awe-inspiring scenery of the Grand Canyon, The Golden Whip Stream and the Ten Mile Gallery. Towering peaks, deep valleys, and mist-shrouded cliffs, will offer a glimpse into the ethereal beauty that has inspired countless artists and poets throughout history.

But what would a trip to fantasy land be without exploring mysterious caves? With a massive size of 48 ha, the Huanglong Cave stretches over some 15 km; the highest of its three waterfalls reaching 50 m. We are not surprised that this place is called "Yellow Dragon's Cave" in Chinese!
If otherworldly impressions are your pair of shoes, here is one for the Avatar mountains floating in the clouds.

Let’s go!

Day 0
Meeting at airport at 22:00 for a flight to Beijing.

Day 1
Arrival to Beijing, immigration clearance. Given the transfer time allows, short visit in Ti’an men square and Forbidden City. Connecting flight to Zhangjiajie, transfer to hotel and overnight.

Day 2
Prepare for an exhilarating day exploring Zhangjiajie National Forest Park. We'll begin by ascending via cableway to Huangshizhai, where breathtaking views await. After taking in the panorama, we'll embark on a hike down, immersing ourselves in the natural beauty of the area.

Later, we'll venture into the enchanting surroundings of Golden Whip Stream, where tranquil waters and towering sandstone pillars create a serene atmosphere perfect for exploration.

Day 3
Today we ascend the Bailong Elevator to Yuangjiajie, where we'll be greeted by stunning views of the towering pillar-like rock formations which provided inspiration for the otherworldly scenery in the movie Avatar. From here, we'll embark on a scenic hike down from Tianzi Mountain, where mist-shrouded cliffs and lush valleys awaits. There are dense woods, fragrant flowers and grotesque rocks in this valley, true natural art gallery. Later on, we'll explore the landscapes of the Ten-Mile Gallery with its 200 rocks vividly mimic profiles of human and animals.

Day 4
Lace up your hiking boots for an unforgettable trek through the majestic Grand Canyon of Zhangjiajie. We will cross longest and highest glass-bottomed bridge in the world, 430m long, 6m wide, suspended 300m above the valley floor. Built among high mountains and a gorge, it also has a bungee platform in the center.

Further on, we head inside the depths of Huanglong Cave, where stunning rock formations and underground waterfalls awaits for a charming glimpse on the underworlds.

Day 5
Our trip could not be concluded without visiting two iconic landmarks. First, we'll take in the serene beauty of Baofeng Lake, nestled amidst lush forests and towering peaks. Then, we'll ascend the summit of Tianmen Mountain via cable car. It will not be easy to bid farewell to Zhangjiajie as we transfer to the airport for flight to Beijing, overnight in Beijing.

Day 6
Check out early in the morning and transfer to the Great Wall of China. Our trip to Beijing would, of course, not be complete without enjoying the famous Peking Duck for lunch. In the evening, transfer to the airport and fly back home.

Level: Easy, available for everyone.
Activities: trekking, sightseeing.
Accommodation & meals: 4 star hotel - double sharing, meals excluded, except lunch DAY 6.

Cost: 7,480 AED incl. flights until SEP 15. Past this date cost will change.

The Sahel is a land of transition between the Sahara Desert to the north and the savannahs, that lead to the dense jungles of central Africa to the south. For centuries, it has served as a crucial ecological and cultural interface across the African continent. Imagine a vast, horizontal ribbon weaving through the heart of Africa, stretching for over 6,000 kilometers from coast to coast. With no clearly defined borders, it flows seamlessly as a dynamic borderland that connects together the identities of its 400 million people, cultures, and histories.

Forgotten by time, the Sahel is fascinating place. It is a home to a living museum of ancient civilizations, cities of mud, nomads, music, traditions and ceremonies. Bustling markets overflow with vibrant colors, showcasing crafts and the bounty of the land.

Burkina Faso was a French colony that gained independence in 1960 as “Upper Volta”. It adopted its current name in 1984, which means "land of upright people" in the native Mossi and Diula languages. One of the country's greatest attractions is its diverse landscape – from the Sahelian desert in the north to the savannah of the central plateau and lush rainforests in the southwest. The country’s expanse is mostly flat, with some light hills in the west where the Guinea Highlands extend.

The limestone formations of Domes de Fabedougou, a craggy chain of cones shaped over millennia by water and erosion, make for a geological fantasyland for trekkers and explorers.

One of the most fascinating and at the same time most inaccessible and least visited countries of Africa, Niger is a landlocked country neighbouring Burkina Faso.

Known for its landscapes spanning dry sub-Saharan areas in the north to the fertile Niger River basin in the south, life unfolds here in a hot, semi-arid climate. The capital city, Niamey, serves as the political, economic, and cultural heart of the nation. Established along the banks of the Niger River, Niamey provides a vital hub for trade and transportation. With a population of over a million residents, it is the largest city in Niger, characterized by its vibrant markets reflecting the rich heritage of the Tuareg and Hausa people.

