Trekkup Dubai ✔

Nestled under the shoulder of northwest Africa, crossed by the equator, the three nations of Equatorial Guinea, Gabon and São Tomé & Príncipe are some of the least visited in the world – but offer a treasure trove of sights, sounds and experiences.

As we trace the equatorial line across sprawling volcanic peaks and lush forest wilderness, indigenous villages and wildlife sanctuaries, we’ll discover the beauty of lands unscathed by mass tourism and catch glimpses of the roots of human civilisation.

Surprisingly, all three are off the main tourism radar, but are filled with stunning, unique natural gems that will make you crave to return.
We will dive straight into this African adventure in Equatorial Guinea, to the fascinating island of Bioko, home to the capital Malabo, three volcanic craters and long-established coffee and cocoa plantations.
Colonization of Bioko began with the arrival of Portuguese sailors in 1474, and following hundreds of years of oppression, resistance and uprisings, independence for Equatorial Guinea was eventually declared independent from Spain in 1968. Today, Bioko’s farms and plantations are locally owned, and the island is an off-the-beaten-track paradise, ringed by black-sand beaches, covered by waterfall-filled jungle and overlooked by imposing crater peaks.
Occupying an 800km stretch of the continent’s Atlantic coast, Gabon is a conservationist’s dream. Its land, 10 per cent of which is protected territory, houses 13 national parks, and the highest concentration of elephants across all of Africa. Gabon’s topography is so varied it rivals the diversity of all wildlife here, with landscapes ranging from tropical forests, mangroves and white-sand beaches to savannas and mountains.
This former French colony is a melting pot of 40 ethnic groups, among them the Fang, Tsogo, Teke and the Babongo Pygmies, while the sleepy capital of Libreville is also home to Lebanese, French, Central and West African immigrants. Outside the city, ancient rituals still prevail, including the traditions of Bwiti, a belief system whose costumed followers mark spiritual enlightenment with riotous ceremonies of drumming and dancing.
Next we discover a little-explored Shangri-la, in the Jurassic Park-like landscapes and coastlines of São Tomé and Príncipe. Bisected by the equator and close to the zero meridian, most people wouldn’t be able to locate these islands off the Gulf of Guinea on the map. Known for its mix of Portuguese colonial and local traditions, picture-postcard beaches and “leve-leve” (laid-back) atmosphere, this playground for adventure is sure to tick a number of experiences off your list.
Nature lovers will be in their element, with Obô National Park covering about 30% of the island of São Tomé. Expect dramatic landscapes, with volcanic chimneys emerging in the middle of nowhere, and rich biodiversity, with many endemic species on land and in the surrounding waters. Here we’ll trek through jungle terrain to reach rushing waterfalls, snorkel in waters teeming with marine life and taste some of the world’s finest chocolate.
This epic adventure wraps up in Ghana, the economic powerhouse of Western Africa, where one day is enough to get to know the highlights of capital Accra and witness a unique tradition: the making of elaborately decorated Ghanian fantasy coffins.

This is a journey through wild jungles, impenetrable forests, cascading waterfalls and black sand beaches. Are you ready to explore the unknown, and venture far away from anything resembling a tourist trail?
Let’s go!

DAY 1 // Equatorial Guinea: Malabo
DAY 2 // EG: Lake Moka jungle trail
DAY 3 // EG: Ureca
DAY 4 // Gabon: Sipopo & Islote Horacio --> Gabon
DAY 5 // Gabon: Libreville & Mangroves
DAY 6 // Gabon: Bwiti Ceremony
DAY 7 // Gabon: Pongara
Day 8 // Gabon: Pongara --> Sao Tome
Day 9 // São Tomé: Waterfall, Channels & Chocolate Refinery
Day 10 // São Tomé: Santana
Day 11 // São Tomé: Ilhéu das Rolas --> Ghana
Day 12 // Ghana: Accra

All details available to confirmed RSVPs.

Level of Difficulty: Easy, raw Africa with limited facilities at places.
Duration: 12 days.
Activities: Trekking, boating, canoeing, swimming, snorkelling, sightseeing, wildlife and indigenous tribes encounter.
Rooms & Meals: African upmarket standards – double sharing, single at extra cost subject of availability. Restaurant meals excluded.

