Walks On Foot Magazine 2014

WALKS WORLDWIDE

NEWSLETTER 2014

ON FOOT

I N S P I R AT I O N F O R WA L K I N G & T R E K K I N G W O R L D W I D E

CALENDAR OF WALKS

Our exciting group departures offer a world of walking opportunities

SUMMIT SPECIAL

Plot your ideal Himalayan hike for Nepal’s trekking season starting in October

KILIMANJARO

How to prepare for the challenge of a lifetime

CAMINO DE SANTIAGO

Five historic trails to follow

18 CONTENTS Passport to the Peaks...................... 3 Challenge yourself and tackle the world’s most spectacular treks.

Go explore........................................ 4 Choose from the very best of our small-group trips departing over the next six months.

Discover the Atlas............................ 6 Why Morocco’s Atlas Mountains offer a terrific alternative to trekking the Himalaya.

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Nepal: Summit special..................... 8 We help you pick your perfect Nepal trek – from familiar routes to remote Tibetan trails.

Europe: Coasts with the most........ 10 Enjoy sea breezes and gorgeous scenery with our top five coastal trails.

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Conquer Kili - the ‘Roof of Africa’... 12 Expert advice on how to prepare for the challenge of a lifetime.

Europe: Alpine perfection.............. 14 The joys of four top trekking regions: Mont Blanc, Julian Alps, Salzkammergut and Valais.

Explore the New Europe................ 16

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Discover Albania’s Mysterious South and go in search of Slovakia’s Carpathian Bears.

Spain: Camino choices.................. 17 Follow five unforgettable trails on the historic Camino de Santiago.

The new star treks.......................... 18 Done Everest Base Camp, Inca Trail and Kili?

We reveal six alternative treks for experienced walkers.

TRIP GRADES EXPLAINED Throughout this magazine you will see that each trip has been graded between A to D to reflect the level of difficulty.

EASY For those who enjoy leisurely walking and have a reasonable level of fitness. Walking is usually fairly short daily walks, often at low level.

A

B MODERATE For regular hill 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 considerably more ascent and descent involved.

C DEMANDING Not for novices – these trips involve elements of scrambling or crossing sections of difficult terrain and with sustained periods of both ascent and descent some at high altitude.

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STRENUOUS 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 snowcovered ground and extreme altitudes.

D

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

STEP OUT DISCOVER A WORLD OF TREKKING & WALKING Walking is good for you, make no mistake. And the need to get outside and active has never been greater – far away from TV and computer screens, fast food and faster information overload. And it’s not just a physical benefit.

As Friedrich Nietzsche wrote, “All truly great thoughts are conceived while walking.” It’s great for the mind and soul – and the bank balance!

These pages are packed with tips from our experts, who share their favourite treks. So whether it’s traversing Morocco’s Atlas Mountains, summiting Kili or discovering new challenges worldwide, you’ll find the trip to match your budget and experience.

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If you’re out of the walking habit, now’s the ideal time to rediscover these joys: start close to home with easy rambles, then pick up our Passport to the Peaks for inspiration, to build confidence and enjoy world-beating trekking.

Whatever your ideas for that next adventure – shared with friends, planned for a whole group or just by yourself – we’ll make it easy to create your dream walking holiday. Enjoy!

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Mark Wright Managing Director

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REAP THE REWARDS As you progress through the Passport, you’ll be rewarded with more than just a sense of achievement.

LOYALTY REWARD You’ll receive 5% off the cost of your second and subsequent holidays – and on your fifth booking from the Passport, that discount will rise to 7.5%.

FIND OUT MORE www.walksworldwide.com/peak_ passport

PASSPORT TO THE PEAKS

PASSPORT TO THE PEAKS

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FIX STICKE AF

The next level of treks encourages you to tackle more challenging routes and perhaps venture a little farther afield – and to enjoy the sense of achievement that comes from testing yourself against higher peaks.

Whether you want to experience Nepal’s Annapurnas, visit a modern wonder of the world in Jordan or take on one of Europe’s toughest and most iconic treks, these trips provide opportunities to challenge yourself and see what you are really capable of.

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JORDAN

NEPAL

n TOUR DU MONT BLANC

n LARES INCA TRAIL

n BEDOUIN TRAIL TO PETRA

SELF-GUIDED, GRADE C, DEMANDING

GUIDED, GRADE B/C, MODERATE/DEMANDING

GROUP TOUR, GRADE C, DEMANDING

n ANNAPURNA SANCTUARY LODGE TREK

8 days

8 days

8 days

GROUP TOUR, GRADE B/C , MODERATE/DEMANDING

Get a taste of the classic trekking circuit with a walking holiday that includes the very best of the Tour du Mont Blanc, taking you through France, Switzerland and Italy on perhaps the most iconic and famous of all walks in the Alps. This circuit affords spectacular views at every point and is quite simply a must for all mountain-walking enthusiasts.

From the ancient Inca capital of Cusco, this trek takes you through the Sacred Valley into the spectacular and rarely visited Lares Valley to walk ancient Inca trails without the crowds. This trekking holiday visits remote villages – and, of course, the mountain-top Inca citadel of Machu PIcchu. It also supports the One Percent for the Planet foundation.Plan ahead to secure a place on our Peru trekking holidays.

Enjoy a true Indiana Jones adventure on this incredible holiday, traversing some of Jordan’s most rugged landscapes and experiencing the thrill of wilderness camping beneath starlit skies.This route leads you off the beaten track and to the back door to the ancient Nabataean site of Petra, the ‘Rose Red City’ carved from the pink sandstone, one of the finest historic monuments in the world.

15 days

Visit: www.walksworldwide.com/peak_passport

Delving into the heart of the Himalaya, the Annapurna Sanctuary is a classic trek combining stunning scenery and the chance to meet Nepal’s cheerful locals while staying in simple, comfortable teahouses. Passing terraced rice paddies, rhododendron forests and bamboo woodlands, you’ll drink in panoramic mountain vistas in the Sanctuary itself.

For inspiration and expert advice call: 01962 737 565

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PLE COM TED

FREE GIFT Each time you book with us you can choose a gift from a selection of 12 top products.

PLE COM TED

Our new ‘Passport to the Peaks’ is designed to help. This carefully selected collection of walks and trails in categories of increasing difficulty will build your confidence, stamina and experience – and enable you to conquer some the world’s most demanding and inspiring treks. Just think, within five trips you could be on your way to Everest Base Camp.

