Walks Worldwide 2016/17 Brochure

WALKS

WORLDWIDE the trekking & walking specialists

Small Groups | Self-Guided | Private Guided

67

WELCOME...

It is such a privilege to work in a travel company which

Go walking with the bears of Slovakia

has such high standards across the globe and such a passionate team of walking specialists here at home.

Walks Worldwide has been operating trekking and walking holidays for nearly twenty years now and during that time we have continuously evolved and improved the itineraries, range and types of walking holidays on offer. We are particularly proud this year to have been commended as one of the UK’s Top Tour Operators (see below); we were voted above 500 other travel companies and placed number six in the UK with a score of 98% (higher than any other UK walking company).

Over the years, due to demand, we’ve expanded the range and variety of walks offered. Self-Guided holidays provide an independent and flexible style of walking, offering not only a chance to walk at your own pace, but also to choose your departure date (or day of the week) so you can take advantage of lower flight prices.

Many of our regular walkers love the company and camaraderie of travelling in a small group and I’m happy to report that we now operate more walking groups than at any other time in our history. If you want to have a guide, but don’t want to join a group, then look out for our Private Guided walks and contact us for a quotation and itinerary.

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Explore the varied landscapes of the Atlas Mountains

So please enjoy flicking through the pages of this brochure and rest assured that once you contact us our walking specialists will be happy to provide you with up-to-date availability, a quotation or simply advice about choosing a trip that’s right for you.

Happy travels!

Mark Wright Managing Director ‘Highly Commended Finalist’ for top tour operator award We are delighted to have been awarded as a ‘Highly Commended Finalist’ for Top Tour Operator as voted for by the readers of the national travel magazine, Wanderlust.

We’d like to thank all of our loyal customers for taking the time to vote for us.

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Visit our website walksworldwide.com

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Trek to Everest Base Camp

49

Follow the Salkantay trail to Machu Picchu

CONTENTS introduction Why Walks Worldwide? 4 Walk your way... 6 Where in the world? 8

ASIA Kyrgyzstan 11 Nepal 12 India 19 Sri Lanka 23 Myanmar 24 Vietnam 25 China 27

Africa & the middle east Morocco 29 Jordan 34 Ethiopia 35 Tanzania 36 South Africa 41

latin america Colombia 43 Costa Rica 44 Peru 47 Chile 50

BOOK WITH CONFIDENCE For your peace of mind we provide full financial protection for your money and operate with licences and bonding through ATOL, ABTA and ABTOT. air tour operators License (atol) The flights shown are ATOL protected by the Civil Aviation Authority. Our ATOL number is ATOL 10186. ATOL protection extends primarily to customers who book and pay in the United Kingdom. For further information please visit their website www.caa.co.uk. association of british travel agents (abta) We are a member of ABTA which means you have the benefit of ABTA’s assistance and Code of Conduct. association of bonded travel organisers trust (abtot) The Association of Bonded Travel Organisers Trust Limited (ABTOT) provides financial protection under the Package Travel, Package Holidays and Package Tours Regulations 1992 for Walks Worldwide (part of Chameleon Worldwide Travel Limited), and in the event of their insolvency, protection is provided for the following: 1. non-flight packages commencing in and returning to the UK; 2. non-flight packages commencing and returning to a country other than the UK; and 3. flight inclusive packages that commence outside of the UK, which are sold to customers outside of the UK. 1, 2 and 3 provide for a refund in the event you have not yet travelled. 1 and 3 provide for repatriation. Please note that bookings made outside the UK are only protected by ABTOT when purchased directly with Walks Worldwide.

north & west europe Austria 53 Germany 56 Finland 59 France 62 Camino de Santiago 64

Eastern europe Slovakia Slovenia Croatia Albania Bulgaria Romania Georgia Armenia

67 69 70 71 75 76 78 79

SOUTHERN europe & THE MEDITERRANEAN Cyprus 81 Turkey 83 Spain 86 Corsica 91 Corfu 93 Italy 94

further information No. 5333

Essential Information 96 Booking Conditions 98 Escape On Foot Today 99

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WHY WALKS WORLDWIDE? Walks Worldwide specialise in walking and trekking holidays to most of the world’s great trekking destinations. You can join small group guided treks, be independent and flexible on a self-guided walking holiday, or enjoy your own privately guided walk which can be tailor-made especially for you.

Value for money Walks Worldwide brings you great walking experiences offering fantastic value for money. We work very hard to bring you affordable and competitively priced trips which don’t cut corners.

Value for money doesn’t mean ‘cheap’ though. Our trekking adventures and walking holidays allow your money to go much further. We work collaboratively with the contacts we’ve built up around the world during the last twenty years to find ways of adding extra value for you.

dedicated walking specialists The Walks Worldwide team is made up of some of the most experienced people in the field of trekking and travel, and over the last twenty years we’ve earned our reputation for providing amazing trekking and walking adventures to exciting destinations around the world.

We are passionate global trekkers and world travellers ourselves – our holidays are created FOR walking and trekking enthusiasts BY walking and trekking enthusiasts – so we’re able to provide the best possible advice and practical assistance when helping you to plan your trip.

Our professional team of travel experts based in Hampshire are dedicated to providing a friendly, personal service.

And although we’re always on the look-out for opportunities to improve value for money, we don’t necessarily choose the cheapest hotels, guides or other local services – decisions are based more on a balance of comfort, affordability and practicality.

Our wealth of experience means we’re able to make an informed choice about what’s worth seeing and what can be left out of an itinerary; and we offer a huge amount of choice and variety, so that you can choose a trip that’s just right for your budget and walking ability.

Variety & choice Since Walks Worldwide deals only with walking and trekking holidays, we can offer just about every variation on this theme.

Our friendly and knowledgeable staff will help you to choose a holiday that suits your own preference: perhaps a Guided Small Group trip with like-minded travellers; a Self-Guided trip, at your own pace; a Private Guided trip, travel on the dates you choose or a Tailor-Made trip, built just for you.

See more about our walking choices on pages 6 and 7.

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expert guides & leaders

accommodation options

For all our Small Group and Private Guided holidays our local leaders and guides all over the world work tirelessly behind the scenes to make sure your holiday runs happily and smoothly.

They are a cross between walking encyclopaedias, nature experts, logistics professionals and guardian angels!

Our trips are not just tours featuring generic hotels and you won’t find satellite TV in every room! We’ve specifically hunted out places with character and charm in the best locations to really experience your chosen destination.

From mountain trekking lodges to remote camps and guesthouses with local hosts...

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So much is included!

With so many deals and discounts around these days it can be very difficult to judge what the real price is or what hidden extras might be added on later. Our pricing is very clear and we include much more than most people expect.

WALKS for all abilities To help you decide if a trip is right for you, we’ve given each of our holidays a physical grade, which indicates the level of walking involved. We also give each trip an ‘off-thebeaten-track’ rating which may have more of a culture shock than others. See overleaf.

The following things are included in our prices: ¬ Personal ¬ Flights

service from a real person!

and financial protection

¬

Accommodation throughout

¬

Expert leaders and guides

¬ Advice,

local knowledge and guidance

¬ Transport ¬A

arrangements

carefully planned itinerary

¬

Entrance fees to sites (where included)

¬

A local contact in case you need help

¬

24-hour emergency line, 365 days a year

¬ Loyalty

discount on your next trip

Altogether excellent value!

responsible travel We respect local people and the natural features and resources of the countries we have the privilege to travel to, and want to help preserve them. By travelling as part of a small group and by using local guides, local transport and local accommodation where possible, you’ll be putting valuable revenue into the local economy. We won’t preach at you, but we do try to provide you with information as to how you can minimise any negative impacts on the culture and to the environment through which you travel.

Personal & flexble service We are proud of the fact that our small, independent company can be as flexible as you need us to be.

Our team of specialists bring both first-hand knowledge of the destinations we offer, as well as an understanding of how each customer may want something slightly different.

Some may want low-cost flights, while others will only accept first-class. Some may want to have a few days to relax at the beginning or end of a trip, while others will want to get straight into the mountains.

Walks Worldwide is fully bonded (see page 3) through ATOL and ABTOT and we are ABTA members too, so you have complete peace of mind backed by a genuinely professional service.

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walk your way...

Here at Walks Worldwide our number one priority is you. And that starts right at the beginning.

This is your holiday and you should have your choice of walking your way.

That is why we have a whole variety of options from which you can choose your perfect holiday and we have structured our following holiday pages in a way that you can easily see the options that are available to you. From grades of walking levels to group or self-guided holidays - the choice is yours. Here’s a quick guide to help you look out for the options you might be after. physical grade

TANZANIA

Kilimanjaro - rongai route

group guided 10 days

A beautiful route to the summit

grade d

A

physical grade

B

C

D

off-the-beaten-tracK rating

Each of our holidays has a physical grade from A to D to help you to determine whether a particular trip is suitable for you. See more information about the grades range opposite.

off-the-beaten-track rating

The Rongai approaches from the north and is arguably the easiest route to the top of Africa. Many also consider this the most beautiful way to the summit.

From farmland and forest up through the Alpine zone, there are stupendous views throughout. Across the lunar desert of the Saddle, the final arduous push brings you to the crater rim from where there are spectacular views of the summits’ glaciers and ice cliffs and to the plains of East Africa far below.

Rongai Rongai Cave Second Cave Kikelewa Kilimanjaro Uhuru Peak

Mawenzi Hut

Kibo Hut

TANZANIA

Horombo Hut

Kilimanjaro International Airport

This scale is based on a range of cultural, geographical and climatic factors, and sometimes risks that you may not normally have to deal with at home. To highlight the potential ‘culture shock’, each trip has been given an ‘off-thebeaten-track’ grading. The lower end of the scale is fairly adventurous and the higher end of the scale are our ‘really out there’ trips which are exceptionally adventurous and include very remote and isolated areas, possibly with extreme climate or significant cultural differences.

Marangu

To/ From UK

Approx hours walked

ITINerAry

AT A glANce

1/2

Overnight flight to Kilimanjaro.

-

¬ Six-days on the mountain (inc. acclimatisation)

3

Transfer to Rongai Gate. Begin trek.

5

¬ Camp by Mawenzi Tarn and Towers

4

Trek to Kikelewa Camp.

7

¬ The most beautiful way to the top

5

Ascend to camp at Mawenzi Tarn.

4

¬ Pleasant accommodation in Moshi

6

Trek to Kibo camp.

5

7

Summit Kili. Descend to Horombo.

14

8

Descend to Marangu Gate.

6

Overnight flight to UK.

-

9/10

prAcTIcAl INformATIoN Grade: D (Strenuous) Max Altitude: 5,895m Average Daily Distance: 19km Accommodation: Camping x 5, hotel x 2 Meals: 7 breakfasts, 6 lunches & 7 dinners Group Size (Min - Max): 4 - 12 Departures: J F M A M J J A S O N D Land Only: From £1,595 | With Flights: From £2,239 Single Supplement: From £50

grAdIeNT chArT (meTres) marangu

Nale moru

second cave Kikelewa mawenzi Tarn

gillman’s point uhuru peak

5000

For more information about going Private Guided on this trip, please call one of the team on 01962 737565.

marangu

Visit our website for more information and for Trip Dossiers, prices and dates.

4000 3000 2000 1000

walksworldwide.com

0

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special accommodation

We seek out the most appropriate types of accommodation to reflect the destination and type of adventure.

On some of the holidays, you will see we have highlighted when a trip has a particularly special style of accommodation – this may be from a higher level of comfort or a more unusual theme.

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prIvATe-guIded opTIoN

whAT NexT?

6000

38

why ThIs TrIp? “A Kilimanjaro route with days built into the itinerary, for optimal acclimatisation. With the best support team available on the mountain, a great recipe for summit success. Check out our website for full moon departures.”

MATT BENNETT, TREKKING EXPERT

Trip Code: TKRO

your accommodation before the trek

EXPERTS’ CHOICE

All of our trekking adventures and walking holidays are special.

However, many want something a little more unusual and out of the ordinary. Perhaps it’s a particular country, a remote region that’s difficult to access, something a little more challenging, or just something that’s very, very different. That’s why we’ve hand-picked our Experts’ Choice holidays.

wHY THIS TRIP?

Our travel experts and some of our clients have shared their memories or advice about a particular trip to help you to make a choice about a destination and to share a particular highlight or memory.

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EXTENSIONS & TAILOR-MADE

You’ll notice that a few destinations throughout the brochure have Extension options. These are the destinations where we highly recommend extending your trip.

We can usually tailor any of our itineraries to suit your interests and needs. Please get in touch with the team to discuss this.

find out more online Alongside the information on our trip pages, we have much more detail on our website. ¬ Detailed Trip Dossiers ¬ Photo galleries ¬ Availability, departure dates and prices Online reviews ¬ Secure online booking Head to walksworldwide.com

Trip Grades Explained

group guided Whether travelling solo, with family or friends, our Guided Small Group trips provide you with a sociable way to explore the world on foot.

Throughout this brochure you will see that each trip has been graded between A to D to reflect the difficulty of the walking trip.

Our extensive range of worldwide walking destinations enables us to offer you a choice of departures year round. Plus, our small group trips are accompanied by an Englishspeaking leader and, where applicable, a support crew for your peace of mind.

A - easy A

B

C

D

For those who enjoy leisurely walking and have a reasonable level of fitness.

Walking usually involves short daily distances, often at low level.

B - Moderate A

B

C

D

For walkers with a reasonable level of fitness. Trips graded B are likely to have increased daily walking times on sometimes rugged mountain trails and forest tracks and with moderate ascent and descent involved.

c - Demanding A

B

C

D

For regular hill walkers who enjoy a challenge. These trips involve crossing sections of difficult terrain and sustained periods of both ascent and descent, some at high altitude.

self-guided holidays Our Self-Guided walking holidays offer fantastic flexibility and a more independent walking experience.

We provide you with route notes and maps and plan all the necessary logistics; leaving you free to enjoy the trail at your own pace, choosing where to eat en route and indulging in what you find interesting along the way. All you need to do is choose the best dates and enjoy the journey.

D - Strenuous A

B

C

D

Previous experience of walking at this grade is essential. Daily walking times will be increasingly long. Be prepared for difficult terrain, high mountain passes, glaciated or snow-covered ground and extreme altitudes.

If you are uncertain about your ability to take part in a specific walking holiday please contact us – we’re here to help.

Private guided trips Many of our Guided Small Group Trips can also be taken on a Private Guided basis for a more individual experience.

You’ll still receive all the services of a Guided Small Group Trip, such as guide and porters, but you won’t be trekking as part of a larger group. Usually you’ll be able to choose the exact dates you want, giving you greater flexibility for your travel plans, as well as enabling unique experiences along the way that may not be possible when travelling with a larger group.

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Where in the world?

Who can resist the lure of trekking amongst magnificent mountain scenery? Or do stunning views closer to sea level hold more appeal? Here we have mapped out some of our favourites: the highs, the lows (altitude that is!) and of course, the classics.

1. The Andes pages 47-50

From the spires of Torres del Paine in Patagonia and soaring summits of Peru, the Andes are the highest peaks in the Americas.

2. Atlas Mountains pages 29-32 An exotic travel experience in easy and affordable reach. See kasbahs, camels and dramatic mountain views.

3. Sierra Nevada & Alpujarras pages 86-90 Europe’s second highest mountain range.

Discover the delights of Andalucia, the classic GR7 or the charm of the Alpujarras.

“The Inca trail was an unbeatable experience. The staff at Walks Worldwide were great. Their knowledge, advice, and administration was without fault. The trek itself was a joy - not just the scenery and history but the guide, cooks and porters who made this an unbeatable experience.”

Sandra Lewis, Peru

4. THE ALPS pages 53-55, 58, 62 Chocolate box scenery, cowbells jangling, flowery meadows and pretty villages. For the ultimate challenge, trek Tour Du Mont Blanc.

5. The Dinaric Alps pages 69, 71-74 The Julian Alps in Slovenia, to the remote Accursed Mountains in Albania, and the Black Mountains of Montenegro and Kosovo.

6. The Lycian way pages 84-85 Enjoy the sheer pleasure of walking in almost guaranteed sunshine brings a whole new meaning to Turkish Delight.

1.

7. The Himalayas pages 13-22

Iconic Everest Base Camp, the Annapurnas and the wild landscapes of Ladakh in India - the Himalayas offer varied trekking opportunities.

8. kILIMANJARO pages 36-39

It’s a once in a lifetime achievement for most to stand aloft on the Roof of Africa. We offer the quieter routes - Rongai and Shira.

9. SOUTH AFRICA page 41

Trek the classic Drakensberg Traverse, walk the ‘Rainbow Route’, see iconic Table Mountain and explore Kruger National Park.

10. Myanmar (burma) page 24

Recently re-opened to the world but seemingly locked in a time-warp, this welcoming country is one of our favourite places in Asia for trekking.

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“I am 56 years old and trained for 6 months prior to leaving, and I needed every bit of energy and stamina to get to Everest Base Camp. It was very hard, but worth every ounce of effort.”

Peter Winterbottom, nepal

“What can I say about this trip apart from “amazing”, a real cultural experience.

The walking and views were stunning (prepare yourself, it is hard walking), the hospitality of the locals was very humbling, plenty of good wholesome food and good basic clean accommodation.”

“We all had a fabulous holiday. The accommodation was fantastic, we were in the highest house in the village and had it all to ourselves. The hosts hugely helpful, food was amazing, walking notes all worked smoothly. No complaints at all.”

Anne Hutton, Spain

Launa wallace, Albania

4.

3.

2.

5.

6.

7.

8.

10.

9.

“If you have thought about climbing Kili - book it now!

This was a trip of a lifetime and am so glad so that I stopped talking about booking and actually got on and did it. No question at all, this was a 5* trip.”

“The guides could not have been more diligent and caring – their attention to detail was exemplary.”

Stewart Lambert, KILIMANJARO - RONGAI ROUTE

Brian King, India

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asia Kyrgyzstan

20

Cruise the backwaters of Kerala, India

Heart of the Tien Shan 11

NEPAL Explore Nepal On Foot 12 Everest Base Camp Lodge Trek 13 Annapurna Sanctuary Lodge Trek 14 Gokyo Lakes & Everest Lodge Trek 15 Everest in Style 16 Annapurna in Style 17 Nepal Extensions 18

india Darjeeling & the Singalila Ridge 19 Spice Trails of Kerala 20 Trails of Little Tibet 21 Markha Valley Trek 22 Mararikulam Beach Extension 26

SRI LANKA Trails of Ceylon 23

myanmar

25

24

Summit Golden Rock in Myanmar at sunset

Trek among the hilltribes of Northern Vietnam

Burmese Days 24 Ngapali Beach Extension 26

vietnam Hidden Hilltribes of Vietnam 25 Halong Bay Extension 26

CHINA Sacred Peaks of Sichuan 27

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Spend time in the Himalayas of Nepal

REGIONAL INSIGHT...

“Asia... It’s a continent of contrasts for those who like to travel on foot. A myriad of trails stretch from the mighty peaks of the Himalayas, through the tranquil plantations of India and into the hill country of Vietnam, dotted with its many tribes. Beyond the classics, we’re excited to push the boundaries this year with a new trek into the wilds of Tibetan Sichuan in Western China and a new trek in Sri Lanka that crosses the Knuckles Range. If you’re looking for adventurous walking this year, Asia has it all.”

JON BARBER, HEAD OF SALES

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Kyrgyzstan

Heart of the TIEN sHAN A challenging trek through breathtaking scenery

Group Guided 14 days

GRADE C

A

Physical Grade

B

C

D

off-the-beaten-track rating

Remote camping with incredible views

From Bishkek we head to the former Cossack town of Karakol, famous for its wooden cathedral made without nails. We then head into the Seven Bulls Gorge along the southern shore of Issyk Kul Lake to follow a linear route into the heart of the Terskey Ala-Too and discover a pristine landscape of forests, meadows and soaring peaks. Continuing deeper into the Terskey Ala-Too via a series of mountain passes, our trek leads us through a wild and magnificent part of the Tien Shan, so untouched it remains the realm of the snow leopard.

Approx Hours Walked

itinerary 1/2 Fly overnight to Bishkek.

-

¬ Camp wild and enjoy incredible views

To Karakol. Visit local sights.

2

¬ The unspoiled Terskey Ala-Too Mountains

4

Trek the Seven Bulls Gorge.

5

¬ See the remarkable Issyk Kul Lake

5

Trek deeper into Terskey Ala-Too.

6

¬ Explore the Seven Bulls Gorge

6

Ascend the Telety Pass.

7

7

Trek to the base of Karakol Mountain.

7

8

Walk through Sirota area.

7

9

Stiff ascent over the Alakol Pass.

7

10

Trek into the Altyn Arashan Valley.

7

11

To Issyk Kul Lake by 4WD.

-

Accommodation: Camping x 7, hotel x 4, guesthouse x 1

12

Free day to enjoy Issyk Kul Lake.

-

Meals: 12 breakfasts, 12 lunches, 12 dinners

13

Travel back to Bishkek.

-

Group Size (Min - Max): 4 - 12

14

Fly back to UK from Bishkek.

-

Trip Code: TKYR

practical information Grade: C (Demanding) Max Altitude: 3,800m Average Daily Distance: 15km

Departures: J F M A M J J A S O N D Land Only: From £1,599 | With Flights: From £1,999 Single Supplement: From £149

Gradient chart (metres) Karakol

Jeti Oguz River

Telety Pass

Iss y La k Ku ke l From/ To UK

Karakol

KYRGYZSTAN CHINA

at a glance

3

4000 3500 3000 2500 2000 1500 1000 500 0

KAZAKHSTAN

Bishkek

Terskey Ala-Too

Alakol Pass Arashan Canyon

why this trip?

“Kyrgyzstan has fantastic mountain scenery, very alpine in nature but without the hoards. That, combined with an insight into Kyrgyz culture makes this a great trip.”

TOM MANCHESTER, PRODUCT MANAGER

private-guided option For more information about going Private Guided on this trip, please call one of the team on 01962 737565.

What next?

Visit our website for more information and for Trip Dossiers, prices and dates.

walksworldwide.com

Call us on 01962 737565

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EXPLORE nepal ON FOOT From cycling and trekking high amongst the peaks, to leading a school expedition in the Annapurna region, Mark Jackson has explored Nepal from top to bottom.

There are so many reasons why I love returning to Nepal. It is the country that I keep returning to again and again. The main draw is of course the mighty Himalayas. There is something I find incredibly relaxing about the routine of going trekking – early starts in the crisp mountain air, breakfasts under a vast blue sky, mind-blowing views of the giant Himalayan peaks, the simplicity of life while camping or staying in tea-houses. In my mind there is no better way to unwind.

The challenge of a trek and its huge ascents and descents provides a massive sense of achievement at the end of each day. And that challenge changes as you move further up into the mountains.

Starting in the sometimes tropical heat of the foothills amongst the terrace fields and towering rhododendrons, moving up into the dryer, cooler glacial mountain landscapes above the tree line and approaching the snow line...

Passing through iconic villages such as Tengboche on an Everest Base Camp Trek, seeing red robed monks against the back drop of beautiful mountains like Ama Dablam and visiting a monastery during a Buddhist prayer ceremony provides an otherworldly experience.

If you have an interest in mountaineering there is nowhere better to appreciate the immense challenges that climbers go through than places like Everest or Annapurna Base Camp. Looking up at the face of Annapurna or the Khumbu icefall on Everest from one of these basecamps, having huffed and puffed for days just to get there, really hammers home the enormous effort and dedication required by mountaineers.

Of course Nepal is a country which has had more than its fair share of troubles. In recent years Nepal has experienced a major earthquake, suffers regular power outages and has only had democracy for eight years. The introduction of that democracy has not been smooth and brings occasional civil unrest. To me all of this makes Nepal a more interesting place to visit. The Nepali’s always make tourists feel very welcome and go out of their way to look after us, they really appreciate the benefits of trekking for their communities and it is rewarding as a visitor to be able to contribute to such a great country.

In several decades of travelling the world I’ve not found a country that I go back to as much as Nepal, and I’ve not found a country that fascinates me as much...

let us take you there...

We offer many trekking trips in Nepal, please read the following pages to find out more. Also see our Nepal extensions on page 18.

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NEPAL

everest base camp lodge trek

Group Guided 17 days

The ultimate trek for walking enthusiasts

GRADE c/D

For most keen walkers, the trek to Everest Base Camp is the holy grail. From historic Kathmandu, a scenic flight takes you to the start of your trek through Sherpa country. This is the once in a lifetime, ultimate trekking Mecca in the mighty Himalaya of Nepal. Not only will you get to experience the comings and goings of expedition life at Everest Base Camp, and see the tumbling Khumbu Icefall that leads to the South Col, you’ll also witness the sublime view of Everest from the summit of Kala Patthar.

Approx Hours Walked

itinerary

Overnight flight to Kathmandu.

-

¬ The holy grail of every mountain walker

3

Fly to Lukla. Trek to Phakding.

3

¬ See the tumbling Khumbu Icefall

4

Steep climb to Namche Bazaar.

5

¬ Active acclimatisation days included

5

Acclimatisation day in Namche.

-

¬ Classic Everest views from Kala Patthar

6

Trek to Phortse Gaon.

7

7

Trek to Dingboche.

6

8

Acclimatisation day. Trek to Chukung.

-

9

Trek Khumbu glacier to Lobuche.

5

10

To Everest Base Camp.

9

11

Climb Kala Patthar - views of Everest.

6

12

Descend to Tengboche.

5

13

Retrace our steps to Monjo.

6

14

Ascend to Lukla, final trekking day.

5

15

Fly to Kathmandu. Free time.

-

Free day. Overnight flight to UK.

-

16/17

Lukla Phakding

5000 4000 3000 2000 1000 0

Namche Bazaar

Kala Patthar Gorak Shep

NEPAL

Lobuche Pheriche

Phortse

Dingboche

Tengboche

why this trip?

Grade: C/D (Demanding/Strenuous) Max Altitude: 5,545m Average Daily Distance: 12km Accommodation: Trekking lodge x 12, hotel x 2 Meals: 2 breakfasts (allow £25 per day for meals) Group Size (Min - Max): 3 - 12

“An inspiring journey taking you right into the shadow of the highest mountain in the world. Not technical and achievable by most. Following in the footsteps of many avid climbers is one of life’s great experiences!”

MATT BENNETT, TREKKING EXPERT

Trip Code: TEBC Departures: J F M A M J J A S O N D Land Only: From £1,099 | With Flights: From £1,799 Single Supplement: From £49

Tengboche

D

From/To UK via Kathmandu

practical information

Dingboche Base Camp Kala Patthar

C

Lukla

Gradient chart (metres) 6000

B

Everest Base Camp

Phakding

1/2

Physical Grade

CHINA

Namche Bazaar

at a glance

A

off-the-beaten-track rating

Lukla

private-guided option For more information about going Private Guided on this trip, please call one of the team on 01962 737565.

What next?

Visit our website for more information and for Trip Dossiers, prices and dates.

walksworldwide.com

Call us on 01962 737565

13

NEPAL

Annapurna Sanctuary LODGE TREK

Group Guided 15 days

Trek in the mountain amphitheatre of ‘the Sanctuary’

This wonderful Himalayan trekking adventure to the astounding Annapurna Sanctuary rightfully deserves its reputation as a classic and is widely regarded as one of the easier (but equally great!) Himalayan treks. Passing through delightful villages with neatly terraced rice fields to forests of rhododendron and oak, awe-inspiring mountain panoramas unfold each day with the rising sun. Heading further up the Modi Khola into bamboo woodlands, you emerge through a previously secret portal to enter the amazing throne room of mountain gods.

GRADE b/c

A

1/2 Fly to Kathmandu overnight.

at a glance

-

¬ Himalayan vistas and pretty villages

Fly to Pokhara; transfer to Nayapul.

-

¬ Watch the Annapurnas illuminate at sunrise

4

Full day walk to reach Ghorepani.

5

¬ Majestic high mountain scenery

5

Summit Poon Hill for sunrise.

