
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).
Join us on Facebook: Trekkup Dubai and Instagram #trekkup.
See yah soon!! xx
Upcoming events
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Abyssinian Odyssey | Lalibela + Danakil Depression, Bucket List of Ethiopia
Dubai Airport, Dubai, AEEthiopia, a land of natural contrasts, from the tops of the rugged Simien Mountains to the depths of the Danakil Depression, at 120 meters below sea level one of the lowest dry land points on earth surely will never fail to amaze.
Lalibela is located in the heart of Abyssinian Highlands, on the side of mountain range culminating at 4284 mtrs. 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.
https://vimeo.com/297861237
https://vimeo.com/329506645
Although 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 – Lalibela origin in ancient Amharic means “The one who eats honey”.
Our plan is to visit this soaked with history UNESCO site but also spend some time outside to stretch the legs.
Danakil Depression, located at the meeting point of 3 tectonic plates, with some of the greatest geological pressures on earth, the Danakil Depression is extremely active and scattered with a large number of volcanoes, including the Erta Ale, while the landscape is covered with lava flows almost everywhere you go.
https://vimeo.com/765781751
https://vimeo.com/303054724
https://vimeo.com/257364344
Danakil, also known as "Afar Depression" is also one of the hottest and the lowest places on the planet, with an average temperature of 34C, day and night. This is the harshest microclimate in Ethiopia, questioning every single life form around for the choice of habitat.
You will feel Mother Nature deadliest phenomena at your feet, where you will cross the rim and enter the smoking hot lava lake, at night, just a step away.
Lets go!!
DAY 1 // Lalibela
Meeting at Dubai Terminal 1 for a flight to Addis and connecting flight to Lalibela. Check in to our comfy lodge, spend a day discovering 3 church complexes: the most famous group of George, Royal and Ecclesiastical. In the evening check on the local nightlife!
DAY 2 // Ashetom Maryam + Yemrehana Kristos
Given the local authorities allow, we will drive to yet another spooky location - church built within basaltic cave. It contains skeletons remaining of over 500 pilgrims.
In the afternoon short hike to a church located on a cliff with spectacular 360 degree view of the city and the sunset.
DAY 3 // Lalibela + Mekele
Early morning glimpse at markets and souvenir shopping. Flight to Addis and connecting flight to Mekele. Later on we’ll head to local restaurant with “little party never killed nobody” themed evening. Overnight Mekele.
Day 4 // Mekele + SKY CHAPPEL Abuna Yemata Guh
Breakfast and hit the road to Tigray. We will start with the legendary Abuna Yemata Guh climb to discover this unique cave church (and its keeper), located at vertical cliff of 250 mtrs. Basic climbing with harness here for just few meters will make it memorable experience for everyone. **Watch this **
DAY 5 // ERTA ALE: Lava lake crater
After gathering supplies and meeting local team, we head out in 4x4s across the rugged volcanic plain. First stop: Lake Afdera, a saltwater lake shimmering under the desert sun, where locals still harvest salt by hand. Here you ll have a chance to wade into its mineral-rich hot springs before lakeside lunch.
As the heat fades, we continue past scattered Afar villages and stark lava fields toward Dodom, at the base of Erta Ale volcano. Early dinner under the stars. At the summit, witness a rare spectacle: a live lava lake, bubbling and roaring inside the crater. Sleep at makeshift camp on the rim (or descent to camp if activity requires).
DAY 6 // SUNRISE DESCENT, SALT BARS & MIRROR LAKE
Sunrise over Erta Ale’s rim, an eerie and unforgettable light show. Breakfast and continue drive through shifting landscapes: from basalt flows to endless white Afar salt flats. We stop at potassium lakes and visible salt faults, the evidence that the flats are an enormous salt deposit resting atop an ancient lakebed.