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FIX STICKE AF

“That’s a bit tough for me!” is a lament we often hear at Walks HQ, even from avid walkers. But whilst treks such as Kili or the high Himalayan trails are serious challenges, they are achievable with the right planning, training and support.

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small groups, private departures and holidays designed to your specifications WALKS W O R L D W I D E 3

CALENDAR OF GROUP TRIPS

GO EXPLORE

Whether travelling solo, with family or friends, small-group tours provide walking aficionados with a sociable way to explore the world. Here is a selection of some of our trips departing over the coming months.

JULY

AUGUST

SEPTEMBER

Kyrgyzstan Heart of the Tien Shan

Albania The Accursed Mountains

Albania The Mysterious South

C 14 DAYS, FROM £1,645 This adventurous and challenging expedition-style trip takes you through the breathtaking scenery of this little-visited land. Discover the snow leopard’s natural habitat as you journey through the wild and magnificent Tien Shan region.

C 8 DAYS, FROM £595 One of the last great European adventures: the remote Accursed Mountains of northern Albania. Explore remote Thethi National Park, cross the challenging Valbona Pass and meet hospitable Albanian highlanders along the way.

BC 8 DAYS, FROM £799 Explore Albania’s remote south, tracing the coastline and veering inland through unspoiled valleys and into the highlands. With views to Corfu, and visits to the fortress of the infamous Ali Pasha in Llogora National Park, we’ll also summit 2,005m Mount Cika Kore.

Albania, Montenegro, Kosova & Macedonia Peaks of the Balkans

Romania Armenia The Grand Tour of the Carpathians Beyond the Silk Road

15 DAYS, FROM £1,095 Discover remote and spectacular valleys of northern Albania, Montenegro, Kosovo and Macedonia during our great new recce trip. Breathtaking scenery, hospitable locals, folk legends and traditions will make this an unforgettable trek.

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BC 14 DAYS, FROM £1,695 Trek through landscapes of outstanding natural beauty, admire ancient wooden churches, explore the World Heritage village of Viscri and meet traditional shepherds on this unique and exclusive tour.

BC 9 DAYS, FROM £1,095 Explore Armenia’s varied landscapes including the atmospheric Garni Canyon, stunning Lake Sevan, the wild open landscapes of the Geghama Mountains and the four-summitted strato-volcano of Aragats South Peak.

...OR HEAD NORTH to Finland on our Forests of the Midnight Sun or further afield to Kyrgyzstan for the magnificent Khan Tengri Base Camp trek.

...OR EXPLORE the Dinaric Alps of Montenegro on our Black Mountains tour or join us on an ascent of Kili along the Rongai or Shira route.

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...OR CONSIDER the Alps of Transylvania or Peru’s Lares Inca Trail – no permit required.

call us to discuss your holiday plans: 01962 737 565 4

WALKS W O R L D W I D E the walking and trekking specialists

CALENDAR OF GROUP TRIPS

THIS PIC Gelada baboon, Simien mountains, Ethiopia BELOW LEFT Prayer flags, Nepal

OCTOBER

NOVEMBER

DECEMBER

Ethiopia The Simien Mountains & Castles

Nepal Everest Base Camp Lodge Trek

CD 14 DAYS, FROM £1,195 Trek through the Simien Mountains National Park, spotting troops of gelada baboons and ibex alongside escarpments with jaw-dropping views. Summit 4,533m Ras Dashen and explore the monasteries of Lake Tana and castles of the ‘Camelot of Africa’, Gonder.

C 17 DAYS, FROM £1,395 Reach for the Himalayan ‘holy grail’ – the trek to Everest Base Camp on our exclusive lodge trek. Keeping a moderate pace, with two full acclimatisation days at the highpoint of the trek, our tour includes all meals – and no camping!

Jordan Bedouin trail to Petra C 8 DAYS, FROM £995 Hike through dramatic gorges, canyons and desert, follow Bedouin trails through the mountains and camp under star-lit skies en-route to the ancient rock-hewn Nabataean city of Petra.

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NEW

FOR XMAS

Morocco Raiders of the Lost Kasbah

Argentina Ultimate Patagonia Adventure

Jordan Petra and the Valley of the Moon

BC 8 DAYS, FROM £545 Set out on a captivating journey on foot through Moroccan history. Follow the old caravan trade route through the Atlas Mountains, cross the Tizi n’ Telouet and discover remote and unspoilt traditional Berber villages en-route to the astonishing fortress of Ait Benhaddou.

C 15 DAYS, FROM £2,295 This epic journey takes in the fabulous four of Mount Fitz Roy, Cerro Torre, Tierra del Fuego and nature’s amphitheatre, Torres del Paine NP – home of granite towers, twisted rock spires and deep blue lakes.

B 8 DAYS, FROM £845 Sleep under countless stars in the silence of the desert.

Reflect on the immense wide-open spaces of Wadi Rum dominated by the weirdly-eroded orange rock formations and delve into the rose-red city of Petra.

GO

NEW YEAR

...OR WHY NOT journey into the Forbidden Land of Mustang or head to India to experience Darjeeling and the incredible Singalila Ridge.

...OR WHY NOT consider our Dolpo Land of the Snow Leopard trip in Nepal, or head to Kerala in India for trekking in the Cardamom Hills and a backwater cruise.

...OR ENJOY our Call of the Wild trip in Finland including husky sledding and cross country skiing or enjoy a thrilling ascent of Morocco’s high Atlas on our Winter Toubkal Climb.

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MOROCCO TREKKING

DISCOVER THE ATLAS Morocco’s High Atlas mountains are sometimes overlooked by trekkers dashing to the loftier Himalaya - but this range offers dramatic and challenging walking at a very affordable price

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ave you ever tried Berber whiskey?

It’s dark golden, slightly sweet, incredibly refreshing after a hard day’s trekking. And with alcohol content at a healthy 0%, it’s just the right brew to swig at altitude without the banging headache that usually follows a cold lager. ‘Berber whiskey’ is, of course, mint tea – or so it’s nicknamed by some of the wittier guides in Morocco’s High Atlas. And it’s ubiquitous, drunk at breakfast, lunch, dinner and at any and every point in between. Even if you don’t take a shine to it at first, by the end of a trek you’ll be utterly addicted.

