Trekkup Dubai ✔

The Upper Mustang region of Nepal, near the border of Tibet, is a place as hallowed as it is high altitude. In this land of myth and mystery, at the base of the Himalayan mountains and adjacent to the famed Annapurna Circuit, remote monasteries cling to cliffsides, and the peaks feel so close you could reach out and touch them.

An otherworldly landscape that will literally take your breath away, the harsh, desert-like terrain reveals stunning natural beauty around every corner, from the imposing Nilgiri, Tilicho, and Dhaulagiri peaks to the apple orchards that dot the countryside. Renowned for its unique Tibetan-influenced culture, Upper Mustang is a mecca for trekkers looking for that perfect blend of off-grid exploration, dramatic vistas and cultural discovery.

Formerly known as the Kingdom of Lo, the area earned the nickname “The Forbidden Kingdom”, as foreigners were barred from entering until the early 1990s. At its heart lies its ancient capital, the walled city of Lo Manthang, boasting an exotic mix of Thakali, Magar, Tibetan, and Hindu and Buddhist cultures – and offering a glimpse of a world that has hardly changed in decades.

Amid Mustang’s breathtaking landscapes lies the Chungsi Cave Monastery, a sacred site revered by Hindus and Buddhists alike. Unlike the many man-made caves throughout the region, Chungsi Cave is a natural wonder sculpted by time and nature. Legends about the site abound – it is believed that both the 8th century Buddhist master Guru Rinpoche and the Hindu god Shiva meditated here.

Located in a remote and beautiful valley, the pilgrimage site of Muktinath is built in the pagoda style, with stupa, holy taps, ponds, eternal flames, and the monastery itself. A space of spiritual liberation at 3750 meters, it is believed that bathing in the waters of its taps and ponds provides eternal salvation. With horizon views of Mt. Dhaulagiri, Tukuche Peak, and mysterious landscapes across all of Upper Mustang, you’re sure to feel transformed by this holy place.

Mustang is the Tibet of your imagination, with windswept views of Himalayan peaks and desert-like valleys where the chants and hymns of wandering monks beckon trekkers and pilgrims from near and far! While this region is no longer “forbidden”, it remains somewhat restricted to outsiders – so don’t miss the chance to be among the few that experience its magic.

Let’s go!!

Day 1: Kathmandu + flight to Pokhara

Morning arrival in Kathmandu, short rest and set off for our first bit of sightseeing, while Mustang permits are being processed.

We ll head to Bhaktapur Durbar Square (UNESCO World Heritage Site), where we’ll explore ancient temples, courtyards, and vibrant local culture. Later, with permits in hand, we’ll board a scenic flight to Pokhara, where the stunning Annapurna mountain range awaits.

Day 2: Flight to Jomsom / Dumba Lake / Kagbeni

We start the day with a thrilling early-morning flight from Pokhara to Jomsom, flying between the mighty Annapurna and Dhaulagiri ranges and over the world’s deepest gorge. After arriving in Jomsom, we’ll make the short drive toward Kagbeni (2,810 m), the ancient gateway to Upper Mustang. Along the route, we’ll stop to visit the peaceful Dumba Lake, a serene Himalayan gem.

Day 3: Samar / Trek to Chungsi Cave Monastery / Ghami

Today will be a full and active day combining both driving and trekking. We’ll start with a scenic drive from Kagbeni to Samar (3,600 m), where we’ll enjoy lunch before beginning a 2-to-3-hour hike from Samar to the fascinating Chungsi Cave Monastery, set inside a natural cave.
After exploring Chungsi, we’ll continue with a short 30-minute climb to reach Syangboche Monastery at 3,850 m. Following our visit there, we’ll drive onward to Ghami (3,520 m), where we will spend the night. Throughout the journey, you’ll experience Mustang’s strikingly dry, desert-like landscapes, offering a unique and rugged Himalayan atmosphere.

Day 4: Trek to Lo-Gekar Gompa & Ghar Gompa / Charang

Today’s trek features stops at two historic settlements along the route to Lo-Gekar. Lo-Gekar Gompa, one of Nepal’s oldest monasteries—older even than Tibet’s famous Samye Gompa—is believed to be a meditation site of Guru Rinpoche, credited with bringing Tantric Buddhism to Tibet in the 8th century.

A short walk from there brings you to Ghar Gompa, dating back to the 1200s, where Guru Rinpoche is venerated as the central figure. This gompa is especially renowned for its intricate rock carvings and holds a local belief that it grants the wishes of those who visit.