We head deeper toward Hamed Ela, a desert outpost. Here, ancestral salt extraction lives on. Watch salt miners chipping blocks by hand, loading them onto camel caravans bound for distant markets. By late afternoon, we arrive at the shores of Lake Asale, where the still surface reflects the sunset in white and gold. Overnight at camp under the open sky or local homestay.
Day 7 // DALLOL SULFUR SPRINGS + RETURN TO CITY
Early departure to Dallol, located 116 meters below sea level. You’re standing at one of the world’s lowest and hottest places. However, this surreal landscape is in fact a cinder cone volcano, and the surface is alive: neon-green acid pools, rainbow-colored sulfur springs, crystallized salt chimneys, and briny phreatic eruptions. It feels as if you’ve stepped onto an alien planet: raw, wild, and ancient.
We visit nearby salt pits, where traditional mining continues, and wander through what may be the most alien landscape on Earth. After lunch, we begin the return drive across shifting terrain of the Danakil. Arrive to city late afternoon, shower off the desert dust in the hotel before return flight to Addis and further back home.
Activities: Striking sightseeing, trekking, encounters of lava fields.
Accomo & meals: Lodges, hotels (dbl sharing) and camps, incl. overnight at the rim of volcano. Local meals, except meals on transfers (in Addis).
Cost:
AED 6950 excl. flights.
AED 12,100 all incl. int and domestic flights.
Costs valid until DEC 18th.
Visas:
Most of nationalities are entitled for evisa.
See yah at Lava Lake x
Trekkup Crew
Whatsapp 050 48482384 attendees
Timor, Leste Go! feat. Mt. Ramelau | NYE in East Timor (via Bali)
Terminal 3, 154 Airport Rd, Dubai, AEImagine a place where the sun rises over mist-wrapped mountains, the ocean glows electric turquoise, and the only thing crowding the beach is a curious sea turtle. Welcome to Timor-Leste, the secret half-island paradise that time and mass tourism forgot.
Located 600 km north of Australia, this is Southeast Asia’s wildest, youngest country. The world’s newest democracy, born in 2002 after centuries of Portuguese spice traders, revolutionary spirit, and a hard-won fight for freedom. The scars of the past are still healing, but that only makes the beauty feel more raw, more real, more alive.
Here, Catholicism dances with ancient animist beliefs, Portuguese fades into melodic Tetum, and every smile feels like it’s been waiting just for you. Roads wind through coffee plantations and jungle-shrouded hills, then suddenly drop to idyllic white sand beaches where dolphins play just offshore.
Only 30 km across glittering straits lies Atauro Island, a laidback jewel with 9,000 souls, zero traffic lights, and some of the healthiest coral reefs on earth. Snorkel straight off the beach, hike volcanic ridges at sunrise, then kick back with a cold one while fishermen grill the day’s catch under the palms.
And that’s just the warm-up.
On this Trekkup New Year adventure, we’ll chase sunrise from the summit of Mount Ramelau (the highest peak in Timor), wander forgotten coastal villages, swim in hidden lagoons, and toast 2026 in places most travelers will never see. No crowds. No resorts. Just pure, uncut tropical freedom and the friendliest welcome in Asia.
Ready? Leste GO!
Day 1 :: Dili
Arrive in Dili, complete immigration formalities, and check in at the hotel followed by a welcome lunch. In the afternoon we visit the vibrant Tais Market, then head to the impressive Cristo Rei statue (third tallest in the world) and the nearby 6-metre statue of Pope John Paul II. For a taste of local culture we can stop at a traditional cockfight. We end the day with sundowners and relaxed beach time at Areia Branca before dinner.
DAY 2: HATUBUILICO – MAUBISSE
After breakfast and hotel check-out, we depart for the highlands with panoramic views over Dili, the bay, and Atauro Island on the horizon. We pause at the serene WWII Memorial, then continue to the historic town of Aileu for lunch at a scenic vanilla farm. The drive continues through rolling green hills and coffee plantations until we reach charming Maubisse. In the evening a traditional welcome ceremony awaits, complete with warm local hospitality.
