What we’re about
Do you feel stranded in a concrete jungle of a city? Do you miss nature? Do you crave for adventure? Do you enjoy active holidays more than lazy hotel resorts on a beach? If you answer YES to any of those questions you’ve just found a right place and the right company :) In search of possibilities to spend time outside the city, we created this space for all like-minded people who would like to join us, and since adventure in a group is always more fun, help us make our own holidays a more amazing experience! We don’t mind missing a night out in clubs to get up at 4 am in the morning to go hiking. We enjoy carrying our rucksack rather than a Gucci bag and prefer swapping Louboutin stilettos for hiking shoes. And finally – we prefer walking a few kilometeres uphill than cruising along Sheikh Zayed Road in an air conditioned Porsche (well, most of the times anyway).
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See yah soon!! xx
If there is anything the Japanese know how to do perfectly, it is to fuse tradition with modernity. Japan needs no introduction, as it is perhaps one of the most emblematic places on this planet, where authenticity is still sacred – be it ancient or modern. Japan is a place where the future entwines with the past – from neon lights and ancient temples, to manga, geishas and samurais. A land of stark contrast, renowned simultaneously for its dangerous natural phenomena and cherry blossoms, unmatched in beauty by the rest of the world. A festival for any traveler’s senses, Japan awakens the soul to maximum expression with the elegant beauty of its temples, laying hidden away from the bustling streets of its metropolises. The idyllic backdrop for an aromatic journey spanning gardens to gastronomy. For centuries, Japan was closed to the world. Until the mid-nineteenth century it did not have much contact with civilisation beyond its borders, as the Japanese were banned from traveling abroad. Isolation meant that when the preservation of native culture and tradition met modernity, they produced an eclectically unique blend of past and present, in a way like no other.
Day 01: ARRIVAL
Welcome to Japan! Today we clear immigration at Haneda Airport and check into the hotel. Following a short briefing, you can choose to either rest or hit Tokyo’s famous nightlife scene.
DAY 2: TOKYO
After breakfast we head out to explore Tokyo by train. Following a quick look at the Imperial Palace, we’ll make our way to the Sensoji Temple.
Today we grab a lunch watching a sumo match!
Next, a walk down Odaiba, a high-tech entertainment hub...
DAY 3: TOKYO – Mt. FUJI – KISO
Today we take a coach for a scenic ride from Tokyo to Oshino Hakkai, a beautiful village known for its crystal-clear spring water pools and traditional thatched-roof houses. We will take our time to stroll around, visit the shops, and appreciate the natural beauty of the area. Further on we move to Mt. Fuji 5th Station. This is the starting point for many climbers and offers stunning panoramic views of Mt. Fuji....
Day 04: NAKASENDO TREK
Today, we trek the historic Nakasendo Trail, about 534km from Tokyo. Built in 1694, the Nakasendo Trail has been in use for almost 170 years. Our journey begins with a visit to the famous post-town, Tsumago Village, for brief sightseeing. We then enter a part of the trail for a 9km trek (about 3 hours), ending in the Magome Village. From there we transfer to Kyoto – to witness the Japanese fusion of tradition and modern culture.
Day 05: KYOTO & GEISHAS
DAY 6: HIROSHIMA
Today we take famous bullet train “Shinkansen” to Hiroshima. Riding faster than a plane during take-off, at almost 300kmh, we will reach in about 1.5 hrs. We will start heading to Peace Memorial Park. This park is dedicated to the memory of the victims of the atomic bombing in 1945.
DAY 7: NARA – Mt. KOYA
From Kyoto, we head to Nara, which is just a short ride away. Nara is famous for its free-roaming deer in Nara Park, where you can feed and interact with them. Don't miss the Todaiji Temple, home to the Great Buddha, one of the world's largest bronze statues.
DAY 8: Mt. KOYA - OSAKA
Early morning service at the temple in Mt. Koya. This will give us a unique opportunity to witness a traditional Buddhist ceremony and experience the peaceful atmosphere of the mountain. After the service, you can participate in zazen meditation, which involves seated meditation to help calm the mind. Head to Okunoin Temple, the most sacred site in Mt. Koya.