Mint tea isn’t the only flavour that marks out Morocco as something special. If you’ve hiked in Nepal’s Himalaya, you’ll have encountered dal bhat – and though this spicy lentil stew and rice is fine fuel, let’s face it, a fortnight of dal bhat can get very dull, very quickly. Which is why Morocco’s tagines come as such a delight. Even on

Another bonus is the timing of the trekking season. In our summer months, while the Himalaya are sluiced by the summer monsoon and South America’s Andes shiver in the antipodean winter, the Atlas is ripe for exploration – there’s no need to wait The rugged Atlas range, stretching down the for autumn to take to the mountain paths. spine of Morocco, has become something Ideal for teachers and others constrained by of a connoisseur’s alternative to distant school holidays. trails in Himalaya or Andes. For starters, But the main attraction is the trekking these peaks are a mere hop away from itself, which rivals any in the world, with home – Marrakech, in the western foothills, challenges to test the most experienced is less than four hours’ flight from London, walker. Though Jebel Toubkal, North and exploring its noisy, mesmerising Africa’s loftiest summit, is a ‘mere’ Djemaa el-Fna square and rabbit-warren 4,167m, the ascent from the basecamp medina is a post-trek highlight. Thanks to connections via low-cost airlines, accessing refuge is nearly 1,000m up steep scree – it’s no cakewalk. After a dawn start the mountains is cheap and easy – and on summit day, the vistas from the top, once you’ve arrived, travel in Morocco is across peak after 3000+m peak, are something of a bargain, too, with greatheart-stopping, and the approach circuit value accommodation. That’s why we can through the Atlas tackles high passes offer superb trekking at great prices: our topping 3,500m.

Toubkal Ascent trip starts from only £399. the longest camping trek, resourceful cooks knock up a different take on delectable stews and couscous each night, perked up with apricots or hearty with lamb, and always laden with tasty vegetables.

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WALKS W O R L D W I D E the walking and trekking specialists

MOROCCO TREKKING

SUPERIOR WALK IN STYLE Drink in the views of the rocky ramparts and high passes of the Atlas Mountains as you sip mint tea on the rooftop terrace of Morocco’s most famous mountain retreat, the Kasbah du Toubkal. Ornate windows frame the extraordinary views, while beautifully carved walnut furniture and rustic Arabian designs vie for attention, and a steam bath soothes the limbs after a relaxed day’s trekking. You’ll also explore traditional Berber villages on this comfortable walking holiday.

Lords of the Atlas B 8 DAYS, FROM £1085 Enjoy sublime trekking and stylish accommodation on our privately guided holiday.

MAIN PIC Stunning Atlas Mountains, Morocco RIGHT The Kasbah du Toubkal FAR RIGHT Koutoubia Mosque in Marrakech

PRIVATE GUIDED TREKS

Choose your own departure date Our private guided departures are a popular alternative to small-group holidays. They come will all the trimmings – such as local guides and porters – yet offer a more individual experience. For starters, you choose your own departure date and set your own pace – so you don’t have to worry about holding up the group on more demanding treks. The flexibility of the journey is one of the most appealing things about private guided holidays. You have the freedom to start a little later, enjoy an extended lunch stop or pause for longer to admire the views.

The Berber Trail And while the absolute heights aren’t as epic as those in, say, Nepal, the scenery certainly doesn’t disappoint – no surprise that Martin Scorsese used the High Atlas as the location for his film Kundun, standing in for the Tibetan Himalaya. Varied, too: as well as the wind-scoured high peaks and plateaus, on the Atlas Traverse you’ll camp alongside the region’s most beautiful, cobalt-blue mountain lake, Ifni.

“camp alongside the region’s most beautiful, cobalt-blue mountain lake” And you’ll traverse lush valleys dotted with fortified granaries and marabouts (tombs of holy men), shepherds guarding grazing goats and sheep, and Berber villages where there’s always a kettle steaming and ready to brew a glass or two of that mountain ‘whiskey’.

CHOOSE YOUR TREK Atlas Traverse & Toubkal Climb CD 15 DAYS, LAND ONLY FROM £595 Epic trek among the High Atlas, including climbing to the summit of North Africa’s highest peak.

M’Goun and the Hidden Altas C 13 DAYS, FROM £695 Explore remote canyons and gorges of the central Atlas and ascend M’Goun peak.

Raiders of the Lost Kasbah BC 8 DAYS, FROM £545 Discover remote Berber villages and classic mountain passes off the beaten track.

Toubkal Ascent

B 8 DAYS, FROM £650 Trace time-honoured trails through mountain passes and Berber villages.

Marrakech & Atlas Short Break B 5 DAYS, FROM £345 A mini adventure in the Atlas Mountains, with time to explore Marrakech.

Marrakech, Mountains & Coast B 8 DAYS, FROM £550 Discover Atlas trails, delve into Marrakech’s ancient medina and relax in the fortified city of Essaouira.

Tazarhart & Turbo Toubkal!

D 5 DAYS, FROM £325 Pack in a summit attempt on North Africa’s highest peak, and experience Marrakech at night.

C 8 DAYS, FROM £399 A demanding yet rewarding ascent of North Africa’s highest peak.

Winter Toubkal Climb CD 7 DAYS, FROM £450 Combine Mt Toubkal with a fascinating trek to the top of Ouanoukrim.

Guaranteed departures are available.

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small groups, private departures and holidays designed to your specifications WALKS W O R L D W I D E 7

NEPAL

SUMMIT SPECIAL

Autumn promises perfect hiking in The Himalaya, as Nepal’s trekking season opens a treasure-trove of trails. How do you choose the right trek for you?

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here are other places in the world where you can hike beneath snow-clad peaks one day, then be perched atop an elephant the next, lumbering through lush jungle to spot endangered rhino (and, just possibly, a tiger). But not many.

And when you add in fluttering prayer flags, vast rivers of ice, medieval temples and beautiful stepped rice terraces, you have something quite unique.

Nepal combines a wealth of thrilling experiences with unrivalled walks to suit all levels of experience. Remote regions such as Mustang and Dolpo are only now opening up, offering true off-the-beaten-track trekking for experienced Himalaya buffs. For first-timers, the foothills offer gentle ambles among those rice-farming villages and buffalo-ploughed paddies, while you might stay in high-spec basecamp tents or comfortable lodges.

