Trekkup Dubai ✔

Côte d’Ivoire may sound like a French perfume, but it’s actually a compact West African gem packed with incredible things to see.

The French named it Côte d’Ivoire back when the area was a major exporter of elephant tusks, and in the 1980s the government politely but firmly insisted the world stick to the French name in every language— for no more “Ivory Coast” on the letterhead, merci.

Today, Côte d’Ivoire is the undisputed cocoa superpower: about 40% of the world’s chocolate begins its journey here. Add coffee, palm oil, and rubber plantations stretching to the horizon, and you get a country that essentially fuels your morning routine and your dessert cravings.

All that agriculture means the countryside is a deep, endless green; take just a short drive around and it feels as if every hillside is auditioning for a screensaver.

Indeed, when it comes to nature, Côte d’Ivoire is exceptionally blessed: over two million hectares of wooded savannahs, dense equatorial forests, granite plateaus, pristine primary rainforest, mangrove systems, expansive beaches, and vast plantations of cocoa, coffee, and bananas.

Culturally, 60 ethnic groups coexist in Côte d’Ivoire, each with their own language, wild dances and initiation ceremonies, and crafts so beautiful you’ll happily blow your souvenir budget.

Yamoussoukro, the planned political capital, offers a surreal contrast to the kinetic energy of economic center Abidjan, its broad, empty avenues lit by endless rows of streetlights and anchored by the immense Basilica of Our Lady of Peace, the world’s largest church (yes, even larger than St. Peter’s in Rome).

Abidjan, meanwhile, could make most major cities look practically zen, with gleaming skyscrapers, creative chaos, and traffic wilder than Sharjah on a Friday afternoon.

After a few tough decades, Côte d’Ivoire is firmly back on its feet and rolling out the red carpet for visitors again. What was once the wealthiest and most stylish country in West Africa is now eager to remind the world why it’s so special.

So spray on a little of that imaginary perfume and join us for what smells like a great adventure, with hints of cocoa.

Let’s go!

Day 1 // Abidjan

Bienvenue en Cote!
Following arrival and immigration formalities, what better way to kick off our trip than on a sweet note? We’ll head to the upmarket area of Cocody for a visit to Chocoladrome, where its friendly owners will lead us through tastings of homegrown cocoa goodies, from banana laced bars and bubbly "chocolate champagne" to pure cocoa butter.

After, we’ll hit the town and see what else this neighborhood has to offer. We’ll have free time to wind down at any number of stylish restaurants and rooftop shisha bars, indulging in panoramas of Abidjan paired with grilled meats or fresh salads while grooving to Afrobeats.

DAY 2 // Yamoussoukro via Tiassale
This morning we’ll hit the road and head up north, with a stop in Tiassalé, a spot by the Bandama River famous for its hippo population.

Next we head to Yamoussoukro, the country’s administrative capital, whose most famous landmark is unmissable to visitors heading into the city. The massive Basilique Notre-Dame de la Paix looms over the surrounding area, reminiscent of the famed St. Peter's in Rome – except this church is even bigger, holding the Guinness World Record as the largest church in the world.

After we’ve had our fill of grand architecture and stunning stained glass artwork, we will meet the Baoulé people, known for their sophisticated art (particularly masks and sculptures), and their rich culture linked to ancestors and rituals. We will experience the lively, UNESCO-listed Goli mask dance, with dancers in elaborate masks and outfits pulling off moves the rest of us can try to imitate…though likely at the expense of our dignity. After, we’ll witness master artisans weaving the famed Baoulé cloth, transforming humble cotton into dazzling colors and patterns.

DAY 3 // Man
Today we head west to Man, which welcomes visitors with an impressive sight: eighteen mountains encircle the town, providing a stunning backdrop in every direction. In addition to its natural surroundings, this is a lively center of trade, with rice, cassava, livestock and more changing hands in Man’s markets.

We’ll start with a short hike, crossing a swaying vine bridge and navigating a bamboo forest to make our way to a beautiful waterfall. Late in the afternoon, we’ll continue on to a Yacouba village, where stilt dancers will tower above us with the nonchalance of people who have seemingly never heard of gravity.

DAY 4 // Man
Today we start with a short drive to the trailhead of Mont Tonkpi, at 1,227m. From there, we hit the trail, and once at the top we’ll be rewarded with views covering the city of Man, the rock formation La Dent de Man, and the chain of eighteen mountains. We’ll ascend the 15-storey observation tower, built in 1965 next to a year-round spring.
After returning to the lowlands, we continue to the Sacred Forest of Gbêpleu, guarded by the Dan community, where ritual practices are still performed and masked figures may appear at any time – to the extent photography is not permitted inside the forest.