In the evening, board a coach for the transfer to Osaka, conveniently located near Mt. Koya. Osaka is a vibrant city known for its modern architecture, bustling shopping streets, and delicious street food. Once we arrive on our last evening we can explore popular areas like Dotonbori or Minami (Namba), known for their vibrant nightlife and iconic food signs.
Sadly we have to say Sayonara Japan, but hey - until we see you again!
Airport drop off to Osaka airport for return flight home.
Cost: AED 10,600 excl. flights until MARCH 07.
Flights: Emirates, DXB-NRT + KIX-DXB, 7850 AED
Level of difficulty: Easy - available for everyone.
Activities: Trekking, boating, sightseeing.
Duration: 8 days
Visas: Most passports receive visa upon arrival, simplified visa for UAE residents.
Accommodation & meals: Breakfasts included, accommodation in 3-star hotels, double sharing. Single room at extra cost.
Excluded: Visas, insurance, lunches and dinners.
Visa support: Available via third party agency for UAE residents of any passport, approx. 1000 AED.
日本でお会いしましょう xx
Trekkup Crew
Whatsapp 050 4848238 / info@trekkup.com
Find all trekkups at linktr.ee/trekkup
Upcoming events (4+)
See all- The Lost World of Socotra | Journey Across Socotra, Yemen (8 days)Abu Dhabi , Dubai
If you haven’t been to this forgotten paradise this is your chance for one of world’s best kept secrets and adventure travelers must see places. The island has been isolated from mainland and evolved its own unique way creating endemic species not found anywhere else in the world.
Home to Bottle and Dragon Blood trees and countless birds and marine life not to be found anywhere but here! Even the Socotra natives have not been influenced much by surrounding civilization and live their own way too. Despite the turmoil of Yemen, Socotra is a tranquil and peaceful place which you will understand too as the Island of Happiness.
We are coming back to the island not only to indulge in this paradise but also to help the locals surviving the ongoing conflict and effects of tropical cyclones passing the island since last few years. The lack of basics has put the locals in serious needs. Consider taking along the basic support items.'
https://vimeo.com/590841866
https://vimeo.com/214961835
https://vimeo.com/769287267Here is how we ll do it:
Day 01 // Arrival in Socotra
Meeting at 8:30am at AUH, flight, arrival and visa formalities. Afternoon beach visit full of white sands and blue sea, explore the dunes and freshwater lagoons before first sunset on Socotra. Dinner and night at campsite.Day 02 // Golden Beach
Start the day with turquoise lagoons full of marine life and best views of the island. We will swim in the shallow sea before hopping in boats to Shuaab area to see dolphins, long white sandy beaches, and wander the mangroves. Lunch at the beach and relax in the water before returning by boat and maybe catch our fish dinner along the way.Day 03 // Plateaus, Canyons & Forests
After breakfast we journey to Diksam Plateau and spectacular limestone gorge. We’ll trek along the edge and be surrounded by Dragon’s Blood Trees and the “lost worlds” of plateaus slipped into the gorge. Along the way we’ll share tea with the Bedouin herdsmen and tour their houses built along the cliffside.Day 04 // Lagoons, Flamingos & Marine Pools
We make our way to Homhil protected are with sceneries of deep ravines and plains before reaching Qaria lagoon filled with flamingos, herons and Greenshank. We’ll trek through few trails to viewpoints with natural pools and villages below and out to the sea.Day 05 // Coral Reefs, Turtles & Palm Leaf Huts
Early morning start to visit marine protected area of richest coral reefs on the archipelago and relax on the beach in palm leaf huts before snorkelling the turquoise waters of the bay.Day 06 // Beaches, Caves & Dunes
After breakfast and village visits along the way we’ll reach Amak beach to swim in Indian Ocean. Lunch in cave overlooking villages below with stalactites, stalagmites and subterranean pools.Day 07 // Underground Worlds
We start the day with drive to Hoq Cave with massive underground complex of chambers nearly 10km long. We will trek only a part of this world, underground dwelling animals, natural cool pools and archaeological findings.Day 08 // Departure from Socotra
Early breakfast and quick look on Hadibo, island capitol, before transfer to airport for souvenir shopping before short flight to AUH.Level of Difficulty:
Moderate with limited facilities ahead.Activities:
Trekking/snorkeling/swimming/caving/camping.Duration: 8 days
Trip Start & End:
Direct flights ABU DHABI (included).Accommodation & Meals:
Camping, all meals included.Flights & Visas:
Flights and Yemeni visa are included in trip budget.Flights:
AUH – SCT 9:00-10:20 Report at check-in at 06:30AM
SCT – AUH 11:50-15:05Specifically Excluded:
Insurance - compulsory.Cost:
9150 AED all incl. flights and visa until FEB 01. Past deadline we do not guarantee availability or the cost.See yah in Socotra x
Trekkup Crew
Whatsapp 050 4848238 / info@trekkup.com
Find all trekkups at linktr.ee/trekkupNot open - Monks & Yoga | Weekend with Khenpo Monks in NepalDubai Airport Terminal 2 Departures, Dubai
Famous for the majestic mountain peaks that draw thousands of adventurers each year, Nepal is equally known for its deep spirituality and age-old traditions. Because of its proximity to the Earth’s Crown Chakra, located in the Himalayas, this ancient land offers powerful healing energy.