5

¬ Explore the delights of Kathmandu

6

Trek to Chomrong.

6

7

Cross into the Modi Khola.

7

8

To Machhapuchhare Base Camp.

5

9

Walk to the Annapurna Sanctuary.

4

10

Descend into Bamboo.

7

11

Trek to Chomrong, then to Ghandruk.

7

12

Trek to Birethanti. To Pokhara.

4

13

Fly to Kathmandu, explore the city.

-

14

Depart Kathmandu. Fly to the UK.

-

15

Arrive back in the UK.

-

practical information Grade: B/C (Moderate/Demanding) Max Altitude: 4,130m Average Daily Distance: 12km Accommodation: Trekking lodges x 9, hotel x 3 Meals: 3 breakfasts (allow £25 per day for meals) Group Size (Min - Max): 4 - 12

Poon Hill

Departures: J F M A M J J A S O N D Land Only: From £899 | With Flights: From £1,485

Gradient chart (metres) Poon

Dobhan

Machhapuchhare Annapurna Base Camp Base Camp

4000

Ghorepani

Machhapuchhare Base Camp Chomrong

Ghandruk

2000 1000

From/To UK via Kathmandu

why this trip?

“Standing at Annapurna Base Camp surrounded on all sides by snow covered peaks over 7,000 metres high really brings home the enormity and beauty of the Himalayas. There is no better place to appreciate the sheer scale.”

Ghandruk

private-guided option For more information about going Private Guided on this trip, please call one of the team on 01962 737565.

What next?

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0

14

NEPAL

Visit our website for more information and for Trip Dossiers, prices and dates.

3000

Visit our website walksworldwide.com

D

Bamboo Tadapani

MARK JACKSON, HEAD OF IT

Trip Code: TANN

Single Supplement: From £59

Nayapul Ghorepani Hill Tadapani

C

Pokhara

3

5000

B

Annapurna Sanctuary

Nayapul

Approx Hours Walked

itinerary

Physical Grade

off-the-beaten-track rating

NEPAL

GOKYO LAKES & EVEREST LODGE TREK 21 days

One of the ultimate and most challenging treks in Nepal

This challenging trek into the high Khumbu region of Nepal combines all the major highlights of the ever-popular Everest Base Camp trek, yet allows the experienced trekker to escape from the standard trail and explore a great deal further into this truly magnificent Himalayan mountain nirvana. Trek to the glittering Gokyo lakes where an ascent of Gokyo Ri reveals simply superlative views of Everest and Makalu. After crossing the spectacular Cho La, you’ll then climb Kala Patthar for more breathtaking views.

Approx Hours Walked

itinerary

-

¬ High route to Everest Base Camp

3/4

Fly Lukla. Trek to Phakding & Namche.

4

¬ Enjoy iconic views of Everest

Acclimatisation day in Namche.

-

¬ Cross the challenging Cho La

Trails through forests to Machermo.

6

¬ Admire turquoise blue glacial lakes

8

Acclimatisation day with optional walks.

-

9

Trek to Gokyo.

5

10

Summit Gokyo Ri & explore the lakes.

3

Grade: D (Strenuous)

11

Head across the glacier to Thaknak.

4

Max Altitude: 5,545m

12

Trek the Cho La to Jongla.

8

Average Daily Distance: 12km

13

Everest Base Camp trail to Lobuche.

5

Accommodation: Trekking lodge x 16, hotel x 2

14

Gorak Shep pass to Everest Base Camp.

8

Meals: 2 breakfasts (allow £25 per day for meals)

15

Ascend Kala Patthar; to Pheriche.

7

Group Size (Min - Max): 4 - 12

16

Trek out of the Khumbu to Tengboche.

4

Trip Code: TGOK

17

Follow rivers to Phakding and onto Lukla.

6

Departures: J F M A M J J A S O N D

18

Fly from Lukla to Kathmandu.

-

Land Only: From £1,299 | With Flights: From £1,899

Overnight flight to UK.

-

Single Supplement: From £49

19/20

Lukla

5000 4000 3000 2000 1000 0

Namche Bazaar

Machermo

Gokyo Ri

Base Camp Kala Patthar

C

D

CHINA

Gokyo Ri Gokyo

Everest Base Camp Kala Patthar

Cho La

Machermo Dole

Thaknak

Dzongla

Gorak Shep Lobuche

NEPAL Pheriche Tengboche

From/To UK via Kathmandu

why this trip?

practical information

Cho La

B

Lukla

“With plenty of time for acclimatisation, avoiding the most crowded route and getting a full panorama of the highest part of the Himalayas, this trek is a personal favourite of mine and a great way to make the most of the Everest region!”

MATT BENNETT, TREKKING EXPERT

Gradient chart (metres) 6000

Physical Grade

A

off-the-beaten-track rating

Phakding

Overnight flight to Kathmandu.

6/7

GRADE d

Namche Bazaar

at a glance

1/2 5

Group Guided

Lukla

private-guided option For more information about going Private Guided on this trip, please call one of the team on 01962 737565.

What next?

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15

NEPAL

everest in style

PRIVATE Guided 13 days

Stay in Nepal’s very best trekking lodges

Trekking in the spectacular Everest region with views of iconic peaks such as Ama Dablam, Lhotse and the summit of Everest is nothing short of breathtaking.

On this trip not only do you trek in the land of the Sherpa, each night is spent in comfortable lodges too.

Enjoy the luxury of your own private bedroom, en-suite, blankets and linen. The perfect way to soak up your surroundings after a hard day of trekking.

GRADE c

A

Physical Grade

B

C

D

off-the-beaten-track rating

CHINA

Tashinga

Mt Everest Tengboche

Namche Bazaar

NEPAL

Monjo Lukla

Approx Hours Walked

itinerary

1/2 Overnight flight to Kathmandu.

at a glance

-

¬ Stay in the best lodges in the Everest area

3

Sightseeing in Kathmandu.

-

¬ Great walks in the Himalayas

4

Fly to Lukla. Trek to Monjo.

5

¬ Explore wonderful old Kathmandu

5

A challenging trek to Namche.

6

¬ Option to combine with Annapurna region

6

Acclimatisation day in Namche.

-

7

Trek to Tashinga with great views.

3

8

Day trip to Tengboche Monastery.

4

Grade: C (Demanding)

9

Descend to Monjo.

5

Max Altitude: 3,867m

10

Back to Phakding and up to Lukla.

5

Average Daily Distance: 8km

11

Fly to Kathmandu; afternoon free.

-

Accommodation: Hotel x 5, trekking lodge x 5

Fly overnight to UK.

-

Meals: 10 breakfasts, 7 lunches, 7 dinners

12/13

Stay in comfortable lodges

practical information

Trip Code: TEIS Departures: J F M A M J J A S O N D Land Only: From £2,245 | With Flights: From £2,899 Single Supplement: £549

Lukla

16

Phakding

Namche Bazaar Syangboche

why this trip?

“If this is your trek of a lifetime, what better way to do it then with the added comfort of our best trekking lodges? The views are simply stunning and will leave you with amazing memories and photographs.”

MATT BENNETT, TREKKING EXPERT

Gradient chart (metres) 4000 3500 3000 2500 2000 1500 1000 500 0

From/To UK via Kathmandu

Tengboche

Monjo

Lukla

What next?

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NEPAL

annapurna in style

PRIVATE Guided 12 days

Panoramic Himalayan views from comfortable lodges

GRADE b

Physical Grade

A

B

C

D

off-the-beaten-track rating

Stay in luxury lodges in the mountains

Arriving in the capital of Kathmandu you’ll first enjoy a sightseeing tour of this fascinating city and stay at the luxurious Shangri-La Hotel. The next morning a short flight past Manaslu takes you to Pokhara where the adventure begins. Enjoy relatively low-level, straightforward trekking along village trails with spectacular views of the Annapurna range including the wondrous Fishtail Mountain. Passing through villages you’re sure to be greeted with ‘Namaste’ from the friendly locals, whilst staying in renowned luxury lodges along the way.

Approx Hours Walked

itinerary 1/2

Overnight flight to Kathmandu.

-

¬ Stay in comfortable lodges

Sightseeing in Kathmandu.

-

Fly to Pokhara. Trek to Sanctuary Lodge.

3

¬ Witness daily life in local villages

5

Trek to Himalaya Lodge in Ghandruk.

5

¬ Option to combine with Everest region

6

Explore the Ghandruk region.

4

7

Across the Modi Khola to Gurung.

5

8

Trek to Dhampus.

4

Grade: B (Moderate)

9

Trek to the road. Transfer to Pokhara.

2

Max Altitude: 2,400m

10

Fly to Kathmandu, free time.

-

Average Daily Distance: 8km

Fly overnight to UK.

-

Accommodation: Trekking lodge x 5, Hotel x 4

Pokhara 2000 1500 1000 500 0

Modi River Valley

Ghandruk

Dhampus

practical information

Meals: 9 breakfasts, 5 lunches, 5 dinners Trip Code: TANA Departures: J F M A M J J A S O N D Land Only: From £1,935 | With Flights: From £2,599 Single Supplement: From £799

why this trip?

“The Annapurnas provided me with the best walking I have ever experienced. Wild rhododendron forests, remote mountain villages, incredibly friendly people, towering snow-capped mountains…

Memories that last an eternity.”

MARK WRIGHT, MANAGING DIRECTOR

Gradient chart (metres) 2500

NEPAL

From/To UK via Kathmandu

4

If you have time, you can combine this trip with our Everest In Style trek on the opposite page (page 16). Please contact us for a quotation.

Birethanti

Pokhara

¬ Admire the iconic Fishtail Mountain

combine two trips

Gurung

at a glance

3

11/12

Ghandruk

Gurung

Dhampus

Pokhara

What next?

Visit our website for more information and for Trip Dossiers, prices and dates.

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17

NEPAL

extend your stay in nepal Why not make the most of your time with an extra few days at the end of your trip?

Chitwan Extension ¬ Stay at the famous Tiger Tops Lodge ¬ Explore surrounding villages and countryside ¬ Wildlife safaris, nature walks and birdwatching The ideal location to experience both the culture and wildlife of the region. Tiger Tops Tharu Lodge is styled after a traditional longhouse overlooking the lush forests of the national park. Enjoy the tranquil garden setting and evening local tribal dancing. Chitwan is home to the Bengal tiger, Indian rhinoceros and is considered to have one of the highest densities of sloth bears.

From £599 per person for 2 nights (3 days) (price is based on two people sharing)

Everest Flight EXTENSION ¬ Breath taking views of Everest ¬ Guaranteed window seat ¬ Witness Himalayan peaks, lakes and glaciers Extend your stay in Kathmandu for an early morning scenic flight around Everest. The brand new aircraft fly over the Khumbu valley at 25,000ft - so close it seems you could almost touch it.

Each passenger is guaranteed a window seat for spectacular views of the peaks, lakes and glaciers of the Himalayas.

From £249 per person (price is based on two people sharing)

Seti River Rafting EXTENSION ¬ Rafting on the Seti River ¬ Superb scenery and wildlife ¬ Stay in a comfortable fixed camp The Seti River offers a fine combination of superb scenery and gentle rapids just one hour from Pokhara.

The river and surrounding area remain unspoilt and we float down the watercourse passing by villages and local bird life. Upon arrival, we stay in a comfortable fixed camp. The next day there is time to explore further with bird-watching, photography and rafting.

From £549 per person for 2 nights (3 days) (price is based on two people sharing)

18

Visit our website walksworldwide.com

INDIA

Darjeeling & the Singalila Ridge A classic Indian trekking holiday in the shadow of Kangchenjunga

Combining wonderful trekking with diverse culture and fascinating history, this adventure is ideal for regular hill walkers seeking their first Himalayan trekking adventure. From Delhi, travel to the Hill Station of Darjeeling. There is time to explore before a stunning trek along the India/Nepal border on the broad, undulating Singalila Ridge with stunning views of mighty Kangchenjunga.

Descending through traditional hill villages you return to Darjeeling to reflect on this very special trek before flying back to eclectic Delhi.

itinerary

Approx Hours Walked

Group Guided 13 days

Phalut Sandakphu Tonglu

GRADE B/C

Physical Grade

B

C

D

BHUTAN

Rimbik Darjeeling

NEPAL

INDIA

Dhotrey From/To UK via Delhi

A

off-the-beaten-track rating

Bagdogra

at a glance

1/2

Overnight flight to Delhi.

-

¬ One of India’s classic Himalayan treks

3

Fly to Bagdogra. To Darjeeling.

-

¬ Explore the old British Hill Station of Darjeeling

4

Free day to explore Darjeeling.

-

¬ Views of Kanchenjunga and Everest

5

Trek to camp at Tonglu.

3

¬ Explore the bustling city of Delhi

6

Trek into Nepal, camp by Kolpokhari. 7

7

Follow trail to camp at Sandakphu.

4

8

A great trek along the ridge.

4

9

An easy ascent of Singalila Peak.

8

10

Pass villages en route to Rimbik.

5

11

Transfer to Darjeeling; free PM.

-

Accommodation: Camping x 5, hotel x 5, lodge x 1

Fly to Delhi. Fly back to UK.

-

Meals: 10 breakfasts, 7 lunches, 8 dinners

“See a remote wilderness far from the crowds as you enter an area first visited only a 100 years ago by the first botanists. True Shangri-La country.”

Group Size (Min - Max): 4 - 12

STEVE NAGLE, TREKKING EXPERT

12/13

practical information Grade: B/C (Moderate/Demanding) Max Altitude: 3,690m Average Daily Distance: 12km

Extend your stay

Trip Code: TSIN

Why not extend your stay to include a visit to Agra to see the Taj Mahal. Please contact us for more information or a quotation.

Departures: J F M A M J J A S O N D Land Only: From £1,249 | With Flights: From £1,849 Single Supplement: From £169w

Gradient chart (metres) Dhotrey

4000 3500 3000 2500 2000 1500 1000 500 0

Tonglu

Kalpokhari

Sabargram Singalila Peak

Samaden Rimbik

why this trip?

private-guided option For more information about going Private Guided on this trip, please call one of the team on 01962 737565.

What next?

Visit our website for more information and for Trip Dossiers, prices and dates.

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19

INDIA

sPICE TRAILS OF KERALA

Group Guided 16 days

Walks in the fragrant Cardamom Hills

Explore the magnificent mountains of the Western Ghats. The cool, fragrant mountain air delights the senses with the scents of spices, coffee and tea. Here you explore the lush forests, tranquil plantation trails and former British hill stations. The high point of Meesapulimala is reached by crossing the Silent Valley plateau, before heading to the temple city of Madurai. The trip is completed with a visit to the Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary and a relaxing night on a traditional houseboat. It’s no surprise that this varied trek is a favourite.

itinerary

Approx Hours Walked

-

3

Drive to Thattekkad. Nature walk.

1

4

To Munnar. Bazaar walk & Tea Museum.

2

5

Meesapulimala walk.

6

6

Walk to Anaerangal Lake.

5

7

Walk in Mathikettan Shola NP.

6

Grade: B (Moderate)

8

Summit Chathurangapara.

6

Max Altitude: 2,640m

9

Drive to Madurai. Temple visit.

-

Average Daily Distance: 13km

10

To Periyar. Spice plantation walk.

1

11

Periyar Tiger Reserve. Forest walk.

3

Accommodation: Hotel x 3, camping x 4,

B&B x 5, houseboat x 1

12

To Alleppey; board houseboat.

-

Group Size (Min - Max): 4 - 12

13

Return to Alleppey. Free time.

-

Trip Code: TKER

14

Return to Kochi. Free time.

-

Departures: J F M A M J J A S O N D

B

C

D

Meesapulimala

Thattekkad

Anaerangal Lake Mathikettan Shola

Kochi

Alleppey

Madurai

Chathurangapara

Periyar

INDIA

¬ Colourful temples of Madurai ¬ Cruise the tropical lagoons and backwaters ¬ Smell traditional spices, coffee and tea

practical information

Meals: 13 breakfasts, 5 lunches, 5 dinners

Land Only: From £1,299 | With Flights: From £1,895 Single Supplement: From £299

extend your trip We highly recommend that you extend your stay in India to include a few days at Mararikulam Beach.

Please see page 26 for more information or contact us for a quotation.

20

Munnar

Physical Grade

off-the-beaten-track rating

¬ Stay on a traditional houseboat

Fly overnight to Kochi.

Visit Fort Kochi.

-

From/ To UK

at a glance

1/2

15/ Overnight flight back to the UK 16 from Kochi.

A

GRADE B

Visit our website walksworldwide.com

why this trip?

“Walking in the midst of tea plantations awash in green is the uniqueness found in Kerala. Self-proclaimed as ‘God’s Own County’ it’s not far from scenic splendour.”

JON BARBER, HEAD OF SALES

private-guided option For more information about going Private Guided on this trip, please call one of the team on 01962 737565.

What next?

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INDIA

TRAILS OF LITTLE TIBET

Group Guided 13 days

A grand introduction to the landscapes of Ladakh

This two-week tour gives a grand introduction to Ladakhi landscape and culture, also known as ‘Little Tibet’. This vast high-altitude desert has stunning mountain panoramas and is dotted by small villages inhabited by rugged-looking people of Ladakhi and Tibetan stock. Our itinerary incorporates a relatively gentle sevenday trek with memorable walking experiences through this beautiful landscape stopping at villages and monasteries en-route to mingle with the locals and gently immerse yourself into their culture.

GRADE C

A

Physical Grade

B

C

Themisgam Ney

INDIA Khalsi

From/To UK via Delhi

Likir

Lamayuru Nimu

Leh Stok

Approx Hours Walked

itinerary

at a glance

1

Overnight flight to Delhi.

-

¬ Spectacular views from Themisgam

2

Arrive Delhi. Relax & explore.

-

¬ Moderate high altitude trekking

3

Scenic flight to Leh.

-

¬ Explore famous Buddhist Monasteries

4

Full day of sightseeing in Leh.

-

¬ Visit colourful Buddhist festivals

5

Visit Shanti Stupa & Royal Palace.

-

6

Walk to Taru La & into Nimu village.

6

7

Ascend to the green valley of Nye.

5

8

Gentle walk to the village of Likir.

4

9

Trek to Yangthang via Sumdo.

5

10 Walk along the river to Hemis.

7

11

Scenic walking to Themisgam.

5

12

Morning trek. Transfer to Lamayuru.

5

13

Depart Leh. Fly to UK from Delhi.

-

practical information Grade: C (Demanding) Max Altitude: 4,200m Average Daily Distance: 14km Accommodation: Camping x 7, Hotel x 4 Meals: 11 breakfasts, 9 lunches & 9 dinners

Departures: J F M A M J J A S O N D

Gradient chart (metres) 4000 3000 2000 1000 0

Taru La

Nimu

Hemis

why this trip?

“It’s inspiring to stand in the sacred spaces where Tibetan monks have prayed for centuries. And to walk among nomads who still live high up in the Himalayan mountains.”

Trip Code: TILT

Single Supplement: From £109

Leh Gompas

Thiksey

WILL OBORNE, TREKKING EXPERT

Group Size (Min - Max): 4 - 12

Land Only: From £1,099 | With Flights: From £2,899

5000

D

off-the-beaten-track rating

Likir Yangthang Hemis

Meptik La

Bong Bong La Khalsi

private-guided option For more information about going Private Guided on this trip, please call one of the team on 01962 737565.

What next?

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21

INDIA

MARKHA VALLEY TREK

Group Guided 14 days

An inspirational and challenging trekking holiday

Perched high in the mountains on the remote northern edge of India, Ladakh is a truly inspirational destination for a trekking holiday. This classic trek takes you through a spectacular high-altitude world with breathtaking vistas, entrancing scenery and the chance to see wildlife too. You’ll also experience Buddhist culture with visits to remote monasteries, and cross high passes marked by colourful prayer flags. At the end of your trip you can take an optional visit to Agra to see the famous and majestic Taj Mahal.

itinerary Overnight flight to Delhi.

-

3

Scenic flight to Leh.

-

¬ Visit the colourful Hemis Monastery

4

Full day of sightseeing in Leh.

-

¬ Walk along the picturesque Markha River

5

Visit Shanti Stupa & Royal Palace.

4

¬ Optional visit to Taj Mahal

6

Trek to Zingchen Gorge & Rumbak.

4

7

Ascend valley to Ganda La Base.

4

8

Follow trails to Markha River & Skiu.

7

Grade: D (Strenuous)

9

Along the valley to Markha.

8

Max Altitude: 5,265m

10

Chacham Valley to Thachungtse.

7

11

Short day walking to Nimaling.

4

12

Climb to Gongmaru La.

8

13

Drive to Leh via Hemis Monastery.

-

14

Depart Leh or extension to Agra.

Fly to UK via Delhi.

-

Rumbak

INDIA

Meals: 12 breakfasts, 11 lunches & 11 dinners Group Size (Min - Max): 4 - 12

WILL OBORNE, TREKKING EXPERT

Trip Code: TIMV Departures: J F M A M J J A S O N D Land Only: From £1,099 | With Flights: From £1,999

Gradient chart (metres) Leh

private-guided option For more information about going Private Guided on this trip, please call one of the team on 01962 737565.

What next?

Visit our website for more information and for Trip Dossiers, prices and dates.

4000 3000 2000

walksworldwide.com

1000 0

22

Thachungtse

“It’s wonderful to walk in the sunshine along the banks of the Markha and see nomadic families herding their yak.

This trip offers the chance to find peace within this amazingly welcoming Buddhist culture.”

Accommodation: Camping x 7, hotel x 5

5000

Shang Sumdo

why this trip?

Average Daily Distance: 15km

Nimaling Gongmaru La

Visit our website walksworldwide.com

D

Nimaling

practical information

Markha

C

Leh

Markha

Single Supplement: From £125

Rumbak Ganda La

B

Hemis

1/2

Leh

Physical Grade

at a glance ¬ Stunning view of Kang Yangtse Peak

6000

A

off-the-beaten-track rating

From/To UK via Delhi

Skiu

Approx Hours Walked

GRADE d

sri lanka

Trails of Ceylon

Group Guided 12 days

Temples, mountains, tea plantations, and more

This holiday offers an unbeatable combination of walking, wildlife and cultural sights. You’ll explore mountains, tea plantations, paddy fields, temples and fortresses. Trek through the Range of Knuckles, Horton Plains and have the option to summit Adam’s Peak. You will also have time for a scenic train ride and a wildlife safari in Yala National Park.

You’ll be staying in simple but comfortable hotels for the majority of the trip.

itinerary

Approx Hours Walked

at a glance

1

Fly overnight to Colombo.

-

¬ Trek through the Range of Knuckles

2

Arrive and transfer to Sigiriya.

-

¬ Ascend Sigiriya Rock Fortress

3

Trek to Sigiriya rock. Climb fortress.

6

¬ Walk Nuwara Eliya’s tea plantations

4

Trek Narangamuwa Temple to Meemure.

5

¬ Spot elephants in Yala National Park

5

Range of Knuckles & Corbet's Gap.

8

6

Kandy and Temple of the Tooth.

4

7

Nuwara Eliya tea plantation walk.

7

8

World’s End trek at Horton Plains.

8

9

Enjoy a scenic train ride.

-

practical information Grade: C (Demanding) Max Altitude: 2,300m Average Daily Distance: 18km

10 Walk in the dry highlands.

8

Accommodation: Simple hotel x 8, homestay x 1,

eco-lodge x 1

11

Safari in Yala. Drive to Unawatuna.

-

Meals: 11 breakfasts & 4 lunches

12

Fly back to the UK.

-

Group Size (Min - Max): 4 - 14

GRADE c

Physical Grade

A

B

C

D

off-the-beaten-track rating

SRI LANKA Sigiriya Rock Range of Knuckles Kandy

From/ To UK

Nuwara Eliya

Colombo

Yala NP Tissamaharama Ahangama

why this trip?

“The sheer diversity of natural wonders makes walking though Sri Lanka remarkable. Add incredible hospitality, delicious food, intriguing culture and you’re walking in a land of plenty.”

JON BARBER, HEAD OF SALES

Trip Code: TSLF Departures: J F M A M J J A S O N D Land Only: From £1,399 | With Flights: From £1,995 Single Supplement: From £280

private-guided option For more information about going Private Guided on this trip, please call one of the team on 01962 737565.

What next?

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23

myanmar

BURMESE DAYS

Group Guided 14 days

Walk in a beautifully untouched and time-warped land

Myanmar (or Burma) is a time-warped treat and any walker will enjoy travelling back in time to this beautiful untouched land where technology practically goes amiss, the horse and cart is still a popular mode of transport and temples stand as boldly in the countryside as the day they were built. Trek in remote villages, marvel at the temples of Bagan, walk through local villages and see the famous leg-rowers of Inle Lake and visit the incredible temple of the Golden Rock.

CHINA

A

GRADE B/C

Physical Grade

B

C

D

off-the-beaten-track rating

MYANMAR

LAOS

Mandalay Bagan

Mt Popa Kalaw

Keng Tong Pin Tauk Loimwe

Heho

Ho Jing

Inle Lake

THAILAND

itinerary

Approx Hours Walked

at a glance

1

Overnight flight to Yangon.

-

¬ Visit and ascend the Golden Rock

2

Arrive Yangon. Walking tour of city.

-

¬ Trek through remote Burmese villages

3

Fly to Bagan. Explore temples.

-

¬ Explore Bagan temples by bicycle

4

Explore Bagan further. Sunset cruise.

-

¬ Watch the sunset over the Irrawaddy River

5

Fly to Mandalay. Cruise to Mingun.

-

6

To Ava by ferry & horse & cart.

-

7

Fly to Heho. Walks around Kalaw.

5

8

Trek through local villages.

5

9

Trek to Inle Lake.

5

10 Visit a Pagoda. Fly to Keng Tong.

3

11

Trek paddy fields & visit local tribe.

6

12

Fly to Yangon. Free time to explore.

-

13

Summit the Golden Rock.

1

14

Morning stroll, return to Yangon.

1

15

Fly back to the UK.

-

practical information Grade: B/C (Moderate/Demanding) Max Altitude: 2,000m Average Daily Distance: 16km Accommodation: Hotel x 12, homestay x 1 Meals: 13 breakfasts, 3 lunches & 1 dinner Group Size (Min - Max): 4 - 12 Trip Code: TMBD Departures: J F M A M J J A S O N D Land Only: From £1,999 | With Flights: From £2,699 Single Supplement: From £399

extend your trip We highly recommend that you extend your stay in Myanmar to include a few days at Ngapali Beach.

Please see page 26 for more information or contact us for a quotation.

Bago Golden Rock Yangon From/ To UK

why this trip?

“Burma is my favourite country in Asia. Partly because of its fascinating history, impressive temples and jaw-dropping scenery. But much more because of its wonderful and ever-smiling people. ” MARK WRIGHT, MANAGING DIRECTOR

private-guided option For more information about going Private Guided on this trip, please call one of the team on 01962 737565.

What next?

Visit our website for more information and for Trip Dossiers, prices and dates.

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24

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vietnam

Hidden Hilltribes of Vietnam

Group Guided 14 days

Walks through jungles and across verdant landscapes

Vietnam is home to many diverse and vibrant hill tribes. As well as the challenging trekking through hills and valleys, a wonderful feature of this adventure is spending a couple of nights in the village homes of some of these welcoming tribes. With the help of your guide, you will be able to learn more about their culture and traditions. Always lively, sometimes chaotic, but never dull, this trip to Vietnam is ideal for those who enjoy a challenge and want real cultural experiences too.

GRADE C

A

Physical Grade

B

C

D

off-the-beaten-track rating

Sin Chai

Lao Cai Mong Sen Cat Cat Village

Sapa Su Pan Ban Ho

itinerary

Approx Hours Walked

Thanh Phu

Hoang Lien National Park

at a glance

VIETNAM

Hanoi

1/2

Fly overnight to Hanoi. Explore city.

-

¬ Spend time at a local villager’s home

3

Sightseeing; overnight train to Lao Cai.

-

¬ Meet colourful hill tribes

4

Transfer to Sapa for a village trek.