Day 5 // San Pedro ala plage
It is time to wave the Man goodbye and head south on road that threads through coffee and cocoa country, with a brief pause in Soubré for its lively market and perhaps a plate of freshly grilled fish.

Named after Saint Peter by early Portuguese mariners who adapted the Spanish “San Pedro” into the French “San-Pédro,” the city now reigns as the world’s largest cocoa exporting port, its docks alive with the rhythm of loading ships and the scent of roasted beans drifting on the breeze.

Late afternoon we’ll spend in San Pedro ala plage, where golden sand meets your “when was the last time I swam in Atlantic?” Time for fiery orange at sunset and grand welcome to the coast.

DAY 6 // Grand-Béréby
Just a short distance away is Grand-Béréby, where a traditional wooden pirogue boat awaits to take us on a serene journey along the Néro River through mangroves alive with monkeys. After, we’ll wander the timeless fishermen’s quarter: think painted pirogues resting on the sand, fishermen hauling nets and coiling ropes, and fish grilling over coconut husk fires.

Time slows down in fishermen’s quarter: painted pirogues rest sleeping on the sand, fishermen coil ropes, barracuda turn golden over coconut husks. A simple lobster dinner on a beachfront, at a humble table lit by candles and the first stars.

As night deepens, although the time is measured by tides, its time to turn the constellations. Nighttime belongs to turtles. Watch your step, the leatherback nests here.

Day 7 // Grand Bassam
After a lazy morning, we drive to San-Pédro for a short domestic flight back to Abidjan. Next, we head east to the country’s first capital, Grand-Bassam, where endless palm-lined beaches compete with the UNESCO-listed colonial town for the “best views” award. Cooled by the Atlantic breeze, we’ll explore the city, a living witness to the early ivory and cocoa trades.

Day 8 // Abidjan
Wake up to the call of sandals for a last walk on golden sands.
Its time to get back home and scream: Au revoir Cote, see you soon!

Level of difficulty: Easy
Activities: Trekking, swimming, boating, cultural immersion, encounter of wildlife.
Accommodation & meals: Hotels and lodges - single rooms.
Meals excluded.

Cost: 6,900 AED excl. flights until JUNE 15th.

Flights:
Excluded from trip budget.
Trip is based on Emirates schedule from DXB: DAY 1 EK-787 - DAY 8 EK-788.

Specifically excluded: Meals, visas.

The Balkans spans across the few countries, that boast amazing nature, mountains, azure coastline and historic towns. Scattered along the warm coast of eastern Adriatic sea, distance to Italy or Greece is never far here, thus you ll find a kaleidoscope of influences from art to food with a passion for sea facing, stone built architecture.

Don’t say it loud but Montenegro often claims the jewel of the crown, for the most spectacular diversity of this part of Europe. Moreover, the region is still undiscovered by mass tourism and remains authentic in its beauty.

What’s also interesting, out of all Balkan states, it was only Montenegro that was able to keep its head above Turkish tide that engulfed Balkans for 400 years, from 14th century onwards. At the end of World War I, Montenegro was incorporated into Serbia. Shortly after, during WW2, the country was given the republic status within Yugoslavia; after the break up of Yugoslavia, Montenegro remained in federation with Serbia until 2006, when finally became independent country.

Montenegrins have great cuisine, typical of the Mediterranean. Grilled meat dishes are very famous: pljeskavica and cevapcici. Here the philosophical question always returns: do people eat to live, or do they live to eat? Excellent olives, olive oil, honey proudly compete with local cheese and seafood.

We have packed all thrills and tranquility Montenegro has on offer – from picture-perfect coastline to towering mountains through deep canyons, we will not miss any of spectacular gems in the crown. Lets go!

DAY 1 - KOTOR
After arrival we will start with Kotor, fortified beauty of Montenegro centerpiece - a seaside spot full of narrow streets and hidden corners. Kotor bay is surrounded by the only fjord in southern Europe similar to the Norwegian one. Majestic, mountains covered with palm trees, cordially invite here to visit the interior, and so we will head to Durmitor range next.

DAY 2 – DURMITOR + HIGHEST PEAK OF MONTENEGRO BOBOTOV KUK
Famous for dramatically rugged rocks and glacier lakes, the mountain range is naturally decorated with more than 50 peaks above 2000m. We will stand on the highest - Bobotov Kuk (2,523m), taken by 6 hrs rather moderate trail with 600m elevation gain. It’s the roof of Montenegro, that will give you views for uttermost hidden beauties with Bosnia to your left, Albania in the distance to your right and the whole of Montenegro laid out before you.

Do note hiking Bobotov Kuk depends on weather conditions.

