Trekkup Dubai ✔

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 9,100 excl. flights until NOV 23rd. 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.

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

Across the West and East, rich and poor, bold urban life and lush forest wilderness, chimpanzees, waterfalls, and indigenous peoples, the equatorial line in Africa draws an interesting border not only across climate zones but also the history, culture and fate of its inhabitants.

This time, we invite you to discover some of the least travelled destinations, known for the greatest contrasts on the planet. Very rich in content, these three countries together will give you insight into the past, present, and future of the continent and their people, living often some of the toughest lives on the planet.

Let’s go!

CAR
In the heart of the African continent lies the Central African Republic, still known to some as the Empire of Central Africa, which suffered under a corrupt government for decades. However, the situation is gradually changing, making the country increasingly safer and attractive on a travel map.

Bangui, the capital of the CAR, and biggest city with population of 400,000 is one of the bustling centres of the region. The most important lifeline of Bangui is the Ubangi River, the second largest tributary of the Congo.

Although houses are made here of unfired bricks, with roofs covered in metal (in wealthier areas) or thatch (in villages), dominate the country's architecture, capital influences of French architecture are still visible - wide boulevards and avenues almost all lead to the Place de la Republique…

Cameroon
The cities of Cameroon are a blend of many African cultures, as well as having both a strong French and British influence, being at the melting pot of Central Africa. The diversity of this country, both people and geology of active volcanoes, white-sandy beaches, lush rainforests and peculiar rock formations, makes for stunning scenery and unique culture in the Soul of Africa!

Chimpanzees live here in groups on two separate islands along the Sanage River, which can only be accessed by boat. You will have the opportunity to interact with these wonderful and protected mammals, so close to us genetically you’ll feel like you’re visiting family! Native to the forests and savannas of Africa and covered in coarse black hair but with bare face, fingers and toes, the similarities to our own species are remarkable.

Bakola pygmies split their time between village and forest, continuing to face struggle with persecution in the city and loss of territory in the forest. Both women and men hunt every day using traditional nets and spears, with the main food source being the blue duiker, a forest antelope. We will have most unique opportunity to meet these amazing people and witness their way of life...

Equatorial Guinea
Equatorial Guinea has a fascinating hand-changing colonial history, having been under Portuguese rule for 300 years before becoming a Spanish possession in 1778. The islands of Bioko and Annobon were initially colonized by the Portuguese, who established plantations and introduced Angolan inhabitants. After a period of British influence, Spain solidified control over the islands but faced resistance from the local Bubi and Fang populations, who opposed forced labor on plantations. The struggle for independence gained momentum during World War II, culminating in the declaration of independence in 1968, following a series of reforms and increased attention from Spain.

Today it is a perfect place to relax, away from the crowds of tourists. This lesser-known country, located in the heart of West Africa, offers pristine beaches, dense rainforests, and unique nature. Simply perfect destination for those seeking to escape the ordinary and immerse themselves in a completely new world.

Let’s go!
Day 1 // CAR :: Bangui
Day 2 // CAR :: Boali waterfalls
Day 3 // CAR :: Pygmies
Day 4 // Cameroon :: Duala
Day 5 // Cameroon :: Chimpanzee Sanctuary
Day 6 // Cameroon :: Waterfall and ocean
Day 7 // Equatorial Guinea :: Malabo
Day 8 // EG :: Bioko East Coast
Day 9 // EG :: Bioko West Coast
Day 10 // Departure

All details available to confirmed RSVPs.

Level of Difficulty: Easy, raw Africa with limited facilities at places.
Duration: 10 days, Friday to Sunday.
Activities: Trekking, boating, canoeing, swimming, sightseeing, wildlife and indigenous tribes encounter.
Rooms: African upmarket standards – double sharing, single at extra cost subject of availability.
Meals: Restaurant meals excluded. Breakfasts included.

COST: 20,450 incl. flights until JAN 01. Past this date cost will change.

Requirements: Yellow Fever Vaccination certificate, malaria prophylactics compulsory.

Visas:
CAR: Pre-arranged visa 120 EUR
Cameroon: E-visa 153 EUR
EG: E-visa 75 USD

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

See yah in Equatorial Africa x

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

Hop on board rail journey of a lifetime on longest train in the world for TREKKUP to Mauritania. Atop heaps of iron ore and below the stars we journey most daring way and surely you will earn star status as true adventure seeker!