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WALKS W O R L D W I D E the walking and trekking specialists

THIS PAGE Classic trekking views RIGHT Sherpa capital of Namche Bazaar BELOW RIGHT En route to Everest Base Camp BELOW FAR RIGHT Extend your Nepal stay at Chitwan

NEPAL

MEET THE TEAM NAME MATTHEW BENNETT TREKKING EXPERT FOR WALKS WORLDWIDE & MARATHON RUNNER FAVOURITE MOUNTAIN? KALA PATTAR (5643METERS) IN THE EVEREST REGION OF NEPAL Offered as an option on our Everest Base Camp Lodge Trek, many people do climb this peak just a couple of hours’ hike up from Gorak Shep (the final stop-off before Base Camp). It’s often attempted immediately after a successful morning hike to Base Camp.

This challenging but non-technical hike takes you away from the crowds and gives you that sense of achievement that only comes from summiting successfully. The visual rewards - a panoramic view of several 8000m peaks and a clear view of the summit of Everest - make the extra effort more than wortwhile!

PICK THE PERFECT TREK Everest Base Camp Lodge Trek BEST FOR: Tent-free trekking to EBC C GROUP 17 DAYS, LAND ONLY FROM £1,395 Witness Everest at dawn and see the tumbling Khumbu Icefall on this once-in-a-lifetime trek, meeting friendly Sherpas and yak trains along the way.

Gokyo Lakes & Everest Trek BEST FOR: Alternative route to Everest CD GROUP 21 DAYS, LAND ONLY FROM £1,645 Escape from the standard trail to Everest and enjoy a more challenging and rewarding lodge based route to Base Camp. Trek to the glittering Gokyo Lakes and climb Kala Patar for breathtaking Everest views.

TOP Annapurna Sanctuary TRIP Lodge Trek BEST FOR: Accessible hiking in diverse landscapes BC GROUP 15 DAYS, LAND ONLY FROM £1,145 This less-demanding trek still offers awe-inspiring mountain panoramas each day as you delve into bamboo woodlands and visit the amazing ‘throne room of mountain gods’ – the Annapurna Sanctuary.

The Forbidden Land of Mustang BEST FOR: Remote Tibetan strongholds BC 19 DAYS, LAND ONLY FROM £2,245 Trek through this unique, isolated region of Nepal among picturesque white-painted villages, Tibetan monasteries and nomadic shepherds herding their flocks, before reaching the fabled city of Lo Manthang.

Dolpo - Land of the Snow Leopard BEST FOR: Challenging trekking in wild lands CD 20 DAYS, LAND ONLY FROM £2,745 Discover an unspoiled region of almost mythological standing: traversing dramatic landscapes and visiting the world’s highest permanently inhabited settlement, Tokyu.

Langtang Himal Lodge Trek BEST FOR: Hiking in comfort to remote monasteries BC 13 DAYS, LAND ONLY £1,195 BASED ON 2 PEOPLE Cross open yak pasture and traverse wild mountainsides to reach the atmospheric, peak-ringed monastery of Kyangjin Gompa, and witness the jawdropping river of ice flowing from Langtang Lirung.

Annapurna Panorama Lodge Trek BEST FOR: A sensational introduction to Nepal BC 13 DAYS, LAND ONLY £1,275 BASED ON 2 PEOPLE This comfortable itinerary is an ideal introductory trek for regular hill-walkers, and is designed to be enjoyed exclusively as a couple or in the company of friends.

Ascend Poon Hill for one of the most spectacular mountain sunrise views in the entire Himalaya.

The Royal Trek BEST FOR: Easy walking with fabulous views AB 11 DAYS, LAND ONLY £1,245 BASED ON 2 PEOPLE With low altitudes and easy walking, this famed trek rewards with big views for very little effort. Set out from the dreamy lakeside town of Pokhara and witness the sunrise panorama from Sarangkot Hill.

Active Nepal BEST FOR: Wildlife and wilder action B 14 DAYS, LAND ONLY FROM £1,395 Watch for tigers from elephant-back in Chitwan National Park, raft on the Trisuli River and camp at a viewpoint affording a full Annapurna panorama, before mountain-biking around laid back Pokhara.

FAVOURITE WALK? THE LARES INCA TRAIL I preferred this trek to the Classic Inca Trail.

It was scenic, less crowded and gave me a real sense of traditional Andean life when observing the Quechua communities. A permit isn’t required for this trail, so can be an option when booking closer to departure.

TOP TIP? TAKE IT STEADY ON UPHILL STRETCHES Taking short steps and zig-zagging up slopes can do a lot to reduce the stress on your legs and helps to effectively negotiate challenging terrain.

DOESN’T LEAVE HOME WITHOUT… A LIGHTWEIGHT BASE LAYER Ideally, wear something that is light and comfortable in all temperatures. As well as wicking away sweat, when combined with other garments, a thin base layer is extremely effective for keeping warm and comfortable.

MUST HAVE ITEM WATER BOTTLE OR BLADDER Most of us don’t drink nearly as much as we should – yet keeping hydrated is crucial for warding off problems such as heatstroke, fatigue and altitude sickness.

NEXT DESTINATION ON WISH LIST PATAGONIA It’s the lure of returning to South America for the third time, to witness incredible glaciers and an alternative lake district, on some of the best mountain trails in the world.

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EUROPEAN COASTAL TRAILS

MAIN PIC Ravello, Amalfi Coast, Italy OTHER PAGE TOP LEFT Lycian Way near Kalkan, Turkey TOP RIGHT Parga, Greece BELOW LEFT Vineyards, Croatia BELOW RIGHT Dubrovnik, Croatia

call us to discuss your holiday plans: 01962 737 565 1 0 WALKS W O R L D W I D E the walking and trekking specialists

EUROPEAN COASTAL TRAILS

5 TOP COASTAL HOLIDAYS

Pick from our self-guided European trails for boots, beaches and bliss

Croatia B DUBROVNIK & ‘MARCO POLO’ ISLAND 8 DAYS, FROM £640 Experience the best of Adriatic island life. Based first on the beautiful island of Korcula, you’ll discover traditional villages and the fascinating walled old town of the island’s capital, as well as encountering lovely coves, beaches, forested hills and vineyards. Back on the mainland, roam the walls and marbled streets of Dubrovnik, and amble the delightful trails running from the peaceful village of Cavtat across the bay.

Turkey B ALONG THE LYCIAN WAY 8 DAYS, FROM £515 If it’s good enough for Alexander the Great, the Romans, the Crusaders and the Genoese…

Relics from these visitors dot the rocky, pineforested coastline that’s notched with remote sandy beaches and picturesque inlets. The Lycian Way is as dramatic as it is magical, with the Taurus Mountains soaring dramatically from the turquoise Mediterranean: the perfect backdrop as you roam from pension to charming pension.