5

¬ Trek in the backdrop of Fansipan (3,143m)

5

Trek through Cat Cat Valley.

5

¬ Soak up the atmosphere of colonial Hanoi

6

Walk along the Hoang Lien range.

5

7

Ascend to highest point of the trek.

5

8

Trek at the bottom of the valley.

6

9

Walk in the rainforest. Visit a school. 7

10

Gentle walk to Sin Chai village.

4

11

Trek to Lao Cai, overnight train to Hanoi.

8

Accommodation: Homestay x 4, hotel x 3, sleeper train x 2, camping x 2

12

Arrive Hanoi. Free time to explore.

-

Meals: 10 breakfasts, 9 lunches & 7 dinners

“This trip offers a wonderful window into the way the indigenous peoples interact with their environment.

Experience the vibrant colours, people and sculpted scenery for a real taste of North Vietnam.”

13/14

Depart Hanoi. Overnight flight to UK.

-

Group Size (Min - Max): 4 - 10

ROB WALLBANK, Operations Manager

From/ To UK

practical information Grade: C (Demanding) Max Altitude: 1,548m Average Daily Distance: 11km

Trip Code: TVIE

extend your trip

Departures: J F M A M J J A S O N D

Extend your stay to include time in Halong Bay. Please see page 26 for more.

Land Only: From £999 | With Flights: From £1,749 Single Supplement: From £179

Gradient chart (metres) Sapa

2000 1500 1000 500 0

Ta Phin

Cat Cat

Seo My Ty Deng Thang Sin Chai

Ta Thang

why this trip?

private-guided option For more information about going Private Guided on this trip, please call one of the team on 01962 737565.

What next?

Visit our website for more information and for Trip Dossiers, prices and dates.

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25

INDIa, myanmar & vietnam

extend your stay in INDIA, myanmar or vietnam Why not make the most of your time with an extra few days at the end of your trip?

INDIA - Mararikulam Beach ¬ Enjoy the relaxed pace of life ¬ Beautiful white sandy beach ¬ Explore colourful local villages Mararikulam’s appeal is its space and silence. The quiet, secluded beach and adjoining fishing village are the perfect place to relax and slow down. Enjoy coconut groves lining the way to the beach, green surroundings and an abundance of birds and butterflies. Visit the village and watch the fascinating process of coir weaving, or explore the meandering lanes of the local village.

From £399 per person for 2 nights (3 days) (price is based on two people sharing)

MYANMAR - Ngapali Beach ¬ White sands and clear blue waters ¬ Snorkel with colourful fish ¬ Panoramic views of beach stupa Ngapali’s palm-lined beach is the perfect place to unwind. Lie on the soft, sandy beach, swim and snorkel in the crystal clear waters.

Witness the local fishermen bringing in their catches and dine on fresh food while watching local life pass by.

From £439 per person for 3 nights (4 days) (price is based on two people sharing)

VIETNAM - HaLong Bay EXTENSION ¬ Stay on a small junk in secluded bays ¬ Explore the local fishing community by boat ¬ Visit Thien Canh Son Cave Stay overnight on a small, traditional junk boat and relax on the deck while enjoying the beautiful scenery of Halong Bay. Explore the community of Vung Vieng by kayak or bamboo boat, visit the beach and explore Thien Canh Son Cave. On board, try an early morning Tai Chi class, learn traditional Vietnamese cooking and fruit carving or sip a cocktail while watching the sunset over the islets.

From £175 per person for 1 night (2 days) (price is based on two people sharing)

26

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CHINA

Sacred Peaks of Sichuan

Group Guided

A challenging trek amidst the sacred peaks of Tibetan Sichuan

At 7,556 metres, Mount Gongga is the highest peak in Western China’s Sichuan province, and one of the highest mountains outside the Himalayas. This trek will take you to Gongga Monastery and its base camp. Although you won’t be climbing it, this formidable peak has claimed more climbers lives than it has allowed to stand on the summit. The trekking is moderate but very remote. Your efforts will be well rewarded with stunning views and opportunities to see wildlife such as wolf, red fox and the elusive snow leopard...

Approx Hours Walked

itinerary

at a glance

13 days

GRADE C

Fly overnight to Chengdu.

-

¬ Remote wilderness trekking

2

Arrive Chengdu.

-

¬ Explore a 700 year old Tibetan monastery

3

Visit Giant Panda breeding centre.

-

¬ Spectacular mountains and Tibetan villages

4

Full day scenic drive to Kangding.

-

¬ Visit Giant Panda Breeding Centre

5

Drive to Tagong. Time to acclimatise.

-

6

To Yulongxi. Tibetan houses, hot springs.

3

7

Trek up LongQingMa pass.

6

8

Easier trek to Gongga Monastery.

5

9

Tough trek up riverbed to base camp.

6

practical information Grade: C (Demanding)

Physical Grade

B

C

D

From/ To UK Chengdu

CHINA Kangding

Yulongxi

LongQingMa pass Mount Gongga

Gongga Monastery

Gongga Base Camp

1

A

off-the-beaten-track rating

Caoke

why this trip?

10 Return to Gongga Monastery.

5

Accommodation: Hotel x 3, basic guesthouse

x 3, camp x 4

11

Walk down to hot springs at Caoke.

6

Meals: 11 breakfasts, 10 lunches & 11 dinners

“Sichuan is known locally as the ‘province of abundance’ and its many ethnic groups, high mountains, glaciers, endangered plants and animals all contribute to this. Not to mention a paradise for foodies!”

12

Drive back to Chengdu.

-

Group Size (Min - Max): 4 - 14

NATHAN WHITTAKER, TREKKING EXPERT

-

Trip Code: TCMG

13

Fly home.

Max Altitude: 4,600m Average Daily Distance: 9km

Departures: J F M A M J J A S O N D Land Only: From £1,655 | With Flights: From £2,170 Single Supplement: From £135

Gradient chart (metres) Yulongxi

5000 4000 3000 2000 1000 0

LongQingMa Pass Moxigou

Gongga Base Camp

Gongga Monastery

Zimei

private-guided option For more information about going Private Guided on this trip, please call one of the team on 01962 737565.

What next?

Visit our website for more information and for Trip Dossiers, prices and dates.

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27

africa & the middle east

36

Climb to the roof of Africa Kilimanjaro’s Uhuru Peak

Morocco Marrakech & Atlas Short Break 29 The Berber Trail 30 Raiders of the Lost Kasbah 31 Toubkal Ascent 32 Morocco Extensions 33

Jordan Bedouin Trail to Petra 34

Ethiopia Simien Mountains & Castles 35 Axum & Lalibela Extensions 40

Tanzania Kilimanjaro... Are you ready? 36 Kilimanjaro - Rongai Route 38 Kilimanjaro - Shira Route 39 Northern Tanzania Safari Extension 40

South africa Kruger, Zulus & Drakensberg 41

REGIONAL INSIGHT...

“Spread your wings, and your ambition by taking on the challenge of two mighty peaks in the form of Kilimanjaro, the highest free standing volcano in the world, and Mount Toubkal in Morocco. We also we have spectacular new walks in Ethiopia and South Africa. There are also shorter duration walks available in Morocco and Jordan, from just five days and to suit all tastes and abilities.”

STEVE NAGLE, TREKKING EXPERT

35 34 28

Trek to the magnificent Petra in Jordan

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Walk in the Simien Mountains of Ethiopia

Morocco

Marrakech & Atlas Short Break 5 days

A great ‘quick fix’ trekking trip in Morocco

After a night in a traditional riad in the heart of old Marrakech, we take you into the majestic High Atlas Mountains. Here you’ll enjoy two magnificent days of trekking over moderate passes, through scenic valleys and atmospheric Berber villages, before returning for a final night in the Imperial Ochre City. Soak up the atmosphere of the souks and square amid belly dancers, acrobats and snake charmers. Great value for money, sublime walking and a touch of the exotic, Morocco is the ideal destination for a short get-away.

itinerary

Approx Hours Walked

PRIVATE Guided Physical Grade

A

GRADE B

B

C

D

off-the-beaten-track rating

From/ To UK Marrakech

MOROCCO

Okaimeden

at a glance

1

Fly to Marrakech. Time to explore.

-

¬ Stay in a traditional riad in Marrakech

2

To Oukaimeden. Trek the Tizi nou Addi.

5

¬ Enjoy sublime trekking in the Atlas Mountains

3

Follow a mule trail to Tizi n’ Tamatert.

5

¬ Visit traditional Berber villages

4

Short walk to Imlil. To Marrakech.

1

¬ Experience exotic Marrakech

5

Depart Marrakech. Arrive UK.

-

Tacheddirt Imlil Mount Toubkal

Aremd

practical information Grade: B (Moderate) Max Altitude: 2,960m Average Daily Distance: 7-12km Accommodation: Riad x 2, trekking lodge x 2 Meals: 4 breakfasts, 2 lunches & 2 dinners Trip Code: TASB Departures: J F M A M J J A S O N D Land Only: From £399 Flight Price Guideline: From £180 Single Supplement: From £40 (Marrakech only)

Oukaimeden

3000 2500 2000 1500 1000 500 0

Oukaimeden Peak (optional)

“A small taste of life in Marrakech and the Atlas Mountains - the contrast between the two is quite something. I would definitely recommend this trip to anyone wanting a short break adventure. An unforgettable experience” Ross Underwood, WALKS WORLDWIDE CLIENT

Gradient chart (metres) 3500

why this trip?

Tizi n’Tamatert

Aremd

Imlil

What next?

Visit our website for more information and for Trip Dossiers, prices and dates.

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29

Morocco

The Berber Trail

Group Guided 8 days

Trek in four different valleys of Morocco

Trekking across a series of mountain passes (tizis) you explore four entirely different valleys to discover a fascinating variety of changing, colourful landscapes.

Enjoy a sublime Atlas trek and stimulating cultural experience with comfortable, charming accommodation, friendly Berber hospitality, tasty fresh Moroccan food and breathtaking scenery along the way. Explore the curious labyrinths of the souks in colourful Marrakech and stay in a charming, traditional family-run riad in the heart of the city.

Approx Hours Walked

itinerary

-

¬ Discover tiny, timeless mountain villages

2

Follow a piste track to Tacheddirt.

5

¬ Friendly Berber hospitality and culture

3

Cross Tizi Tamatert to Aremd.

5

¬ Dramatic High Atlas panoramas

4

Tizi Mizik to Tizi Oussem Village.

7

¬ Experience the magnetism of Marrakech

5

Walk the Azzaden Valley to Ouirgane.

5

6

Explore a nature reserve.

4

7

To Marrakech. Free time to explore.

-

8

Depart Marrakech. Arrive UK.

-

Average Daily Distance: 12km

Trip Code: TTBT Departures: J F M A M J J A S O N D Land Only: From £499 | With Flights: From £799 Single Supplement: From £129 (hotel & riad only)

Gradient chart (metres) Aremd

Tizi Mizik

2500

Tassa Ouirgane

1500 1000 500

“Discover new cultures whilst discovering the real you. If you aim to do something challenging or learn something new every day, you’ll have no trouble with that on this trip. There are plenty of adrenaline rushes too!”

Kevin Morrison, Walks Worldwide Client

private-guided option For more information about going Private Guided on this trip, please call one of the team on 01962 737565.

What next?

walksworldwide.com

0

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Okaimeden

Aremd

Visit our website for more information and for Trip Dossiers, prices and dates.

2000

30

Tizi Oussem

C

why this trip?

Max Altitude: 2,560m

Group Size (Min - Max): 4 - 12

Tizi n’Tamatert

Mount Toubkal

Grade: B (Moderate)

Meals: 7 breakfasts, 5 lunches & 6 dinners

B

Tacheddirt

Ouirgane

practical information

Accommodation: Trekking lodge x 4, riad x 1, hotel x 1, gite x 1

Physical Grade

Marrakech

MOROCCO

Arrive Marrakech; to Oukaimeden.

3000

A

D

off-the-beaten-track rating

From/ To UK

at a glance

1

Oukaimeden Tacheddirt

GRADE B

Morocco

Raiders of the lost kasbah

Group Guided 8 days

Journey on foot through the history of Morocco

This unique trekking adventure takes you across the Atlas Mountains on the ancient caravan route to discover historic fortresses, crumbling kasbahs, lunar landscapes, fertile valleys, spectacular canyons, tiny villages and the iconic ksar of magnificent Ait Ben Haddou.

Back in imperial Marrakech you’ll have time to explore the souks and experience the magical evening spectacle of Djemma El Fna Square.

GRADE C

A

Physical Grade

B

C

D

off-the-beaten-track rating

Marrakech

From/ To UK

Taddert

MOROCCO

Telouet

Mount Toubkal Ait Ben Haddou Ouarzarzate

itinerary

Approx Hours Walked

at a glance

1

Depart UK. Arrive Marrakech.

-

¬ Explore the Southern flanks of the Atlas

2

To Atlas Mountains. Time to trek.

5

¬ Follow an old trade route

3

Cross Tizi n’Telouet to Telouet.

6

¬ Kasbahs, ksars and Ait Ben Haddou

4

Ascend the Adrar Taqqat. To Assaka.

6

¬ Experience the busy souks of Marrakech

5

Walk via kasbah villages to Tizgui.

4

6

Trek to Ait Ben Haddou via Assif Aounil.

6

7

Ait Ben Haddou, then to Marrakech.

8

Depart Marrakech. Arrive UK.

practical information Grade: C (Demanding)

-

Meals: 7 breakfasts, 5 lunches & 5 dinners

“One of our best trips for blending cultural immersion with great off-the-beaten-track walking. Morocco is friendly and exotic and if you are deciding how to get the most out of the country, this trip is a great option!”

Group Size (Min - Max): 4 - 12

MATT BENNETT, TREKKING EXPERT

Max Altitude: 2,200m Average Daily Distance: 10km Accommodation: Hotel x 3, gite x 2,

auberge x 1, camping x 1

Trip Code: TLKM Departures: J F M A M J J A S O N D Land Only: From £499 | With Flights: From £749 Single Supplement: From £40 (Marrakech only)

Gradient chart (metres) 3000 2500 2000 1500 1000 500 0

Izihks

Titoula

Tizi n’Telouet

Telouet

why this trip?

Assaka

Tizgui Ait Ben Haddou

private-guided option For more information about going Private Guided on this trip, please call one of the team on 01962 737565.

What next?

Visit our website for more information and for Trip Dossiers, prices and dates.

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31

MOROCCO

Toubkal Ascent

Group Guided 8 days

A classic trekking holiday in Morocco

This amazing trek takes you to the summit of Jebel Toubkal, the highest peak in North Africa. Commencing in the beautiful, verdant Ourika Valley, you’ll trek over the rarely crossed Tizi n’Tacheddirt to reach North Africa’s highest permanently inhabited village. One more pass and then you join the regular trail to the Neltner Refuge beneath Toubkal itself. Here, a rugged route takes you to the summit of Toubkal for far-reaching and truly stupendous vistas of the Atlas Mountains and beyond to the Sahara.

itinerary

Approx Hours Walked

Depart UK. Arrive Marrakech.

-

¬ The superb High Atlas peaks

2

To Atlas Mountains; trek to Timichi.

6

¬ Summit Jebel Toubkal (4,167m)

3

Walk to the village of Tacheddirt.

8

¬ The delightful Ourika valley

4

Trek via Tizi Tamatert to Aremd.

5

¬ Explore the vibrant city of Marrakech

5

Trek to Neltner - Mt. Toubkal Base Camp.

5

6

Summit Toubkal; walk to Aremd.

9

7

Return to Marrakech; time to explore.

-

8

Depart Marrakech. Arrive UK.

-

C

MOROCCO

Setti Fatma

Tacheddirt Aremd Toubkal

practical information Grade: C (Demanding)

why this trip?

Meals: 7 breakfasts, 5 lunches & 5 dinners

“Trekking to the summit of Toubkal through the mud brick villages, past the terrace fields or fruit trees with the Berber people of the Atlas Mountains is a great achievement immersed with Moroccan culture.”

Group Size (Min - Max): 4 - 12

MARK JACKSON, HEAD OF IT

Max Altitude: 4,167m Average Daily Distance: 9km

Departures: J F M A M J J A S O N D Land Only: From £399 | With Flights: From £649 Single Supplement: From £40 (Marrakech only)

Gradient chart (metres) Aremd Toubkal Refuge Toubkal

5000 4000

Aremd

private-guided option For more information about going Private Guided on this trip, please call one of the team on 01962 737565.

What next?

Visit our website for more information and for Trip Dossiers, prices and dates.

3000 2000 1000

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0

32

B

Marrakech

Toubkal Refuge

Trip Code: TTAS

Tacheddirt

Physical Grade

Timichi

Accommodation: Trekking lodge x 3, hotel x 2,

gite x 1, mountain hut x 1

Tizi N’Tacheddirt

From/ To UK

A

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D

off-the-beaten-track rating

at a glance

1

Setti Fatma Timichi

GRADE c

morocco

extend your stay in morocco Why not make the most of your time with an extra few days at the end of your trip?

MARRAKECH RIADS EXTENSION ¬ Escape the hustle and bustle of the city ¬ Enjoy serene courtyard gardens ¬ Relax in a hammam Experience the feeling of opulence in a traditional riad; the former residences of Moroccan nobility. Enjoy some quiet relaxation away from the hustle and bustle of Marrakech in a walled courtyard garden while sipping mint tea and delicious Moroccan pastries.

Admire the views from a roof top as you relax in a hammock. Unwind in a warm hammam or take a dip in a courtyard pool.

From £199 per person for 2 nights (3 days) (price is based on two people sharing)

essaouira extension ¬ A refreshing coastal escape ¬ Great for shopping for souvenirs ¬ Explore an old pirates’ port Discover the atmospheric old port of Essaouira.

Explore the faded grandeur of its colonial past, walk along the old ramparts passing by cannons pointing out to sea. Visit the medieval harbour teeming with blue fishing boats bobbing up and down on the waves.

Enjoy wandering through cobbled alleyways, discover artisan workshops and barter for souvenirs.

From £229 per person for 2 nights (3 days) (price is based on two people sharing)

SAHARA DESERT EXTENSION ¬ Experience a camel trek in the desert ¬ Camp under a blanket of stars ¬ Immerse yourself in rolling sand dunes Enjoy a four-day Sahara adventure; trek by camel into the wilderness of the Sahara itself and overnight in the desert in a comfortable permanent camp.

Add to this two nights spent poolside at the absolutely beautiful and tranquil Chez Le Pacha, plus the option to try out a bit of desert sand-boarding and quadbiking too.

From £499 per person for 3 nights (4 days) (price is based on two people sharing)

Call us on 01962 737565

33

jordan

Bedouin Trail to Petra Desert trekking from Dana on the ‘Inca Trail of the Middle East’

Group Guided 8 days

GRADE c

A truly incredible and iconic walk across the deserts and mountains of Jordan to magnificent, iconic Petra. Trekking through dramatic gorges and canyons on trails known only to the local Bedouin, it’s unlikely you’ll encounter other trekkers.

Cross the classic rocky hamada desert to climb into the spectacular mountains and escarpments above the Great Rift Valley. Spectacular trails lead through wadis and along rocky ledges to emerge at the ‘back door’ of Petra itself.

itinerary

Approx Hours Walked

at a glance

1

Depart UK. Arrive Amman.

-

¬ Trek from Dana Reserve to Petra

2

Wadi Dana trail to Feynan Eco-lodge.

6

¬ Amazing mountain and desert scenery

3

Trek along the Wadi Araba.

6

¬ Camp Bedouin-style beneath the stars

4

Climb up to camp at Ras el Fied.

6

¬ Stay in an eco-lodge in Dana Reserve

5

Pass wadis to camp at Ishkart Msaid .

9

6

Walking excursion to ‘Little Petra’.

6

7

Explore Petra. Drive to Madaba.

5

8

Depart Amman. Arrive UK.

-

A

B

C

Amman

From/ To UK

Madaba

ISRAEL

JORDAN

Dana Wadi Araba

Petra

Feynan Eco-lodge in Dana Reserve

practical information Grade: C (Demanding) Max Altitude: Under 1,000m Average Daily Distance: 15km Accommodation: Camping x 4, hotel x 2,

eco-lodge x 1 Meals: 7 breakfasts, 6 lunches & 5 dinners Group Size (Min - Max): 4 - 16 Trip Code: TBTP Departures: J F M A M J J A S O N D Land Only: From £999 | With Flights: From £1,499 Single Supplement: From £149 (excluding camps)

why this trip?

“Walking in Jordan is a real pleasure. The rocky landscape is beautiful especially early and late in the day. You’ll never forget sleeping beneath the stars in the desert in a Bedouin-style camp.”

TOM MANCHESTER, PRODUCT MANAGER

What next?

Visit our website for more information and for Trip Dossiers, prices and dates.

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34

Physical Grade

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D

off-the-beaten-track rating

ETHIOPIA

Simien Mountains & Castles

Group Guided 12 days

Trek the World Heritage Site of Simien Mountains National Park

The highland area of the Simien Mountains is a designated World Heritage site, dominated by high plateaus, gorges, canyons and dramatic rocky pinnacles.

Explore Gondar - the Camelot of Ethiopia - rich in art and culture as well as being famous for its many medieval castles and churches. We’ll also spend a few hours visiting a ‘Link Ethiopia’ project - a local primary school. Our fascinating 5-day trek culminates with breaktaking views of Ras Dashen across the valley.

Why not extend your stay in Ethiopia? See our extension options on page 40.

GRADE C

A

Physical Grade

B

C

D

off-the-beaten-track rating

Geech Camp

Chenck Camp

Geech Bwahit Pass Sankaber Camp Debark Gondar Lake Tana

ETHIOPIA

Bahir Dar

itinerary

Approx Hours Walked

at a glance

1/2 Overnight flight to Addis Ababa.

-

¬ Internal flights to avoid long drives

3

Fly to Gondar. Free time in afternoon.

-

¬ Try out the local dish of ‘injera and wat’

4

Visit a Link Ethiopia project.

-

5

To Debark; walk to Sankaber.

4

¬ Price includes donation to Link Ethiopia Education project

6

Walk to Geech via Jinbar Waterfalls.

7

7

Walk to Chenck.

7

8

Walk to Bwahit Peak and back.

4

9

Transfer back to Gondar.

-

10

Transfer to Bahir Dar: live music.

-

11

Explore Lake Tana. Fly to UK.

-

12

Arrive UK.

-

practical information Grade: C (Demanding) Max Altitude: 4,200m Average Daily Distance: 14km Accommodation: Hotel x 5, camping x 4 Meals: 9 breakfasts, 9 lunches & 9 dinners Group Size (Min - Max): 4 - 12 Departures: J F M A M J J A S O N D Land Only: From £1,799 | With Flights: From £2,399 Single Supplement: From £189

Gradient chart (metres) Sankaber 4000 3000 2000 1000 0

Geech

Chenck

Bwahit Pass

From/ To UK

Addis Ababa

why this trip?

“Trekking through ancient villages with communities living as they have for hundreds of years. Trekkers are often invited in to homes for a traditional Ethiopian Coffee ceremony, be warned though the coffee is very strong and you will be expected to drink at least three cups.”

ADAM HICKMAN, WALKS WORLDWIDE CLIENT

Trip Code: TESM

5000

Bwahit Peak

Chenck

private-guided option For more information about going Private Guided on this trip, please call one of the team on 01962 737565.

What next?

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35

TANZANIA

kiliMANJARO... are you ready?

HOW TO PREPARE FOR THE CHALLENGE OF A LIFETIME

Trekking expert Matthew Bennett imparts his top tips and explains how, with the right groundwork and training, an ascent of Kilimanjaro is within anyone’s reach.

PRE-TREK PLANNING Climbing Kili is a serious business!

There are a number of important factors to consider when preparing for this trek. From my experience of running marathons, I know that the best way to focus your preparations is to identify a target and a date for your challenge. So don’t just talk about taking on Tanzania’s summit ‘one day’ – do your research, sign up and commit!

36

What makes the trek difficult?

Challenging factors include the steep (though non-technical) ascent, the freezing temperatures – oh, and the thin air at high altitude: Uhuru peak is 5,895m above sea level. These challenges can all be managed, so the key ingredient to success is determination. Walks Worldwide offer the Rongai and Shira routes, which spend the maximum amount of time acclimatising on the mountain and thus enjoy the some of the highest summit success rates.

On the trek itself, it’s important to take it very steady (“pole, pole”, as your guide will tell you) – it’s not a race. I was all too aware that fit young men have the lowest success rate,

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often due to lack of preparation and because they walk too fast. To deal with the altitude, you need to walk slowly, drink plenty of water, eat well and acclimatise as much as possible.

The following bits of kit are most important: sturdy and well worn-in walking boots (ideally with a Vibram sole), warm undergarments, thick gloves and socks (ideally more than one pair for summit night), plenty of warm layers and a waterproof ski or down jacket.

Imagine the Mountain What does it look like? How am I going to feel? What is life going to be like on the trek? If you can picture yourself doing it before the off, the climb becomes more achievable when

TANZANIA

you actually set out. The early stages of the trek are fairly easy, allowing you to get into the routine: doing your walking for the day, eating the excellent food provided and enjoying the camaraderie of the experienced guides and the rest of your group. As you work your way up Kili, the sun can still be strong during the day but the nights get colder – much colder – so wrap up warm!

In the latter stages of the ascent, the effects of altitude – fatigue, light headaches and loss of appetite – are likely to hit, though they affect different people at different points.

It is important to manage these (walk slowly, keep well hydrated), but also to visualise yourself overcoming them.

The two natural solutions are rest and

time to acclimatise, both of which are built into your itinerary.

By the time you approach the summit, your body will adapt to the challenging conditions, and you can start to think about reaching the peak.

The final night is a long trek through the cold – for many people, it’s simply a case of continuing to put one foot in front of the other!

As you pass the Gillman’s Point (5,719m) – a monumental feat and a worthy goal in itself – you still have a couple of hours to go. By that point I was exhausted, and found that there, more than ever, I appreciated the company of my guides and group members. Keep saying to yourself: we will get there together!

BASKING IN THE GLORY I’d achieved it! Having summited Uhuru Peak, I was looking forward to a long list of things: sleep, warmth, a good meal, rest and a proper shower – but I have to say that, as the sun rose over the summit, I felt as if I had a new body. On the descent we strode down what had been really tough climbs and drank in the increasingly rich oxygen. The entire group felt good, and celebrated an experience that we would never forget!

Do it now. Call today!

We offer two routes to the summit of Kilimanjaro. See pages 38 and 39.

Call us on 01962 737565

37

TANZANIA

Kilimanjaro - Rongai Route

Group Guided 10 days

A beautiful route to the summit

The Rongai approaches from the north and is arguably the easiest route to the top of Africa. Many also consider this the most beautiful way to the summit. From farmland and forest up through the Alpine zone, there are stupendous views throughout. Across the lunar desert of the Saddle, the final arduous push brings you to the crater rim from where there are spectacular views of the summits’ glaciers and ice cliffs and to the plains of East Africa far below. Why not extend your stay in Tanzania with a safari extension? See page 40 for more information.

GRADE D

A

Physical Grade

B

C

D

off-the-beaten-track rating

Rongai Rongai Cave Second Cave Kikelewa Kilimanjaro Uhuru Peak Kibo Hut

TANZANIA

Mawenzi Hut

Horombo Hut

Kilimanjaro International Airport

Marangu

To/ From UK

Approx Hours Walked

itinerary

at a glance

1/2

Overnight flight to Kilimanjaro.

-

¬ Six-days on the mountain (inc. acclimatisation)

3

Transfer to Rongai Gate. Begin trek.

5

¬ Camp by Mawenzi Tarn and Towers

4

Trek to Kikelewa Camp.

7

¬ The most beautiful way to the top

5

Ascend to camp at Mawenzi Tarn.

4

¬ Pleasant accommodation in Moshi

6

Trek to Kibo camp.

5

7

Summit Kili. Descend to Horombo.

14

8

Descend to Marangu Gate.