At the heart of the country is the beautiful Niger River. There is something magical in its lazy current, moving through a wide channel, among numerous islands and riverside marshes. The river is a source of livelihood for many. Near the bridges, it is common to encounter young children wading at the shore with buckets almost as big as they are. Others fish with a line, while elders set out in boats for a night catch.

Let's go!

Day 1 // Arrival in Ouagadougou
Arrival to Ouagadougou, immigration formalities, transfer to hotel, introductory city tour.

Day 2 // Tiebele
Early breakfast before we hit the road to Tiebele to see the community’s many painted houses and the royal courts of the Kassena people. When we’ve had our fill of hand-painted mud, we’ll head back to the city with few curiosities along the way. Dinner and rest in hotel.

Day 3 // Mosque of Mud
After breakfast we’ll start our trip to Sabou. Along the way we’ll stop to visit the sacred crocodiles and fishes, before reaching the grand mosque of mud. We’ll look around the old town before dinner and check into the hotel.

Day 4 // Domes & Waterfalls

Day 5 // Hippos of Teguerela

Day 6 // Ouagadougou - Niamey
We’ll spend the morning exploring the artisan villages and craft markets of the city before heading to the airport for the flight to Niger. Upon arrival in Niamey, transfer to the hotel, and a city tour if time allows.

Day 7 // Niamey + Gerewol
After breakfast, we will set off for a city tour taking in the main attractions of the capital, including the Cathedral, the main mosque, the handicraft center, the cattle market and Katako market, the city’s oldest market selling a range of hand-made items. In the afternoon we’ll spend time with local people and learn more about the Nigerien lifestyle. Later, we’ll experience the Fulani’s ceremony of Gerewol, well-known to Trekkupers who visited Chad, with plenty of time for photo opps and fun. Overnight at the hotel.

Day 8 // Dosso - Kanazi
Early breakfast before heading to Dosso to visit the Sultan's house (Zarmakoy), making stops to visit some Zarma, Fulani, Touareg, and Hausa villages. In the afternoon we’ll enjoy a cruise on the Niger River, the third-longest in Africa, spotting hippos and birds. Overnight in the hotel.

Day 9 // Departure

Grade: Easy - available for everyone.
Activities: Trekking, boating, sightseeing, participating in Gerewol festival.
Accommodation & meals: hotels, double sharing. Meals excluded.

Cost: 1950 EUR excl flights + 6000 AED flights. Cost valid until AUG 24.
On this date we will close the list.

Excluded: Visas, meals, insurance.

Visas:
BF – VOA or evisa 190 USD.
Niger – pre-arranged visa at 180 EUR.

YELLOW FEVER Vaccination Certificate is mandatory for crossing inter-african borders.

See yah in Sahel x

Not many places on regional travel map have that much to offer as Iran. Despite having a reputation of a shady destination due to international sanctions and local politics, this massive neighbor is a gem for any traveler with variety of climate, topography, ancient history or cousin. Let’s leave the politics to politicians and visit two of Iran top destinations!

Isfahan - often compared to Rome or Athens of the region, is a home to the most majestic collection of buildings and bridges of Islamic world. Perfect proportions, lavish decorations, stunning lights, were known here for centuries. We will stroll through the bazaars, walk the bridges and admire mosaic arches with all little secrets they hide within.

Yazd - Secluded ancient oasis in the middle of the dessert has been a center of silk and carpet trade for centuries. Remote location of 7 days desert ride, kept it away from major wars and preserved in original state. Today, Yazd is famous for a labyrinth of old city narrow streets, some renovated and converted into cafeterias or hotels along blue dome mosques, bazaars and courtyards. Ancient Persia at its best!!

Persepolis – was founded by Darius I in 518 B.C., it was the capital of the Achaemenid Empire. Built on an immense half-artificial, half-natural terrace, where the king of kings created an impressive palace complex inspired by Mesopotamian models. The importance and quality of the monumental ruins make it a unique archaeological site.

DAY 1 / TUE :: ISFAHAN

Meeting at DXB Terminal 2 at 9:00 AM for a direct flight 11:15 AM.

Arrival, Immigration formalities. Afternoon and evening visit of Zayande river for beautifully lit up bridges. Dinner, overnight in hotel in Isfahan.

DAY 2 / WED :: ISFAHAN + YAZD

Start early morning with visit in Imam Jameh Mosque complex, Aligapu Palace. In the evening drive to Yazd. Dinner and overnight in traditional hotel in Yazd.

DAY 3 / THU :: YAZD

Visit Amir Chakhmagh Square and wind around old city streets, lunch on one of city rooftops. In the afternoon Dolat Garden and tallest wind tower in the world, Zoroastrian tower. In the evening go back to old city for beautifully lit up mosques offering now completely different ambience. Dinner and overnight in traditional hotel in Yazd.

DAY 4 / FRI :: SHIRAZ (Persepolis)

Morning drive to Shiraz, after lunch visit Naqsh-e Rustam and Persepolis.

DAY 5 / SAT :: SHIRAZ

Drive back to city for pink mosque and quick look at bazaar before heading back home. Return to DXB T2 at 14:45.

Level of difficulty: easy, available for everyone.

Activities: Cultural immersion, sightseeing and getting amazed!