Journey begins in Nouakchott along the Atlantic Ocean before our 4x4 caravan heads into the vast dunes of the Sahara. Most attractive Moorish oasis town of Chinguetti along the “coast” of the great Saharan sand ocean with labyrinthine lanes along stone mosques and libraries. We’ll trade wares and ride camels along ancient trade routes and watch sunsets on oceans of sand.

Highlight of our journey will be hopping on board train in Choum along the eastern corner of Western Sahara. We’ll pack our provisions and warm blankets for the night before climbing on board the longest train in the world at nearly 3 kilometres of rail cars packed with iron ore. As it lumbers through the desert sands we’ll sit atop heaps of ore for comfy night under stars and truly unforgettable experience!

With 7th Century oasis villages, endless golden sand dunes, and most unique rail journey in Western Africa, this trip will make you true traveller to places unknown.

This time we invite you to join us for an extended journey to check out on enigmatic Western Sahara, safe but disputed territory between Morocco and self-proclaimed Sahrawi Arab Democratic Republic.

Let's go!!

Day 00 // NOV 28 // Departure
Meeting at 1pm at DXB T1 for Royal Air Maroc to Casablanca at 15:15-20:55.

Alternatively, meeting at Casablanca airport at 21.45, for connecting flight to Nouakchott, 23.50-01.45.

Day 01 // NOV 29 // Noaukchott
Arrival and visa formalities before transfer to hotel in Nouakchott.
After breakfast and first look at city, obtain provisions and begin journey through sand swept vistas, caravan routes and sand dunes on the way to Chinguetti. Arrival late afternoon and catch the sunset atop the dunes overlooking Tenewchert Oasis before returning to hotel for dinner and rest.

Day 02 // NOV 30 // Tergit Oasis / Chinguetti
Our first stop will be the ancient library and ruins of Chinguetti. We’ll meet the local librarian for poetry and stories before continuing to Ouadane to wander the many hidden corners of this 7th century city on a hill. Along the way we’ll pop out to see the great and mysterious African Eye, visible from space and a true geological oddity! Dinner and night in hotel.

DAY 03 // DEC 01 // Africa Eye / Ouadane

Day 04 // DEC 02// Art Rock / Pass of Amogjar / Azoughi

Day 05 // DEC 03 // Night on the Wagons
After quick breakfast we head to the mud-hut town of Choum where our train journey begins. With our blankets and provisions ready we’ll hop aboard the longest train in the world, atop the iron ore and under the stars we sleep.

Day 06 // DEC 04 // Train Arrives in Nouadhibou
After hopping off the train, hop on 4x4s for quick ride around town and absorb the amazing journey before heading to hotel to wash off the dust. After lunch we’ll check out from Mauritania and cross the border to Western Sahara or, in case of any train delays (which are nothing new), we’ll spend a night in Nouadhibou.

Day 07 // DEC 05 // Nouadhibou (WESTERN SAHARA)
Drive across the plains of Sahara to Dakhla. Visit city and surrounding dunes: Lasarka peninsula, old lighthouse, ostrich park and few other curiosities.

Day 08 // DEC 06 // Dakhla (WESTERN SAHARA)
In the morning return flight to Casablanca, VIL-CMN DEC 06 11:45-13:45 and further back home.

Level of Difficulty:
Easy with limited facilities ahead. Open train ride is somewhat rough experience.

Activities:
Light trekking, off-roading, sightseeing, open-wagon riding.

Duration: 8 days.

Accommodation & Meals: Basic hotels and meals included, double sharing.

Cost: 7250 AED excluding flights, until NOV 23.

Flights on Royal Air Maroc at approx. 3500 AED are excluded from trip budget:

DXB-NKC NOV 28 15:15 - 01:45 (+1)
VIL-DXB DEC 06 11:45 - 01:40 (+1)

Visa:
Mauritania: e-visa
UAE residents get visa on arrival to Morocco.

See yah in Mauritania x

Trekkup Crew
Whatsapp 050 4848238 / info@trekkup.com

Raja Ampat, which literally translates to “Four Kings”, comprises of four main island groups around Birds Head Peninsula of West Papua, Indonesia.

Truly one of the last hidden paradises on the planet, secluded far at the corner of Papua – the second biggest island in the world.