6

Overnight flight to UK.

-

9/10

practical information Grade: D (Strenuous) Max Altitude: 5,895m Average Daily Distance: 19km Accommodation: Camping x 5, hotel x 2 Meals: 7 breakfasts, 6 lunches & 7 dinners Group Size (Min - Max): 4 - 12 Departures: J F M A M J J A S O N D Land Only: From £1,599 | With Flights: From £2,239 Single Supplement: From £50

Gradient chart (metres) Marangu

Nale Moru

Second Cave Kikelewa Mawenzi Tarn

Gillman’s Point Uhuru Peak

private-guided option For more information about going Private Guided on this trip, please call one of the team on 01962 737565.

Marangu

What next?

6000 5000

Visit our website for more information and for Trip Dossiers, prices and dates.

4000 3000 2000 1000

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0

38

“A Kilimanjaro route with days built into the itinerary, for optimal acclimatisation. With the best support team available on the mountain, a great recipe for summit success. Check out our website for full moon departures.”

MATT BENNETT, TREKKING EXPERT

Trip Code: TKRO

Your accommodation before the trek

why this trip?

Visit our website walksworldwide.com

TANZANIA

Kilimanjaro - Shira Route

Group Guided 12 days

A real wilderness experience on the way to the summit

Increase your chances of summit success on the twelve day Shira route. There’s a real sense of wilderness as you approach from the west and cross the impressive caldera of the Shira volcano. Expect short morning ascents, with plenty of acclimatisation time in the afternoons. Trekking beneath the spectacular hanging glacier of the Western Breach and the flanks of Kibo is unforgettable. Even more memorable is the sensation of standing at the famous Uhuru Peak summit sign knowing that you have reached the top of Africa.

Approx Hours Walked

itinerary

Overnight flight to Kilimanjaro.

-

¬ A remote, rewarding route

3

Transfer to Londorossi Gate; begin trek.

5

¬ Pleasant start hotel in Moshi

4

Ascend to Shira Plateau.

4

¬ Plenty of acclimatisation on trek

5

Ascend to Moir Hut.

7

¬ This trip supports local charitable projects

6

Walk beneath the Western Breach.

7

7

Climb the Great Barranco Wall.

5

8

Steep climb to Barafu Campsite.

5

9

Summit Kili. Descend to Mweka.

14

10

Descend to Mweka Gate.

4

Overnight flight to UK.

-

practical information Grade: D (Strenuous) Max Altitude: 5,895m Average Daily Distance: 9km Accommodation: Camping x 7, hotel x 2 Meals: 8 breakfasts, 8 lunches & 9 dinners Group Size (Min - Max): 4 - 12 Departures: J F M A M J J A S O N D Land Only: From £1,979 | With Flights: From £2,699 Single Supplement: From £60

Gradient chart (metres) Londorossi Gate 6000 5000 4000 3000 2000 1000 0

Shira Hut

Moir Hut

Lava Tower

Karanga

Stella Point Uhuru Peak

B

C

D

Kilimanjaro Uhuru Peak Moir Hut Shira One Arusha

Lava Towers

Barafu

Barranco Valley Mweka

TANZANIA

From/ To UK

why this trip?

“Not many people go this way... remote but spectacular, and more time to experience the different eco systems. The extra time on the volcano will increase your chances of getting to the top.”

STEVE NAGLE, WALKING EXPERT

Trip Code: TKSH

Your accommodation before the trek

Physical Grade

off-the-beaten-track rating

Kilimanjaro International Airport

at a glance

1/2

11/12

A

GRADE D

private-guided option For more information about going Private Guided on this trip, please call one of the team on 01962 737565.

Mweka

What next?

Visit our website for more information and for Trip Dossiers, prices and dates.

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39

ethiopia & tanzania

extend your stay in tanzania or ethiopia Why not make the most of your time with an extra few days at the end of your trip?

Tanzania - Northern Safari ¬ Huge herds of migratory wildlife ¬ Visit the Ngorongoro Crater ¬ Game drive in Manyara National Park Drive to Tarangire National Park where huge herds of wildebeest, zebra, elephant, eland and oryx gather until the onset of the rainy season. The following day continue on to Manyara National Park for views of the lake and the impressive backdrop of the Rift Valley Escarpment. Descend into the Ngorongoro Crater for one of the best places to see black rhino, and magnificent black-maned lions.

Tented-camp extension from £869 per person Lodge-based extension from £999 per person 3 nights (4 days) based on two people sharing

ethiopia - Axum Extension ¬ Visit the Chapel of the Tablet ¬ See the famous Obelisks ¬ Explore the Palace of Makeda ruins Axum is a mysterious, legendary place that fascinates travellers and archaeologists. A town of churches, ruins and monasteries, seemingly frozen in time.

A small chapel, guarded by a monk claims to be the location of the Ark of the Covenant. See the famous obelisks announcing the authority of Axum’s ruling families and the ruins of The Queen of Sheba’s palace.

From £550 per person for 3 nights (4 days) Based on two people sharing. Domestic flights extra - prices on request.

ethiopia - Lalibela Extension ¬ Visit the excavated rock-hewn churches ¬ Trek to Asheten Maryam Church ¬ Spectacular countryside views Visit some of the 11 underground rock-hewn churches, hand-carved out of single pieces of stone under King Lalibela’s reign. Trek through friendly villages and spectacular countryside to the Asheton Maryam monastery, overlooking the town of Lalibela at an altitude of almost 4,000m.

From £525 per person for 3 nights (4 days) Based on two people sharing. Domestic flights extra - prices on request.

40

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SOUTH AFRICA

Kruger, zulus & Drakensberg

Group Guided 17 days

Scenic and cultural walks in South Africa and Swaziland

South Africa has so much to offer and on this walking focused safari, you will explore variety of scenic and cultural destinations within the country. This is an active holiday and the level of walking is varied from leisurely to challenging. In Mpumalanga you can soak up the mountains and marvel at waterfalls before heading on to the famed Kruger National Park where you have the opportunity to spot the Big Five. Learn about the fascinating Zulu culture and walk along mountain stream paths in the 200km-long Drakensberg Mountains.

itinerary

Approx Hours Walked

Overnight flight to Johannesburg.

-

¬ Trek in the Drakensberg Mountains

3

To Mpumalanga. Short walk.

1

¬ Spot the ‘Big Five’ in Kruger National Park

4/5

4

6

Kruger National Park - bush walk.

4

7/8

Kingdom of Swaziland - full day walks around mountainous region.

6

9/10

Isimangoliso Wetland Park - walks around the local area.

3

11/12

Zululand - Tulana Museum & hike through hills to Buffalo River.

5

13/14

Drakensburg Mountains - walks along mountain trails.

5

Trek to the beautiful Tugela Falls.

6

Overnight flight back to the UK from Johannesburg.

-

15 16/17

Physical Grade

A

B

C

D

off-the-beaten-track rating

Kruger National Park

MOZAMBIQUE

Mpumalanga Johannesburg

From/ To UK

Malalotja Nature Reserve

SWAZILAND

SOUTH AFRICA

at a glance

1/2

Kruger Private Game Reserve walks with day & night game drives.

GRADE C

Zululand

LESOTHO

Isimangoliso Wetland Park

Drakensburg

¬ Dramatic coastlines backed by pristine forests ¬ Complete eight scenic walks

practical information Grade: C (Demanding)

why this trip?

Meals: 13 breakfasts, 14 lunches & 9 dinners

“It’s hard to describe how pristine walking in South Africa’s Drakensberg range actually is. The air is clear, the wildflowers magnificent and the scenery rejuvenating. It’s a must for walkers who enjoy the scenery as much as the walking.”

Group Size (Min - Max): 4 - 12

JON BARBER, HEAD OF SALES

Max Altitude: 3,000m Average Daily Distance: 10km Accommodation: Chalet x 7, lodge x 5, tented

lodge x 2

Trip Code: TSWA Departures: J F M A M J J A S O N D Land Only: From £1,489 | With Flights: From £2,499 Single Supplement: From £499

private-guided option For more information about going Private Guided on this trip, please call one of the team on 01962 737565.

What next?

Visit our website for more information and for Trip Dossiers, prices and dates.

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Call us on 01962 737565

41

latin america

47

Trek to Machu Picchu in the land of the Incas

cOLOMBIA Lost City & Volcanoes 43

COSTA RICA Stun your Senses in Costa Rica 44 Tropical Trails 46

Peru The Classic Inca Trail 47 The Weavers’ Trail 48 The Salkantay Trail 49 Amazon Basin Extension 51

chile The W-Trek & Chilean Lakes 50 Easter Island Extension 51

43

Trek through the jungle to the Lost City in Colombia

REGIONAL INSIGHT...

“Latin America and in particular the Andes, which form the spine of South America, should not be missed. The scenery is spellbinding, the colonial towns are real gems, and the way of life is eye-opening. There are unique landscapes, spectacular Inca ruins in Peru, giant palms in the lush coffee triangle of Colombia, as well as stunning panoramas and magical rocky towers in Patagonia.”

MATT BENNETT, TREKKING EXPERT

46

Ultimate Patagonia Adventure

Walk amongst the wildlife of Costa Rica’s cloud forests

See our Adventure Worldwide website for a great adventure holiday in Patagonia. Guaranteed departures with plenty of walking and taking in iconic sights such as Cerro Fitz Roy, Perito Moreno Glacier, Torres del Paine and Tierra del Fuego.

An epic journey to the uttermost end of the earth!

Call the Adventure Worldwide team on 01962

737 630 Or visit their website adventureworldwide.co.uk

42

Visit our website walksworldwide.com

COLOMBIA

Lost City & volcanoes Trek through jungle and to snowy volcanoes

From Bogota, you’ll visit a picturesque village in the heart of the coffee country before heading to Los Nevados National Park and trek amidst snow-capped volcanoes. Spend a couple of days wandering the cobbled streets of romantic Cartagena before travelling to the Sierra Nevada de Santa Marta for the challenging jungle trek to The Lost City.

Group Guided 18 days

GRADE C

Santa Marta

A

Approx Hours Walked

at a glance

Overnight flight to Bogota.

-

¬ Marvel at indigenous ruins in the Lost City

3

Explore Bogota on foot.

2

¬ Enjoy wild Caribbean beaches

Salento Armenia

4

Fly to Armenia; transfer to Salento.

-

¬ Wander colourful streets of colonial cities

5

Walks in Los Nevados National Park.

6

¬ Trek amidst snow-capped volcanoes

6

Hike to Refugio La Pastora.

4

7

Walk down to Ortenzias.

7

8

Fly to Cartagena.

-

9

Explore Cartagena on a guided tour.

2

10

To Santa Marta.

-

11 14

Commence 5 day trek through jungle to the Lost City - Ciudad Perdida. Spend 4 nights sleeping in simple hammock camps.

5

15

To Tayrona National Park.

-

16

Optional trek or free day.

-

Overnight flight to UK via Bogota.

-

17/18

D

VENEZUELA

1/2

Grade: C (Demanding)

C

Lost City

Cartagena

Los Nevados National Park Manizales

practical information

B

Tayrona National Park

After all this, there’s time to relax on the wild beaches of Tayrona National Park.

itinerary

Physical Grade

off-the-beaten-track rating

COLOMBIA Bogota From/ To UK

why this trip?

Meals: 15 breakfasts, 9 lunches & 8 dinners

“When I first told people I was going to visit Colombia… they had no idea of the wonders that I would discover.

The warm hospitality, the preserved colonial heritage and the most amazing jungles, mountains and coastlines I have seen.”

Group Size (Min - Max): 4 - 12

MATT BENNETT, TREKKING EXPERT

Max Altitude: 3,900m Average Daily Distance: 8km Accommodation: Hotel x 6, hammock x 4, refugio x 3, lodge x 2

Trip Code: TCLZ Departures: J F M A M J J A S O N D Land Only: From £2,339 | With Flights: From £2,989 Single Supplement: From £189

private-guided option For more information about going Private Guided on this trip, please call one of the team on 01962 737565.

What next?

Visit our website for more information and for Trip Dossiers, prices and dates.

walksworldwide.com

Call us on 01962 737565

43

COSTA RICA

Stun your senses in costa rica IN ASSOCIATION WITH

44

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COSTA RICA

Costa Rica packs quite a kick.

It’s the country’s extraordinary geography that nurtures dizzying wildlife and creates the perfect setting for walking adventures.

for an introduction – you might meet sloths and monkeys en route. Then there are the ‘Ticos’ themselves, Costa Rica’s chilled-out, music-loving people, ready with welcoming smiles.

Volcanoes looming from the rainforest, spewing lava and courting trekkers; beaches where turtles nest and surfers ride the waves; junglelined channels luring kayakers among caiman and monkeys; and of course the mountain trails. And with two coasts on the Caribbean and Pacific, there’s no shortage of sandy strands for relaxing.

In Spanish, Costa Rica means ‘rich coast’, and rightly so as it is abundant in natural diversity and wildlife.

Rainforests, mangrove swamps, cloud forests, beaches, coral reefs and a plethora of plant life. It is home to 5% of the world’s biodiversity. It is thought to have 1,200 species of orchid, 35,000 species of insects, 160 amphibians’ species, 220 reptiles and over 850 species of birds. There are 12 different ecosystems, including tropical wetlands, primary dry forest and tidal mangrove swamps.

Meeting the locals, of course, is an essential element for a visit – and the cast list is impressive. Fancy a date with a resplendent quetzal – a dazzling creature with traffic-light plumage and tail-feathers extravagant enough to make a bird of paradise feel dowdy? Head to the cloud forest

Costa Rica offers the chance to experience such a diverse contrast in culture and content. Our walking adventure is perfectly balanced to

complement the laid back lifestyle known as ‘Pura Vida’ - it’s a good life!

The best news of all, is that with new direct flights from London Gatwick to San Jose with British Airways, Costa Rica is even more accessible.

For a small country, Costa Rica certainly has a large amount to offer.

And remember, as well as the Tropical Trails itinerary offered by Walks Worldwide, we can provide a range of tailor-make options too so please contact us for a quotation.

let us take you there...

Head to Costa Rica on our Tropical Trails trip to see volcanoes, wildlife, rainforest and cloudforest.

Find out more overleaf.

Call us on 01962 737565

45

COSTA RICA

TROPICAL TRAILS

Group Guided

A unique journey of volcanoes, wildlife, rainforest and cloudforest

This very different and varied holiday will see you walk your way around volcano craters, meander through nature reserves, look out for birds in cloud forests and finally explore the steamy rainforests of the Osa Peninsula. Costa Rica’s landscapes are beautiful and the country is rich in bird and animal life. You may glimpse the colourful quetzal, toucans, monkeys, and more. You’ll stay in simple lodges most of the time, plus a couple of nights camping. Walking is mostly along good paths or tracks and varies from short walks to full days.

itinerary

Approx Hours Walked

Arrive San Jose, to Barva volcano.

-

¬ Walk to crater of Barva Volcano

2

Volcano hike to crater.

5

¬ See rich birdlife including famed quetzal

3

Walk the slopes of Turrialba volcano.

3

¬ Trek across the Osa Peninsula

4

Espino Blanco nature reserve walk.

3

¬ Highly varied walking

5

Travel to Los Quetzales NP.

2

6

Walk many ecosystems to Death Hill.

6

7

Travel to Osa Peninsula.

-

8

Full day walk in Corcovado rainforest.

9

9

Exploration of Corcovado on foot.

7

11/ 12

Overnight flight back to the UK via San Jose.

7 -

GRADE C

From/ To UK

A

practical information Grade: C (Demanding) Max Altitude: 3,490 m Average Daily Distance: 11 km Accommodation: Simple lodges x 8, camp x 2 Meals: 10 breakfasts, 3 lunches & 3 dinners Group Size (Min - Max): 4 - 16 Trip Code: TCOS Departures: J F M A M J J A S O N D Land Only: From £2,329 | With Flights: From £2,979 Single Supplement: From £499

B

C

San Jose

Espino Blanco Reserve

Los Quetzales National Park

COSTA RICA

PANAMA

Osa Peninsula

why this trip?

“Our Costa Rica holiday with Walks Worldwide was full of adventure and variety. We would highly recommend this trip if you are looking to experience all of the flora and fauna of this beautiful country.”

Katherine Pedersen, Walks Worldwide Client

private-guided option For more information about going Private Guided on this trip, please call one of the team on 01962 737565.

Visit our website for more information and for Trip Dossiers, prices and dates.

walksworldwide.com

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D

Barva Volcano Turrialba Volcano

What next?

46

Physical Grade

off-the-beaten-track rating

at a glance

1

10 Walk forest & beaches to Carate.

12 days

PERU

The Classic Inca Trail

GROUP GUIDED 11 days

Most famous route to Machu Picchu

Our version of this famous trek incorporates plenty of time to acclimatise and explore Cusco and the Sacred Valley. The landscape along the trail is spectacular, passing soaring ice-capped peaks and sweeping valleys which gradually change to lush cloud forests. Trek over Dead Woman’s Pass, before descending towards the Sun Gate. The climax of this trek is arrival at the Lost City of the Incas, Machu Picchu. We offer year round private departures and some group trips.

Also see our less travelled route, The Salkantay Trail on page 49.

itinerary

Approx Hours Walked

-

¬ Three nights in Cusco to acclimatise

2

Arrive Cusco. Rest following journey.

-

¬ Trek a world famous route

3

Walk in Cusco & Sacsayhuaman.

3

¬ Arrive at Machu Picchu on foot

4

Acclimatise - walk in Sacred Valley.

3

¬ Walks in Cusco and Sacred Valley

5

To Ollantaytambo, start Inca Trail.

3

6

Along the trail to Llulluchapampa.

7

7

Trek onwards to Phuyupatamarca.

9

8

Through Sun Gate to Machu Picchu.

6

9

Explore Machu Picchu, train to Cusco.

2

Overnight flights home.

-

We recommend that you extend your stay in Peru to include a few days in the Amazon. See page 51 for more information or contact us for a quotation.

practical information

KM82 4000 3000 2000 1000 0

Wayllabamba Warmiwanusca

Pacaymayo Valley

B

C

D

Aguas Calientes Machu Picchu

Phuyupatamarca

Llulluchupampa

Ollantaytambo

PERU From/ To UK

why this trip?

Meals: 8 breakfasts, 6 lunches & 3 dinners

“The trip certainly does not disappoint - it’s a classic route. The Inca Trail is one of those journeys where the end reward, makes the challenging elements of the trek more than worthwhile. A totally unforgettable trip.”

Group Size (Min - Max): 4 - 16

MATT BENNETT, TREKKING EXPERT

Grade: C (Demanding) Max Altitude: 4,200m Average Daily Distance: 9km Accommodation: Simple hotel x 5, camp x 3

Trip Code: TINC Departures: J F M A M J J A S O N D Land Only: From £1,399 | With Flights: From £2,289 Single Supplement: From £269

Gradient chart (metres) 5000

Physical Grade

Cusco

Fly overnight to Peru.

extend your trip

A

off-the-beaten-track rating

at a glance

1

10/11

GRADE C

Abra Runkurakay Sayacmarca

Winaywayna

Aguas Calientes

private-guided option Doing the Inca Trail privately allows you greater choice of dates to fit with permit availability. For more information, please call one of the team on 01962 737565.

What next?

Visit our website for more information and for Trip Dossiers, prices and dates.

walksworldwide.com

Call us on 01962 737565

47

pERU

the Weavers’ Trail

private Guided 11 days

Gentler trek visiting colourful weaving villages

Choose our version of the Lares Trek (the Weavers’ Trail) if you would like to see typical Peruvian life including fascinating weaving villages, Inca ruins and stunning Andean scenery and of course Machu Picchu.

The Weavers’ Trail is a less trodden path than the Inca Trail. It is also somewhat gentler on the lungs than both the Inca Trail and Salkantay route. We include time to explore Cusco and a visit to Maras and Moray ruins in the Sacred Valley.

Approx Hours Walked

itinerary

-

¬ A gentler Peruvian trek

3

Walking tour of Cusco.

2

¬ Three-day trek to colourful Andean villages

4

Walk around Sacsayhuaman ruins.

2

¬ Explore Machu Picchu

5

Begin your trek in Lares Valley.

3

¬ Visit Cusco and Sacred Valley

6

Trek to Ipsayqocha.

5

7

Trek and train to Aguas Calientes.

3

8

Machu Picchu. Train to Ollantaytambo.

2

9

Walk in the Sacred Valley.

2

To Cusco. Fly overnight to UK.

-

10/11

D

Ipsayqocha Pass Patacancha Aguas Calientes Machu Picchu

Cancha Cancha Ollantaytambo

PERU

Calca

Cusco From/ To UK

Average Daily Distance: 8km Accommodation: Hotel x 6, camping x 2

Land Only: From £1,719 | With Flights: From £2,469 Single Supplement: From £269

why this trip?

“The Weavers’ Trail is the back door to Machu Picchu. Aside from jaw-dropping scenery, the peace and serenity of the high Andes has a stronger fragrance due to the lack of other trekkers you encounter along the way.”

NATHAN WHITTAKER, TREKKING EXPERT

Gradient chart (metres) Ipsayqocha Lake

5000 4000

Patacancha Ollantaytambo

What next?

Visit our website for more information and for Trip Dossiers, prices and dates.

3000 2000 1000

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0

48

C

Max Altitude: 4,347m

Departures: J F M A M J J A S O N D

Ipsayqocha Pass

B

Grade: B (Moderate)

Trip Code: TLAR

Huacahuasi

Physical Grade

practical information

Meals: 8 breakfasts, 3 lunches & 2 dinners

Lares

A

off-the-beaten-track rating

at a glance

Overnight flight to Cusco.

1/2

GRADE B

Visit our website walksworldwide.com

PERU

The Salkantay Trail

Group Guided

A spectacular, quiet trek through the Andes to Machu Picchu

While less known, we think this is a superior trek to the Inca Trail and is far less busy. The trek begins in the Apurimac Valley where you’ll meet your mules and handlers and head off with views to the southern flank of 6,271 metre Salkantay.

Walk through cloud-forest and grazing land before ascending to the highest point of your trek and ending the day amid fruit and coffee plantations. Ascend to Llactapata with abundant birdlife around you. You’ll see Machu Picchu from an angle few get to see before heading to your final camp.

Approx Hours Walked

itinerary

GRADE C

A

Physical Grade

B

C

D

off-the-beaten-track rating

Aguas Calientes Machu Picchu

Llactapata

Salkantay

Soraypampa

Moray

Maras

PERU Mollepata

Cusco From/ To UK

at a glance

1

Overnight flight to Cusco.

-

¬ Spectacular Andean scenery

2

Arrive Cusco. Free time to relax.

-

¬ Quieter than the Inca Trail

3

Walking tour of Cusco.

2

¬ Explore majestic Machu Picchu

4

Sacred Valley - salt pans & Inca ruins.

2

¬ Acclimatisation time in Cusco & Sacred Valley

5

Start the Salkantay Trek.

3

6

Trekking day - ascend to highest point.

8

7

Ascend to Llactapata.

7

8

Walk to Aguas Calientes.

5

9

Explore Machu Picchu.

-

Free morning. Overnight flight to UK.

-

10/11

11 days

practical information Grade: C (Demanding) Max Altitude: 4,622 m Average Daily Distance: 14km Accommodation: Hotel x 5, camping x 3 Meals: 8 breakfasts, 6 lunches & 3 dinners

why this trip?

“The Salkantay is a unique trail that allows you to cross twelve different bio-zones over six days, meaning the Andes, cloudforest and jungle quite literally pass beneath your feet!”

NATHAN WHITTAKER, TREKKING EXPERT

Group Size (Min - Max): 4 - 14 Trip Code: TPSK Departures: J F M A M J J A S O N D Land Only: From £1,399 | With Flights: From £2,299 Single Supplement: From £259

Gradient chart (metres) Mollepata Soraypampa 5000 4000 3000 2000 1000 0

Salkantay Pass

La Playa

Llactapata

Machu Picchu

private-guided option For more information about going Private Guided on this trip, please call one of the team on 01962 737565.

What next?

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49

CHILE

tHE W-Trek & Chilean Lakes

Group Guided 15 days

Trek amidst volcanoes, lakes and the spires of Patagonia

GRADE C

A

Physical Grade

B

C

D

off-the-beaten-track rating

Also see our ‘Ultimate Patagonia Adventure’ trip online from Adventure Worldwide.

You’ll start your Chilean adventure with a walking tour of the capital - Santiago - before flying south to Pucon. Trek in Huerquehue National Park and have the chance to ascend Villarrica volcano. Further south you’ll enter the world-famous Torres del Paine National Park for four full days of trekking in the area of the towers themselves - Lake Nordenskjold, Los Cuernos and French Valley - amid dramatic mountain scenery, lakes and glaciers. Leaving Torres del Paine behind, you’ll have a night in Puerto Natales and then return to Santiago to fly home.

Approx Hours Walked

itinerary

at a glance

Overnight flight to Santiago.

-

¬ Explore Torres del Paine on foot

2

Arrive Santiago. Walking tour in PM.

4

¬ Enjoy Los Cuernos and the French Valley

3

Fly/drive to the Lake District.

-

¬ Take a cruise on Lago Grey

4

Trek in Huerquehue National Park.

6

¬ Trip extensions available - see opposite

5

Option to summit Villarrica Volcano.

5

6

Fly & bus to Punta Arenas.

-

7

Travel to Torres del Paine by bus.

-

8

Trek to the base of Las Torres.

7

9

Trek to Los Cuernos.

5 11

11

Trek to Grey Glacier.

5

12

Boat trip on Lake Grey.

-

13

Bus & fly back to Santiago.

-

14/ Overnight flight back to the UK 15 from Santiago.

-

practical information Grade: C (Demanding) Max Altitude: 2,847m Average Daily Distance: 14km Accommodation: Hotel x 7, lodges x 5 Meals: 12 breakfasts Group Size (Min - Max): 4 - 14 Departures: J F M A M J J A S O N D Land Only: From £2,999 | With Flights: From £3,849 Single Supplement: From £279 (hotels only)

Gradient chart (metres) Pucon

Villarrica (optional)

Base Las Torres Los Cuernos French Valley

2500

ARGENTINA

Punta Arenas

why this trip?

“Considered to be one of the world’s great treks, the scenery of the Chilean side of Patagonia is simply amazing. Pristine Lake Pehoe, the mystical grey glacier, and the iconic granite towers rising from the beautiful green landscape.”

Grey Glacier

private-guided option For more information about going Private Guided on this trip, please call one of the team on 01962 737565.

What next?

Visit our website for more information and for Trip Dossiers, prices and dates.

2000 1500 1000

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500 0

50

Huerquehue National Park Villarrica Volcano

Puerto Montt

MATT BENNETT, TREKKING EXPERT

Trip Code: TCWL

3000

Temuco

Torres del Paine

1

10 Trekking in the French Valley.

From/ To UK

Santiago

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PERU & CHILE

extend your stay in Peru or chile Why not make the most of your time with an extra few days at the end of your trip?

Peru - Amazon basin EXTENSION ¬ Stay in a rainforest lodge ¬ Walks and boat trips with expert local guides ¬ Try your hand at piranha fishing Fly from Cusco to Puerto Maldonado in the Amazon Basin, then travel by boat to your rainforest lodge.

Stay for three nights. During your time at the lodge, you have activities included such as guided walks, boat trips, piranha fishing and bird watching. You’ll learn about the flora and fauna of the forest and hear about medicinal uses of plants.

From £495 per person for 3 nights (4 days) (price is based on two people sharing)

CHILE - EASTER ISLAND EXTENSION ¬ Marvel at Moai statues ¬ Explore the island on foot ¬ Experience a remote volcanic island Fly from Santiago out to Easter Island and stay three nights. Easter Island (Rapa Nui) is one of the most isolated places on earth. During your time here, you have three walking trips that will see you visit the mysterious stone statues – the famous Moai. You’ll see other remnants of the past Polynesian inhabitants here whilst enjoying the beautifully bleak landscape.