Cost: 3,100 EUR + 9500 AED flights.
Cost valid until DEC 23. Past this date, please inquire about cost and availability.

Meals: Restaurant meals excluded. Breakfasts included.

Requirements: Yellow Fever Vaccination certificate, malaria prophylactics compulsory.

Visas:
Equatorial Guinea: E-visa
Gabon: E-visa or Consulate visa in Equatorial Guinea
Sao Tome: visa free or e-visa 30 USD,
Ghana: Transit visa on arrival.

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

See yah in Equatoria x

Trekkup Crew
Whatsapp 00971 50 4848238
Find all trekkups at linktr.ee/trekkup

Welcome to Chile, the slender ribbon of a nation stretching along South America's western edge. This is a land of breathtaking contrasts, from smoking volcanoes and dry deserts to green vineyards, rough oceans, and almost 900 serious moai statues that seem to judge your poses with ancient eyes.

It's here where you'll trek across towering mountains that fade into bizarre, otherworldly lunar terrains, smell the bubbling geysers exploding from the soil beside glittering salt ponds buzzing with vibrant wildlife. And then, venture to one of the planet's most isolated islands, where enigmatic giant stone heads stand sentinel, guarding secrets of ancient civilizations.

Our trip starts in Santiago, the busy capital full of South America's energy. We'll walk its streets, taste crispy empanadas and drink pisco sour in the warm Andean sunshine. Next, we head Valparaíso, a cozy harbor town that's great to look at: bright street art pops everywhere, and colorful houses tumble down hilly slopes to the ocean.

Next we’ll head to the driest place on Earth, where some areas haven't had rain for more than 400 years. Here we’ll walk Valley of the Moon, with its rough rocks that look like they're from another planet, and stare amazed at the Tatio Geysers, where hot water shoots up from cold ground. We’ll pass by groups of pink flamingos in clear salt lakes, see elegant vicuñas wandering like fancy llamas, and watch sunsets so bright and weird that your friends will think you edited them.

If that's not enough to satisfy your sense of adventure, get ready for the best part: Easter Island, or Rapa Nui, a tiny spot in the Pacific that's on every explorer's wish list. Here, we'll face the huge moai, a stone giants cut from volcano rocks. At holy spots like Ahu Tongariki, a line of them gazes forever toward the sea, famous mysteries around the globe. We'll trek to Rano Raraku, the quarry where these giants were made, now a spooky place with half-buried, unfinished statues stuck in time.

Our expedition will finish at the green beauty of Cajón del Maipo, a striking valley right outside Santiago packed with mountain views and great wine spots. It's the perfect place to celebrate with smooth red and fresh whites, take amazing shots by falling waterfalls and snowy mountain tops, before we leave Chile.

Let’s go!

DAY 0 // DEPARTURE
Meet at DXB at 13:00 for a flight to Santiago via Istanbul.

DAY 1 // SANTIAGO CITY TOUR
Morning arrival to Santiago, immigration, drop the bags to hotel and head out for a tour into Santiago’s gems: from the grand Plaza de Armas and La Moneda Palace to the bustling Mercado Central. We’ll wander through traditional neighborhoods, visit an enormous, fascinating cemetery, and finish at Los Dominicos, where local artisans make souvenirs actually worth buying. Lastly, we’ll take it all in by riding the cable car up to the top of San Cristóbal Hill for scenic vistas and incredible photos.

DAY 2 // COLORFUL VALPARAISO & CHILL VIÑA DEL MAR
Grab your camera – it’s Valpo day! Once a booming port, this city is now an artsy, hilly maze of murals, cable cars, churches and boho vibes. With incredible street art around every corner, we’ll explore the UNESCO-listed old town and pass by highlights including the cathedral, Sotomayor Square, and the picturesque harbor area. In the afternoon we’ll make a stop in nearby Viña del Mar, a chill, beachy town where we’ll enjoy the endless palm trees and cool sea breeze.