Scattered in hundreds of jungle-covered islets, Raja Ampat is known for its beaches and coral reefs, uber-rich with marine life. Raja Ampat is the place where you can enjoy simple life with daily routines. The most beautiful and breath-taking sunset is the natural phenomenon which you can watch every evening.

Life on the islands is deliciously slow and sleepy.

Most islands have no motorized vehicles, just sandy footpaths between the colorful wooden houses. The locals are welcoming and ready to smile all the time. Kids will follow your every single step- they are very curious about foreign travelers.

Trekkup will now give you a chance to chill and spend a few days in tropical idyll.

Lets go!

Day 0 // NOV 28
Meeting at CGK domestic airport at 22.00hrs for a direct flight to Sorong at 00.30 (on NOV 29).

Day 1 // NOV 29 :: SORONG
Hop on the speed boat to Selpele. Check in and rest. Explore island past lunch, free time.

Day 2 // NOV 30 :: WAYAG
Today we head off to Wayag Islands, our destinations are 2 spectacular panoramic viewing points, set about 1hr away. Next we will stop by the shark point, where many sharks hang out by the shore.

Day 3 // DEC 01 :: PIYANEMO
We will head towards Piyanemo, where we will explore several unique locations. it will take us about 2 hrs to rech first spot. Stop over at Rufas Island, followed by Fam Wall and Arborek for lunch. Here we will meet locals and sneak on their daily lives. Before we head back, we will check out the Manta Point to see if we are lucky to see and swim with the Manta Rays.

Day 4 // DEC 02 :: SAWANDAREK - PASIR TIMBUL
Today is a full snorkelling day! We expect great visibility snorkelling at Sauwandarek or Yenbuba. Fish are abundant here! From there, we will stop at famous Pasir Timbul, a long sand bar in the middle of nowhere. End the day at Friwen Beach or Mioskon for yet another powder white sandy beach.

Day 5 // DEC 03 :: KALIBIRU & BIRDS OF PARADISE
We start with the car ride to Kalibiru (Blue River), take a long boat and hike across jungle crossing several streams. We will reach the blue color river in the middle of the jungle with birds chirping everywhere. After lunch we head to habitat of endemic Papuan birds, particularly Red Paradise. We will pass by Waigeo, with another panoramic view of Raja.

Day 6 // DEC 04 :: BATANTA
We will need to wake up early as we will be heading to Batanta (about 2 hours journey) to find Dugong, the marine mammal usually appears in the morning for feeding on the seagrasses. Breakfast will be to-go in a meal box. If we were lucky, we would get to see it while snorkeling. After spotting Dugongs, we will put on our trekking shoes and hit the jungle trail for some 45 mins to Batanta Waterfalls. Today we stay on Batanta.

DAY 7 // DEC 05 :: MISOOL
The scenery in Misool is quite different from what we see in Waigeo and Batanta. Over here, there are many caves, and although the underwater life here may not be as rich as in the northern part of Raja Ampat, it is still breathtaking! We will spend time at Gamfit and Yefit before heading to our homestay on the island. We stay in Misool for two nights.

Day 8 // DEC 06 :: MISOOL
Today you will quickly understand how unique Misool is! There are a few places that we are going to explore for its breathtaking sceneries: love shape Lagoon, Karawapop and we ll be swimming in the stingless jellyfish lake!

Day 9 // DEC 07 :: SORONG
After breakfast, get ready to check out. We will head back to Sorong. Free time at leisure.

Day 10 // DEC 08 :: Departure
Breakfast, check out and drop off at the airport. Bye bye Papua…..

Level of difficulty: Easy. This is a travel to the area with limited facilities.

Activities: Chilling, swimming, snorkeling, jungle trekking. Optional diving.

Cost: AED 9390 excl. international flights to Jakarta. Domestic flights included. Cost valid until NOV 24th.

Recommended international flights: NOV 28 EK356 + DEC 08 EK357 at AED 3,470.

Trip ends / starts: Jakarta domestic airport (CGK).

DAY 1: CGK-SOQ 00:30-06:35
DAY 10: SOQ-CGK 11:05-13:00

Accommo & meals: Included – 3 nights in resort, 5 nights in homestay, 1 night in hotel; double sharing rooms. All meals included, except meals on transfers.

See yah in Raja x

Trekkup Crew
Whatsapp 050 4848238 / info@trekkup.com
Find all trekkups at linktr.ee/trekkup