COASTS WITH THE MOST

Turkey TOP

Discover the magical shorelines of the Adriatic, Ionian and Mediterranean Seas

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hat’s wrong with relaxation, anyway? The question occurred to me while I was sipping a glass of crisp grk white, lazily counting the islets dotting the bay beneath my terrace. The sun was still warm as it slipped down over my left shoulder, setting the waves sparkling on the Adriatic before me. The vineyards hugged my base, the village of Lumbarda, like an emerald scarf, so close I could almost reach out and pick the grapes from which my wine was made.

Part of me felt almost guilty. In the office, I’m surrounded by folk for whom the summit is everything. But I love to celebrate what’s wonderful about Europe – and especially the chilled-out vibe that permeates every aspect of the Mediterranean. For me, a holiday is less about head-down hiking and bagging peaks, and more about drinking in the scenery along a coastal trail, cooled by a soft, perfumed sea breeze.

trails, passing olive groves and vineyards, exploring the old town and its striking St Mark’s Cathedral, and stopping off at quiet coves for a picnic and impromptu dip. The legs enjoyed a proper stretch with several hours’ walking each day, but always at a leisurely pace. And there was plenty of time to nose around the terracotta-roofed medieval centre of Dubrovnik itself, as well as taking off to explore nearby islands and villages.

Don’t get me wrong: the walking is as important as the wine – I just don’t see why I can’t have both. Which is why my visit to Korcula, a delightful island just a short ferry ride from Dubrovnik – and reputedly the birthplace of Marco Polo – ticked all the right boxes. Over the course of a week, I was able to roam the island’s

The same ethos applies to our other coast-based holidays in Turkey, Corfu and Italy. Rambling and relaxation get equal billing. Slow travel? This is the very epitome – local food, local wine and a very local sensibility.

NICOLA GREEN, MARKETING MANAGER

TRIP B BEST OF THE LYCIAN WAY

8 DAYS, FROM £660 Cut and paste your choice of sections from the route named among the world’s ten best walks by Sunday Times Travel, setting out each day from your base: a boutique hotel in the Bay of Adrasan.

Marvel at the eternal flames at Chimaera – believed to be a monster’s burning breath – on the slopes of Mount Olympos before cooling off in the hotel pool!

Corfu BC THE CORFU TRAIL 10 DAYS, FROM £615 Taking in the best of east and west, this magnificent trail zig-zags between the coasts on its route through the finest areas of the Ionian island. Walk cobbled paths through willow, cedar and juniper forests, alongside rivers and through lush pastures.

Italy B VESUVIUS, CAPRI & THE AMALFI COAST 8 DAYS, FROM £620 The views from Mount Vesuvius over the Bay of Naples are nothing short of explosive – and the hiking on the volcano, as well as on nearby Capri and along the ‘Path of the Gods’ above the Amalfi Coast, are just as terrific. There’s also the chance to explore the longburied cities of Pompeii and Herculaneum.

FEEL ADVENTUROUS?

Why not take a trip with our sister company Adventure Worldwide?

Turkey B ACTIVE TURKEY 8 DAYS, FROM £795 This action-packed adventure includes the chance to sea kayak beneath Mount Olympos, snorkel around the drowned city of Kekova, get a taste for scuba diving and spend a morning white-water rafting.

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small groups, private departures and holidays designed to your specifications WALKS W O R L D W I D E 1 1

KILIMANJARO & TANZANIA

KILI...

ARE YOU READY? PREPARE FOR THE CHALLENGE OF A LIFETIME

T

rekking expert Matthew Bennett imparts his top tips and explains how, with the right groundwork, 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!

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 offers the Rongai and Shira routes, which spend the maximum amount of time acclimatising on the mountain and thus enjoy 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, 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 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 5,719m Gillman’s Point – 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 us today!

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KILIMANJARO & TANZANIA

THIS PIC Classic view of Kilimanjaro BELOW LEFT A personal challenge BELOW RIGHT Observe leopard in Ngorongoro Crater

ABOVE A welcome sight after a successful summit LEFT Post-trek relaxation on Zanzibar, Tanzania BELOW LEFT En-route to Uhuru Peak THIS PIC Tanzania safari extension

I

nspired? Experience Kili at its best with a choice of two incredible journeys: the Rongai and Shira routes. And why not extend your stay on a Big Five safari, or with time relaxing on Zanzibar? You deserve it!

PICK THE PERFECT TREK

EXTEND YOUR STAY

Kilimanjaro Summit The Rongai Route

Tanzania Safari Extension

10 DAYS, FROM £1,399 Rongai offers a less-commonly seen perspective, approaching Kili from the north. Though it’s a relatively short route to the summit, it is considered by many to be the most scenic. Retaining a sense of wilderness, the journey begins in equatorial forest, home to the Kilimanjaro colobus monkey, before entering a moon-like desert. As you continue your ascent, incredible views unfold across the plains of Amboseli National Park in Kenya.

D

Kilimanjaro Summit The Shira Route D 12 DAYS, FROM £1,799 Quieter and less travelled, Shira is also longer, with short ascents to camp in the mornings and plenty of acclimatisation walks in the afternoons, increasing your chance of success. The approach is from the west, crossing the impressive caldera of the Shira volcano and the rarely visited Lent Hills.

Journey beneath the spectacular hanging glacier of the Western Breach and enjoy superb vistas of the Southern Icefields from Kibo.

3 DAYS, FROM £635 After your climb, imagine taking a safari inside the huge caldera of a volcano that was once the size of Kilimanjaro. Descending 1000m from the crater rim, you’ll witness the teeming wildlife for which Ngorongoro is famed, including the Big Five: lion, leopard, buffalo, rhino and elephant.

Zanzibar Island extension TAILOR-MADE EXTENSION The famous spice island is a rich melting pot of cultures, heritage and history. Stone Town itself is full of beautifully intricate architecture and a bustling centre of trading activity, with fishing dhows packing the harbour, street traders filling the maze of tiny alleyways and the atmospheric night market providing an exotic array of local delicacies at unbelievably cheap prices –- fried grasshopper, anyone? The East Coast boasts idyllic beaches with swaying palm trees and the warm, clear waters of the Indian Ocean.