From £950 per person for 3 nights (4 days) (price is based on two people sharing)

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51

north & west europe AUSTRIA Alpine Splendour 53 Lakes and Alps in Style 54 Dachstein Alpine Trek 55

GERMANY Kingdom of Old Saxony 56 Along the Rhine 57 Bavarian Alps in Style 58

55

Stroll past mountain lakes in the Dachstein region of Austria

FINLAND Call of the Wild 59 Forests of the Midnight Sun 60 Arctic Snowshoe Adventure 61

france Tour du Mont Blanc 62 In the Footsteps of the Cathars 63

camino de santiago About the Camino de Santiago 64 Your Camino de Santiago choices 65

REGIONAL INSIGHT...

“From the frozen forests of the North to the alpine playgrounds of the Alps, we’re incredibly fortunate to have such a diverse and accessible continent on our doorstep.

Walk the iconic Tour du Mont Blanc route, journey along the Rhine in Germany or try snowshoeing in the winter wonderland of Finland” MICHAELA WRIGHT, PRODUCT MANAGER

58

60 52

Stay in a forest log cabin in the wilderness of Finland

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Walk around the fairytale castles and mountains of Bavaria in Germany

AUSTRIA

Alpine Splendour

self-Guided

Walk amongst the resplendent scenery of Austria’s Lake District

This superb itinerary leads you between various traditional alpine villages, over mountain passes, across meadows and plateau, and down to the panoramic lakeshore scenery the area is renowned for. Walking days are longer, allowing you to explore deeper into the mountains, yet invariably following way-marked trails.

A particular delight is encountering wonderful, remote mountain restaurants along the way, always scenically located and always with tasty food. Charming accommodation in towns along the route ensures overnight stops are a delight.

Approx Hours Walked

itinerary

Depart UK. Arrive Bad Ischl.

-

¬ Delightful alpine meadows

2

Elisabeth Forest Trail to Weissenbach.

8

¬ Splendid valley walks

3

Follow the gorge trail to Abersee.

9

¬ Enjoy tasty local cuisine

4

Boat on Wolfgangsee. Walk to Strobl.

3

¬ Longer walking days and great value

5

Trek to Bad Goisern.

8

6

Hike to Bad Aussee.

10

7

Final walk to Bad Ischl.

8

8

Depart Bad Ischl. Arrive UK.

-

Abersee

St Wolfgang Bad Ischl

Strobl

AUSTRIA Bad Goisern

NATHAN WHITTAKER, WALKING EXPERT

Gradient chart (metres)

0

Burggrabenklamm

“Taking nothing away from the dramatic alpine scenery on offer, this itinerary offers longer walking days without the challenging ascents and descents that Austria is known for.”

Single Supplement: £99

300

From/To Weissenbach Salzburg or Munich

why this trip?

Flight Price Guideline: From £185

600

D

Average Daily Distance: 25km

Land Only: From £539

900

C

Max Altitude: 1,254m

Departures: J F M A M J J A S O N D

1200

B

Grade: B (Moderate)

Trip Code: TASP

Buchbergutte

Physical Grade

practical information

Meals: 7 breakfasts

Lake Attersee

A

off-the-beaten-track rating

Bad Aussee

Accommodation: Hotel/inn x 7

Bad Ischl

GRADE B

at a glance

1

1500

8 days

Barenkogel

Bad Goisern Bad Aussee

Bad Ischl

What next?

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53

AUSTRIA

Lakes & ALps In Style Atmospheric walking and superb accommodation

Stunning walks, together with charming, traditional, small towns and villages, impressive mountains, glittering lakes, wildflower meadows, great food and welcoming hospitality, make this the perfect trip for a summer holiday. You’ll spend time walking through the wondrous alpine Lake District, with overnight stops at idyllic locations and the option to upgrade to superior 4* accommodation in St Wolfgang and Bad Ischl. Spend two nights in the picture-postcard town of Hallstatt at the end of the walking holiday.

itinerary

Approx Hours Walked

self-Guided 8 days

A

GRADE B

Travel to St. Wolfgang from UK.

-

¬ Great views from ‘Five Fingers of Krippen’

2

Cog railway to Schafberg summit.

2

¬ Explore salt mines of Salzwelten Hallstatt

3

Walk to Strobl, then to Bad Ischl.

5

¬ Marvel at the ice caves in the Dachstein

4

Mount Katrin & Seven Lakes walk.

2

¬ Enjoy stunning lake walks

5

Walks along Hallstat Lake.

5

6

Cable car to 5 Fingers viewpoint.

2

7

Boat & walk to Steeg. Train to Bad Ischl.

3

Grade: B (Moderate)

8

Depart Bad Ischl. Arrive UK.

-

Max Altitude: 2,300m

C

Strobl

Mount Katrin

AUSTRIA

Bad Goisern

Steeg

Halstatt

Obertraun

Average Daily Distance: 10km Meals: 7 breakfasts Trip Code: TLAA Departures: J F M A M J J A S O N D Land Only: From £899 Flight Price Guideline: From £185 Single Supplement: £299

why this trip?

“Wonderful for walkers of all levels, with panoramic views and fairytale villages. Why not add a night in Salzburg, home of Mozart, and take in a orchestral show.”

STEVE NAGLE, WALKING EXPERT

What next?

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D

Bad Ischl

practical information

Accommodation: Hotels x 7

54

B

From/To Salzburg or Munich

St Wolfgang

at a glance

1

Physical Grade

off-the-beaten-track rating

AUSTRIA

Dachstein Alpine trek

self-Guided 12 days

Our ultimate Alpine walking experience

The mighty Dachstein rises to almost 3,000m. This superb alpine trek takes you into the realms of its jagged peaks and glaciers, and is perfect for those who enjoy challenging higher-level routes.

A carefully structured itinerary combines charming hotels with intermittent nights spent in the mountains in basic yet comfortable huts (a sleeping bag liner is required). You’ll be following way-marked mountain trails throughout, crossing over the impressive Dachstein Massif.

itinerary

Approx Hours Walked

Depart UK. Travel to Gosau.

-

¬ The majestic peaks of the mighty Dachstein

2

Cable car to Zwieselalm & walks.

5

¬ The turquoise lake of Gosau

3

Trek to Ramsau.

6

¬ Crossing the Am Stein plateau

4

Free day to relax & explore Ramsau.

-

¬ Spend time in the village of Hallstatt

5

Cable car to the Dachstein Glacier.

5

6

Walk over ‘Am Stein’ to Grobming.

6

7

Trek to the Steinitzenalm.

7

Grade: C (Demanding)

8

Hike to Hallstatt via Bad Aussee.

8

Max Altitude: 2,700m

9

Free day to explore the area.

7

11

Trek the Iglmoosalm to Gosau.

3

12

Depart Gosau. Arrive UK.

-

Accommodation: Hotel/inn x 7, mountain hut x 4 Meals: 11 breakfasts Trip Code: TDCT Departures: J F M A M J J A S O N D

Single Supplement: From £99 (hotels only)

Gradient chart (metres) 2500 2000 1500 1000 500 0

Sulzenschneid

Gjaidestein

B

C

D

From/To Salzburg or Munich Bad Goisern

Iglmoosalm Gosau

Bad Aussee

Hallstatt

AUSTRIA

Steinitzenalm

Hofpurglhutte Guttenberghaus Grobming

Average Daily Distance: 10-17km

Flight Price Guideline: From £185

Gosau

Physical Grade

practical information

Land Only: From £879

3000

A

off-the-beaten-track rating

Ramsau

at a glance

1

10 Mountain railway to salt mines.

GRADE C

why this trip?

“Staying at the Steinitzenalm is a must. It’s so peaceful, with lovely hosts who’ll cook a fresh meal for you on their small stove. Although they were out tending to their herd of mountain dwelling cows when we arrived, the beer had been left cooling in the water trough for us most welcome after a hot day.”

ALISON CARTER, WALKS WORLDWIDE CLIENT

Grafenbergalm Steiner Haus

Hochmuhleck

Iglmoosalm

What next?

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55

GERMANY

Kingdom of Old Saxony Discover the hidden delights of Saxon Europe

Bordering the Czech Republic, Saxony’s towering fortresses and incredible rock formations dominate the landscape, whilst picturesque small towns line the River Elbe, creating a very attractive and varied walking experience. There is time to explore the city of Dresden before continuing to Bad Schandau, in the heart of Saxon Switzerland. After exploring this lovely town, enjoy some walking along the River Elbe and stride out to the Hohnstein fortress and the Bastei, with sandstone rocks, pillars and the bridge spanning the ravine.

itinerary

Approx Hours Walked

self-Guided 8 days

GRADE a

A

Physical Grade

B

C

D

off-the-beaten-track rating

Dresden From/ To UK

Bastei

GERMANY Koenigstein Gohrisch

Rathen Bad Schandau Krippen

at a glance

1

Depart UK. Fly to Dresden.

-

¬ Discover fortresses and castles

2

Train to Bad Schandau.

-

¬ Trekking in the ‘Empire of the Stones’

3

Walk to Rathen via Hohnstein.

6

¬ The famous pillars of the Bastei

4

Ascend the Bastei. To Koenigstein.

6

¬ Walk in Saxon Switzerland National Park

5

Walk to Gohrisch.

5

6

Over Table Mountains to Krippen.

5

7

Ferry & walk to Bad Schandau.

5

Grade: A (Easy)

8

Train to Dresden. Fly to UK.

-

Max Altitude: Low (under 1,000m)

practical information

Average Daily Distance: 11km Accommodation: Hotel x 7 Meals: 7 breakfasts & 3 dinners Trip Code: TSAX Departures: J F M A M J J A S O N D Land Only: From £699 Flight Price Guideline: From £185 Single Supplement: From £149

why this trip?

“Looking for something unexpected and spectacular in Europe?

The stunning landscapes and fascinating cultures of Saxon Switzerland will leave you with fond memories.”

MATT BENNETT, WALKING EXPERT

What next?

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GERMANY

Along the Rhine Follow the Rhine from Koblenz to Rudesheim

The ‘Rheinsteig’ is a fully way-marked trail following the River Rhine upstream, through countryside, famous for its castles, vineyards, culture, history and nature.

Dramatic castles perched high above the Rhine are frequent along the route.

You also pass the world famous Loreley, a dramatic rock formation where legend has it a siren would lure sailors to their doom. During the walking day, you can enjoy stops at rural wine cellars. Evenings are spent in a wide variety of quality restaurants to sample the delicious local food.

itinerary

Approx Hours Walked

at a glance ¬ See the legendary Lorelei rock formation

1

Fly to Frankfurt. Train to Koblenz.

-

2

Follow the river to reach Braubach.

6

¬ Walk through romantic countryside

3

Walk to Kamp-Bornhofen.

6

¬ Sample great local foods

4

Continue along to St. Goarshausen.

6

¬ Visit dramatic castles and rural wine cellars

5

To Kaub, home of the wine growers.

6

6

Walk through vineyards to Lorch.

6

7

Pass castles en route to Rudesheim.

6

8

Train to Frankfurt. Fly to UK.

-

self-Guided 8 days

GRADE A

A

Physical Grade

B

C

D

off-the-beaten-track rating

Koblenz

Braubach Kamp-Bornhofen St.Goarshausen Kaub

GERMANY

Frankfurt From/ To UK

Lorch

Rudesheim

practical information Grade: A (Easy) Max Altitude: Low (under 1,000m) Average Daily Distance: 20km Accommodation: Hotel x 7 Meals: 7 breakfasts Trip Code: TRHE Departures: J F M A M J J A S O N D Land Only: From £599 Flight Price Guideline: From £175 Single Supplement: From £99

why this trip?

“It is really satisfying to be out hiking all day in amazing surroundings free of the burden of luggage. Being able to arrive at the hotel where we could have a hot shower and some delicious food was a winning combination for us.”

CHARLES SCOTT, WALKS WORLDWIDE CLIENT

What next?

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57

GERMANY

Bavarian Alps in style

self-Guided

The regal way to trek through King Ludwig’s Bavarian Alps

During the course of this wonderful holiday you’ll discover more about the fascinating Ludwig II, the eccentric King of Bavaria, known as the Swan King.

You’ll visit many of his fairytale castles, made even more atmospheric by their picturesque locations, surrounded by magnificent peaks.

Visit medieval Fussen iconic Neuschwanstein and the famous alpine resort of Garmisch, where there’s the option of going to the summit of Zugspitze.

8 days

GRADE B

Physical Grade

A

B

C

D

off-the-beaten-track rating

From/ To UK

Munich

Oy-Mittelberg

GERMANY Eisenberg Zell

itinerary

Approx Hours Walked

Füssen

at a glance

Schloss Linderhof

1

Fly to Munich. Train to Oy-Mittelberg.

2

¬ Fairytale Schloss Neuschwanstein

2

Walk through villages to Lake Grunten.

5

¬ Walk from Oy-Mittelberg to Garmisch

3

Hike to Falkenstein & Lake Forggen.

6

¬ Bavarian hospitality and gastronomy

4

Visit Schloss Neuschwanstein.

7

¬ Stunning alpine walks

5

Walk up to the Alpe Jagerhutte.

6

6

Hike to Garmisch.

7

7

Free day with two optional walks.

7

Grade: B (Moderate)

8

Train to Munich. Fly to UK.

-

Max Altitude: 1,800m

practical information

Average Daily Distance: 16km Accommodation: Hotel x 7

why this trip?

Meals: 7 breakfasts Trip Code: TISK Departures: J F M A M J J A S O N D Land Only: From £1,079 Flight Price Guideline: From £175 Single Supplement: From £329

“The very best of King Ludwig’s trail. This is a mystical and historic route through one of Europe’s finest mountain ranges, with the very highest standard of accommodation to match.”

MATT BENNETT, TREKKING EXPERT

Gradient chart (metres) Oy-Mittelberg

Falkenstein Fussen Tegelberg

Alpe Jagerhutte Schloss Linderhof

2000

Schachen Schloss

What next?

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1500 1000 500

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0

58

Garmisch

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FINLAND

Call of the Wild Fun and active trip in the snow forests of Finland

Just beneath the Arctic Circle, the wild forests and frozen lakes of the Taiga are the perfect location for this winter adventure holiday. There’s the thrill of driving your own husky sled team and making your own igloo. If you’re happy with your igloo you can even spend the night in it, or return to the warmth of your cosy log cabin should you prefer. Ski or snowshoe your way across frozen lakes into thick forests, or try your hand at ice fishing. After each day’s fun in the snow you can enjoy a Finnish-style sauna.

itinerary

Approx Hours Walked

at a glance

1

Fly to Kuusamo or Oulu via Helsinki.

-

¬ Drive your own husky sled

2

Introduction & cross-country skiing.

4

¬ See the Northern Lights

3

Snowshoe through the winter forest.

6

¬ Enjoy snowshoeing through the wilderness

4

Snowshoe over frozen lakes.

4

¬ Build an igloo and enjoy Finnish saunas

5

Learn how to make your own igloo.

5

6

Free day of optional activities.

6

7

Husky sledding.

4

8

Fly from Oulu to UK via Helsinki.

-

Group Guided 8 days

A

GRADE B

Physical Grade

B

C

D

off-the-beaten-track rating

From UK via Helsinki Kuusamo

To/From UK via Helsinki

Kylmaluoma

Oulu

RUSSIA

FINLAND

practical information Grade: B (Moderate) Max Altitude: Low (under 1,000m) Average Daily Distance: 7km Accommodation: Log cabins x 6, wilderness

cabin x 1 Meals: 7 breakfasts, 6 lunches & 7 dinners Group Size (Min - Max): 4 - 12 Trip Code: TCOW Departures: J F M A M J J A S O N D Land Only: From £1,179 | With Flights: From £1,499 Single Supplement: From £175 (except day 3)

why this trip?

“Jack London’s Call of the Wild provides a perfect perspective for this trip; a wintertime adventure in a deep wilderness setting!”

NATHAN WHITTAKER, TREKKING EXPERT

What next?

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59

FINLAND

Forests of the Midnight Sun Explore the remote Taiga forest on foot

The location for this wilderness adventure, just beneath the Arctic Circle and a stone’s throw from the Russian border, adds a certain mystery to the atmosphere.

Enjoy trekking through the forests and lakes of the Taiga which is one of Europe’s last great wilderness areas and home to a variety of wildlife, including wolves, lynx, bears, wolverines, pine martens, elk and reindeer. Stay in cosy log cabins and enjoy a Finnish sauna. For those who really want to get away from it all, this trip is hard to beat.

itinerary

Approx Hours Walked

Group Guided 8 days

GRADE B

A

Physical Grade

B

C

D

off-the-beaten-track rating

Tolosenvirta

FINLAND

Hossa RUSSIA

Oulu Kovajarvi Lake

Martinselkonen

To/From UK via Helsinki Arola

at a glance

1

Fly to Oulu via Helsinki.

-

¬ Trek along the border of the ‘Russian Bear’

2

Martinselkonen Nature Reserve.

6

¬ Enjoy the long summer days

3

Along the Russian border to Kovajarvi.

8

¬ The wilderness of the Taiga forests and lakes

4

Trek into the wild Hossa region.

7

¬ See a variety of wildlife such as bears

5

Trek past lakes to Tolosenvirta.

6

6

Canoe through Reindeer country.

7

7

Boat to Canyon Lake & hike.

6

8

Fly from Oulu to UK via Helsinki.

-

practical information Grade: B (Moderate) Max Altitude: Low (Under 1,000m) Average Daily Distance: 16km Accommodation: Log cabin x 5, guesthouse x 2 Meals: 7 breakfasts, 6 lunches & 7 dinners Group Size (Min - Max): 4 - 12 Trip Code: TFIN Departures: J F M A M J J A S O N D Land Only: From £929 | With Flights: From £1,199 Single Supplement: Not available

why this trip?

“Escape to the wilderness and enjoy exploring this remote area on foot and by canoe.

In August, there is the opportunity to visit a bear hide too - not to be missed!”

MICHAELA WRIGHT, Product Manager

What next?

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60

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FINLAND

ARCTIC Snowshoe Adventure

Group Guided 7 days

Remote wilderness trekking beneath the Arctic Circle

This is a great adventure holiday for those who would like to discover wild Europe in winter. Your days are spent snowshoeing through the Taiga Forest; look out for the willow grouse and reindeer along the way.

On clear nights, enjoy the magnificence of the Northern Lights, the Aurora Borealis revealing itself in all its glory. Where but in the winter wilderness with the sound of silence could such a spectacle be more special? With a limited number of departures - don’t miss out!

itinerary

Approx Hours Walked

GRADE B

A

Physical Grade

B

C

D

off-the-beaten-track rating

From/ To UK via Helsinki Kuusamo

SWEDEN

Hossa

Colour Rock

RUSSIA

at a glance

1

Fly to Kuusamo. Transfer to Hossa.

-

¬ No previous experience needed

2

Snowshoe into the Taiga forests.

6

¬ A chance to see the Northern Lights

3

Snowshoe to log cabin via Colour Rock.

6

¬ Explore the Taiga forests

4

See reindeer. To Lake Iso-Valkeinen.

6

¬ Snow-shoeing in a real winter wonderland

5

Trek through the Taiga forests.

6

6

Visitor Centre & Reindeer Farm.

6

7

Fly from Kuusamo to UK.

-

Lake Iso-Valkeinen

practical information Grade: B (Moderate) Max Altitude: Low (under 1,000m) Average Daily Distance: 7km Accommodation: Log cabins x 6 Meals: 6 breakfasts, 5 lunches & 6 dinners Group Size (Min - Max): 4 - 12 Trip Code: TSSA Departures: J F M A M J J A S O N D Land Only: From £899 | With Flights: From £1,229 Single Supplement: Not available

why this trip?

“Snowshoeing is quite different from walking, but it requires no previous experience. It’s an excellent way to get to places that your feet alone just can’t take you!”

NATHAN WHITTAKER, TREKKING EXPERT

What next?

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61

FRANCE, sWITZERLAND & ITALY

TOUR DU MONT BLANC

self-Guided 8 days

The world famous, alpine trekking circuit

Stretching through France, Switzerland and Italy, this trek is perhaps the most iconic and famous of all walks in the Alps. This circuit of Mont Blanc affords spectacular views at every point and is quite simply a ‘must do’ for all mountain walking enthusiasts. Crossing alpine passes, the route takes you beneath glaciers, through valleys and across summer meadows and, of course, provides breathtaking mountain panoramas. Star of the show is western Europe’s highest peak, Mont Blanc, which at 4,807m is the ‘Monarch of the Alps’.

itinerary 1

Approx Hours Walked

Fly to Geneva. To Les Contamines.

GRADE C

A

Physical Grade

B

C

D

off-the-beaten-track rating

From/ To UK

Geneva

SWITZERLAND Trient

Chamonix

Champex

FRANCE

at a glance

Mont Blanc

-

¬ Walk the Tour du Mont Blanc circuit

2

Trek Col de Croix du Bonhomme.

6

¬ Alpine passes, valleys and meadows

3

Two options to Refuge des Mottets.

6

¬ Explore charming Champex

4

Trek the France & Italy border.

7

¬ Enjoy breathtaking views at every point

5

Down to Courmayeur & to Champex.

7

6

Two options to walk to Trient.

6

7

Over the Col de Balme to Chamonix.

5

8

Transfer to Geneva. Fly to UK.

-

Col de Croix du Bonhomme

Col de Checroui

ITALY Refuge des Mottets

practical information Grade: C (Demanding) Max Altitude: 2,537m Average Daily Distance: 21km Accommodation: Hotel x 3, mountain refuges

x 3, Auberge x 1 Meals: 7 breakfasts & 5 dinners

why this trip?

Trip Code: TTMB

“The Tour du Mont Blanc trek is achievable for all age groups and I would thoroughly recommend it. We have become fitter and slimmer through just walking every other day in preparation for our trip.”

Departures: J F M A M J J A S O N D Land Only: From £699 Flight Price Guideline: From £120 Single Supplement: From £99 (hotel/auberge only)

Gradient chart (metres) Les Contamines 3000

Col de la Croix du Bonhomme Col des Fours

Mt Fortin

Courmayeur

2500

Col de Balme Montroc

What next?

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2000 1500 1000

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500 0

62

Col Ferret

Jacqueline Cash, Walks Worldwide Client

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FRANCE

In the Footsteps of the Cathars

self-Guided 8 or 15 GRADE days b/c

Step into the French Pyrenees

A mixture of historical interest that stirs the imagination, as well as memorable walking through landscapes of immense natural beauty - lush, rolling hills, unspoilt mountains and valleys. The trails pass through a whole variety of terrains, each day is different and the vegetation is fragrant and often full of colour.

Duilhac to Quillan 1

Approx Hours Walked

Depart UK. Arrive Carcassonne.

at a glance

-

¬ A to B walking in the Pyrenees

2

To Duilhac-sous-Peyrepertuse.

2

¬ Discover local foods and wines

3

Walk from Chateau de Padern.

5

¬ Explore villages and castles as you walk

4

Walk to Bouchard.

5

¬ Daily changes in scenery ¬ Combine the two weeks for a 15-day trip

5

Walk to Sougraigne.

6

6

Walk to Pailheres.

5

7

Walk to Quillan.

6

8

Circular walk. Fly to UK.

4

A

Physical Grade

B

C

D

off-the-beaten-track rating

Carcassonne From/To Toulouse or Girona

FRANCE

Foix

Roquefixade Puivert

Pailheres

Montsegur Comus

Quillan

Bouchard

Duilhac

Padern

Sougraine

practical information Grade: B/C (Moderate/Demanding) Max Altitude: 1,300m

Quillan to Foix

Approx Hours Walked

Average Daily Distance: 16km Accommodation: Hotels & guesthouses

1

Depart UK. Arrive Quillan.

-

2

Walk to Puivert.

6

3

Walk to Comus.

6

4

Walk to Montsegur.

4

5

Circular walk at Montsegur.

6

Week Two - Land Only: From £729

6

Walk to Roquefixade.

5

Combined - Land Only: From £1,549

7

Walk to Foix.

5

Flight Price Guideline: From £120

8

Foix Castle. Fly to UK.

2

Single Supplement: From £159 to £349

Meals: 6 breakfasts & 6 dinners per week Trip Code: TF1E or TF2E Departures: J F M A M J J A S O N D Week One - Land Only: From £829

why this trip?

“One of my favourite walks in Europe – a very diverse trail that combines a region of great historical significance with ever changing scenery.

Can be split in two, for two very different experiences.”

NATHAN WHITTAKER, TREKKING EXPERT

What next?

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63

Camino de santiago

camino de santiago Planning to follow the Camino de Santiago? This ancient pilgrimage route isn’t just one path but many – and with Walks Worldwide two great trails.

The Camino de Santiago offers walkers of all abilities the opportunity to embark on a journey of discovery to pay homage to an ancient city which once vied with Rome and Jerusalem as on the great powers and pilgrimage cities of the world.

Traditionally, the Camino meant any path taken by those travelling to pay their respects to the remains of St

64

James; today, a number of established trails lead walkers through Galicia to Santiago, all offering quite different, but equally delightful trekking. Collect stamps in your Camino de Santiago passport as you follow the trail to receive your certificate at the end of the trek.

While simple auberges (refuges) provide basic sleeping spots for pilgrims along the camino, we’ve chosen comfortable hotels to ensure a good night’s rest at the end of each day’s walking. On the Camino Francés (French Way), the best-known route, you can upgrade to our ‘In Style’

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option and bed down in traditional country hotels, a restored 18th-century noble’s home and, to finish off in true grandeur, the five-star Parador Reis Católicos in Santiago – one of Europe’s most beautiful hotels, overlooking the cathedral square.

The fine inns, gently rolling terrain, country lanes and forest trails are any rambler’s heaven.

for more information Please call one of our Camino experts on 01962 737565. Or visit our website for more information on the routes we offer.

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Camino de santiago

your Camino de Santiago choices tHE FRENCH WAY - 7 days ¬ Walk the “Way of St.James” ¬ Visit ancient sites and Romanesque churches ¬ Qualify for the official Pilgrim’s Certificate ¬ In Style accommodation option available The French Way is by far the most widely trodden of all the Caminos. Your journey begins in Sarria and ensures that you walk the final 100 kms (Sarria is 112km from Santiago) to qualify for the official pilgrim’s certificate on arrival at the magnificent cathedral in Santiago. You walk through rolling terrain following quiet country lanes, old bridle paths and forest trails. Ever popular with pilgrims from around the world, early booking and some flexibility with travel dates are highly recommended.

The best time to travel is mid-March to early November.

Land Only Price: From £649 (based on two sharing) Single Supplement: from £169 to £249

OR ‘IN STYLE’ VERSION FROM £979 Following the same route as our standard trip but you can enjoy a higher standard of accommodation including the final night at a 5* Parador in Santiago.

A walking holiday with a bit of luxury!

tHE COASTAL WAY - 8 days ¬ Discover the wild, sandy beaches ¬ Walk to Santiago de Compostela ¬ Enjoy walks along the coastal Camino path The Coastal Way or Caminho da Costa is a stunning alternative route of the Portuguese Camino de Santiago. Following the Atlantic Coast towards Santiago de Compostela. The Coastal Way starts in the seaside town of Baiona, located in the heart of R’ Baixas. From Baiona you will follow the coast towards Vigo, marvel at the views of the magnificent Illas Cies and the bays along the way. Discover the wild Atlantic beauty and sandy beaches of Northern Portugal and Galicia, taste delicious seafood and wine, stay in fishing villages and feel refreshed by the maritime feel of our newest Coastal Camino.

Land Only Price: From £829 (based on two sharing) Single Supplement: from £229

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65

72

eastern europe

Challenge yourself with a trek in the Balkans

Slovakia Walking with Bears 67 Rysy & the High Tatras 68

slovenia Lakes & Mountains 69

croatia Dalmatia Islands Walk 70

albania Peaks of the Balkans 71 Step into Albania 72 The Accursed Mountains 73 In the Footsteps of Byron 74

bulgaria Summits & Ridges 75

romania Land of Dracula 76 The Alps of Transylvania 77

georgia Trekking in the Caucasus 78

armenia Beyond the Silk Road 79

79

66

REGIONAL INSIGHT...