DAY 3: MT. RAMELAU
Early wake-up, and depart to the trailhead of Mount Ramelau (2,963 m), Timor-Leste’s highest peak. The steady 2 hr ascent brings us to the summit in time for a spectacular sunrise. Cheer up the sunrise with few selfies, descent and reaching the base by mid morning. Return to the guesthouse for breakfast and a quick refresh, then drive back toward Dili with a refreshing stop at Dokomali Falls – a hidden gem where clear mountain water cascades into a natural pool surrounded by lush jungle, perfect for a cool swim, and a light picnic before continuing to the capital. Overnight in Dili.
DAY 4: ATAURO
Morning transfer to the port and a scenic ride to Atauro Island. After settling in, we spend the day snorkelling over vibrant coral reefs and exploring the laid-back main village. Fresh seafood lunch, relaxed beach time, and the gentle rhythm of island life take over.
DAY 5: ATAURO
Breakfast at leisure, followed by a boat trip along the untouched western coast to snorkel at Atekry, Adara, and Iliana are some of the healthiest reefs in the region. Swim with tropical fish and possibly sea turtles, enjoy lunch on a quiet beach, and soak in the serene surroundings. Return in the late afternoon to prepare for the evening.
New Year’s Eve celebration Atauro-style: beachside bonfire, fresh grilled seafood, local music, and welcoming 2026 under an endless starry sky.
DAY 6: DILI
Morning boat back to the capital. Ease into the day with authentic Timorese coffee, warm sweet breads, and sasoru grilled corn. Free time for final souvenir shopping at the markets or one last swim. Final overnight in Dili. a relaxed evening or hit the streets and continue celebrations.
DAY 7: DEPARTURE TO BALI
Breakfast and transfer to Dili airport for the short flight back to Bali and onward connections home. You may find yourself already planning your return before the plane even takes off.
Level of difficulty: Easy and relaxing.
Activities: Trekking, boating, swimming, sightseeing, snorkelling, optional diving.
Cost: 7690 AED excl. flights to JAKARTA / BALI, incl. connecting flights Bali - Timor, until DEC 20.
On this date we will close the list.
Accommodation & meals: 4 star hotel and beach resort - double sharing. Meals excluded.
Visas: Visa free or on arrival for all passports!
Trip starts: BALI Airport DPS DEC 27 at 08.30
Trip ends: BALI Airport DPS JAN 02 at 10.00
See yah in Timor x
Trekkup Crew
Whatsapp 050 4848238 / info@trekkup.com
Find all trekkups at linktr.ee/trekkup5 attendees
Wild at Heart | Trekking Across West Papua, Indonesia
Terminal 3 - Dubai International Airport, Dubai, AEIf you’re looking for an alternative and truly authentic adventure, you’ve just come to the right place. Papua is often described as the final frontier of travel, a land where wilderness still rules and where the Himalayas, by comparison, could feel like a luxury holiday. This journey combines jungle trekking with immersive encounters among stone age tribes, offering not just an expedition but the chance to live among people who preserve traditions thousands of years old.
https://vimeo.com/206644919
https://vimeo.com/210776442
Papua lies between Australia and the equator in the vast Pacific Ocean, approximately 10,600 km from Dubai. It forms the easternmost part of the Indonesian archipelago and is the second largest island in the world. Remote, rugged, and breathtaking, Papua remains one of the most isolated places on Earth.
Our exploration takes us to the Baliem Valley, a lush gorge approximately 70 km long and 20 km wide, resting at 1,800 m above sea level and surrounded by peaks rising up to 4,500 m. Remarkably, this valley was unknown to the outside world until the 1940s, when aerial surveys revealed its hidden communities.