The trek from Ghami to Ghar Gompa takes around 3.5 to 4 hours, and after about an hour exploring Ghar Gompa, we’ll continue onward for another 2 to 3 hours to reach Charang (3,560 m), where we settle in for the night.

Day 5: Drive to Lo Manthang

Today we reach Lo Manthang, making the 2-to-3-hour drive from Charang to our final and most anticipated stop, sitting at an altitude of 3,810 meters. Known as the “walled city”, the ancient capital of Upper Mustang is entirely enclosed by stone walls, preserving its centuries-old charm and cultural significance. Every trek or journey to Upper Mustang finds its culmination here, where history, tradition, and breathtaking landscapes come together.

Day 6: Lo Manthang

We have an additional day in Lo-Manthang today, giving us the opportunity to explore the city in more depth. We’ll visit the historic King’s Palace and other nearby cultural landmarks. One of the key highlights is experiencing the Tibetan-influenced culture of the Lhobas people, which gives Lo Manthang its distinctive charm.
Additionally, the area is believed to have 12 ancient caves adorned with old Buddhist paintings, dramatically situated along the edge of a 14,000-foot cliff. As we explore the city and its surroundings, we’ll spend around 3 to 4 hours walking and soaking in the remarkable atmosphere.

Day 7: Muktinath / Jomsom

Today we begin our return journey, driving from Lo Manthang back to Jomsom via the sacred site of Muktinath. The route offers spectacular mountain views and passes through rugged Mustang landscapes, with stops at local villages along the way.
At Muktinath, one of the most important pilgrimage sites for both Hindus and Buddhists, you’ll have the chance to visit the temple and explore its spiritual surroundings before continuing the scenic drive to Jomsom, where we’ll spend the night.

Day 8: Flight to Pokhara

This morning, we board a short but scenic flight from Jomsom to Pokhara, soaring over the majestic Annapurna and Dhaulagiri ranges. Upon arrival in Pokhara, short rest and relax at leisure.

Day 9: Flight to Kathmandu / Departure

Connecting flight to Kathmandu and back home. Bye bye, Nepal!

Level of difficulty: Moderate - limited facilities + high altitude ahead!
Accommodation: 4* hotel in Kathmandu, local tea houses in Mustang – double sharing. Local meals included.
Activities: Trekking, off-roading, sightseeing, immersion in ancient Buddhist culture.

Cost: AED 9,870 excluding international flights.

Cost valid until JULY 15th. Past this date cost will change.

Specifically excluded: International flights, visa, insurance, meals on transfers (ie. in Kathmandu).

The Pamir Mountains, called “The Roof of the World,” stretch across Tajikistan, Afghanistan, China, and Kyrgyzstan. Towering peaks, ancient cultures, and wild, open spaces define this stunning corner of Central Asia. This journey winds through the heart of the Tajik Pamirs along Afghanistan border across areas of unspoken beauty and a crossover of unique cultures.

The Pamir Highway, also known as the M41, was originally part of the ancient Silk Road network, used by traders and caravans crossing Central Asia. During the Soviet era in the 1930s, it was rebuilt as a military and strategic route to secure access through the remote and mountainous regions of Tajikistan and Kyrgyzstan. Built by forced labor in harsh conditions, the road is a feat of engineering, cutting through high-altitude passes and unstable terrain. It became a crucial supply line for Soviet troops and served as a link between scattered mountain communities. Today, the Pamir Highway stands as one of the world’s most dramatic and remote road trips, rich in both history and resilience.

We’ll travel alongside the Afghan border through the Wakhan Corridor, a region filled with ancient forts, Zoroastrian shrines, Buddhist stupas, and villages that haven’t changed much in centuries. This route once echoed with Silk Road caravans—and still carries whispers of that past in every step and stone. Expect massive peaks, alpine lakes, steaming hot springs, and warm welcomes in remote mountain homes.

Not many travelers ever set foot on the trail to Jizev, your soon-to-be favorite hidden village tucked deep in the Pamirs — or take a dip in the healing hot springs of Garmchashma and Bibi Fatima, long cherished by locals.

On this journey, you'll ride a yak across the high plains of Alichur, sip a tea with Kyrgyz shepherds in windswept valleys, and feel the vastness of the landscape press pause on everything else. We’ll drive across Ak-Baital Pass (4,656m), the highest stretch of the legendary Pamir Highway, then bed down in yurts near Tulpar-Kul Lake, right beneath the shadow of towering Lenin Peak (7,134m).

Once we enter Kyrgyzstan, the road takes us over the unforgettable Taldyk Pass, with sweeping views that will make you pause in awe. From there, we descend into the lush valleys of the Alay Range, a striking contrast to the high-altitude desert behind us. Our journey winds down in the ancient city of Osh, one of the oldest in Central Asia, full of history and character.