THE ATACAMA DESERT – PLANET EARTH’S DRIEST

DAY 3 // DESERT VALLEYS
Today we’ll fly into Calama Airport and transfer to San Pedro de Atacama, settling in before heading out for a midday exploration of Moon Valley's surreal, moon-like formations and salt caves. Hike through the dramatic dunes and ridges of Death Valley, feeling the intense aridity and vast silence of this otherworldly site. End the day watching a stunning sunset from a viewpoint in Moon Valley, where the golden light transforms the terrain into a magical panorama.

DAY 4 // HIGHLAND LAGOONS
After breakfast we ll travel southbound to the charming village of Toconao, admiring its historic church built from volcanic stone and browsing local artisan crafts. We will ascend to the breathtaking Lagunas Miscanti and Miñiques, hiking around the azure waters framed by towering volcanoes and spotting wild vicuñas. Descend to Laguna Chaxa in the expansive Salar de Atacama, observing flocks of flamingos wading in the salty shallows. Here we’ll enjoy a picnic lunch, immersing ourselves in the altiplanic beauty.

DAY 5 // GEYSERS AND HOT SPRINGS
Rise early for the trek to El Tatio Geysers, witnessing the powerful steam eruptions and bubbling pools at dawn in this high-altitude geothermal field. Short stop at Machuca village, tasting traditional llama empanadas and exploring the rustic adobe homes and church.
Well-deserved time to relax in the afternoon at Puritama hot springs, soaking in the cascading thermal pools surrounded by canyon greenery.

DAY 6 // PRE-INCAS & DEPARTURE
Quick look at archaeological site of Aldea de Tulor, wandering among the ancient circular ruins that reveal insights into prehistoric desert life, then hike up to Pukará de Quitor, exploring the pre-Inca fortress walls and enjoying panoramic views of the river valley. Time to return to airport for a flight back to Santiago.

DAYS 7 – 9 // EASTER ISLAND – LEGENDS, MOAI & BEACH VIBES
Off we go to one of the most remote places on the planet: Rapa Nui aka Easter Island. After an early morning flight, our guide will greet us with flower necklaces, setting the good vibes for our visit.
Over threer days, expect epic ocean views, sacred rocks, and mysterious legends. Rapa Nui’s undisputed highlight is Ahu Tongariki, the famed ceremonial platform holding 15 moai in a row, glowing in the sunset. A must for Instagram! We’ll also visit the lesser known Ahu Akivi, with seven majestic moai staring out to sea.

An unforgettable sight is Rano Raraku quarry – like a moai factory frozen in time, with nearly 400 statues scattered around like someone hit pause mid-construction. Then we’ll discover the red volcanic rock quarry of Puna Pau, where the moai got their giant red “hair buns”.
Of course we’ll need to get a taste of that island life, so we’ll be making stops at Ovahe and Anakena beaches – one is pink and wild, the other is soft, white, and perfect for doing absolutely nothing.

After getting our fill of this island of stone-faced mystery, we’ll catch an afternoon flight to return to the mainland.

DAY 10 // WINE & WILDERNESS
There’s no better way to conclude our Chilean adventure than with a day that pairs breathtaking nature with world-class wine. As we near the finale, our journey leads us into the majestic Andes Mountains, where the towering cliffs and winding river valleys of Cajón del Maipo create a spectacular natural backdrop.

From the wild beauty of the mountains, we’ll transition to the refined elegance of the Concha y Toro vineyards. Here, we’ll uncover the stories and secrets behind some of South America's most legendary wines, that have put Chile on the global wine map.

DAY 11 // DEPARTURE
Its time to say bye-bye to Chile and head back to airport for a flight back home.

Level of difficulty: Easy - available for everyone. High altitude ahead.
Activities: Trekking, off-roading, sightseeing, cultural immersion.

Accommodation & meals: Accommodation in 3- and 4-star hotels, double sharing. Single room available upon request for an extra cost. Meals excluded.

Cost: TBC

Recommended flights: Turkish Airlines via IST at approx. 5600 AED.

Excluded: Visas, insurance, meals.
Visas: Western passports, Russia and Far East receive free visa upon arrival.
More info here: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Visa_policy_of_Chile

Visa support is not available on this trekkup.