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ALPINE TRAILS

1

France, Switzerland & Italy

MONT BLANC

The Mont Blanc region allows you to step between France, Switzerland and Italy. Perhaps one of the most iconic and famous of all the walks in the Alps. Experience some of the most beautiful icescapes in the world – explore beneath glaciers and walk through Alpine summer meadows. Take in the breath-taking mountain panoramic views.

Switzerland Trient

France

Champex

Chamonix Les Contamines Mont Blanc

TOP PIC The Austrian Alps RIGHT Traditional square, Hallstatt, Austria BELOW RIGHT Perfect Swiss trails

MEET THE TEAM

Italy Les Chapieux

Tour du Mont Blanc C 8 DAYS, FROM £645 This classic circuit of Mont Blanc affords spectacular views at every point and is quite simply a “must do” for all mountain-walking enthusiasts. Hike through France, Switzerland and Italy within a week.

NAME NIGEL LOVING WALKS WORLDWIDE CONSULTANT AND TRAIN EXPERT

Slovenia

YOUR PASSION? SHARING WITH OTHERS, THE MANY SIGHTS AND SOUNDS THAT A NEW DESTINATION PRESENTS. Nigel has over 18 years’ experience in all areas of the travel industry but his passion is definitely walking – and he loves discovering new places. He is the guru for our self-guided walks, and is often heard enthusing about the delights of our itineraries to customers.

Looming over the northwest corner of Slovenia near the borders with Italy and Austria, the Julian Alps are awash with beautiful vistas, of hidden mountain valleys decked with orchards, and enchanting fairy-tale villages brimming with traditional architecture. Slovenia offers a varied array of walks for hikers of all abilities.

Hear the cowbells jangling, smell the meadows ablaze with wild flowers and be dazzled by pristine Alpine scenery.

ALPINE SPLENDOUR

CHOOSE FROM A QUARTET OF ALPINE REGIONS

T

he Alps stretch across the middle of Europe, from France in the west to Slovenia in the East, through Italy, Switzerland, Liechtenstein, Germany and Austria. Walks Worldwide offers trekking trips to many of these inspiringly beautiful destinations across four key regions: Mont Blanc (at 4,810m, tallest peak in the Alps), Switzerland’s Valais and Bernese Oberland, Austria’s Salzkammergut and the Julian Alps in Slovenia. Where will your wandering boots take you?

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3

JULIAN ALPS

Austria Italy Julian Alps Trigalv

Kredarica

Bled

Debela Pec Blejska Koca

Komni Vogel

Laski Rovt

Slovenia

Lakes and Mountains B 8 DAYS, FROM £750 Wander through wild flower meadows, trek across magnificent Alpine peaks and guide yourself through pristine forests. Choose the walks that suit you to best experience the enchanting beauty of Slovenia.

ALPINE TRAILS Switzerland

2

VALAIS & BERNESE OBERLAND

Traverse through these neighbouring regions to experience the Swiss Alps at their best – the snow-capped peaks, quaint architecture and multi-hued lakes for which Switzerland is renowned. Climb to Europe’s highest railway station, Jungfraujoch, close to the summits of the Eiger, Jungfrau and Mönch. The largest and longest glacier is also found in this region – the Aletsch, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, 23km long and 900m deep.

BC 8 DAYS, FROM £1065 Get up close and personal with Europe’s longest and largest glacier. Follow high and low routes through Alpine meadows and hike to the summit of Eggishorn (2,878m) for sweeping glacier views.

Haute Route of Europe C 8 DAYS, FROM £995 Experience high-level Alpine walking surrounded by 4.000m-high snow-capped peaks and glaciers. This walking holiday is based around the iconic Swiss walk over high passes with stunning views of the Matterhorn.

Beneath the Eiger BC 8 DAYS, FROM £950 A gentler walking experience, but still massive on Alpine views including the famous Eiger. Delight in the breathtaking views of Switzerland’s most dramatic 4,000m peaks and travel to Europe’s highest railway station, the Jungfraujoch.

Switzerland

Valais Region

Aletsch Glacier

Eiger Jungfrau

Zermatt Matterhorn

Italy

4

Austria

SALZKAMMERGUT

In this beautiful region known for its salt mining (Salzkammergut means ‘Estate of the Salt Chamber’), you’ll enjoy walking between picturesque lakes, high summits and traditional Alpine villages. Trekking in this region can see you tackling jagged peaks, wandering through meadows overflowing with wildflowers, and enjoying feasts in wonderfully remote mountain restaurants.

Sound of Music fans can also visit the lakeside town of St Wolfgang, where Julie Andrews sang that “The hills are alive with the sound of music…”.

Salzkammergut

Germany

Salzburg

Austria

Alpine Splendour BC 8 DAYS, FROM £425 Enjoy delightful trekking through Alpine meadows, visit traditional villages and take a break for some incredible food in a remote mountain restaurant. Take advantage of longer walking days; allowing you to explore deeper into the mountains.

Dachstein Alpine trek C 12 DAYS, FROM £845 Enjoy views of the most majestic peaks on our ultimate Austrian walking trip. This spectacular circuit will see take you across the impressive Dachstein massif and onto the wild Am Stein plateau, spending nights in charming hotels or comfortable mountain lodges.

Walks in Sound of Music Country AB 8 DAYS, FROM £495 This trip, with routes inspired by The Sound of Music, is perfect for walkers who want stunning Alpine scenery but a relaxing and leisurely paced walk.

Explore the lakeside town of St Wolfgang and take a gentle journey through the Salzkammergut region.

Gosau Kitzbuhel

Lakes and Alps In Style B 8 DAYS, FROM £880 An incomparable cocktail of charming, traditional small towns and villages, impressive mountains and glittering lakes, wildflower meadows, great food and welcoming hospitality, all harmonising with intoxicating walks to make this the perfect summer holiday.

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ALBANIA & SLOVAKIA

STEP BACK IN TIME DISCOVER ALBANIA’S MYSTERIOUS SOUTH

A

fter seeing the enthusiasm and passion of those who had travelled with us to Albania’s Accursed Mountains, I was excited to be leading an eight-day recce trip to the country’s ‘mysterious south’, following trails tramped by the local farmers and shepherds but not yet frequented by walkers.