Accommodation & meals: all included - traditional hotels (4 stars, double sharing rooms), local foods.

Requirement: daypack, hat, sunscreen, sunglasses, camera. No shorts in Iran, ladies need scarves.

Cost: 6700 AED all inclusive of flights - cash payment during briefings only. Cost valid until SEP 20.

Egypt is one of the world’s great centers of civilization, with human habitation going back millennia. Its capital Cairo and neighboring Giza evoke images of all-powerful pharaohs and feats of engineering that have stood the test of time to dazzle us even today.

This land has been nurtured by the powerful Nile, the longest river in Africa and possibly the world, providing precious water and nutrients that turned the Nile Valley into rich farmland and made it possible for Egyptian civilization to develop in the middle of a desert. The Nile also provided ancient Egyptians with a vital transportation route, and played a key role in the creation of monuments such as the Great Pyramid of Giza, with workers ferrying massive blocks of limestone on wooden boats along the river.

Coming face to face with the one and only Sphinx, we’ll also take in the sites of Sakkara and Memphis, marvelling at their monumental structures and artistic treasures, and learning more about the beliefs and lives of those who created them so many millennia ago.

Statistically speaking, "Oh my God, it's so HUGE !!" is most commonly heard by spiders, yet Abu Simbel statues are truly a gigantic masterpiece of an ancient engineering.

It is Nubia, a little know Eastern region of the Sahara, which is a home to many secrets of such remarkable size. When Ramesses II (1304-1237 BCE) led colonial wars from the Bekaa Valley in Lebanon to the 4th Cataract, he also ensured his majesty and power back home in Nubia; by ordering four enormous statues to be carved into the mountain, that still greet travelers entering Egypt from Africa to this day.

The Nubian Monuments were built so that the sun's rays perfectly align with the Abu Simbel temples twice a year on Ramses’s birthday, and the anniversary of his coronation.

The temples comprise two massive rock-carved edifices near the border of Sudan along the western bank of Lake Nasser, which runs downriver to Philae. Dating back to the 13th Century BC, the 19th dynasty reign of Pharaoh Ramesses II, the Nubian Monuments are icons of ancient Egyptian architecture, and in some circles considered more significant than the Pyramids at Giza.

Not far from Abu Simbel, on the northern end of the first cataract at the southern frontier of the Egyptian Empire, at the tip of the Nubian Kingdom, lies the city of Aswan – home to the raw materials used to build the Nubian Monuments.

The Aswan High Dam, a bellwether of early 1960s engineering, powers present-day Egypt and proudly rivals the engineering feats of the country’s Pharaonic ancestors, as the world's embankment dam in control of Nile flooding.

Running at 4km in length and 111m in height, the Aswan High Dam is 40m wide at the crest and 980m wide at the base. Containing 43million m3 of water, 11,000 m3 of water pass through the damn each second, and that’s just the beginning of the story of the Giants in the Desert!

On this trip, to tick all Egyptian bucket list boxes in one experience, we take you from Cairo, a bustling, pyramidal metropolis, all the way south to less known, Aswan where you ll witness many unheard stories and touch the Millenia old heritage.

Lets go!

DAY 0 // WED // DEPARTURE

Meeting at SHJ International at 9pm for a direct flight to Cairo.

DAY 1 // THU // CAIRO

Arrival, immigration clearance, overnight in 5 star hotel.
After breakfast we hit the road to Giza Pyramids. Move on for some riddles or selfies with Sphinx, drive to Sakkara and further to Memphis for more temples and even older pyramids. Overnight in 5 star hotel.

DAY 2 // FRI // CAIRO - ASWAN

Today we start at Grand Egyptian Museum, the largest museum in the world, then head to the Citadel.
In the evening transfer to airport for domestic flight to Aswan. Meet our Aswan team on arrival and head to hotel for overnight in Nubia House, overlooking Nile.

DAY 3 // SAT // ABU SIMBEL + NILE

Early wake up call and drive to Abu Simbel. Visit the temples and the surroundings, return to Aswan. In the afternoon, relaxed felucca sailing on Nile around Elephantine Island, Botanical Garden and the Agha Khan mausoleum.

DAY 4 // SUN // ASWAN

Head to the Great Dam on the Nile, which offers an amazing view of the first cataract on the Nile and Lake Nasser. Hop on the boat for a cruise to Agilkia island. There is a temple complex here, dedicated to the Goddess Isis (originally it was located on the island of Philae, which was flooded during the construction of the Aswan dam). Later on we sail down the Nile to Nubia village. We should have enough time for a short hike for a view above Nubian village, until we reach coffeeshop for some leisure and rest.

In the evening we head back to airport for domestic flight to Cairo and further, return to Sharjah.

Level of Difficulty: Easy, available to everyone.
Activities: Sightseeing, boating and lots of discoveries of ancient and modern world wonders!!
Rooms & Meals: 5 star hotel in Cairo, traditional Nubian guesthouse 4 star in Aswan - double sharing. Meals excluded.

Cost: AED 5880 all incl. 4 flights - international and domestic, until SEP 20.

Specifically excluded:

• visa,
• meals,
• tips,
• optional entry fees, ie. inside pyramid.