“Eastern Europe is great for trekking. I’ll always remember exploring Northern Albania on foot. Upon my return to Britain, I remarked to friends and family that Albania was ‘the closest place to home, which feels the furthest place from home’. In a nutshell that is what Eastern Europe is for me... a chance for adventure, a journey into the unknown, something different, all without the need for long haul travel.”

NATHAN WHITTAKER, TREKKING EXPERT

Follow the Silk Road in Armenia

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70

Explore the historic town of Dubrovnik

SLOVAKIA

walking with bears Challenging walks in a spectacular mountain area

You won’t be sitting around in a bear hide all day hoping a bear might just come along - our aim is to actively locate and observe bears in their natural habitat.

Reaching the Silent Valley a park ranger will accompany us as we go ‘off-piste’ and walk amongst the mountains in an area where tourists are usually forbidden. In cooperation with the local rangers and national park, the group size is limited to a maximum of eight to minimise disturbance to the animals. A great adventure.

itinerary

Approx Hours Walked

Group Guided 8 days

Liptovske Kopy

GRADE C

2

2

Walks in Slovak Paradise Park.

4

¬ The majestic peaks of the High Tatras

3

Trek up the Kamienista Valley.

6

¬ Walk through dramatic gorges

4

Search for bears with park ranger.

9

¬ Follow bears tracks and trails in the wild

5

Trek to Liptovske Kopy. Look for bears.

9

6

Drive to Spisska Sobota village.

-

7

Free day. Visit Poprad or Spis Castle.

-

8

Fly back to the UK.

-

B

C

D

SLOVAKIA Spisska Sobota Poprad

¬ Unique and exclusive to Walks Worldwide

Fly to Poprad. Wildlife walk.

Physical Grade

Kamienista Valley

at a glance

1

A

off-the-beaten-track rating

From/ To UK

practical information Grade: C (Demanding) Max Altitude: 2,493m Average Daily Distance: 15km Accommodation: Ranger cottage x 3, hotel x 2, pension x 2

Meals: 7 breakfasts, 3 lunches & 3 dinners Group Size (Min - Max): 4 - 8 Trip Code: TURS Departures: J F M A M J J A S O N D Land Only: From £999 | With Flights: From £1,199 Single Supplement: From £119 (hotel only)

why this trip?

“The dramatic Tatras Mountains completely took my breath away. Seeing bears playing naturally in the wild took my breath away too - but they also stole my heart. Do this trip!”

MARK WRIGHT, MANAGING DIRECTOR

What next?

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67

SLOVAKIA & pOLAND

Rysy & the High Tatras Stunning traverse and summit ascent in the Slovakian Tatras

The High Tatras are the highest and most spectacular peaks in the Carpathian Mountain range. This trip explores the most majestic section of the High Tatras by following the excellent Tatranska Magistrala trail that traverses the range.

Enjoy the mountain vistas along this rugged terrain.

There is also the opportunity to make an optional ascent of Rysy (2,499m), the highest mountain in Poland wth some of the best mountain views in Europe.

self-Guided 8 days

GRADE B/C

Approx Hours Walked

-

2

Trek the Biela Valley to Zelene Pleso.

5

¬ Climb Rysy - Poland’s highest mountain

3

Walk to Zamkovskeho Chata.

5

¬ Jagged Carpathian panoramas

4

Descend to Popradske Pleso.

7

¬ Great views over the Carpathian region

5

Climb to the summit of Rysy.

8

6

Circuit walk around Hincovo Pleso.

5

7

Forest trail to Strbske Pleso.

2

8

Depart & fly back to UK.

-

Zamkovskeho Chata Zelene Pleso

Rysy Hincovo Pleso Tatranska Lamnica

Popradske Pleso

SLOVAKIA

Grade: B/C (Moderate/Demanding) Max Altitude: 2,499m Average Daily Distance: 8km Meals: 7 breakfasts, 5 lunches & 2 dinners Trip Code: TRYS Departures: J F M A M J J A S O N D Land Only: From £499 Flight Price Guideline: From £125 Single Supplement: From £49 (pensions only)

why this trip?

“Walking the Tatras Mountain Range offers peaceful hiking in classic mountain scenery. Taking on the ascent of Mount Rysy offers magnificent views of the landscape below, and well worth the challenge.”

JON BARBER, HEAD OF SALES

Gradient chart (metres) Popradske Pleso Rysy Hincovo Pleso Strbske Pleso

2000

What next?

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1500 1000 500

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0

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D

POLAND

practical information

Accommodation: Mountain huts x 5, pension x 2

68

C

¬ Trek the famous Tatranska Magistrala trail

Make your way to Tatranska Lamnica.

Zamkovskeho

B

at a glance

1

Tatranska Lomnica Zelene Pleso 2500

Physical Grade

From/To Krakow or Poprad

Strbske Pleso

itinerary

A

off-the-beaten-track rating

SLOVENIA

LAKES & MOUNTAINS On foot in the pristine Alpine region of Slovenia

self-Guided 8 days

Mountains, Alpine lakes, meadows and forests... Wander across wildflower meadows in the backdrop the magnificent Julian Alps is a pure delight.

GRADE B/C

Kranjska Gora

Stay in two different areas in Kranjska Gora and Lake Bohinj to fully appreciate the beauty of Slovenia. You can explore amongst immaculate, hidden mountain valleys where strips of vegetables grow amongst the hayfields, discover villages brimming with traditional architecture, or ascend mountains for amazing views.

A

Physical Grade

B

C

D

off-the-beaten-track rating

AUSTRIA

Lake Bled Lake Bohinj

ITALY

SLOVENIA

itinerary 1

Approx Hours Walked

Fly to Ljubljana. To Lake Bohinj.

-

at a glance ¬ Scenic lakes, forests and mountains

Walks in the Bohinj Mountains with styles & grades to choose from.

2-4

4

Visit Lake Bled. To Kranjska Gora.

2-4

¬ Variety of walks through meadows to the sound of cowbells jangling

5-7

Walking in Karavanke or Julian Alps. Different styles, lengths & grades available to choose from.

3-6

practical information

Fly back to the UK from Ljubljana.

-

From/ To UK

¬ Magnificent views in the Julian Alps

2/3

8

Ljubljana

Grade: B/C (Moderate/Demanding) Max Altitude: 2,000m Average Daily Distance: 10km Accommodation: Pensions x 7 Meals: 7 breakfasts & 3 dinners Trip Code: TSIS Departures: J F M A M J J A S O N D Land Only: From £759 Flight Price Guideline: From £195 Single Supplement: From £179

why this trip?

“We were delighted with this trip. We went a bit tailor made and the arrangements were faultless. An excellent guide who dealt brilliantly when weather forced a change of plan. We’d recommend Walks Worldwide’s Julian Alps expedition to anyone.”

William Mackesy, Walks Worldwide client & Walkopedia MD

What next?

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69

CROATIA

Dalmatia Islands Walk

Group Guided 8 days

Explore the Elaphiti Islands & Dalmatia Coast on foot

You will be based in medieval Dubrovnik, the iconic coastal city known as the Pearl of the Adriatic. Each day your guided walk will take you around the Dalmatia coastline for a spot of island hopping and exploration of the Elaphiti Islands.

Each island has its own unique charm, rustic culture and varied landscapes.

Explore the traffic free island of Lopud, visit Mljet Island National Park, walk through the shady olive groves, orchards and forests to hidden coves on Kolocep.

Approx Hours Walked

itinerary

GRADE A/B

A

Physical Grade

B

C

D

off-the-beaten-track rating

CROATIA

BOSNIA AND HERZEGOVINA

Dubrovnik Our base

Mljet Island

Mount Srd

Sipan Island Lopud Island Kolocep Island From/ To UK

Cavtat

at a glance ¬ Discover the Elaphiti Islands

1

Fly to Dubrovnik. Transfer to hotel.

-

2

Walk to Mount Srd and Cavtat.

4

¬ Explore historic Dubrovnik

3

Walks on Kolocep Island.

4

¬ Walk in national parks and along coastal paths

4

Free day to explore the local area.

-

¬ Enjoy beautiful beaches and warm ocean

5

Explore Lopud Island on foot.

4

6

Walks around Sipan Island.

4

7

Mljet Island National Park walks.

4

8

Fly back to the UK.

-

practical information Grade: A/B (Easy/Moderate) Max Altitude: Low (under 1,000m) Average Daily Distance: 8-11km Accommodation: Hotel x 7

why this trip?

Meals: 7 breakfasts Group Size (Min - Max): 4 - 16 Trip Code: TCDW Departures: J F M A M J J A S O N D Land Only: From £849 | With Flights: From £1,179 Single Supplement: From £379

“This holiday is a great way to explore the beautiful Elaphiti Islands on foot. With free time to wander around the cobbled streets and Old Town of Dubrovnik.”

MICHAELA WRIGHT, PRODUCT MANAGER

Gradient chart (metres) Dubrovnik Mt Srd

Cavtat

Kolocep

Crkva

Lopud

400 350 300 250 200 150 100 50 0

70

Sipan

Tor

Mljet

Polace

What next?

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Albania, Kosovo & Montenegro

Peaks of the Balkans

Group Guided

An incredible journey walking in Albania, Kosovo & Montenegro

You’ll discover Shkodra, the oldest and largest city in Northern Albania, the remote region of Kelmendi and the Eastern Alps while trekking amongst glacial valleys, waterfalls and pristine alpine pastures. Meet the locals in the villages of Thethi and enjoy a home-cooked meal with a local family. You will hike the pass from Montenegro to Albania, climb to the peak of ‘Tre Kujfit’ which crowns the borders of these three countries and climb to the summit of Albania’s highest peak; Mount Korab. This is a remote and challenging Balkan adventure.

itinerary 1

Approx Hours Walked

Fly to Tirana. Transfer to Shkodra.

-

To Lepush. Walk to waterfall of Sllapi.

5 6

¬ Perja pass from Montenegro to Albania

4

Walk to the Peak of Greben.

6

¬ Summit Mount Korab and ‘Tre Kujfit’ ridge

5

Trek to the valley of Thethi.

8

6

Explore the villages of Thethi.

6

7

Valbona Pass, descend to the valley.

7

8

Head to the border of Montenegro.

6

9

Transfer to Ceremi, walk to Doberdol.

6

Drive back to Albania.

-

Meals: 13 breakfasts, 12 lunches & 12 dinners

12

Summit Mount Korab.

9

Group Size (Min - Max): 4 - 10

13

Return to Tirana.

-

14

Fly back to the UK.

-

Trip Code: TBAL Departures: J F M A M J J A S O N D Land Only: From £1,299 | With Flights: From £1,579 Single Supplement: From £129 (hotels only)

0

KOSOVO

Tre Kujfite Doberdol Ceremi

Lepush Thethi

Prizren

Valbona Pass Shkodra

ALBANIA Mt Korab

From/ To UK

Tirana

why this trip?

“I was fortunate enough to recce this route in 2014, which had newly opened up to allow organised groups to cross the borders. This is a wild landscape on a route that rivals that of the world’s major mountain ranges.”

MATT BENNETT, TREKKING EXPERT

Gradient chart (metres)

500

Plava

Average Daily Distance: 8-18km

11

1000

MONTENEGRO

Max Altitude: 2,756m Accommodation: Guesthouse x 6, hotel x 4,

village house x 2, mountain hut x 1

1500

D

Grade: C (Demanding)

6

2000

C

practical information

10 Climb to ‘Tre Kujfit’ peak.

2500

B

MACEDONIA

Hike to Koprisht & Berizhodol Ridge.

Peja Pass

Physical Grade

¬ Incredible views of the Accursed Mountains

2

Berizhdol Ridge Zabeli Pass

A

off-the-beaten-track rating

Tejza

3

Selca

GRADE c

at a glance ¬ Hike the spectacular ridge of Berizhdol

3000

14 days

Blue Eye Valbona Pass

Balqin

Prizren Mt Korab

What next?

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71

ALbania

Step into Albania Often unfairly overlooked in favour of its western neighbours, Albania is a must for all trekkers looking for a refreshingly different trekking destination closer to home. Trekking expert, Nathan talks about the highlights of visiting Albania.

I’ll always remember the first time I dropped down from Diagonal Pass into the Nderlysa Valley in Northern Albania - the Shephard high on the hillside herding sheep on horseback, with a fire warming his bothy in the distance. It was the first sign of life as we lowered away from the harshness of the mountains to human settlement again - we were welcomed by the locals who through their farming techniques of yesteryear treated us to good honest food – the fruits of simple hard work.

Stunning scenery Whether you’re visiting the wild north or following in the footsteps of Lord Byron through the mysterious south, Albania is filled with enough scenery to put your wanderlust into overdrive.

From the stunning national parks of Thethi and Llogara to the glistening turquoise waters of the Adriatic, Albania provides a permanent wow factor for those looking for a jawdropping view.

72

Relatively tourist-free Although touted as one of the emerging countries in the tourism industry, this part of Albania is yet to be spoiled by the flow of travellers. This makes it an avid traveller’s dream. Many parts of Albania’s countryside remain untouched apart from the footprints of the friendly highlanders that call it home.

Head-turning comparisons The mountains of Northern Albania are spectacular and virtually impenetrable apart from a series of passes that connect a few farmsteads.

It’s hard to believe that you are still in Europe, with landscapes that resemble more far-flung destinations like the Himalayas.

A fascinating history From the 13th century castle that stands in Berat, to the UNESCO world heritage site of Butrint, Albania boasts a proud and colourful history. And from the collapse of

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the Ottoman Empire to the rise of communism, Albania has experienced a lot since the first Albanian state was founded in 1912. As you walk, keep a look-out for gjakmarrjas, or ‘blood feud towers’, previous safe-havens for men that had become involved in a blood feud.

Close to home Tirana, Albania’s capital city, is only a three-hour flight away from London, making it perfect for a short summer escape. With flights departing across the UK it provides an excellent alternative.

Albania offers the chance of real adventure, a journey into the unknown, something different and all without the need for the prices and hassles of long haul travel.

Let us take you there We offer three incredible adventures in Albania. See pages 71, 74 and 75.

ALbania

The Accursed Mountains

Group Guided 8 days

Step out into the wild north of Albania

The Accursed Mountains are spectacular, unspoiled and virtually impenetrable, except for a series of high passes that link the few farmsteads of the exceptionally hospitable Albanian Highlanders to the outside world. This is a truly special European trekking adventure, ideal for the discerning traveller.

You’ll discover the remote Thethi National Park and meet people who live in a world which is refreshingly disconnected from the rest of Europe.

A

GRADE C

Physical Grade

B

C

D

off-the-beaten-track rating

MONTENEGRO

Thethi Nderlysa Thore Pass

Kukaj Valbona

KOSOVO

Lake Koman Shkodra

ALBANIA

itinerary

Approx Hours Walked

at a glance

MACEDONIA

¬ One of our best selling walking adventures

1

Fly to Tirana. Transfer to Shkodra.

-

2

Lake Koman & trek in Valbona.

4

¬ Remote Balkan alpine adventure

3

Trek to Kukaj. Optional walk to border.

6

¬ Magnificent, isolated Thethi National Park

4

Trek to Thethi via the Valbona Pass.

8

¬ Albanian highlander hospitality

5

Trek to the Peja Pass.

8

6

Visit Blood Feud Tower. To Nderlysa.

5

7

Diagonal & Thore Pass. To Tirana.

7

8

Fly back to the UK.

-

From/ To UK

Tirana

practical information Grade: C (Demanding) Max Altitude: 2,000m Average Daily Distance: 8-14km Accommodation: Pension/village home x 5, hotel x 2

Meals: 7 breakfasts, 6 lunches & 6 dinners Group Size (Min - Max): 4 - 12 Trip Code: TALB Departures: J F M A M J J A S O N D Land Only: From £699 | With Flights: From £999 Single Supplement: From £59 (Tirana only)

why this trip?

“After thigh-busting high passes you slowly meander through forests and alpine meadows into the remote villages of the Theth valley where you’ll find some of the warmest hospitality anywhere! ” NATHAN WHITTAKER, TREKKING EXPERT

Gradient chart (metres) Valbona 2000 1500 1000 500 0

Kukaj

Valbona Pass Thethi

Peja Pass

Nderlysa

Thore Pass

What next?

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73

ALbania

In the footsteps of Byron

Group Guided 8 days

Discover a wild, rugged coast and superb mountains

We follow in the footsteps of Lord Byron, starting our walking tour in the picturesque Llogara National Park, trekking through forest towards the Karaburini Peninsula. The following day we embark on a trek to Mount Cika with the option to walk the steep ascent to Qore Summit (2005m) for a memorable mountain and sea panorama. Our trail leads us down to the Albanian Riviera where you will notice the vegetation becomes Mediterranean once more, with olive groves and vines. This is a great walking adventure through warm Southern Albania.

GRADE B/C

From/ To UK

itinerary

at a glance

-

2

Walk in Llogara National Park.

5

¬ Trek through forests of Llogara National Park

3

Option summit to Qore (2005m).

4

¬ Follow coastal trails along the Albanian Riviera

4

Byron’s trail of the Albanian Riviera.

2

¬ See Greek, Roman and Ottoman ruins

5

Follow Byron’s trail to Gjirokastra.

5

6

Walk to Antigonea & Lunxheria.

5

7

To Tirana. Cable car to Mt. Dajti.

3

8

Fly back to the UK.

-

C

D

ALBANIA Karaburun Peninsula

Vlore Mt Cika GREECE

Saranda

¬ Climb Mount Cika

Fly to Tirana. Transfer to Vlore.

B

MACEDONIA

Dhermi

1

Physical Grade

Tirana

Llogara NP

Approx Hours Walked

A

off-the-beaten-track rating

Gjirokastra Blue Eye Springs

Butrint

practical information Grade: B/C (Moderate/Demanding) Max Altitude: 2,005m Average Daily Distance: 9km Accommodation: Hotel x 7 Meals: 7 breakfasts, 6 lunches & 6 dinners Group Size (Min - Max): 4 - 10

why this trip?

Trip Code: TAFB Departures: J F M A M J J A S O N D Land Only: From £899 | With Flights: From £1,099 Single Supplement: From £159

DAN PAINTER, WALKS WORLDWIDE CLIENT

Gradient chart (metres) Llogora Qafa e Thelle

Mt Cika

Dhermi Tepelena

2500 2000

Dhoksat

Mt Dajti Tirana

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1500 1000 500

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0

74

“A great mix of historial sites from Albania’s rich heritage combined with fabulous coastal scenery and mountain trekking.”

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BULGARIA

SUMMITS & RIDGES

Group Guided 9 days

Enjoy high mountain walking in the Rila and Pirin

Bulgaria contains some of the most dramatic and jaw dropping mountain scenery to be found in Europe, especially in the Rila and Pirin ranges.

Ascend the Rila giant, Musala, the highest mountain in Bulgaria. Follow airy, dramatic ridges. Visit the ornate Rila Monastery and thrill at the challenging climb to the Pirin summit of Vihren. Panoramic mountain views will take your breath away along an almost infinite series of trails to meadows and remote glacial lakes.

Approx Hours Walked

itinerary

at a glance

-

2

Climb Mt Cherni Vruh.

5

¬ Wild and majestic marbled Pirin Mountains

3

To Borovets. Climb Musala.

6

¬ Spectacular views from Vihren Summit

4

Trek to the Prekorechki Lakes.

7

¬ Walk through meadows and glacial lakes

5

Loop hike to Rila Monastery.

5

6

Begin trek to the Central Pirin.

6

7

Central Pirin trek.

6

8

Climb Mount Vihren.

7

9

Transfer to Sofia. Fly to the UK.

-

Accommodation: Hotel x 7, mountain hut x 1

Land Only: From £589 | With Flights: From £799 Single Supplement: From £99 (hotels only)

500 0

Sofia Vitosha Mt Cherni Vruh

SERBIA

BULGARIA

Borovets Mt Musala Rila Monastery

Bankso Mt Vihren

Maliovitsa Kamilata

why this trip?

“If you enjoy great scenery and something that offers a good feeling of challenge, this trip takes you to a beautiful area of Eastern Europe. Off many people’s radar this trip has opportunities to reach a few good peaks as well!”

MATT BENNETT, TREKKING EXPERT

Gradient chart (metres)

1000

D

Average Daily Distance: 13km

Departures: J F M A M J J A S O N D

1500

C

Max Altitude: 2,925m

Trip Code: TRPS

2000

B

Grade: C (Demanding)

Group Size (Min - Max): 4 - 12

2500

Physical Grade

practical information

Meals: 8 breakfasts & 6 dinners

Musala

From/ To UK

¬ Climb Musala - the highest Balkan summit

Fly to Sofia. Transfer to Vitosha.

Aleko Mt Cherni Vruh

A

off-the-beaten-track rating

MACEDONIA

1

3000

GRADE C

Bankso

Demyanitsa

Mt Vihren

What next?

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75

ROMANIA

Land of Dracula Private guided walking in the Carpathian Mountains

Transylvania, thankfully, still remains a destination for the discerning traveller and is yet to be touched by mass tourism. Amongst high, soaring peaks, wild swathes of forest, ancient fortresses, forbidding castles and timeless villages, the myths and legends, fantasies and facts of legendary Transylvania become entwined.

Discover the local culture and history on a series of intentionally varied walks in a place where you arrive as strangers and leave as friends.

itinerary

Approx Hours Walked

8 days

GRADE B/C

A

Physical Grade

B

C

ROMANIA Zarnesti Ciucas Mountains Bran Castle From/ To UK

Bucharest

¬ Trek to ‘Castle Dracula’

Fly to Bucharest. To Zarnesti.

-

2

Curmatura & the Zarnesti Gorge.

6

¬ Breathtaking Carpathian Mountain scenery

3

The La Zaplaz circuit walk.

7

¬ Explore Piatra Craiului National Park

4

Rural walk to Bran Castle.

6

¬ Walk the land of mythical vampires

5

Walk to Caraiman Cross; cable car.

7

6

Visit Rasnov & walk to Poiana Brasov.

5

7

Optional walks in Ciucas Mountains.

3-8

8

Train to Bucharest. Fly to the UK.

practical information Grade: B/C (Moderate/Demanding) Max Altitude: 2,505m Average Daily Distance: 15km Accommodation: Pensions x 7 Meals: 7 breakfasts, 6 lunches & 4 dinners Trip Code: TRAN

why this trip?

Departures: J F M A M J J A S O N D

“Warmth and friendliness of the guides and the accommodation hosts is what I love most when travelling - and this trip to Romania was up there with the best.”

Land Only: From £899 Flight Price Guideline: From £220 Single Supplement: From £139

Philomena Kenealy, Walks Worldwide Client

What next?

Visit our website for more information and for Trip Dossiers, prices and dates.

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76

Visit our website walksworldwide.com

D

off-the-beaten-track rating

Brasov

at a glance

1

-

PRIVATE Guided

ROMANIA

The Alps of Transylvania

GROUP Guided 8 days

The classic “Haute Route” of the Carpathian Mountains

The mighty mountains of the Fagaras provide the opportunity for one of Europe’s best and most intoxicating ridge walks. With stunning views along the way, this immense ridge is revealed in all its glory, culminating with an ascent of Moldoveanu (2,544m), the highest peak in Romania. Two days are also spent trekking in the equally stunning Piatra Craiului National Park, home to wolves, bears and the elusive lynx. Trek through rural Transylvania and visit ‘Castle Dracula’. We round off the trip nicely with two nights in the Bohemian city of old Brasov.

Approx Hours Walked

itinerary

GRADE C

Fagaras Mountains Mt Moldoveanu

Zarnesti

A

Physical Grade

B

C

D

off-the-beaten-track rating

Brasov

Bran Castle

ROMANIA From/ To UK

Bucharest

at a glance ¬ Climb Moldoveanu - Romania’s highest peak

1

Fly to Bucharest. To Zarnesti.

-

2

Circuit walk to ‘La Zaplaz’ rock formation.

7

¬ Traverse the stunning Fagaras Ridge

3

To the mountains, trek to Balea Lake.

5

¬ Trek to “Castle Dracula”

4

Trek past the Dragon’s Window.

9

¬ Plenty of mountain walking

5

Summit Moldoveanu.

10

6

Descend into Sambata. To Brasov.

2

7

Walk to Castle Dracula in Bran.

6

8

Transfer to Bucharest. Fly to the UK.

-

why this trip?

practical information Grade: C (Demanding) Max Altitude: 2,544m Average Daily Distance: 10-15km Accommodation: Pensions x 4, mountain hut x 3 Meals: 7 breakfasts, 6 lunches & 6 dinners

“There are a few long day walks, but the views and feelings of achievement is well worth the effort. Brasov exudes a distinctive medieval ambiance and is great to spend time exploring.”

MICHAELA WRIGHT, PRODUCT MANAGER

Trip Code: TAPT Departures: J F M A M J J A S O N D Land Only: From £699 | With Flights: From £899 Single Supplement: From £79 (pensions only)

Gradient chart (metres) Zarnesti 2500 2000 1500 1000 500 0

Balea

Cabana Podragu Saua Podraglui

Bran

private-guided option For more information about going Private Guided on this trip, please call one of the team on 01962 737565.

What next?

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77

GEORGIA

TREKKING IN THE CAUCASUS

Group Guided 10 days

A walk where Europe meets Asia

The mighty peaks of the Caucasus soar to heights of over 5,000m and form a natural barrier between geographical Europe and Asia. This challenging trek takes us into the provinces of Khevsureti and Tusheti, the “soul” of Georgia and deep into a landscape of mountains, alpine meadows, roaring rivers and verdant valleys.

A nice mix of camping and local guest houses affords the opportunity to experience both the wild side as well as the cultural side of the Caucasus.

itinerary

Approx Hours Walked

-

2

Travel to the village of Shatili.

1

¬ Magnificent Caucasus Mountain scenery

3

Walk to Khonistchala via Mutso Towers.

8

¬ Head deep into the wilds of the Atsunta Pass

4

Head deeper into Atsunta Pass.

8

¬ Take a city tour of Tbilisi

5

Top of the pass for great views.

7

6

Trek past Parsma and Girevi.

6

7

Trek to Omala via Dartlo.

6

8

Transfer to Tbilisi.

-

9

City tour of Tbilisi & folk dinner.

4

practical information Grade: C (Demanding) Max Altitude: 3,430m Average Daily Distance: 15km Accommodation: Hotel x 3, guesthouse x 3,

wild camping x 3 Meals: 9 breakfasts, 7 lunches & 7 dinners Group Size (Min - Max): 4 - 12 Trip Code: TGEO Departures: J F M A M J J A S O N D Land Only: From £1,399 | With Flights: From £1,799 Single Supplement: From £149

Gradient chart (metres) Shatili

Mutso Towers

Khonistchala

Khidotani

Atsunta Pass

3500 3000

B

C

D

Khonistchala Khidotani

Kvakhidi

GEORGIA

Chesho Omalo

From/ To UK

Chesho

Dartlo

why this trip?

“Stunning scenery with wild mountain passes, flowers and history in abundance, generous hospitality and great food, a fine bijou capital city AND they invented wine!! How can you not visit? It deserves your presence go and be captivated, as we were.”

Andru Chapman, WALKS WORLDWIDE CLIENT

private-guided option For more information about going Private Guided on this trip, please call one of the team on 01962 737565.

What next?

Visit our website for more information and for Trip Dossiers, prices and dates.

2500 2000 1500 1000

walksworldwide.com

500 0

78

Physical Grade

¬ Explore the soul of Georgia on foot

Fly from UK to Tbilisi.

-

A

off-the-beaten-track rating

Tbilisi

at a glance

1

10 Depart Tbilisi and fly to UK.

Shatili

GRADE C

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Armenia

beyond the silk road

Group Guided 9 days

An exciting walking adventure in Armenia

GRADE B/C

Armenia presents the discerning traveller with an excellent backdrop for a cultural trekking journey through its landscapes and history.