I wasn’t disappointed. The first part of the journey explored the Laberia Highlands, taking a route from Vlora through St George’s Pass (1,750m) and down into the mountain villages of Terbac and Kuc, where we were lucky enough to stay with local Albanians in their family home. For most of us this was the highlight of the trip, offering a rare insight into a lifestyle long left behind in the rest of Europe. No gadgets or TV, but instead nights spent around a table with great food and great company – and, of course, the odd glass or two of raki!

Our journey took on a more Mediterranean feel during the second part of the trip as we travelled along the Ionian Coast, passing olive groves and vines. There was time for some easier walking and opportunities to relax on deserted beaches before stepping up the pace with an ascent of Mount Cika (2,005m). On paper, this was a fairly easy ascent – low mileage and moderate gradients – but was actually quite challenging. Even so, it was one of my favourite days on the trip, and the feeling of achievement as we sat with a beer in hand at the end of the day was brilliant.

During the walks we encountered local shepherds and farmers, but not one tourist, which made this trip that much more special. This pristine isolation will not last, so I urge you to visit this part of the world before mass market tourism arrives!

MEET THE TEAM NAME DAN PAINTER WALKS WORLDWIDE CONSULTANT AND ADRENALIN JUNKIE FAVOURITE MOUNTAIN MOUNT KINABALU, BORNEO, The first mountain I summited!

FAVOURITE WALK ROUTEBURN TRACK, NEW ZEALAND TOP TIP ALWAYS REMEMBER YOUR RAIN JACKET! DOESN’T LEAVE HOME WITHOUT SNACKS TO EAT ON THE WALK MUST HAVE ITEM DECENT WALKING SHOES OR BOOTS! NEXT DESTINATION ON WISH LIST CROATIA

As we sat enjoying our last meal in Tirana, reflecting on the trip, we all agreed that we felt part of something very pioneering!

DAN PAINTER TRAVEL CONSULTANT

The Mysterious South BC

8 DAYS, FROM £799

MEET THE BEARS IN SLOVAKIA’S TATRA MOUNTAINS

T

he High Tatras mountains, lining the Polish-Slovak border, offer a mouthwatering feast of hiking with some exceptional opportunities for spotting wildlife. Our destination is the isolated Ticha (Silent) Valley. Walking is usually forbidden in this area, so we are privileged to offer this truly unique opportunity to our guests.

TOP Discover deserted beaches ABOVE The elusive Brown Bear ABOVE RIGHT Stunning views from the trails

The High Tatras live up to their adjective: steep, jagged peaks loom above emerald meadows, with countless well-marked trails tantalising walkers of all abilities.

This area hosts one of the highest densities of bears in Europe, and the possibility of spotting one (not from a hide, but wild and with nothing but distance between those watching and those being watched) is electrifying.

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There are plenty of other gems to look out for, too: chamois and golden eagles, red deer and even (whisper it) wolves, but the big brown bear is the draw – a meeting that is both longed for and slightly terrifying!

MARK WRIGHT WALKS WORLDWIDE MD

Walking with Bears DEPARTURES IN MAY AND SEPTEMBER C 8 DAYS, FROM £985

SPAIN

Ferrol Pontedeume Betanzos 2 c ti an North Atl

Lugo Arzua Melide 4 Siguero Palais de Rei Santiago de Rua Portomarin Compostela 1 Ponte Ulla Sarria Padrón Sileda Casarellos

5

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Pontevedra Arcade

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TOP LEFT Follow the Camino shells TOP MIDDLE Cathedral in Santiago de Compostela TOP RIGHT Ancient bridge on the trail

3 Ourense

O Porrino Tui

THE FRENCH WAY

2

THE ENGLISH WAY

3

THE VIA DE LA PLATA

BC 7 DAYS, FROM £645 The Camino Francés is magnificent wherever you bed down. Starting in Sarria, you’ll be joined by peregrinos (pilgrims) from around the world – many toting a staff dangling a scallop shell, symbol of the Camino – as you follow old bridle paths and forest trails past Romanesque churches in the Galician countryside.

BC 7 DAYS, FROM £645 Our itinerary sets off, as you’d imagine, from the north – an important trading route, it was mostly trodden by pilgrims from Britain, Ireland and Northern Europe. From the harbour city of Ferrol, trace wave-lapped coastal paths before descending into the verdant region of Ordes.

Estacion

Caldas de Rei

O

ABOVE Walk through historic villages

Spain

Bruma

1

Portugal

BC 7 DAYS, FROM £645 This route originates in Seville, a long way to the south. A less well-trodden trail, it provides peaceful hiking and a wonderful sense of solitude. The name means ‘Silver Way’, a nod to its earlier purpose when, during the Roman occupation, silver from Asturias was carried back to the eternal city.

CAMINO 4 DE SANTIAGO

CHOOSE FROM FIVE UNFORGETTABLE TRAILS

P

lanning to follow the Camino de Santiago? This ancient pilgrimage route isn’t just one path but many – and with Walks Worldwide you can experience any one of five of the best of these historic trails.

Traditionally, the Camino meant any path taken by those travelling to pay their respects to the remains of St James; today, a number of established trails lead walkers through Galicia to Santiago, all offering quite different, but equally delightful trekking.

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’ 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 While simple albergues (refuges) provide Santiago – one of Europe’s most beautiful basic sleeping spots for pilgrims along the hotels, overlooking the cathedral square. camino, we’ve chosen comfortable hotels

THE ORIGINAL WAY

BC 7 DAYS, FROM £645 Offering a twist on the most popular trail, the Original Way follows a less-used route from Lugo through tranquil forests before joining the French Way as it approaches Santiago de Compostela.

5

BC

THE CAMINO PORTUGUES

7 DAYS, FROM £965

The Portuguese Way boasts a rich cultural and architectural heritage – a legacy of its royal tradition: this is the path taken by Queen Isabel of Portugal in the 13th century. Today it takes you north from the Portuguese border at Tui through pretty woodland and coastal villages.

Whether your compass is set to north, south or west, all of our trips cover the final 100km to ensure that you’ll receive the compostela – the official certificate of completion – and with it, the elation of joining the countless other peregrinos whose gazes have lit on the cathedral in Santiago at the end of that long, wonderful journey.

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ALTERNATIVE HIGHS

THE NEW STAR MEET THE TEAM NAME TIM SHEPLEY BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT MANAGER FOR WALKS WORLDWIDE FAVOURITE MOUNTAIN? MACHHAPUCHHARE (FISHTAIL), NEPAL FAVOURITE WALK? GOKYO LAKES & EVEREST LODGE TREK Too many people forget about Gokyo on the rush to Everest Base Camp, but the high-altitude lakes are stunning and the view from the top of Gokyo Ri is incredible.