You’re heading into the heart of Central Asia’s wildest frontier—a journey through the legendary beauty of the most breathtaking mountains in the former Soviet Union. This is where travelers’ dreams of raw, little-visited lands become reality. You’ll cross towering high-altitude passes, walk along the shores of crystal-clear alpine lakes, stand face-to-face with the dramatic cliffs of the Hindu Kush, and gaze up at the mighty Lenin Peak, one of the true giants of the Pamirs.

Kyrgyzstan and Kazakhstan each offer many incredible sights, but the loudest “wows” are usually heard by their pristine, high-altitude lakes, ranging from deep blue to green to electric turquoise. So we’ve cooked up a trip which takes in the most stunning bodies of water in the region, sure to take your breath away – especially if you decide to take a dip!

Mysterious, mountainous Kyrgyzstan awes visitors with its idyllic backdrops of green pastures, alpine lakes and glaciers, surrounded by dense forest and jagged mountain peaks. Exploring these untouched landscapes on foot and by horseback, traversing hills and valleys where nomads roam, it’s possible to witness a traditional Kyrgyz way of life which continues as it has for centuries.

Scenic vistas abound in the magnificent Tchu Valley, in the northern part of the famed Tien Shan Mountains, a massive mountain range that runs throughout the ‘stans’ and all the way to China. This beautiful, forested river valley stretches more than 100 km from east to west, and is home to an array of wildlife such as alpine ibex, ermines, snow leopards, deer, golden eagles, saker falcons, and bearded vultures.
Enjoying the pure air and clear, starry skies, our adventure will take us to verdant jailoos, high-altitude summer pastures that Kyrgyz nomads take their flocks to for grazing in the warmer months. Staying with friendly locals, we’ll learn about the nomadic way of life and spend our nights in cozy yurts.

Kazakhstan, the world’s ninth largest country, is a rugged natural wonderland of steppes, mountains, woodlands, canyons and lakes. Within its borders lies a section of the Tien Shan range, offering up the gorgeous Alpine terrain of forests, valleys and snowy peaks found in the Kolsay Lakes National Park.

In this magical landscape shaped by time and tectonics, more than 100 years ago, a great earthquake shook these mountains, resulting in the formation of a new body of water: Lake Kaindy, with its eye catching, bright turquoise waters. What makes this lake really stand out are the partially submerged spruce trees which stand in its waters to this day. Ghostly, bare trunks rise out of the chilly waters, making for a striking panorama – and amazing pictures!

Nearby are the Kolsay Lakes, known as the "Pearls of Tien Shan", reached by a hike through dense, tranquil forest. Trails connect these stunning bodies of water which range from altitudes of 1800 to 2850 meters, making for a great excuse to stretch our legs.

We’ll descend from green heights to dusty depths as we trek into the gorge known as Kazakhstan’s Grand Canyon. Known for its stunning similarity to its bigger brother in States, Charyn Canyon National Park’s red sandstone rock formations are a stark contrast to the country’s mountainous regions. The second largest canyon in the world, Charyn Canyon stretches about 154 km (96 mi) along the banks of the Charyn River. Over millennia, the elements have weathered and shaped the sedimentary rock into pillars, winding corridors and crevices just begging to be explored.

Ready to lake it all in? Let's go!

DAY 0 // TUE // DXB DEPARTURE
Meet at DXB Terminal 3 at 20:30 for our 22:45 flight to Bishkek.

DAY 1 // WED // KYRGYZSTAN ARRIVAL, JAILOO VISIT & KÖL-ÜKÖK LAKE HIKE
Welcome to Kyrgyzstan! We’ll arrive in Bishkek in the early hours. Once we’ve cleared immigration, we’ll grab some breakfast before hitting the road to spend time visiting nomadic villages and immersing ourselves in the rhythm of rural life.
We’ll make the 2-hour drive to Kochkor village, heading towards the valley to Tez-Tör jailoo (summer pasture). There, we will hop on our horses and make the 3-hour journey to our yurt camp (2400 m). After lunch and a short rest, we’ll discover more about the flora and fauna of the high mountains, and learn how nomadic communities have thrived here for generations. In the afternoon, we’ll tackle the hike to Köl-Ükök lake (3000 m), offering a beautiful view of the glacier. Dinner at the camp and overnight in our yurts.