In addition to visiting stunning UNESCO World Heritage Sites and monuments of immense religious importance, this weekend you will indulge in yoga, meditation, and ancient healing practices, at the very heart of Tibetan Buddhism; leaving your mind, body and soul relaxed, refreshed, and rejuvenated.
Helping to guide us on our journey will be honored Khenpo monks, highly regarded scholars and teachers within the Tibetan Buddhist tradition. ‘Khenpo’ denotes a degree for higher Buddhist studies, usually received after 13 years of intensive study and mastery of Buddhist philosophy. Khenpos embody a deep commitment to discipline, compassion, and wisdom, living as examples for others on the spiritual path. They also often plays a key role as a spiritual leader or guide in a community, and can offer us advice on how to integrate Buddhist teachings into daily life, from mindful living and compassionate action to dealing with suffering.
Let's go!
Day 1 // Sightseeing & Sound Therapy
We’ll arrive at Kathmandu’s Tribhuvan International Airport and start our adventure by heading to ancient Patan Durbar Square, a center of both Hinduism and Buddhism and a UNESCO World Heritage Site located in the city of Lalitpur. This living museum is one of three Durbar Squares in the Kathmandu Valley, and a stunning example of the influential architectural styles, such as the pagoda, stupa, shikhara, and chaitya pioneered by the area’s indigenous people. We’ll then explore Bouddhanath, home to not only the largest stupa in the valley but one of the largest in the world. Surrounded by monasteries, we’ll experience ancient traditions and rituals in the shadow of this sacred 36-meter-tall monument. Later we’ll connect and recharge, unlocking our chakras with a healing Singing Bowl Therapy session.
Day 2 // Yoga, Meditation & Relaxation
We will rise with the sun for an early morning yoga session that calms the mind and body. Ready to experience the serenity of monastic life, a Khenpo monk will lead us in a one-hour chanting and meditation session. Allow the chanting’s vibrations to shift your energy and quiet the mind, as you focus on nothing but the present moment. This will be followed by a Buddhism session on the "Four Noble Truths", which make up the essence of Buddha's teachings. Afterwards, the monk will answer any questions we have over a cup of traditional butter tea. In the afternoon, we will explore Kathmandu Durbar Square, home to ancient palaces and richly carved temples. At the Kumari Ghar, we’ll meet the Living Goddess, a child chosen as the manifestation of divine female energy. Later, we will head to the Monkey Temple of Swayambhunath, one of the holiest Buddhist stupas in Nepal, with stunning panoramic views of the Kathmandu Valley. In the evening, we’ll experience the ultimate in relaxation with a 90-minute Shirodhara session, an ancient Ayurvedic healing technique.