Varied walks, history, culture, great food and hospitality in one of the most spectacular and interesting countries that many have never thought to visit. Trek above dramatic canyons and gorges, hike high into the wild Geghama mountains and meet nomads and summit Aragats, Armenia’s highest peak.

itinerary 1

Fly to Yerevan.

-

2

Trek above the Garni Canyon.

8

3

Debet Gorge. Transfer to Haghpat.

4

4

Visit UNESCO World Heritage sites.

4

5

Follow ridge line above Lake Sevan.

4

6

Visit Sevan Monastery. To Yerevan.

-

7

Summit Mount Geghmakhan.

8

8

Ascend Aragats South Peak.

7

9

Fly back to the UK.

-

If you have time, we highly recommend combining this trip with our Trekking in the Caucasus trip in Georgia on page 78. Please contact us for a quotation.

Haghpat

TURKEY

ARMENIA

Garni Pagan Temple Sanahin

Dilijan

AZERBAIJAN

Mt Aragats

Sevan Monastery La

ke

Se

va

n

Mt Geghmakhan

Yerevan

Garni Canyon

¬ Savour dramatic views from the summit of Aragats’ south peak ¬ Rich history, culture and ethnic heritage

practical information Grade: B/C (Moderate/Demanding) Max Altitude: 3,900m Average Daily Distance: 15km Accommodation: Hotel x 8

Trip Code: TBSR Departures: J F M A M J J A S O N D Land Only: From £1,099 | With Flights: From £1,799

Sevan Mt Geghmakhan

why this trip?

“Armenia is a fascinating country to visit with a rich history and a great variety of walking. Walks Worldwide looked after us very well. We would highly recommend it.”

Fiona Kinghor, walks worldwide client

Group Size (Min - Max): 4 - 12

Gradient chart (metres) Goght

D

¬ Trek above Lake Sevan

Single Supplement: From £199

4000 3500 3000 2500 2000 1500 1000 500 0

C

at a glance

Meals: 8 breakfasts, 7 lunches & 5 dinners

combine two trips

B

Debet Gorge

From/ To UK

Approx Hours Walked

Physical Grade

A

off-the-beaten-track rating

Aragats South Peak

private-guided option For more information about going Private Guided on this trip, please call one of the team on 01962 737565.

What next?

Visit our website for more information and for Trip Dossiers, prices and dates.

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79

southern europe & the mediterranean cyprus Troodos and the Akamas 81 Kyrenia to Karpaz 82

turkey Trails of Cappadocia 83 Along the Lycian Way 84 Best of the Lycian Way 85

82 89

Admire sea views as you walk along the coast of Northern Cyprus Discover the ancient Moorish fortress of the Alhambra in Granada, Spain

Spain Mixed Trekking in Spain 86 Hiking over Lemons 87 The Catalan Coast 88 Andalucia - Along the GR7 89 Almeria Coastal Way 90

corsica GR20 North 91 From Mountains to Coast 92

cORFU

83

Wander around the rock formations of Cappadocia

The Corfu Trail 93

italy Vesuvius, Capri & the Amalfi Coast 94 Tuscany Classico 95

95

Walk through the vineyards of Tuscany

REGIONAL INSIGHT...

“Despite the allure of trekking among snowy peaks to achieve a goal, there is little that can top the gentler pleasures of trail-walking in warm, Mediterranean climes. Southern Europe offers some of the world’s best island and coastal walking. Enjoy stunning views along the Corfu Trail in Greece; walk the Lycian Way along Turkey’s pine-scented turquoise coast; take on one of Europe’s most challenging treks – the GR20 on the stunning island of Corsica…”

MARK WRIGHT, MANAGING DIRECTOR

80

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Cyprus

Troodos & the Akamas

self-Guided 8 days

Wonderful walks on the sunshine island

The ‘Island of Aphrodite’ floating on the blue, warm waters of the Mediterranean crossroads between Europe, Asia and Africa is no stranger to visitors.

The discerning walker can escape crowded beaches to explore the trails and fragrant cedar and pine-wood forests of the delightful Troodos in peaceful tranquillity. Offering cooler sanctuary away from the heat of the coast the Troodos rise to almost 2,000 metres at their highest point with Mount Olympus.

itinerary

Approx Hours Walked

GRADE A/B

A

Physical Grade

B

C

D

off-the-beaten-track rating

Pedoulas Baths of Aphrodite

CYPRUS Kakopetria Spilia Agros

Pittokopos

Adonis

Troodos

Paphos From/ To UK

Larnaca From/ To UK

Agios Nikolaos

at a glance

1

Fly to Pathos or Larnaca. To Agros.

-

¬ Traditional mountain villages of the Troodos

2

Walk via Mt. Adelphoi to Spilia.

6

¬ The wild Akamas peninsula

3

Through pine forests to Kakopetria.

5

¬ Walk through fragrant forests and wild flowers

4

Visit Agios Nikolaos. To Troodos village.

6

¬ Take a refreshing dip in the warm waters

5

Walk via Prodromos to Pedoulas.

6

6

Walk to the ‘Baths of Aphrodite’.

6

7

Circuit walk on Adonis.

5

Grade: A/B (Easy/Moderate)

8

To Pathos or Larnaca. Fly to UK.

-

Max Altitude: 1,950m

practical information

Average Daily Distance: 18km Accommodation: Hotel x 7 Meals: 7 breakfasts & 6 dinners Trip Code: TCYP Departures: J F M A M J J A S O N D Land Only: From £799 Flight Price Guideline: From £175 Single Supplement: From £129

why this trip?

“This trip offers some lovely walking in the mountains along quiet (very quiet), well maintained tracks and paths.”

Barbara Hargreaves, WALKS WORLDWIDE CLIENT

What next?

Visit our website for more information and for Trip Dossiers, prices and dates.

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81

North Cyprus

Kyrenia to Karpaz

self-Guided

Discover the rugged landscapes and unspoilt coast of North Cyprus

Discover this unspoilt corner of the Mediterranean. North Cyprus is renowned for its blue skies, crystal clear sea lapping onto uncrowded beaches and rugged beauty of unspoilt landscape. It has 200 miles of beautiful coastline, secluded coves and golden sands. There is also an abundance of history with ancient city sites, Byzantine period basilicas with intricate mosaics; timeworn churches, and rural traditional Cypriot villages. Walk in the Kyrenia Mountains along to the beautiful coastal trails of the stunning Karpaz Peninsula.

Approx Hours Walked

itinerary

Fly to Ercan. Transfer to Lapta, Kyrenia.

-

¬ Explore small north Cypriot villages

2

Walk the Kyrenia Mountain range.

3

¬ Walk along the Five Fingers Mountain

3

Walk in the Kalkanli Olive Grove.

4

¬ Explore the untouched Karpaz Peninsula

4

Follow the Bellapais Crusader path.

4

¬ Unspoilt scenery and Cypriot hospitality

5

Five Fingers Mountain trail.

5

Karpaz Peninsula walks - along the rugged coastline.

4

Fly back to the UK.

-

8

GRADE B

A

CYPRUS

B

C

D

Karpaz Peninsula

Lapta Kalkanli

Physical Grade

off-the-beaten-track rating

Ercan From/ To UK

at a glance

1

6/7

8 days

practical information Grade: B (Moderate) Max Altitude: Low (under 1,000m) Average Daily Distance: 10km Accommodation: Hotels x 5, guesthouse x 2 Meals: 7 breakfasts & 5 dinners Trip Code: TCKK Departures: J F M A M J J A S O N D Land Only: From £599 Flight Price Guideline: From £250 Single Supplement: From £229

Lapta

Kalkanli Bellapais

Five Finger Mountains

1000 800

Dipkarpaz

What next?

Visit our website for more information and for Trip Dossiers, prices and dates.

600 400 200

walksworldwide.com

0

82

“You stumble across untouched historical sites on the hillside, with magnificent 360 degree views of the island, whilst the Karpaz peninsula offers a Europe of yesteryear and the chance to spot turtles!”

NATHAN WHITTAKER, WALKING EXPERT

Gradient chart (metres) Kozan

why this trip?

Visit our website walksworldwide.com

TURKEY

Trails of Cappadocia

self-Guided 8 days

Cappadocia is a ‘must visit’ region for walkers

Discover a region inhabited from the mists of time to the modern Turkish era, framed by the unique landscape and enriched by the warm Turkish culture.

From underground cities capable of housing tens of thousands in early Christian times of crisis, to beautifully decorated rock hewn churches and precarious monasteries, there is the opportunity to take it all in at your own pace as you walk trails through deep canyons of colour and verdant valleys, beside rivers and through a moonscape shaped by erosion of time immemorial.

itinerary

Approx Hours Walked

at a glance

1

Fly to Nevsehir Kapadokya Airport.

-

¬ Quintessential Turkish villages and culture

2

Circular walk to Cemil village.

5

¬ Otherworldly landscapes

3

Walk via Gomeda to Ortahisar.

4

¬ Rewarding walks on age old trails

4

Ihlara Valley. Visit Derinkuyu.

5

¬ The region that inspired classical writings

5

Walk to Cavusin. See fairy chimneys.

5

6

Hike through valley to Goreme.

5

7

Summit Bozdag Mountain.

6

Grade: B (Moderate)

8

Fly back to the UK.

-

Max Altitude: Low (under 1,000m)

GRADE B

Physical Grade

A

B

C

D

off-the-beaten-track rating

Zelve

From/ To UK

Pasabag

Cavusin Goreme

Nevsehir Kapadokya

Gomeda

TURKEY

Mustafapasa Ortahisar Derinkuyu

Cemil

Ihlara

practical information

Average Daily Distance: 11km Accommodation: Pensions x 7 Meals: 7 breakfasts, 6 lunches & 6 dinners Trip Code: TTCC Departures: J F M A M J J A S O N D Land Only: From £599 Flight Price Guideline: From £280 Single Supplement: From £129

why this trip?

“Travelling on foot is the best way to explore Cappadocia. It is an other-worldly destination with a surprise around each corner... from fairy chimneys to ancient rock-hewn churches and troglodyte villages.”

TOM MANCHESTER, PRODUCT MANAGER

What next?

Visit our website for more information and for Trip Dossiers, prices and dates.

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83

TURKEY

Along the Lycian Way See the mountains rise from the shimmering sea

self-Guided 8 days

The Taurus Mountains rise dramatically from the shimmering, clear sea to provide a rugged and dramatic backdrop to this walking holiday along the Lycian Peninsula.

Following the rocky, pine forested coastline, with remote sandy beaches and picturesque inlets, you will discover a region steeped in ancient history, with tiny traditional fishing villages and fascinating archaeological treasures. Of course, there is also the sheer pleasure of walking in almost guaranteed sunshine, following ancient routes, forest trails and traditional paths used by the locals.

GRADE B

A

Physical Grade

B

C

D

off-the-beaten-track rating

From/ To UK

Antalya

TURKEY

Ulupinar

Adrasan

itinerary

Approx Hours Walked

at a glance

1

Fly to Antalya. Transfer to pension.

-

¬ Walk along the rugged coast

2

To Ulupinar. Walk to Cirali via Chimera.

2

¬ Discover ‘lost’ civilisations along the way

3

Moses Mountain to Adrasan.

4

¬ Traditional Turkish hospitality

4

Cape Gelidonia walk.

5

¬ Visit the ancient sites of Myra and Aperlai

5

Visit Myra and walk to Ucagiz.

4

6

Walk to ancient Aperlai.

4

7

Travel to Antalya.

-

Grade: B (Moderate)

8

Fly back to the UK.

-

Max Altitude: 1,090m

Myra Ucagiz

practical information

Average Daily Distance: 12km Accommodation: Hotel x 5, pensions x 2 Meals: 7 breakfasts, 5 lunches & 5 dinners Trip Code: TLYC Departures: J F M A M J J A S O N D Land Only: From £599 Flight Price Guide: From £180 Single Supplement: From £149

why this trip?

“I loved the days walking and coming back to the beach with most days allowing time for a swim. The people involved were super - very helpful and friendly making the transfers and stays simple and pleasant.

Great trip all round.”

Alaister Johnson, Walks Worldwide Client

What next?

Visit our website for more information and for Trip Dossiers, prices and dates.

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84

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TURKEY

Best of the Lycian Way

self-Guided

Enjoy exploring the best parts of the Lycian Way at your own pace

8 days

GRADE B

A

Physical Grade

B

C

D

off-the-beaten-track rating

Your family-run hotel with swimming pool

Enjoy walking in almost guaranteed sunshine brings a whole new meaning to ‘Turkish Delight’. Taking a refreshing dip in the warm waters of the Mediterranean will prove irresistible too. This walking holiday is centre-based in a delightful small family-run hotel with swimming pool. It is a great base to explore the trails of the Lycian Way. You have a choice of walks including the classic site of Olympos, a dinner at the Havuz Basi fish restaurant, option to summit Mount Olympus and visit the Flames of Chimera at dusk.

itinerary

Approx Hours Walked

1

Fly to Antalya. Transfer to Adrasan.

-

2-7

Undertake the walks of your choice and discover the delights of this part of the Lycian Way.

6

8

Fly back to the UK.

-

at a glance

From/ To UK

Antalya

TURKEY

Chimera Mt Olympos Adrasan Gelidonya Point

Kevovo Simena

Finike Demre

¬ Stay in a delightful hotel in Adrasan ¬ Enjoy coastal walks at your own pace ¬ Visit the eternal flames of the Chimera ¬ Option to summit Mount Olympos (2,365m)

practical information Grade: B (Moderate) Max Altitude: 2,365m Average Daily Distance: 16km Accommodation: Hotel x 7 Meals: 7 breakfasts & 7 dinners Trip Code: TTBLsg Departures: J F M A M J J A S O N D Land Only: From £649 Flight Price Guideline: From £185 Single Supplement: From £199

why this trip?

“There’s so much in this trip.

Fascinating history and legend brought to life by a brilliant local leader, plus challenging peaks (if you want them) and energetic or lazy coastal rambles. ” MARK WRIGHT, MANAGING DIRECTOR

What next?

Visit our website for more information and for Trip Dossiers, prices and dates.

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85

SPAIN

Senderismo mixta!

Walking in Spain is like jumping into a very tasty ensalada mixta – a mixed salad - of stunning mountains, cultural and linguistic diversity, ancient byways, long-standing tradition, great architecture, classic trails and wonderful food and wine.

Geographically (as well as culturally), the variety within one country is staggering. From the Picos de Europa in the North and the Sierra Nevada Mountains in the South, you’ll find an incredible menu of food, wine, culture, walking and sightseeing to drink in.

Spain is also well known for being very respectful and accommodating towards overseas visitors. Spaniards are quite simply a very friendly bunch; they really know how to make you feel welcome and Walks Worldwide has developed a useful and interesting network of local contacts who live in some of the best walking areas in the country. You’ll find yourself in tiny unspoilt villages where the pace of life has hardly changed for several centuries.

86

andalucia Further south, our shorter, six-day Self-Guided Almeria Coastal Walk, to the east of the Sierra Nevada, offers a very different view of the Andalucian coast, a million miles from the crowded ‘costas’ further west. Cliff-top trails take you above secluded beaches and rocky coves, and through charming fishing villages such as Las Negras. The areas is popular year round, blessed by winter temperatures which average around 15°C between November and March and offers great walking opportunities

alpujarras Then of course there is the bizarrely untouched region of the Alpujarras, just a couple of hours from one of the most tourist-ridden beaches of the Costa Del Sol, where flat-roofed and white-washed villages adorn the

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flanks of green, terraced hills below the mighty peaks of Mulhacen, the tallest on mainland Spain. Our two trips in this area – ‘Along the GR7’ and ‘Hiking Over Lemons’ bring you the best of a peaceful and beautiful mountain region.

Let us take you there All our Spanish trekking holidays are on pages 87 - 90.

SPAIN

Hiking over Lemons Explore the atmospheric and sleepy Alpujarras on foot

This Alpujarran delight offers you the opportunity to explore one of the most stunning and least-discovered areas of Spain, where life continues as it has done for hundreds of years since the Moors first farmed here.

Explore the almond orchards, olive groves and terraces on foot, visit the Mairena Olive Mill. Wander through the traditional local white-washed villages high up in this part of the Sierra Nevada Mountains.

itinerary

Approx Hours Walked

self-Guided 8 days

GRADE A/B

A

Physical Grade

B

C

D

off-the-beaten-track rating

Granada Sierra Nevada National Park From/ To UK

Trevelez Berchules

Mairena Yegen

SPAIN From/ To UK

Almeria

at a glance

1

Fly to chosen airport. To Mairena.

-

¬ Easy daily walks through stunning scenery

2

Day walk from Mairena.

7

¬ Unspoiled Moorish villages

3

Transfer to Trevelez, day walk.

4

¬ Charming accommodations and hosts

4

Along the GR7 to Berchules.

6

¬ Enjoy traditional Spanish cuisine

5

Follow trails to Yegen.

6

6

Walk back to Mairena.

6

7

Day walk from Mairena.

4

Grade: A/B (Easy/Moderate)

8

Fly back to UK from chosen airport.

-

Max Altitude: 2,000m

practical information

Average Daily Distance: 15km Accommodation: Guesthouse x 7 Meals: 7 breakfasts, 3 lunches & 4 dinners Trip Code: TLEM Departures: J F M A M J J A S O N D Land Only: From £699 Flight Price Guideline: From £160 Single Supplement: From £279

why this trip?

“Every time I visit the Alpujarras I’m delighted to find that these remote, white-washed mountain villages remain locked in a time warp. This trip discovers the best of a wild, untouched region.”

MARK WRIGHT, MANAGING DIRECTOR

What next?

Visit our website for more information and for Trip Dossiers, prices and dates.

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87

SPAIN

The Catalan Coast

self-Guided 8 days

Walk the wild coast of Catalonia

GRADE A/B

A

There is something special about mountains and sea in close proximity, and along the ‘Wild Coast’ of Catalonia that wonderful combination is enhanced by the pleasing Mediterranean climate.

Palau Saverdera

From the coast to the mountains, from sea to crag, from sandy beach to shady Mediterranean forest - the diverse and changing natural landscapes help to create a stimulating walking holiday.

Sant Pere Pescador

itinerary

Approx Hours Walked

B

C

D

El Port de la Selva

Cadaqués

SPAIN

Castello D'Empuries

L'Escala

at a glance

1

Fly to Girona. Transfer to L’Escala.

-

¬ Charming medieval villages

2

Walk to Sant Pere Pescador.

4

¬ Famous Catalonian wines and gastronomy

3

Aiguamolls National Park to Castello.

4

¬ Inspiring mountainous seascapes

4

Coastal trail to Cadaques.

6

¬ Mountains, coast, beaches and forests

5

Free day to explore the local area.

4

6

Cap de Creus National Park.

5

7

Walk to Palau Saverdera.

6

8

Fly back to the UK.

-

From/ To UK

Girona

practical information Grade: A/B (Easy/Moderate) Max Altitude: Low (under 1,000m) Average Daily Distance: 12km Accommodation: Hotel x 5, Pension x 1, Casa Rural x 1

Meals: 7 breakfasts Trip Code: TCAT Departures: J F M A M J J A S O N D Land Only: From £699 Flight Price Guideline: From £160 Single Supplement: From £349

why this trip?

“I was amazed at how wild and unspoiled the areas to the north of Girona were. Medieval villages, stunning cliffs, great coastal views… An excellent short break.”

MARK WRIGHT, MANAGING DIRECTOR

What next?

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Physical Grade

off-the-beaten-track rating

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SPAIN

Along the GR7

self-Guided 8 days

Discover rural Andalucia in the veil of the Sierra Nevada

The foothills of the Sierra Nevada afford delightful walking opportunities through open countryside, woodlands, colourful fruit orchards and distinctive mountain villages with their iconic white-washed stone houses. The famous GR7 trail winds its way through this landscape along the flanks of this mountain range.

The bustling ‘costas’ of the Med’ feel like a million miles away as you walk through this timeless region of rural Andalucia with its appealing climate.

Approx Hours Walked

itinerary

at a glance

1

Fly to Granada. Transfer to Lanjaron.

-

2

Follow GR7 to Soportujar. To Orgiva.

5

¬ White-washed villages of the Alpujarras

3

To Soportujar, walk to Capileira.

4

¬ Visit magical Granada

4

Along the GR7 to Busquistar.

5

¬ Visit Spain’s highest village

5

Walk through pine woods to Trevelez.

5

6

Trek downhill to Cadiar.

7

7

Transfer to Granada. Free PM.

-

Grade: B (Moderate)

8

Fly back to the UK.

-

Max Altitude: 1,600m

Land Only: From £729 Flight Price Guideline: From £180 Single Supplement: From £229

500 0

From/ To UK

Granada

SPAIN Sierra Nevada National Park

Lanjaron

Trevelez Capileira Busquistar

Cadiar

Orgiva

MATT BENNETT, TREKKING EXPERT

Gradient chart (metres)

1000

D

“The European ‘GR’ routes are always the most rewarding. The combination of beautiful Andalucia and white washed Mediterranean villages, make this my personal favourite out of the selfguided range.”

Departures: J F M A M J J A S O N D

1500

C

why this trip?

Trip Code: TSNF

Soportujar

B

Average Daily Distance: 12km Meals: 7 breakfasts

Canar

Physical Grade

practical information

Accommodation: Hotel x 7

Lanjaron

A

off-the-beaten-track rating

Soportujar

¬ Walking through timeless, rural Andalucia

2000

GRADE B

Capileira

Busquistar

Trevelez

Cadiar

What next?

Visit our website for more information and for Trip Dossiers, prices and dates.

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SPAIN

Almeria Coastal Way

self-Guided 6 days

Walking in the Cabo de Gata Natural Park

Cliff-top trails take you above some secluded beaches and rocky coves, and through small fishing villages such as Las Negras. The trail follows a section of the GR92 the Mediterranean Way from Los Escullos to San Jose. At Rodaquilar you can take an excursion to a unique desert-like landscape where you will find old, abandoned gold mines and villages. A destination famed for western and action films. Another film location on our trail is Mesa Roldan, a table-top mountain that is one of the locations of Season Six of ‘Games of Thrones’.

Approx Hours Walked

itinerary

A

GRADE A

Physical Grade

B

C

Agua Amerga

From/ To UK

Almeria

Las Negras

SPAIN

Rodalquilar Los Escullos

Cabo de Gata San Jose

at a glance

1

Fly to Almeria. To Agua Amarga.

-

¬ Explore small coves and azure waters

2

Coastal walk to Las Negras.

4

¬ Walk to Cabo de Gata Lighthouse

3

Inland walk to Las Minas.

5

¬ Walk along rugged coastal trails

4

Walk from Rodalquilar to San Jose.

4

¬ Explore the desert like interior landscape

5

Walk to Cabo de Gata Lighthouse.

6

6

Fly back to the UK.

-

practical information Grade: A (Easy) Max Altitude: Low (under 1,000m) Average Daily Distance: 14km Accommodation: Hotel x 5

why this trip?

Meals: 5 breakfasts Trip Code: TSAC Departures: J F M A M J J A S O N D Land Only: From £529 Flight Price Guideline: From £180 Single Supplement: From £149

Almeria Mesa Roldan

Las Negras Rodalquilar Las Minas

La Isleta

250 200

San Jose

Cabo de Gato

What next?

Visit our website for more information and for Trip Dossiers, prices and dates.

150 100 50

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0

90

“Away from resorts, this coastal fringe offers cosy coves and old Moorish forts. Experience the wonderful contrasts between the clear, turquoise sea at the coastline and the incredible Sierra Nevada Mountains inland.”

STEVE NAGLE, WALKING EXPERT

Gradient chart (metres)

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D

off-the-beaten-track rating

CORSICA

GR20 North

Group Guided

Embark on one of the most challenging treks along the GR20

8 days

This section of the northern part of the GR20 takes you through the most wild and beautiful landscapes that Corsica has to offer.

Your journey takes you across 30m footbridges, rocky terrain, traversing plateaus, forests and the Monte Cinto ridge walk to the shepherd huts of Vallone. There are a few long days of 8-10 hour walking, over a variety of different terrains, from steep rocky paths to plateaus and green meadows.

Approx Hours Walked

itinerary

GRADE D

A

Physical Grade

B

C

From/ To UK

Bastia

Calvi

Bonifatu

D

off-the-beaten-track rating

From/ To UK

Calenzana Asco Vallone Corte

Verghio

CORSICA

Lac de Nino Manganu

Grotelle

at a glance

1

Fly to Bastia or Calvi. Join Calvi.

-

¬ One of the most challenging walks in Europe

2

To Calenzana. Hike to Bonifatu.

5

¬ Trek through varied landscapes

3

Walk from Bonfatu to Asco.

8

¬ Enjoy the challenge of the Monte Cinto ridge

4

Monte Cinto ridge walk to Vallone.

10

5

Trek from Vallone to Castel di Verghio.

7

6

Walk through forests to Manganu.

6

7

Walk to Grotelle. Drive to Corte.

5

8

Fly back to the UK.

-

practical information Grade: D (Strenuous) Max Altitude: 2,607m Average Daily Distance: 11km Accommodation: Gite x 3, hotel x 2, camp x 2 Meals: 7 breakfasts, 6 lunches & 7 dinners

why this trip?

Group Size (Min - Max): 6 - 12 Trip Code: TCNG Departures: J F M A M J J A S O N D Land Only: From £999 | With Flights: From £1,399 NB: Transfer from Bastia to Calvi available (approx £150pp) or local bus/train (approx £30pp).

Single Supplement: From £229 (excludes camp)

NATHAN WHITTAKER, TREKKING EXPERT

Gradient chart (metres) 0

Calenzana 3000 2500 2000 1500 1000 500 0

Carrozzu

Asco

Pointe des Eboulis

“You don’t need any technical knowledge for this walk, but a head for heights helps! This is easily one of Europe’s most outstanding (and challenging) walks which takes you into the heart of the Cirque de la Solitude.”

Vallone Ciotulu di Mori

Manganu

Breche de Capitello

What next?

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CORSICA

From Mountains to Coast

self-Guided 8 days

Walk from the high mountains to the beautiful coast

The trek begins in Corte located in the heart of Corsica, crossing the region of Niolu with its pretty villages. Your trail takes you through stunning scenery of Scala Santa Regina Gorge and the pine forest of Verghio. There are plenty of opportunities to stop en route and take a refreshing dip in the crystal clear rock pools and paddle in the mountain rivers and waterfalls. The trail passes through Spelunca Gorge and its famous Genoeses bridges as you head down to Porto and the marina. Finally, follow the coastal trail inland to Piana.

itinerary

Approx Hours Walked

Fly to Ajaccio. Transfer to Corte.

-

2

Walk to Scala Santa Regina Gorge.

5

¬ Cool down in crystal clear rock pools

3

Visit the waterfalls of Radule.

8

¬ Stunning scenery of Scala Santa Regina Gorge

4

Cross the Col de Vergio to Evisa.

5

¬ Spot dolphins at Scandola Nature Reserve

5

Travel through the Spelunca Gorge.

6

6

Coastal trail inland to Piana.

5

7

Travel to Ajaccio.

-

Grade: B/C (Moderate/Demanding)

8

Fly back to the UK.

-

Max Altitude: 1,140m

Trip Code: TCCM Departures: J F M A M J J A S O N D Land Only: From £899 Flight Price Guideline: From £230 Single Supplement: From £399 (hotels only)

Porto Evisa

Piana

Corte

CORSICA

From/ To UK

why this trip?

“This is a great itinerary for anyone with a reasonable level of fitness looking to get away from it all on a selfguided adventure through the peaks, gorges and coast line of this beautiful island. ” NATHAN WHITTAKER, TREKKING EXPERT

Gradient chart (metres) Evisa

1500 1200

Ota

Porto

What next?