DAY 2 // THU // NOMAD LIFE, ISAKEEV HIKE & TCHU VALLEY
This morning we’ll enjoy a traditional nomad breakfast and the warm hospitality of our hosts, sharing in the daily life of a Kyrgyz family in their environment. After, we’ll hit the trail for a 3-hour hike to Isakeev, then transfer to Kochkor village, where we’ll enjoy another local welcome with lunch at a home stay. In the afternoon, we’ll make the drive through the beautiful Tchu Valley before arriving back in Bishkek, where we’ll visit the market for a bit of souvenir shopping, followed by dinner. Overnight in hotel.

DAY 3 // FRI // INTO KAZAKHSTAN & ALMATY
Today we’ll set off on the drive to Almaty, taking in the stunning scenery along the way. We’ll make the land border crossing into Kazakhstan and stop for lunch. Upon arrival, we’ll take a quick city tour of Almaty, then head to our hotel for overnight.

DAY 4 // SAT // KOLSAY LAKES & LAKE KAINDY
After breakfast we’ll hit the road to Kolsay Lakes National Park. Today we’ll power through two treks, first making our way between the Kolsay lakes, taking in the fresh air and natural beauty that surrounds us. We’ll enjoy a picnic lunch, then follow the trail to Lake Kaindy, where there will be plenty of time to get some incredible pictures of this submerged forest. In the afternoon, there’s an option to do some horse riding at the village. Overnight at a homestay.

DAY 5 // SUN / CHARYN CANYON
Today we head into a completely different landscape, driving through semi-arid desert to reach Charyn Canyon. Home to a large number of rare and endangered species of animals, and featuring impressive cliffs and dramatic rock formations, we’ll trek inside the gorge to see it from various angles and marvel and at the multicolored layers of sediment, worn and shaped by weather and time.
In the afternoon we’ll return to Almaty and enjoy dinner in local restaurant followed by airport transfer for return flight.

Level of difficulty: easy, available for beginners.
Activities: trekking, sightseeing, optional horse riding.
Accommodation. & meals: included - accommodation in yurts, hotel, guesthouse - double sharing, local meals. Single room at extra cost, subject to availability.

Cost: AED 4,820 excluding flights, until JULY 20th.
Past this date please inquire about cost and availability.

Flights: flydubai direct at approx. 2100 AED.

Specifically excluded: Any costs related to visas, insurance, restaurant meals on transfers (Almaty, Bishkek), optional horse riding, entry fees if any.

Visas: cost not included in trip budget

The Islands of the Moon, Comoros, are a small cluster of volcanic isles drifting between Africa and Madagascar, blending African and Arab cultures with a French accent.

The name "Comoros" comes from the Arabic word Qamar, meaning moon, a name given by old sailors who saw something magical in these shores. And in many ways, the moon still fits in a distant, beautiful reference, that’s always pulling the tides and the past together.
Their flag proudly flies four stars, even though only three of the islands are truly part of the country today. The fourth star belongs to Mayotte, which chose to stay with France after independence in 1975, despite the rest of the islands voting to break away. Still, Comoros keeps Mayotte on the flag, not just out of habit, but out of hope, memory, and maybe a little stubbornness too.

The four islands of the Comoros are home to 500 plant species, 21 bird species, 9 reptile species, and 2 species of fruit bats that are found only in this archipelago. However, deforestation has caused significant changes to the landscape and threatens the survival of these rare plant and animal species. The Comoros are reminiscent of Madagascar. Most of the species found in the Comoros are related to those from the "eighth continent" (Madagascar) and Africa. A small number also originate from Asia.

The archipelago was formed by volcanic activity. The oldest island is Mayotte, and the youngest is Grande Comore. It is on this last island that eruptions of the Karthala volcano (over 2,300 masl) still occur.
Today Comoros enjoy their independence to the full extent. Since gaining independence, the islands have changed hands many times, experiencing over 20 coups, more than the number of years under stable governance. It has rightfully earned the nickname “the Coup Capital of the World.”

Country has zero traffic lights and roads are so chill and bumpy that no one bothers. Locals say, "We have goats and patience instead." Thanks to vast ylang-ylang plantations, parts of the islands literally smell like perfume., the air is often scented with flowers and yes, people do stop and sniff the air. In fact, this cousin of custard apple with yellowish flowers is a key ingredient in luxury perfumes, ie. Channel no. 5. Although the plant came to the Comoros from the much larger Indonesia, it is the African country that is the largest producer of ylang-ylang oil, an important ingredient in many perfumes. The Comoros is also the second largest producer of vanilla in the world.

Despite being a sovereign nation, the Comorian franc is still tied to the euro and printed in France. However, in rural areas, vanilla and cloves are so valuable they’re sometimes used in bartering.