See yah in Rapa Nui x

Trekkup Crew
WhatsApp 050 484 8238 / [info@trekkup.com](docs@trekkup.com)
Find all trekkups at linktr.ee/trekkup

Zanzibar is not your typical tourist spot. On one hand its spread across an endless Maldivian coast, sprawled across white powder sandy beaches, with waters glistening all the shades of blue. While on the other hand you get its capital city Stone Town, where African and Omani cultures merge in a unique fashion. Everywhere life runs slower in the rhythm of tropical island and the shores are covered with beach resorts. Zanzibar steels the hearts from the first views, known from desktop backgrounds and postcards. With perfect beach resorts as our home away from home, we will get deeper inside the island where not many tourists reach to understand this unique fauna, culture and discover beauty of island nature and wildlife. The rhythms of life both on the beach and in the city will make for picture perfect island adventure.

This, however, is of course only the background to what will be a feast for your senses as a unique symphony of colours and sensations await us during the best season while we swim, cycle and explore our way through a chilled-out beach holiday in Zanzibar.

Clip: https://vimeo.com/462576223

Here comes too good to be true, 50 Shades of Blue in a form of an easy and relaxing beach holidays!

Day 1 SNORKELLING ON PARADISE ATOLL
Meeting at DXB Terminal 3 for flydubai flight at 02:30AM. Immigration clearance upon arrival, transfer to paradise inspired lodge at the east cost. We’ll start our trip with world famous snorkeling location around atoll Mnemba. This eye-candy island for red-carpet celebrities is the backdrop, though, for our discovery of marine biodiversity with all the rainbow colors of star fish, sea cucumbers, octopus or shellfish. Later on we'll grab a coffee at famous the Rock and have local fine dining on white sand beach.

Day 2 NUNGWI CYCLING
Wake up to the sounds of birds and waves... After breakfast we move to Nungwi and hop on our bikes to cycle through rural villages, explore Portuguese ruins, and swim in hidden cave’s clear blue waters. We’ll refresh with island grown tropical fruits before heading to turtle reserve where we’ll swim with world’s friendliest turtles! In the afternoon we will sail towards idyllic sunset. In the evening Swahili style outdoors dinner.

Day 3 WILDLIFE SANCTUARY
Today we head to animal sanctuary where we’ll have chance to interact with wild but tame animals! We will make friends and learn the customs of African predators: pumas, cheetahs, lions and others. Despite it may appear extremely dangerous, you ll be able to cuddle them, feed and play with wildest beasts on this planet. We ll have some spare time on our hands today to walk on the beach or do some optional activities, such as ATV ride.

Day 4 CRAB ISLAND
Today we leave east coast behind and head to one of best kept Zanzibar secrets - Coconut Crab Island. Check in to Robinson Crusoe inspired lodge and spend a relaxing day on discovery of life of Tom Hanks in Cast Away. In the evening, together with Wilson, we will go for a jungle walk and spy on Coconut Crabs to learn habits of one of strangest animal that walks on this planet.

DAY 5 THE ROCK & STONE TOWN
Shortly after breakfast we’ll be back to main island for a discovery of Stone Town, the historic capital of the island. We will walk narrow streets, visit local secrets: city rooftops, slaves museum, markets, home of most famous Zanzibari: Freddie Mercury.

DAY 6 DEPARTURE
It will be very hard to leave Zanzibar, but its time to get back to airport and fly home.

Activities:
Snorkeling, swimming, sailing, cycling, wildlife sanctuary, crab island.

Level of difficulty: Easy and relaxing.

Duration: 6 days

Accommodation & meals
Beach resorts, breakfasts. Lunches excluded due to variety and trip dynamics. Our beach resort has the best food on the island!!

Cost: AED 4890 excluding flights until DEC 22. Past this date please inquire about cost and availability.

Excluded:
Lunches, visas, insurance.

See yah in Blue x

Trekkup Crew
Whatsapp 00971 50 4848238 / info@trekkup.com
Find all trekkups at linktr.ee/trekkup

The birthplace of voodoo and pivotal centres of the slave trade for nearly three centuries, Nigeria, Benin, Togo and Ghana have rich and complex histories and fascinating cultural traditions that continue today.

We’ll discover this little known corner of West Africa on an 11-day journey deep into these countries’ northern reaches and along the Gulf of Guinea coast, to the heart of the regions where voodoo is still widely practiced today.