DAY 3 - TARA
From here, we head on to Tara Canyon, named second deepest in the world. While the river itself stretches some 150km, the best views are right by Djurdjevic Bridge, built originally 1937-1940, only to be mostly destroyed just years later to stop the advance of the Italians during WWII. Further on, we head to Biogradska Gora, one of Europe's last primeval forests, where the trees are 500 years old. Lake Biograd, a large glacial lake in the middle of the park, offers the mirror surface of unspoilt, surrounding nature.

DAY 4 – MRTVICA CANYON
Further on we head to Mrtvica Canyon, famous for its spectacular diversity: bridges, clear waters with trout, rushing white water that is part rapids and part waterfalls.

DAY 5 – SKADARSKO LAKE
Our visit to Montenegro would not be completed without Skadarsko Lake and visit in local winery, which we will not hesitate on the way to airport.

Level: Moderate DAY 2, available for fit beginners.
Activities: trekking (up to 6hrs), swimming, boating, sightseeing.
Duration: 5 days
Accommodation & meals: hotels and guesthouses on the trek. Breakfasts and packed lunches included. Dinners excluded due to variety.

Cost: 4,050 AED excl. flights. Cost valid until JULY 24th.
Flights: direct flydubai.

Located in the Horn of Africa, Somalia is one the least developed and stable countries in the world. For a long time now, it struggles with an unfriendly climate and civil war but recently, due to global warming, the waves of droughts and floods are even bigger than before.
Among the most Godforsaken places on this planet, Mogadishu is way up there. Known as the capital city of the “failed state” of Somalia, it has been plagued by pirates, civil war and sectarian violence for years. So, it’s no wonder that it is the least annually visited tourist destination, worldwide. And if it wasn’t for the brave journalists who venture into these parts, the world wouldn’t actually know the extent of the volatility taking place.

The constant presence of rickshaws on the rough roads creates a somewhat perfect blend of Sudan and Bangladesh.
So yes, although not exactly a coveted holiday destination, visits are possible – and worth it – for the most daring of travelers. Most of the buildings that line the streets of Mogadishu, some would say, look like swiss cheese because of the sheer amount of bullet holes in them. While shop signage is literally spray painted on, graffiti style. And the multi-coloured, cardboard-shaped facades almost symbolically emphasize the fragility of the reconstruction of Somalia, as the seeds of commercialisation make an appearance on a shot-up canvas.
Somaliland’s status may be unofficial, but its hidden gems are officially amazing! Having declared independence from Somalia in 1991 but not yet recognized, it’s a country that’s not technically a country. For over three decades, Somaliland has now established many embassies worldwide, but remains unrecognized by the UN.

Hargeisa, the capital of a non-existent state, still makes an impression. It doesn't have spectacular monuments, but it has its own ambience. The buildings are mostly white, looking like they have been scorched by the sun, as the temperature here reaches up to forty degrees in the summer.
With curiosities around every corner, there are many tales to tell here: from friendly bustling camel markets to money exchanges with towers of bills, it’s surely one of Africa’s most unique destinations.
The cave paintings of Laas Geel (meaning “Well Camel”) spread over 10 alcoves are some of the most vivid rock arts in all of Africa. With depictions of horned cattle in ceremonial robes accompanied by their human herders with animals as varied as giraffes and even a domesticated dog. It’s estimated that these paintings originate nearly 20,000 years ago!

From the jaw-dropping wonders of Las Geel, to fish-heavy Mogadishu, horn of Africa holds many surprises, waiting for your curiosity to be unveiled!

Let’s go!!!

Day 1 // Somaliland :: Hargeisa
Meeting at DXB T2 at 2am for a direct flight to Hargeisa. After arrival and immigration, transfer to hotel for a quick rest before heading into town for a walking tour of central market, war memorial, and a stop at livestock exchange for those who want to purchase a goat or a camel. Afterwards we’ll head to dinner at restaurant run by Yemeni refugees. We’ll have a chai with the locals before heading back to hotel.

Day 2 // Somaliland :: Laas Geel + Berbera
After breakfast drive to the caves and rock arts of Las Geel. We’ll explore the colourful paintings estimated to be nearly 20,000 years old and the second oldest in all of Africa! Continue to Berbera and Batalale beach. Return to Hargeisa.

Day 3 // Somalia :: Mogadishu
Short flight to Mogadishu, immigration clearance and check in to the hotel in Green Zone. After lunch we ll head to the roof of Sahafi hotel for a view of metropolis. From here we ll head for Makka Almukarama Road, one of the busiest street followed by city highlihgts: Daljirka Dahsoon and city monumnets. Short break for coffee and head to Lido beach for a boat trip and interaction with local or two. Back to Green Zone for overnight.

Day 4 // Somalia :: Mogadishu
Today we start with fish market for some day catch of sharks, tune and perhaps a turtle. Follow to Mogadishu lighthouse and old port with Ottoman buildings, where fisherman unload the tuna on their backs. Followed by Shanghai old city, we will make a stop at Bakara market, Black Hawk Down site for a selfie with remaining tank. Quick look at camel market, as Somalia is a home to 20% of worldwide population of 35m.