The Livingstone’s fruit bat and Comoros drongo are among the national wildlife symbols. Bat curry is still a local delicacy in some villages. They're fruit bats, and apparently... "tastes like chicken,"

But in a background, it is still an untouched tropical paradise where volcanic peaks meet coral reefs, ancient Islamic culture shapes daily life with a quiet rhythm of tradition and hospitality. Spice-scented beachside villages with sacred mosques blend seamlessly with passing sea turtles and whales, all moving to the gentle rhythm of island time. Inshallah, it could be your perfect off-the-beaten-path adventure: raw, real, and refreshingly undiscovered.

Let’s go!

Day 1 // Grande Comore: The Historic Town

Arrival to Moroni International, immigration and check–in
to our beach side hotel.

After short refreshment head out to discover the historic town of Itsandra.
Once the beating heart of Swahili civilization on the island of Ngazidja (Grande Comore), Itsandra has roots stretching back to the 14th century. It was once the capital of the island and its first seaport, a hub where merchants and travelers converged. Today, remnants of this vibrant past still linger. The fortress of the 17th century, once linked to the city by a walled corridor, stands proudly, while fragments of ramparts dotted with observation holes whisper tales of bygone days.

The Arab quarter, with its mausoleum of Al Habib Omar Bin Sumet and centuries-old mosques, offers a spiritual glimpse into the island’s layered past. As you stroll through public squares framed by monumental gates, you’ll feel the timeless rhythm of a place where history and community converge. Before returning, we’ll explore a local handcrafts shop, where fine woodcarvings and artisanal creations celebrate the artistry of the Comorian people.

Day 2 // Grande Comore North

Today we are set to explore the scenic northern coast and its volcanic history. As we follow the eastern coast we will see where lava flows enter the sea and how the mangrove forests are now growing in the lava beds.
In Bangwa Kouni village, we’ll visit the “Miraculous Mosque,” said to have appeared overnight, as well as the tombs of some of the earliest Arab travelers to the islands. Lunch today is at Trou du Prophète, a tranquil bay, followed by time to relax on Maloudja Beach, where the coconut palms lean gracefully toward the sea. Quick stop at island’s largest baobab tree, so huge a dozen visitors can stand inside its hollow trunk.

After lunch, we continue to the volcanic crater lake of Niamawi, one of the island’s most fascinating geological formations. Separated from the open ocean by only a narrow ridge of volcanic rock, the lake sits remarkably below sea level, an unusual natural phenomenon that has intrigued visitors and geologists for many years.

Next to it lies the Dragon’s Tail, a partially submerged volcanic crater whose curved rim stretches into the Indian Ocean like a natural peninsula. Shaped by centuries of volcanic activity and erosion, this dramatic coastal formation offers breathtaking panoramic views of crashing waves, rugged cliffs, and the endless blue horizon beyond.
We’ll end up busy day at a sunset beach with well-deserved dip
in Indian ocean.

Day 3 // Mount Karthala (2,361m)

Today, the adventure reaches new heights with a trekkup Mount Karthala, the largest active volcano in the world. From Mvouni village, vehicles take us partway up the slopes, before we hit a 6k trail (700 m altitude).
The trail winds through lush forest and volcanic rock, eventually opening onto the vast caldera at the summit. Here, steam vents rise from the earth, and the crater within a crater offers a breathtaking reminder of the island’s geological power. A picnic lunch at the rim allows time to absorb the view of the island below, of the endless sea beyond, and of the raw forces that continue to shape Comoros. It’s definitely one of the most spectacular hikes in the Indian Ocean.

Day 4 // Dolphins & departure

Before bidding farewell to the Comoros, our morning begins out on the Indian Ocean in search of dolphins. Setting off by boat at sunrise, we will cruise along the coast where pods of spinner and bottlenose dolphins are often seen playing in the warm turquoise waters. There may be an opportunity to swim alongside these graceful marine mammals in their natural habitat.

Unfortunately its time to check out and head back to airport. Bye-bye Comoros x

Activities: Trekking, boating, snorkelling, sightseeing, encounter of wildlife, cultural immersion.

Accommodation & meals: beach side 4 star hotel - shared rooms. Meals excluded.

Cost: 5,100 AED excl. flights until JULY 22nd.

Flights by Ethiopian, approx. 4,100 AED. You can use any alternative connection.

Specifically excluded: Insurance, visa, meals.

Visa: Nationals of any country can obtain a visa on arrival.
Note: Wildlife spotting can not be guaranteed.

See yah in Comoros xx