Where else can you see five 8,000m peaks from one spot?

TOP TIP? TAKE YOUR TIME ...and really appreciate your surroundings.

DOESN’T LEAVE HOME WITHOUT… A SPARE CAMERA BATTERY AND MEMORY CARD The camera itself is also obligatory.

MUST HAVE ITEM FOR A WALK IS… IODINE TABLETS Maybe not the most exciting things, but vital on a long trek.

TREKS

If you think you’ve ticked off the must-trek destinations, think again – Tim Shepley reveals six alternative highs that offer new thrills for experienced walkers.

T

he peaks of Torres del Paine are unlike any other summits I’ve seen. What’s more, they’re not even like each other. The twisted Cuernos (‘Horns’) del Paine appear to have been ripped, gouged and torn from the granite by giant talons; the vertiginous walls of the Valle Francés were seemingly scooped out of the very rock; while the three Torres (‘Towers’) themselves rise like broken teeth from the jaw of the massif. Each is gobsmacking; each quite different.

Like so many avid walkers, I’ve long had a bucket list of treks to complete – Everest Base Camp, for example, and Kilimanjaro.

But gawping up at those otherworldly towers in Chilean Patagonia, I understood clearly that there’s more to a hiking life than the headline acts. Sure, there’s nothing quite like catching your first dawn glimpse of Machu Picchu at the Sun Gate – but Latin America’s other great treks offer moments of wonder every bit as epic, if less well known.

NEXT DESTINATION ON WISH LIST KYRGYZSTAN I’ve heard fantastic things about our trips there, so I think that’s next on the list.

MAIN PIC Darjeeling

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Maybe you’ve accomplished your first set of ambitions; perhaps you just can’t seem to make the timing work for that dream trek. Either way, Walks Worldwide has a panoply of alternative trips in Asia, Africa and Latin America to get your heart racing and your feet itching.

TIM SHEPLEY WALKS WORLDWIDE MANAGER

ALTERNATIVE HIGHS

DONE THAT?

DONE THAT?

DONE THAT?

NOW TRY THIS...

NOW TRY THIS...

NOW TRY THIS...

Peru The Ausangate Circuit

Morocco Toubkal Ascent

C 11 DAYS, FROM £1,095 The Andes aren’t all about the Inca – and in the Cordillera Vilcanota you can escape the crowds and experience haute-route trekking at its best, with all the ice-capped peaks, tumbling glaciers and cobalt lakes your camera can handle. A five-day circuit of 6,384m Ausangate, seat of the mountain god Apu, traverses rolling alpaca-grazed puna (grasslands) and 5,000m passes. Oh, and you can tag on a visit to Machu Picchu.

C 8 DAYS, FROM £399 Kili stands alone in Africa – literally and figuratively – but for varied trekking, the High Atlas are hard to beat.

Our 8-day itinerary isn’t a straight up-and-back slog, but rather a rewarding approach via the less-trodden trails to the peak’s north, adding cultural context to those 360-degree panoramas from the roof of North Africa, 4,167m Jebel Toubkal.

Everest Base Camp

Inca Trail

Kilimanjaro

Nepal Forbidden Land of Mustang

CD 14 DAYS, FROM £1,195 Wild, remote, dotted with fearsome-looking gelada baboons and long-horned walia ibex, the Simien Mountains offer trekking unlike anything you’ve ever experienced before. Our recce trip departing 25 October 2014 visits the castles of the ‘Camelot of Africa’, Gondar, before traversing the mountains to reach 4,533m Ras Dashen, via arguably the world’s most impressive escarpment plunging 1.5km.

BC

18 DAYS, FROM £2,245 It’s barely two decades since the fabled ‘Kingdom of Lo’ cautiously opened its borders to foreigners; even today, the trails through this region north of the Annapurnas are accessible only to guided trekking groups. This is a world apart, a land almost more Tibetan than Tibet, high, arid and mystical. Our 19-day tour affords stunning views of 8,000+m peaks as we pass picturesque white-painted villages, Tibetan monasteries, stupas and prayer walls to reach the fabled walled city of Lo Manthang.

India Darjeeling & the Singalila Ridge BC 13 DAYS, FROM £975 If neck-craning peaks are your cup of tea, try the region of West Bengal near the old British hills station of Darjeeling – the classic Singalila Ridge Trek skirts the Nepalese border in the shadow of the world’s third-highest mountain, 8,586m Kangchenjunga. In clear weather, an array of 8,000+m peaks (including Everest) can be admired from the path.

Ethiopia Simien Mountains

Argentina & Chile Ultimate Patagonia Adventure C 15 DAYS, FROM £2,295 Those jagged peaks of Torres del Paine are just one of a series of natural wonders on this epic exploration to the end of the earth. Gawp at the spectacular crags of Mount Fitz Roy, watch vast icebergs calve from Perito Merino Glacier, taste the legendary W trek in Torres del Paine National Park, and explore the world’s southernmost city, Ushaia, on the ‘Land of Fire’ -– Tierra del Fuego.

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WALKS WORLDWIDE

ONE STEP AT A TIME Discover your world on foot. Lace up your walking boots and choose from a vast range of walking and trekking holidays all over the world, with choices for all ages, levels and budgets.

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737 565 +44 (0)1962 Overseas tel: orldwide.com Email: sales@walksw rldwide.com Web: www.walkswo 6984 Fax: 0845 130 Manor Farm, Barn South, SuttonOAA, UK Address: Long Alresford, SO24 9am to 1pm Bishop’s Sutton, to 6pm and Saturday to Friday 9am Open Monday

inspiring some of the most A collection of by a team world, planned holidays in the with over 25 years’ of travel professionals activity, cultural experience. Adventure, discovery, rafting, journeys, cycling, more. wilderness and winter activities,

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A collection of some of the most inspiring holidays in the world, of travel professionals planned by a team experience. Adventure,with over 25 years’ activity, cultural journeys, cycling, discovery, rafting, winter activities, wilderness and more.

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wildlife safaris, Cultural experiences, activity deserts and wilderness, to luxury Mid-range and adventure. for you.

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Mid-range to luxury accommodation.

All tailor-made for you.

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Life changing travel experiences for young people.

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The ultimate choice of walking adventures.

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