Day 5 // Departure
In the morning return to airport for a flight back home. Bye, bye Horn of Africa!

Activity: sightseeing, short hiking, boating, cultural immersion.
Accommodation and meals: 4* hotels, single rooms. Meals excluded.

Cost: 9,700 AED all incl. flights and visas, until AUG 01.
Past this date cost will change.

Specifically excluded: visa on arrival fees in Somaliland ~60 USD, evisa Somalia ~64 USD, restaurant meals, insurance, photography fees if any.

Yellow Fever Certificate is mandatory for this trip.

See yah in Horn of Africa x
Trekkup Crew

Join us and experience one of the most magical – and least visited – places in Asia, the meeting point of the world’s three highest mountain ranges: the Karakoram, Himalayas and Hindu Kush. We will travel along the Indus River on the legendary Karakoram Highway, with its deep gorges and dramatic views. As we trek to the base camp of 9th highest mountain of the world, we’ll make our way through remote valleys and pass by glaciers flowing down from the soaring peaks of these mystical mountain ranges.

Deep in the reaches of Pakistan’s Fairy Meadows National Park is a pristine valley at the foot of the looming Nanga Parbat, known as the meeting place of fairies. Surrounded by thick alpine forest, home to brown bears and musk deer, the area provides stunning views of the 8,125 meter mountain, and serves as a starting point for those looking to climb its heights.

It is here that we’ll find the western end of the Himalayan range, intersecting with both the Karakoram and Hindu Kush. The Raikot face of Nanga Parbat offers an excellent trek in this mighty playground of mountaineers. If you don’t fancy a hike, no problem – those who prefer a quiet, relaxing day can stay at the camp and soak in those mesmerizing views.

Let’s go!

Day 1 :: AUG 05 / Departure

Meeting at DXB Terminal 1 at 16.00 for a direct flight to Islamabad at 18.20. Arrival, immigration clearance, overnight in hotel.

Day 2 :: AUG 06 / Skardu – Raikot – Fairy

We’ll take an early morning domestic flight to Skardu and drive to Raikot, passing by the confluence of the Indus and Gilgit rivers near to the townships of Juglot and Bunji. This place marks the meeting point of the three mountain ranges: the Hindu Kush, the Himalayas, and the Karakoram.

At Raikot we’ll change our transport to 4WDs, and after a one-hour drive we will arrive at Tattu. This small village is inhabited by Chilasis, speakers of the local Shina language which, until recently, had no written form.

Here we will meet our team and start the trek. We’ll ascend gradually, walking through the dry lunar landscape of this collision point of rocky mountain ranges. Soon we’ll enter the narrow, barren gorge of the Tato River, the track clinging high on its left bank. Passing through forests of green juniper and pine trees, we will arrive at the Fairy Meadows, staying overnight here in huts.

DAY 3 :: AUG 07 / Trek to Base Camp of Nanga Parbat (~ 4000m / 7-8 hours)

Today we will follow the trail through a pine-covered valley, with the Raikot glacier appearing to our left and the summit of Nanga Parbat straight ahead. After about two hours we’ll traverse a section of rocks and debris deposited by the glacier, emerging into a meadow of Himalayan wildflowers and eventually making our way to the old Nanga Parbat base camp. Here we’ll enjoy a much-deserved lunch at 4,000 meters, taking in the spectacular views of Nanga Parbat and its surrounding peaks. Later we’ll head back to our camp at Fairy Meadows.

Day 4 :: AUG 08 / Descent to Tattu – Raikot - Skardu

Today we’ll make the fairly easy two-hour descent from Fairy Meadows along the Tattu River. When we reach Tattu we’ll hop into our 4WDs and once again cross the Indus, heading back over the Raikot bridge on Karakorum Highway to our destination of Sardu, where we’ll spend the night.

DAY 5 :: AUG 09 / Sightseeing Islamabad

Depending on the conditions, we’ll either take a domestic flight or make the drive back to Islamabad, passing a few interesting locations along the way. We’ll take a short sightseeing tour of the capital followed by a dinner of delicious Pakistani cuisine.

Time to say bye-bye to Pakistan and the fairies! Head out to airport for a night flight to Dubai. Back home 02:30AM.

Grade: Moderate, available for fit beginners.
Activity: Trekking, sightseeing
Accommodation/meals: Hotels, lodges, double sharing. Meals included except meals on transfers.

Cost: 5250 AED incl. international and domestic flights, until AUG 01. Past this date please inquire about cost and availability.

• Past the deadline, availability and cost of flights cannot be guaranteed.
• Domestic flights are subject to weather conditions and availability.

Specifically excluded:

• Visa