What are our hiking and trekking tours really like? We’ve got answers.

March 2, 2021

Demanding treks, bracing hikes and pleasant strolls are dotted all over our planet — you just need to know where to find them. And we sure do! On the more challenging side, Kilimanjaro, Everest Base Camp, Nepal, Patagonia, and the Inca Trail are waiting to test you and your boots. We’re proud of our successful ascents with over 92% of our travellers making it to the top of Kili depending on the route. It’s also worth noting that our CEOs (Chief Experience Officers) and local guides make the journey as memorable as the summit.

And if you’re not into big climbs, don’t sweat it. We’ve got loads of leisurely walks and iconic treks to share with you too. Read on for answers to our most frequently asked questions and a few suggestions for lower-impact active tours.

Will the altitude affect me?
In the higher altitudes, the air is thinner than you normally find in the atmosphere at sea level, where most of us live. Although everyone experiences altitude differently and to varying degrees, slow and steady is always the order of the day. Give yourself more time to acclimatize to high-altitude environments so your climb feels easier on your mind and body.

tours like this Everest Base Camp trek include time to acclimate along the way
tours like this Everest Base Camp trek include time to acclimate along the way

What will we eat?
You need lots of energy to get going each day on big climbs so our cooks make sure there’s plenty of healthy food on hand. Our team of porters carries all of the supplies where necessary, including fresh produce. Meals are a mix of local and international cuisine, and while special requests can almost always be accommodated, it’s a good idea to let us know before your tour.

Will I have to share my accommodation?
Unless you book the “My Own Room/Tent” option, you’ll be bunking with someone else. Space on the mountains and trails is at a premium, so be prepared to share your lodgings with trekkers not travelling with your group and possibly members of the opposite sex. Mountain accommodations usually feature shared toilets and washing facilities.

life-changing climbs like Kilimanjaro bring you closer to nature and fellow travellers
life-changing climbs like Kilimanjaro bring you closer to nature and fellow travellers

Where will we sleep?
It depends! Some treks involve full-service camping experiences where all of the equipment is provided, including sleeping mats (all you need to bring is your sleeping bag and pillow). Tents are always high quality and vary according to the specific environmental conditions of your chosen trek. Other treks involve mountain huts with single beds.

Who carries the gear?
On the majority of our trips, our expert staff carries all of the supplies and equipment (including food for hearty, delicious meals). All you have to do is carry your own stuff, stay hydrated, and focus on putting one foot in front of the other. On some of the tougher hikes, you’ll need to carry your gear for some periods, but the views and surroundings are worth it.

pack light but right so you can quickly adjust to changing weather and temps
pack light but right so you can quickly adjust to changing weather and temps

What else will we do?
Few experiences open up the heart, lungs, and mind quite like hiking in a new place. When you go with us, you won’t just climb the mountain; you’ll meet the people who live there and come away with a greater sense of alpine life. On several of our treks, there are free days so you can experience the best of the local culture. There's more to most places than just the scenery!

Who’s leading the way?
Our guides, sherpas and porters have all hiked their respective hills for years, and they’re well-versed in the tricks you need to master them. They’ll help you with your pack, keep you motivated, and coax you through the rougher spots with care and compassion.

I’ve never trekked before. Is that a problem?
You don’t have to be an elite endurance athlete, just someone who’s in good, healthy shape. Many of our Active itineraries are built for the first-time active traveller and offer a more relaxed experience. If you’re unsure whether a trek is right for you, just ask and we’ll help you figure it out.

ready for the high-altitude hike over Dead Woman's Pass on the Inca Trail... or not?
ready for the high-altitude hike over Dead Woman's Pass on the Inca Trail... or not?

I’m looking for more leisurely hikes. What do you suggest?
All of our tours are given a Physical rating from an easy 1 to a challenging 5. If you’re not looking to scale Everest just yet, look for tours in the average 3 range that are geared to most fitness levels.

Here are a few:

Hiking the Azores
Hiking Cyprus: Kyrenia Coast
Hiking Crete: Gorges & Coastal Walks
Walking Piedmont and the Barolo Wine Region
Hiking the Canary Islands: Tenerife, Anaga, and Beyond


Getting There

Ready to get your heart pumping and mind blown on an active adventure? Check out our full range of Active Travel tours.

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