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900 600 300

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0

92

D

Average Daily Distance: 12km Meals: 7 breakfasts & 4 dinners

Col de Vergio

C

practical information

Accommodation: Hotel x 6, mountain hotel x 1

Calacuccia

B

Scala Santa Regina Gorge

Ajaccio

1

Physical Grade

off-the-beaten-track rating

at a glance ¬ Explore the heart of Corsica on foot

Corte

A

GRADE B/C

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CORFU

The Corfu Trail

self-Guided 10 / 15 days

Follow our Corfu Trail from Spartera to Spartillas

From the mountainous north to the rolling landscapes of the south there is much to experience and enjoy. This walk is a magnificent trip through the finest areas of Corfu. Following inland tracks and cobbled paths. The trail undulates through willow, cedar and juniper forests, alongside rivers and through lush pastures.

You’ll summit Corfu’s second highest peak, Agii Deka (576m) on day five. Away from the coastal tourist hubs, you’ll pass over a hundred villages, Byzantine monasteries and welcoming quayside tavernas.

Approx Hours Walked

itinerary Fly to Corfu.

-

2

Follow trails to Santa Barbara.

7

¬ Age-old tracks and mule paths

3

Trek through forest to Paramonas.

6

¬ Rolling hills, olive groves and vineyards

4

Walk over ridges & down to Benitses.

7

¬ Also available as a 10-day itinerary

5

Ascend Agii Deka & walk to Pelekas.

6

6

Follow the river to Liapades.

7

7

Free day to explore the local area.

-

8

Walk to Agios Georgios.

5

9

Follow tracks until you reach Ringini.

4

10 Cobbled & wild paths to Spartillas.

6

Accommodation: Pension x 5, taverna x 5,

hotel x 4

11

Walk to Agios Spyridon & Kalami.

7

Meals: 14 breakfasts & 8 dinners

12

Free day to explore the local area.

-

Trip Code: TCFE_15 Departures: J F M A M J J A S O N D

5

14

Free day to explore the local area.

-

15

Fly back to the UK.

-

800 700 600 500 400 300 200 100 0

Paramonas

Stavros Benitses Pelekas

B

C

D

Agios Spyridon

CORFU Rekini

ALBANIA

Spartillas

Kalami

Agios Georgios

GREECE

Liapades

From/ To UK

Corfu Aiport Pelekas

Lefkimi Santa Barbara

Sparterá

practical information Grade: B/C (Moderate/Demanding) Max Altitude: Low (under 1,000m) Average Daily Distance: 18km

Land Only: From £899 (£629 for 10 days) Flight Price Guideline: From £180 Single Supplement: From £279 (£199 for 10 days)

why this trip?

“This is a rare chance to complete an entire long distance trail from start to finish in just over a fortnight. It’s not just about the secret beaches and rugged inland hills – climbing to the summit of Pantokrator (915m) was a highlight for me.”

NATHAN WHITTAKER, TREKKING EXPERT

Gradient chart (metres) Spartera

Physical Grade

Paramonas

1

Circuit walk along the coast.

A

off-the-beaten-track rating

Benitses

at a glance ¬ Friendly mountain villages

13

GRADE B/C

Agios Georgios

Old Peritha

Kalami

What next?

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ITALY

Vesuvius, Capri & the Amalfi Coast Discover the delights of the Italian coastline

This varied ‘Italian Job’ combines an explosive volcano walk, ancient history and culture, as well as coastal and island hikes. Ascend world famous Vesuvius for a stunning panoramic view over the Bay of Naples, and then travel by boat to Capri for an island walk and fantastic views back to Vesuvius. A visit to the ruins of Pompeii is a must before travelling to the striking Amalfi Peninsula. Here, from the delightful town of Agerola, you’ll enjoy four days exploring the fascinating coastline with its rugged sea cliffs and picturesque villages.

self-Guided 8 days

GRADE A/B

A

Physical Grade

B

C

D

off-the-beaten-track rating

From/ To UK

Naples

Mt.Vesuvius

ITALY Ercolano Pompeii

Agerola

itinerary

Approx Hours Walked

at a glance

1

Fly to Naples.

-

¬ Summit Mount Vesuvius for panoramic views

2

Train to Ercolano. Summit Vesuvius.

2

¬ Island hiking on Capri

3

Ferry to Capri for island hiking.

3

¬ Trek the ‘Path of the Gods’ to Positano

4

Visit Pompeii. Transfer to Agerola.

-

¬ Explore the fragrant landscape

5

Walk to the Canyon of Furore.

3

6

Walk to Valle dei Mulini & Ravello.

4

7

Hike the “Path of the Gods”.

5

8

Fly back to the UK.

-

Positano

Capri

practical information Grade: A/B (Easy/Moderate) Max Altitude: Low (under 1,000m) Average Daily Distance: 8km Accommodation: Hotel x 7 Meals: 7 breakfasts & 4 dinners Trip Code: TVES

why this trip?

Single Supplement: From £229

“This trip provides a contrasting mixture of the vibrant life and historical sites around Naples and old Pompeii, and quiet coastal trails and island walks. A great Italian cocktail.”

Non-Saturday Departure Supplement: £40pp

MARK WRIGHT, MANAGING DIRECTOR

Departures: J F M A M J J A S O N D Land Only: From £699 Flight Price Guideline: From £150

What next?

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Ravello Amalfi

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ITALY

Tuscany Classico Enjoy ‘La Dolce Vita’ on delightful walks through the rolling hills

Vineyards and olive groves abound in a region rich with history, where the famous Chianti wine has been produced since Etruscan times. The Tuscan landscape comes ablaze with seasonal colour, from the red of poppies to the violet of the iris, the yellow of the sunflower and the verdant green of cypress. With ancient, golden stone villages and magnificent castles, as well as famous Tuscan culinary delights to relish with many opportunities to sample exquisite wine, you may just not want to leave!

itinerary

Approx Hours Walked

self-Guided 7 days

GRADE a/b

A

Fly to Florence or Pisa. Arrive Florence.

-

¬ Hike the ‘Road of Wines’

2

Walk from Florence to Fiesole.

4

¬ Explore celebrated Florence

3

Walk to Panzano, then to Radda.

4

¬ Discover charming Tuscan villages

4

Walking in Castellina.

4

¬ Enjoy ‘La Dolce Vita’

5

Castello di Brolio - walking.

5

6

Hike to San Gimignano.

5

7

Depart. Fly from Florence or Pisa.

-

B

C

D

From/ To UK

From/ To UK

Florence

Pisa

ITALY Panzano Radda

San Gimignano Colle Val d'Elsa Siena

at a glance

1

Physical Grade

off-the-beaten-track rating

Castle of Brolio

practical information Grade: A/B (Easy/Moderate) Max Altitude: Low (under 1,000m) Average Daily Distance: 12km Accommodation: Hotel x 6 Meals: 6 breakfasts Trip Code: TCHI

why this trip?

Single Supplement: From £249

“Anywhere that bears the name ‘Road of Wines’ deserves to be hiked!

However, for me it’s the lush rolling hills and endless bucolic ideal that win this destination over…who am I kidding?”

Non-Saturday Departure Supplement: £40pp

NATHAN WHITTAKER, TREKKING EXPERT

Departures: J F M A M J J A S O N D Land Only: From £649 Flight Price Guideline: From £175

What next?

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essential information

Please take the time to read the information about travelling on a Walks Worldwide holiday.

Pricing

Full details of prices including seasonal price variations can be found on our website. We reserve the right to alter the prices of any of the holidays shown in our brochure and/or on our website. Prices indicated in this brochure are ‘from’ prices only.

Please note: If booking a 2017 holiday, prices, dates and itineraries quoted are provisional and may be subject to change.

Flight Inclusive

You can combine our Land Only holidays with international flights as a Flight Inclusive package. We are fully bonded with the Civil Aviation Authority and hold a full ATOL and IATA license, so we can book flights with most airlines. International flight prices are variable and usually can only be guaranteed at the time of booking.

The ‘from’ prices shown for all flights in this brochure are a guideline only, to help you decide whether the holiday we are offering is within your budget. These prices are based on flight costs obtained by our team in December 2014 and were the lowest fares available on this date from London airports with either a scheduled or low cost airline. In some instances, where 2015 fares were unavailable on these dates, we have used an estimated price based on 2014 fares. These guideline prices are not fixed and do not include our booking fee, or additional charges some airlines may charge (e.g. baggage). As flight prices will vary considerably according to your specific travel dates, seat availability, preferred airline, peak travel periods, etc, please bear in mind that these fares may no longer be available at the time you book your holiday or for the dates you are travelling. Please contact us for an upto-date flight price quote for your preferred travel dates and regional departure options.

Land Only

For all our holidays we offer a ‘Land Only’ price.

This price does not include international travel and is based on joining at the stated point for the individual holiday in the destination country, as shown in the Trip Dossier. IMPORTANT – If you are purchasing your own flights, you should be aware that most of the cheaper airline tickets available for sale on the internet or from low cost carriers are non-refundable in the case of cancellation and will not be protected by our ATOL bonding. For this reason we strongly advise you to check the rules of the ticket when you make a flight booking, and check the limitations of any cancellation insurance policy you have. We cannot be held liable for any losses incurred relating to, or as a result of, any flight bookings or other travel arrangements you have made yourself, including you having to cancel your holiday due to travel disruption.

Please also refer to the specific joining arrangements, transfers section, and Land Only section of the individual Trip Dossier before booking your holiday with us.

96

What is included?

As we offer such a wide variety of holiday choices, what we include and don’t include also varies. We firmly believe in a clear, concise and fair pricing policy and you will find what’s included in the price of each holiday outlined in brief on the trip pages in this brochure and on our website. Further details of what is and what isn’t included can be found in the relevant Trip Dossier.

Not included

Overseas departure/entry taxes, airport transfers (unless stated), excess baggage charges, porterage (unless stated), insurance, passports, visas, vaccinations, optional excursions, city taxes, gratuities and any items of a personal nature.

Trip Extensions

The prices shown for trip extensions are priced on the assumption that you take our international flights from the UK. Extension prices may sometimes be higher if you book on a Land Only basis.

Airport transfers

For many of our trips there is a wide choice of international flight options. So rather than tying ourselves to one airline and/or route we will always try to take advantage of special fares, promotions and regional flight options to provide you with the lowest possible flight prices. Consequently, clients are likely to arrive and depart on different flights, making a single group transfer impractical in most cases.

Therefore as a general rule, unless otherwise stated in the Trip Dossier, airport transfers are usually not included* in our prices.

If you do require an airport arrival and/or departure transfer, we can arrange this for you at a small extra cost – please see our website or ask your consultant for details. Alternatively, you may choose to organise your own taxi or use local transport to reach the Joining Point of the tour. The choice is yours. It’s worth

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noting that there can be a significant price advantage in offering such flexibility with regard to international airfares, and this far outweighs the relatively insignificant cost of a transfer. So, rather than build the transfer cost into the selling price for everyone, we give you the choice.

Please note: On some trips – where it is difficult to arrange your own transfer to the Joining Point – we include a timed transfer in the trip price. Please see Trip Dossier or ask your consultant for details.

Group sizes

For all of our scheduled Group Trips there is both a minimum and maximum group size.

These are stated on the individual trip pages in this brochure and on our website. To enable a trip to go ahead, a minimum number of participants required must be reached.

Tour Leaders

For all of our Guided Group Trips or Private Guided Trips, a professional, English-speaking guide will be provided. The local guide will often act as the overall Tour Leader throughout the trip; however itineraries which cover a range of regions or activities may be accompanied by multiple specialist guides.

Solo travellers Subject to space, it is possible to pay a supplement to have the privacy of your own room. If you are willing to share accommodation with a stranger of the same sex, there is no supplement on many of our trips. Where we do charge a supplement, we keep this as low as possible. Please call us to discuss the options.

Accommodation

The accommodation we offer on our walking and trekking trips is as varied as the trips themselves.

On one trip alone you may find yourself staying in a 3-star hotel, a rustic and remote village house, and a yurt! Details of the accommodation

used can be found in the relevant Trip Dossier. As a general rule we use mid-range accommodation where available. Our itineraries are planned around the quality of the walking first and foremost. For many of our trips we do not name specific accommodation in advance, but we indicate a type of accommodation (e.g. hotel, pension, tent, etc.), as the specific accommodation used may vary from trip to trip, depending on availability.

Baggage

Please ensure you use the correct type of baggage for your chosen trip. Please refer to the specific Clothing & Equipment list on our website or call us for any specific information about what to use for your main baggage, and any weight restrictions.

Local Payment

On a small number of our trips there may be additional local fees which must be paid as part of the itinerary (e.g. National Park fees), where possible we will always try and include these in the price of the tour. Any necessary additional fees which we have not been able to include will be detailed in your Trip Dossier.

Altitude

Where our trips involve going to altitudes above 1,000m, the maximum altitudes on these trips are indicated on the relevant trip page in this brochure and on our website.

The effects of altitude are something that you should be aware of. To combat such effects our itineraries are carefully planned to allow most walkers adequate acclimatisation.

Generally speaking, most people will acclimatise to the altitudes on our trips, although it is important to understand that everyone acclimatises at different rates. More details regarding altitude can be found in the Essential Information section of our website, which we strongly recommend you read.

Please contact us if you have any concerns.

Low cost airlines

In Europe in particular, low cost airlines appear to offer a very economical option. We are able to book and arrange these flights for you, subject to a nominal booking fee and, if we do this for you as part of your travel arrangements, we can continue to offer you peace of mind and 100% financial protection through our ATOL licence. This brings many benefits. For instance, if your international flight were to be delayed or cancelled and you could not join your holiday on time (remember the airport closures caused by snow and volcanic ash!), we would manage the situation accordingly.

Please note that we cannot provide separate menus and cannot accept any liability for any problems arising from special dietary requirements, requests or intolerances.

Visas & Vaccinations

To check whether a visa is required, and for the most up-to-date visa information for the country you are visiting, please contact us for details. At Walks Worldwide, we offer a visa service with complimentary form filling. Please ask your consultant when booking, you can add visas to the cost of your trip or buy visas separately through our website all powered by The Visa Machine, experts in adventure travel visas. Passports and completed application forms are normally required six weeks prior to departure date.

We always recommend visiting your doctor and dentist for a check-up before travelling. Your GP, or a specialist vaccination centre, will have access to the most up-to-date information on relevant vaccinations and medical precautions for your destination.

Know before you go

Walks Worldwide are fully committed to the British Foreign and Commonwealth Office’s ‘Know before you go’ campaign.

We recommend that all Walks Worldwide clients visit the FCO website – www.fco.gov.uk.

If you have any questions or concerns about government travel advice to your chosen country please contact the Walks Worldwide office.

It is not our policy to provide destination information (e.g. laws, culture, etc.) beyond the bounds of the trip itself. As there are a large number of country/destination travel guide books available, we strongly recommend that you obtain a travel guide book relevant to your chosen destination before you travel.

Please book early

There are many reasons why it is beneficial to book early. It usually means the lowest air fares can be found, and that you can be more certain of a place on your chosen trip, especially if it’s one of our scheduled Guided Small Group Trip departures. Where a particular trip requires a minimum number of participants to reach guaranteed operational status, it is clearly in the best interests of all those wishing to take part to book as early as possible. Of course we understand that it isn’t always possible to book well in advance, therefore we do not impose a late booking charge. However, higher air fares and restricted availability are more likely to be the result of booking late.

Important warning Walks Worldwide holidays are adventurous by nature and often involve travel to remote areas and/or to countries less developed than the United Kingdom. Whilst we go to great lengths to ensure our trips run smoothly by ensuring that they are thoroughly planned and researched, sometimes unforeseen circumstances necessitate changes. Therefore, our published holiday itineraries are statements of intent and not contractual obligations. Many factors (e.g. weather, transport problems, political instability etc.) can dictate the need to make an enforced change to an itinerary at short notice, and sometimes during the course of the holiday itself. We ask you to travel with an open mind and a sense of adventure, and accept these changes as part of the experience if they should occur. We believe it’s the unpredictable nature of adventure travel that makes it most exciting!

It is important to understand and recognise that the standard of health care and emergency services available in some destinations will likely not meet the same standards you would expect in the UK. Travelling in remote areas can mean being hours, or even days away from a comprehensive medical facility.

Road conditions can be challenging and transport can be unreliable (and sometimes uncomfortable). Standards of accommodation may vary and can often be very basic, although we always try and source accommodation in keeping with the style of the trip and local culture. One night might be spent camping under the stars and the next sleeping in a remote village guest house in the mountains.

A Walks Worldwide trip is certainly not your average package holiday and our travel consultants will be very happy to discuss the unique nature of your trip in depth with you. If after reading this information you are not comfortable with the idea of adventure, challenge and the occasional change to the published itinerary, then our trips may not be the right kind of holiday for you.

Dietary requirements

Vegetarians can usually be catered for on most of our trips. However, in certain destinations you may find vegetarian options very limited.

If you have other special dietary requirements it is important that you discuss these BEFORE BOOKING. While we will do our best to pass on any dietary details you provide us with, we cannot always guarantee that such requests can always be delivered. On many trips special dietary requirements cannot be catered for.

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booking conditions All bookings are subject to our full Booking Conditions which appear on our website www. walksworldwide.com. A copy of these can also be e-mailed or posted to you on request. By asking us to make your booking, you confirm you have had access to and agree to the full Booking Conditions which you should read. The Booking Conditions provide for the payment of cancellation charges if you cancel or fail to make payment when due. They also include limitations and exclusions of our liability to you. For international travel by air, sea or rail, our liabilities are limited and excluded as if we were a carrier within the applicable international convention or EU regulation (for example, the Montreal Convention, the EC Regulation on Air Carrier Liability and the Athens Convention). A surcharge may be payable in limited circumstances where certain costs increase after booking.

Your contract will be with Chameleon Worldwide Travel Limited t/a Walks Worldwide (registered in England with number: 7018224) of Long Barn South, Sutton Manor Farm, Bishops Sutton, Alresford SO24 0AA. For all bookings a binding contract between you us only comes into existence when we despatch our written confirmation of booking to you.

We hold an Air Travel Organiser’s Licence issued by the Civil Aviation Authority (ATOL number 10186).

When you buy an ATOL protected flight or flight inclusive holiday from us, you will receive an ATOL Certificate. This lists what is financially protected, where you can get information on what this means for you and who to contact if things go wrong. We, or the suppliers identified on your ATOL Certificate, will provide you with the services listed on the ATOL Certificate (or a suitable alternative). In some cases, where neither we nor the supplier are able to do so for reasons of insolvency, an alternative ATOL holder may provide you with services you have bought or a suitable alternative (at no extra cost to you). You agree to accept that in those circumstances the alternative ATOL holder will perform those obligations and you agree to pay any money outstanding to be paid by you under your contract to that alternative ATOL holder. However, you also agree that in some cases it will not be possible to appoint an alternative ATOL holder, in which case you will be entitled to make a claim under the ATOL scheme (or your credit card issuer where applicable). If we, or the suppliers identified on your ATOL certificate, are unable to provide the services listed (or a suitable alternative, through an alternative ATOL holder or otherwise) for reasons of insolvency, the Trustees of the Air Travel Trust may make a payment to (or confer a benefit on) you under the ATOL scheme. You agree that in return for such a payment or benefit, you assign absolutely to those Trustees any claims which you have or may have arising out of or relating to the non-provision of the services, including any claim against us, the travel agent or your credit card issuer where applicable. You also agree that any such claims may be re-assigned to another body, if that other body has paid sums you have claimed under the ATOL scheme. The flights and flight-inclusive holidays we arrange are ATOL protected providing they are made available in the UK. For further information visit the ATOL website at www.atol.org.uk.

The Association of Bonded Travel Organisers Trust Limited (ABTOT) provides financial protection under the Package Travel, Package Holidays and Package Tours Regulations 1992 for Chameleon Worldwide Travel Ltd., and in the event of their insolvency, protection is provided for the following: 1. non-flight packages commencing in and returning to the UK; 2. non-flight packages commencing and returning to a country other than the UK; and 3. flight inclusive packages that commence outside of the UK, which are sold to customers outside of the UK. 1, 2 and 3 provides for a refund in the event you have not yet travelled. 1 and 3 provides for repatriation.

Please note that bookings made outside the UK are only protected by ABTOT when purchased directly with Chameleon Worldwide Travel Ltd.

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We are a member of ABTA (ABTA number Y0185).

ABTA and ABTA members help holidaymakers to get the most from their travel and assist them when things do not go according to plan. We are obliged to maintain a high standard of service to you by ABTA’s Code of Conduct. For further information about ABTA, the Code of Conduct and the Alternative Dispute Scheme available to you if you have a complaint, contact ABTA at 30 Park Street, London, SE1 9EQ or see www.abta.com.

Some of the holidays featured in this brochure require a minimum number of participants before we can operate them. The applicable minimum number depends on various factors and varies from tour to tour. If the group size drops below the minimum number, we reserve the right either to cancel or to run the trip. There is therefore no guarantee that the holiday will have more than one family participating.

We promise to advise you no later than 6 weeks prior to departure if we have to cancel your holiday due to lack of numbers. Clause 5 of our full Booking Conditions will then apply.

For groups, the price per person given at the time of booking is based on a particular number of participants. If the group size changes at any time prior to departure (including where confirmed participants cancel without being substituted and pay less than 100% cancellation charges), we reserve the right to recost the trip and the per person price. Any increase in the price will be payable by all remaining participants.

The increase will not be a surcharge and accordingly will not be subject to the surcharge provision set out in clause 4 of our full Booking Conditions.

All participants must be in possession of a valid passport and all visas, permits and certificates, including medical certificates required for the whole of the holiday booked. It is your responsibility to obtain these unless you are expressly advised otherwise by us. All information and advice given by us on visas, vaccinations, climate, clothing, baggage, special equipment etc. is given in good faith. The lead passenger must ensure that all participants are in possession of all necessary travel and health documents before departure. All costs incurred in obtaining such documentation must be paid by you. We regret we cannot accept any liability if you are refused entry onto any transport or into any country due to failure on your part to carry correct documentation. If you are not a British citizen or hold a non British passport, you must check passport and visa requirements with the embassy or consulate of the country(ies) to or through which you are intending to travel. If failure to have any necessary travel or other documents results in fines, surcharges or other financial penalty being imposed on us or costs incurred by us, you will be responsible for reimbursing us accordingly.

We require details of the passports held by all participants no later than 6 weeks prior to departure.

A full British passport usually presently takes approximately 2 to 4 weeks to obtain unless you are 16 or over and are applying for a first passport. The UK Passport Service has to confirm your identity before issuing such a passport and may ask applicants to attend an interview in order to do this. A minimum of 6 weeks should be allowed in this case. If any participant does not have a passport or will need to renew it prior to departure, they are recommended to apply at least 3 months in advance.

For travel to and via the USA, every person travelling (including children) must have a visa unless they qualify for the Visa Waiver Program (VWP). Most British citizens travelling on holiday will qualify for the VWP but please see the important note below.

All visitors who are eligible for the VWP must now apply for authorisation to travel to the US in advance in accordance with the Electronic System for Travel Authorization (ESTA). For authorisation to travel you must complete an online application on the ESTA website (details below) at least 72 hours before your flight to the US departs but you are recommended to apply earlier. Providing the application is accepted, you will be provided with approval via the website.

Approval is usually provided very quickly but can take up to 72 hours if data needs to be checked. You

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should make a note of the ESTA approval number when you receive it.

Please note; authorisation to travel under ESTA does not guarantee entry into the United States; that decision rests with the immigration official at the point of entry in the same way that travellers currently entering the U.S. under the Visa Waiver Program or with a visa are subject to inspection. Warning: If your passport has ever been reported lost or stolen to the authorities and then recovered, please do not attempt to use it for travel to the United States. If you input the passport details into ESTA, your application will be denied. It is your responsibility to obtain ESTA approval or a US visa if required. If you fail to obtain authorisation to travel through the ESTA website or a US visa in advance of travel, you will not be allowed on your outbound flight to the US. Full cancellation charges will then apply. The ESTA website can be found at https://esta.cbp.dhs.gov/esta Important note: Not all British visitors to the USA will qualify for the Visa Waiver Program. You cannot apply for the VWP and will require a visa if you do not have a machine readable passport. All new style, burgundy coloured UK passports are machine readable. You will also need to apply for a visa if you have ever been arrested (even if you were not convicted of an offence) or have a criminal record of any description.

Other exemptions also apply. If you are in any doubt as to whether you may require a visa, please contact the US Embassy, Consular Information Unit, 24 Grosvenor Square, London W1A 1AE or visit the website www.usembassy.org.uk before making your booking. Further information on entry requirements for the USA is available at http://travel.state.gov. You must check entry requirements at the time of booking and in good time before departure as requirements may change.

Requirements generally and for any country may change and you must check the up to date position in good time before departure with the embassy or consulate of the country(ies) you are travelling through and to.

It is your responsibility to ensure you are aware of all recommended vaccinations and health precautions in good time before departure. Details are available from your GP surgery and from the National Travel Health Network and Centre www.nathnac.org.

Information on health abroad is also available on www.nhs.uk/Livewell/Travelhealth. For holidays in the EU/EEA you should obtain an EHIC (European Health Insurance Card) prior to departure from www. ehic.org.uk. An EHIC is not a substitute for travel insurance. Vaccination and other health requirements/ recommendations are subject to change at any time for any destination. Please therefore check with a doctor or clinic not less than six weeks prior to departure to ensure that you have met the necessary requirements and have the applicable information.

The Foreign and Commonwealth Office publishes regularly updated travel information on its website www.gov.uk/foreign-travel-advice which you are recommended to consult before booking and in good time before departure.

In the event of any flight delay or cancellation at your UK or overseas point of departure, the airline is responsible for providing such assistance as may legally be required by the Denied Boarding Regulations. The ferry, tunnel or rail operator is similarly responsible in relation to any delayed or cancelled sea crossing or international rail departure.

Except where otherwise stated in our brochure or on our website, we regret we cannot provide any assistance in such circumstances other than information and advice to the extent we are in a position to do so.

The information contained in our brochure is believed correct to the best of our knowledge at the time of printing or publication. However, errors may occasionally occur and information may subsequently change. You must therefore ensure you check all details of your chosen tour (including the price) with us at the time of booking.

escape on foot today...

Once you have found your preferred trip, please don’t delay. It’s usually cheaper to book well in advance.

book online Visit the trip page on our website, click ‘Book Now’ in the ‘Dates & Prices’ tab and fill in a secure online form. walksworldwide.com

by Telephone Call one of our trekking consultants to book or simply ask a question on 01962 737565.

by post Simply download our Booking Form online (or ask us to send you one) and send by mail.

What happens next?

Once we’ve receive your booking details and deposit, we will send you a holiday confirmation invoice as quickly as possible.

Further information Please visit our website for Trip Dossiers, online reviews, late availability options, blog posts, reports, advice and more.

TRAVEL INSURANCE Your safety and enjoyment of your holiday are our biggest priority.

It is compulsory that all of our clients are covered by a comprehensive travel insurance policy. That means in case of an unforeseen circumstance you are covered, and as with all holiday bookings, deposits are non-refundable, so you should be insured from the time of booking in case of cancellation. Our policies are available to anybody Iiving in the EU regardless of nationality and are specifically designed to cover all of the activities offered on our trips.

Please note: Full details of the cover provided are shown on your policy document which will be sent to you upon receipt of payment of premium. Please read it carefully to ensure you understand the cover provided as this insurance is being offered on a Non Advised basis from a single insurer.

Should you require more information, a specimen policy can be downloaded from our website. Certain terms, conditions, exclusions and excesses apply, in particular cover is excluded for any pre-existing medical condition from which you or any person upon whom travel depends are suffering. If in doubt please contact our medical helpline on 01702 427 237.

The policy document contains a 14 day Cooling Off Period and details of how to claim and who to contact in the event of a medical emergency. Campbell Irvine Ltd is regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority. FCA Register number 306242. To search the register visit www.fca.org.uk or contact them on their consumer helpline 0800 111 6768.

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Š CHAMELEON WORLDWIDE TRAVEL LTD 2016/17 No portion of this brochure may be reproduced without the prior written consent of Chameleon Worldwide Photographs: With thanks to our clients, colleagues, suppliers and tourist offices

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