Podcast: Stan Jacobson talks with Kit about his 'Annapurna Sanctuary Trek' in the Himalayas
5 Stars x 3“I rated this as 5 stars, "Excellent, the trip of a lifetime",…
Geographically compact, the breathtaking mountain views and rich culture make Nepal feel much more extensive. It’s a place where white peaks reach the sky, yaks carry necessities to tiny villages, and monks meditate in monasteries deep in the mountains. Our Nepal tours focus on trekking to explore the world’s most dramatic landscapes while also stopping by important temples and bustling markets. Whether lacing up your hiking boots for another day on the trail or strolling through a medieval city square in Kathmandu, Nepal is worth the many lay-overs it might take to get there.
Check out our incredible adventures exploring the highlights and hidden gems of the Himalayas!
Activity Level 1
What's The Rush?
I'm active and in decent shape and not looking to experience a place just through a bus window. I'm happy to slow down on the trail, soak it in and breathe in the fresh air.
Walking: 2-3 hours per day on gentle-gradient trails.
Other activities: On these trips, you'll be taking part in a range of other activities that focus less on building up a sweat and more on enjoying the finer things in life.
Activity Level 2
On the Move
Sure, I own some hiking boots, they're even worn in, but they don't go on long trips. I like my creature comforts and I like to give a range of activities a go.
Walking: 2-4 hours per day on gentle to moderate gradient trails. No multi-day hikes.
Biking: 1-3 hours, cruisy rides achievable by anyone, even first-timers. Kayaking: 1-3 hours, entry-level sea kayaking with specialist guides and stable boats.
Other activities (i.e. snorkeling): Always optional and very little exertion required. A highlight for many!
Activity Level 3
Earn Your Lunch
I stay active on vacation and love the feeling of relaxing after a busy day on the go. I season my trips with a little fresh exercise.
Hiking: Typically, 3-6 hours per day on well-formed backcountry trails. Expect some significant gradient inclines and declines.
Altitude: Your trip may include some moderate altitude areas, though these don't form the focus of the trip and are generally manageable.
Biking: 1-3 hours on well-formed paths or roads where you can expect some hills with moderate climbs and descents.
Kayaking: 1-3 hours, entry-level sea kayaking with specialist guides and stable boats.
Other activities (i.e. caving): Always optional and very little exertion required. A highlight for many!
Activity Level 4
Challenge Accepted
I'll let my trusty guides sweat the small things, so I can focus on my goal. Getting to the top, reaching the end, achieving my dreams! Sure, it'll be tough, but the views will be worth it.
Hiking / Trekking: Typically, 4–6-hour hikes with options for more, sometimes with limited or no vehicle support and nearly always with ascents and descents.
Altitude: Some trips at this level will reach a significant altitude. We are here to help you manage that and make your experience one to cherish for a lifetime.
Biking & Kayaking: If one, or both, of these activities are 'your thing,' there are trip options in this range, allowing you to be on two wheels or with a paddle in your hand for most of the day.
Activity Level 5
The Upper Limit
I'm ready to put in the hard work to reap the rewards. I'm a seasoned adventurer, not afraid to get my boots wet.
Trekking & Altitude: This is classic trekking, at altitude. Some might even call it 'expedition-style.' We've had folks from all walks of life achieve their dreams on our grade 5 trips, so if you're in for a challenge get in touch to find out if this is for you.
By paying in full we are able to pass on savings to our guests, but please note that by opting for this payment plan, your booking becomes non-refundable, non-cancellable, and non-changeable.
We highly recommend that you purchase Cancel For Any Reason (CFAR) insurance. We recommend Redpoint Insurance – you can find details here.
T+Cs Apply.
Where you plan to go may determine the best time to visit Nepal. With the highest mountains in the world, elevation and rain shadows play a big part in the climate of each area. Luckily you can find a trek suitable for almost anytime of the year. For trekking to the Everest Base camp or Annapurna Trek, consider visiting in the winter (mid-January to mid-March), spring (mid-March to mid-May), or autumn (mid-September to mid-November). However, the Mustang region is great to explore during the monsoon season (mid-July to mid-September). And any of the lower elevation areas can be hiked in pre-winter (mid-November to mid-January).
Nepal is a trekker’s paradise with access to the Himalayan mountains, sacred sites, and charming villages where you can watch the sunset with a warm slice of pie. Mountain “teahouse” lodges bring a new comfort level as you head into the mountains and disconnect from the outside world. With knowledgeable guides, endless views, and welcoming culture, trekking in Nepal is simply unforgettable.
Mount Everest has crossed the mind of every adventurer we know, and visiting the Everest Base Camp is an impactful way to knock it off your bucket list. On the Everest Base Camp Trek, you will hike through friendly Sherpa villages and past the world’s highest marketplace. Seeing the tallest mountain in the world for the first time, finally coming into camp, and celebrating at high altitudes will be something you’ll never forget.
What’s better than 360-degree views of mountains in the Himalayas at the Annapurna Base Camp and Machapuchare (Fish Tail)? Not much, but perhaps the journey to get there. On the Annapurna Base Camp Trek, you’ll make your way through a scenic glacial gorge, tiny Gurung settlements, and experience the deafening silence of the mesmerizing amphitheatre.
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The trek to Everest starts above the treeline, and the staggering alpine vistas only increase as you get closer to the world’s highest peak. Although challenging, the journey is also delightful as you utilize acclimatization downtime to explore villages along the way and embrace Sherpa culture. Reaching Everest Base Camp is an accomplishment worth celebrating, and getting to explore Everest along the way is all bonus!
With jaw-dropping mountain vistas and landscapes, it’s surprising that the Annapurna region is still one of the quieter trails in Nepal. The sanctuary you pass through includes lush meadows, ancient jungles, and a greater connection to local culture. Challenging at times with high altitude and unpredictable weather, most people would say Annapurna is well worth the effort with a little taste of everything Nepal offers.
Located in a bowl-shaped valley surrounded by the Himalayan mountains, the Kathmandu Valley has a little bit of everything, including Nepal’s capital city with the same name. Kathmandu is a crossroads between China, India, and Europe. You can explore influences in everything from the cuisine to the religion while taking on a unique charm of its own. Not interested in the hustle and bustle? It’s easy to explore areas outside the city from small villages, terraced fields, and national parks with subtropical to temperate environments.
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We believe our small group, off-the-beaten-track adventures are the safest way to travel. To keep you, your fellow travellers, our guides and the communities we travel in safe, all adults over the age of 12 (i.e. 13 years and above) must be fully vaccinated against COVID-19.
To keep you healthy during your trip, we follow all ATTA, WTTC, Qualmark and Centers for Disease Control (CDC) health and safety guidelines, as acknowledged by their stamps.
You’ll be inspired and exhilarated, enjoying mind-blowing scenery on foot, in a sea kayak, or by bike - all at your own pace. Get ready for the trip of a lifetime.
We're proud of our Kiwi roots and you’ll love our professional, warm and relaxed style of hosting. Plus, we’re always here to help with planning, travel, bookings... even hiking boot recommendations!
As soon as your trip starts, we've got everything covered – top notch meals, comfortable transport, superb accommodation, amazing guides and INCREDIBLE service.
With our small groups of typically no more than 14 (up to 18 max), you'll get to know our team, your fellow travellers, and have the flexibility and freedom to do as much (or as little!) as you like. It’s all about going at your own pace.
All our carefully selected guides are highly experienced and have deep personal connections to nature and culture. You’ll enjoy a special experience, authentic local knowledge and an adventure like no other.
We could hang around all day telling you how wonderful our trips are... but the best people to hear it from are our guests themselves.