We will wander the fetish markets for relics, sail through stilt villages, and discover the mysteries of ancient practices.

Nigeria’s former capital of Lagos is a sprawling mega-metropolis of an estimated 21 million people, and not only the largest city in Nigeria, but the most populous urban area on the African continent. Spreading inland from the Gulf of Guinea across Lagos Lagoon, the city has it all, from historical sites and beautiful beaches to vibrant culture and nightlife. We’ll discover a thriving art scene and explore the infamous Makoko floating village, an unplanned, impoverished community of stilt homes with the nickname of the 'Venice of Africa'.

In Benin, formerly known as Dahomey, we will get to know the roots of Voodoo beliefs and practices. The country is also famous for its wonderful local craftsmanship and numerous bustling bazaars. We’ll look through the often-surprising assortment of offerings at a fetish market, visit the Python temple, and explore the Slave Route in Ouidah, a place where enslaved peoples were sold and forced to bid farewell to their homeland forever.

With a population of around 20,000, Ganvie is the largest lake village in Africa, standing on stilts in the middle of Lake Nokoue. 500 years later after its founding, the people of Ganvie have developed their own distinctive culture and lifestyle on the lake. Shaky houses, churches, mosques and other structures are built using red ebony wood, which is resistant to rotting and hence ideal for the watery conditions.

Neighboring Togo is a narrow strip of land located to the west of Benin. Another stronghold of Voodoo and animist practices, and a key region of the so-called "Slave Coast" in centuries past, it features picturesque hilltop villages and palm-lined beaches. Togo has suffered under the colonisation of three different nations, resulting in a melting pot of influences that linger to this day.

Here we will have the opportunity to learn about the customs of local communities, from mudbrick castle architecture of the Somba people and traditional ceremonies like the Fire Dance to animist beliefs reflected at shrines and fetish markets. We’ll make our through verdant landscapes and have close encounters with wildlife, visiting the Valley of the Bats and spotting rare butterflies in the green hills.

Ghana, the economic powerhouse of Western Africa, is a place where modernization intertwines with ancient rituals. Home to several very unique traditions, such their elaborately decorated coffins, Ghanians are open and welcoming people, and there will be excellent opportunities here to see the true face of Africa.

From encounters with Voodoo priests and slithering reptiles to immersion in colorful markets and lush jungles, this trip is a deep dive into the culture and landscapes of Benin, Togo and Ghana. Our journey through this little-known region will surely reveal plenty of surprises, leaving you will memories of a lifetime and a few stories to tell!

Take a quick look at what awaits you here: https://vimeo.com/392949560

Let’s go!

Day 1 :: NIG :: Lagos arrival and floating village
Day 2 :: NIG-BEN :: Badagry and border crossing
Day 3 :: BEN :: Amazons, snakes and slave port
Day 4 :: BEN :: Stilt village and ancient palaces
Day 5 :: BEN :: Sacred hills and fetish shrines
Day 6 :: BEN-TOG:: Border crossing, mud castles and Fire Dance
Day 7 :: TOG :: Crafts and Bat Valley
Day 8 :: TOG :: Hills of Kouma Konda to capital Lomé
Day 9 :: TOG-GHA :: Border crossing and Volta Region
Day 10 :: GHA :: Akossombo waterfalls
Day 11 :: GHA :: Accra and fantasy coffins / Departure

Full details available to confirmed RSVPs.

Level of difficulty: Easy
Activities: Sightseeing, walking
Accommodation & meals: Hotels and lodges, double sharing rooms. Meals excluded.

Cost: AED 8,900 excl. flights until JAN 07. Past this date cost will change.

Flights: approx. 3,400 AED
DAY 1 DXB-LOS Ethiopian
DAY 11 ACC-DXB Emirates

Specifically excluded: Meals, visas, single supplement.

Visas:

Nigeria: Evisa or pre-arranged at 300-500 USD
Benin: E-visa 60 USD
Togo: E-visa 40 USD
Ghana: Pre-arranged at 260 USD

Yellow Fever Certificate is mandatory for this trip.

See yah in West Africa x

Trekkup Crew

Whatsapp 0504848238 / info@trekkup.com
Find all trekkups at linktr.ee/trekkup