Day 3 // Yoga, Mindfulness & Devotees
We’ll start our final day with more mind-body harmony, with an early morning yoga session followed by a chanting and meditation session, again led by a Khenpo monk. Today’s Buddhism session will cover "Mindfulness and Meditation", and once again we will be able to ask our spiritual guru any questions we might have. Later we’ll head to Bhaktapur, an ancient city renowned for its rich history and traditional Newari indigenous culture. This showcase of medieval art and architecture is famously known as the ‘city of devotees’ for its great influence on Tibetan religion, culture, and tantrism. Here, we visit the area’s third and final Durbar Square, made up of a collection of pagodas dotted around a palace of brick and wood. As we explore, we will admire the intricate woodwork, stunning temples, and centuries-old courtyards, still filled with residents and artisans going about their daily routines. Its not going to be easy to get back home, but its time to head to the airport for an evening flight back home.
Level of difficulty: Easy and relaxing
Activities: Yoga, meditation, Buddhism sessions, sound therapy, Sirodhara, sightseeing UNESCO sites.
Accommodation & meals: 4 star boutique hotel, double sharing. Meals excluded except breakfasts.Cost: 2250 AED excl. flights, until FEB 25. After deadline, cost will change.
Specifically excluded: Visa, meals.
See yah in Nepal x
Trekkup Crew
Whatsapp 050 4848238 / info@trekkup.com
Find all trekkups at linktr.ee/trekkupNot open - Abyssinian Lullaby | UNESCO Weekend in Lalibela, EthiopiaDubai Airport, Dubai
Lalibela is located in the heart of Abyssinian Highlands, on the side of mountain range culminating at 4300m. City's 2500m altitude provides a climate with daily temperatures 20-15C. The world recognized glory of the city comes from the churches curved in monolithic rocks, concept similar to Petra or Ellora gained Lalibela a spot not only on UNESCO World Heritage list but also on many travel connoisseurs bucket lists. We will discover this 7th or perhaps 8th world's wonder over an extended weekend trip.
https://vimeo.com/297861237
https://vimeo.com/329506645Although date of churches creation is speculated to be around 12th to 13th century, it has been widely attributed to King Lalibela 24 years' project, at the time when city was called Roha. The legend says the King was born surrounded by the bees, and it became the sign of his future reign. The name also relates to this event – Lalibela origin in ancient Amharic means “The one who eats honey”.
Its only in 1950s when the first road to Lalibela was finally constructed and so the former dwellings started being replaced with houses and corrugated iron sheet roofs. Until then it took forty to fifty hours on mule to reach the city.
With 8 rock hewn churches and 2 rock hewn palaces Lalibela contains a number of courts, tunnels, pools and was significant achievement of architecture of its times. City quickly became political and religious center, putting Aksum, capitol city on secondary position. Moreover, due to its remote location it is only Lalibela who survived religious wars ravaging Ethiopia over centuries, other places including Aksum were completely destroyed. No wonder the presence of churches is considered as holy protection to the northern Abyssinian plateaus.
Our plan is to visit this soaked with history UNESCO site but also spend some time outside to stretch the legs.
Lets go!
DAY 1
Meeting at Dubai Terminal 1 for a flight to Addis and connecting flight to Lalibela. Check in to our comfy lodge, lunch, coffee ceremony and move to main churches complex, consisting of 5 rock-hewn structures for afternoon visit.After churches its time to visit famous local nightclub called Torpedo, although it is not included on UNESCO list.
DAY 2
After hearty breakfast, we will start the day with the hike to Ashetom Maryam - a church hidden on a cliff with spectacular 360 degree view of the city. Visit to open market and the township, continue to churches for yet another spectacular discoveries.In the evening dinner with local dance performers.
DAY 3
Start the day with the most famous group of St. George and check on the Sunday mass processions. On the way to airport souvenir shopping.Flight to Addis and if time allows, quick look at bustling metropolis, visit Lucy and further fly back home.
Level: Easy- one short but steep in places hikes. Available for beginners.
Activities: sightseeing, trekking, cultural immersion.
Accommodation & meals - all included: comfortable ROCK HEWN lodge (sharing rooms).
Single room / upgrades to traditional TUKUL subject of availability at the time of booking.Cost: AED 2,650 excl. flights until MAR 04.
Specifically excluded: e-visas, photography fees or other tips, entry fees and meals in Addis.
See yah in Lalibela x
Trekkup Crew
Whatsapp 050 4848238
Find all trekkups at linktr.ee/trekkup