Nestled in the Jayawijaya Mountains, the Baliem Valley is a vibrant patchwork of rivers, forests, and farmland. It has been inhabited for over 9,000 years and is home to more than 400 distinct tribes, including the renowned Dani, Yali, and Lani people. These tribes still maintain their ancestral way of life, living in round thatched huts called honai, cultivating sweet potatoes and pigs, and practicing rituals that seem to leap directly from the pages of prehistory.
Visitors often witness customs that are both fascinating and deeply symbolic such as tribal war dance performed to resolve disputes or celebrate victories. Men adorned with penis gourds (koteka) and women wearing grass skirts, reflecting a heritage untouched by modern fashion. Body ornaments, scarification, and age-old rites still mark important stages of life.
For about a week, we will live their life: trekking between villages, sleeping in tribal houses, sharing meals, and discovering an entirely different rhythm of existence. This is not a packaged holiday, it’s an immersion into one of the last authentic adventures on Earth. Papua challenges and quickly rewards you. It is raw, untamed, and profoundly human.
Dare only if you are wild at heart!
Day 01 // Wamena - Sogokmo - Kilise Village (5 hrs trek)
Arrival at Wamena Airport, meet our team and enjoy a short refreshment. Transfer by car (approx. 40 minutes) to Sogokmo, the starting point of the trek. The trail leads through plantations and lush forested valleys, offering the first encounter with the Dani tribe’s traditional lifestyle.
Arrive at Kilise village in the afternoon. Explore the community while our cook prepares dinner.
Overnight: Tribal house in Kilise village.
Day 02 // Kilise - Ibiroma - Syokosimo (6 hrs trek)
After breakfast, descend a steep trail to a traditional hanging bridge across the Baliem River. The path is narrow and slippery, with highlights including a small waterfall stop for refreshment and lunch served by the cook. Continue trekking through challenging terrain and cross another rustic bridge before reaching Syokosimo village.
Overnight: Tribal house in Syokosimo village.
Day 03 // Syokosimo - Hitugi (4 hrs trek)
Today’s hike is shorter and more relaxed (about 4 hours). The route passes scenic landscapes and small villages before reaching Hitugi village by noon. Spend the afternoon discovering local life and traditions.
Overnight: Tribal house in Hitugi village.
Day 04 // Hitugi - Kurima - Wamena (4 hrs trek + transfer)
After breakfast, begin the return trek toward Sogokmo via Kurima village. Though this is the longest walk of the trip, the terrain is relatively gentle. Upon arrival at Sogokmo, transfer back to Wamena by car.
Overnight: hotel in Wamena.
Day 05 // Yuarima - Obia War Dance - Wamena
Breakfast at the hotel, then visit Obia village, home to the Dani tribe, where traditions such as the penis gourd, grass skirts, and honai (round houses) are still preserved. Witness a staged tribal war dance, an ancient cultural expression once triggered by disputes over women or land. After the performance, experience a traditional stone-cooking feast that may last up to 3 hours.
Continue to Anemoigi and Sumpaima villages to see a 250-year-old mummy in a traditional house. End the day with a short visit to a natural limestone cave at Wosilimo village.
Overnight: hotel in Wamena.
Day 06 // Wamena - Jayapura - Susuna Kissi Beach
Morning flight to Jayapura, followed by a 2-hour drive to the secluded Susuna Kissi Beach. Spend the day exploring pristine shores, turquoise waters, and postcard-worthy scenery.
Overnight: hotel in Jayapura.
Day 07 // Jayapura - Jakarta
After breakfast, transfer to the airport for your 09:00 flight to Jakarta.
Level of difficulty: Moderate - this is a travel in the area with limited facilities.
Activities: trekking, encounter indigenous tribes.
Duration: 7 days
- Trip starts at Jakarta CGK domestic terminal DEC 27 at 22:30 (flight at 00:45)
- Trip ends at Jakarta CGK domestic terminal on JAN 03 at 12:15
We recommend minimum of 4 hrs minimum layover between international flights.
Accommodation & meals: included - hotels (double sharing) and tribal houses. Basic facilities ahead.
Portering: included upto 10kg.
Requirements: daypack, weatherproof clothes, trekking shoes, head torch, hat, sunscreen, sleeping bag, mattress.
Cost: 10300 AED including 4 local flights, excl. flight to Jakarta (approx. 3400 AED). Cost valid until DEC 15.
Specifically excluded:
- visa,
- international flights to JAKARTA - you can chose any flight at your convenience,
- restaurant meals (outside trek),
- entrance fees - if any.
- extra luggage allowance on local flights above 10kg (approx. 3 USD per extra kg).
G2 gallery from our first trip back in 2016:
https://www.meetup.com/trekkup/photos/26785858/
See yah in Papua x
Trekkup Crew
Whatsapp 0504848238 / info@trekkup.com2 attendees
Enter the Dragon | New Year's Eve in China
Dubai Airport, Dubai, AEJoin us and discover the histories and mysteries of the Land of the Dragon: China, a pioneering ancient civilization turned second largest world's economy. In this epic journey through the vast nation’s two most iconic cities, we’ll visit some of the world’s most famous landmarks, learn about the rich heritage and innovations of Chinese culture, and immerse ourselves in the energy and excitement of thriving urban centers.
With origins dating back to more than 3,000 years ago, for much of its long history China led the world in literature, arts, sciences, technology and philosophy. Just some of the innovations which emerged from the country include the inventions of paper, rockets, gunpowder, the wheelbarrow and cast iron – as well as the first immunization, against smallpox.
Today, we’ll find a country where the cities never sleep and commerce is king – the perfect place to shop til we drop. We’ll start in exciting and cosmopolitan Shanghai, one of China's greatest economic and cultural centers, famous for both historical landmarks as well as modern, ever-expanding skylines. Known as “the Oriental Paris”, a long period of control by colonial powers resulted in an intriguing mix of architectural styles, with many districts featuring European-style cafes and gardens.
We’ll make our way through China’s biggest urban center, discovering temples, towers and markets galore, and iconic destinations such as the riverside Bund. Though Shanghai represents the modern China, we’ll take a break from the city to explore an ancient water town and get our first glimpse of the old way of life.
Next up is Beijing, where we will travel back in time and discover the true depth of China’s remarkable history. One of the Four Great Ancient Capitals of China, the city served as the seat of power for about 850 years, and offers China's most incredible array of attractions.
At its heart is the Forbidden City, home to the emperors of the Ming and Qing dynasties, and the largest palace complex in the nation and the world. Neighbouring Tiananmen Square is known the world over for its suppressed student protests, which we’ll learn about before discovering a fascinating history of worship and sacrifices at the immense Temple of Heaven complex.
A truly unmissable, bucket list sight is China’s iconic Great Wall. The largest man-made project in the world, its route stretches more than 20,000 km from the eastern seaside to the western desert in the north of the country, winding its way up and down across mountains and plateaus.
There’s an old Chinese saying that "you are not a hero until conquering the Great Wall".
Challenge accepted…let’s go!
DAY 1 // 28 Dec // Arrival in Shanghai
Meeting at airport, immigration and transfer to hotel. Free time on your own, to rest or explore.
DAY 2 // 29 Dec // Shanghai
Our adventure begins! Sprawling Shanghai is just waiting to be discovered, and we’ll start the day with a visit to the Jade Buddha Temple, a Buddhist shrine located right in the middle of the city’s hustle and bustle. It is named for its two bejeweled Buddha statues, each impressively carved from a whole piece of white jade. Our next stop takes us to a silk factory, where we’ll learn more about the history and production of this delicate fabric. Made from the filaments of silkworm cocoons, it has been manufactured in China going back millennia. To this day, silk holds a special place in Chinese culture, representing beauty, elegance, and social status.
Feeling in need of some retail therapy? We’ll head to Nanjing Road, running east to west through the heart of city and one of the busiest commercial streets in the world. Nanjing Road is to Shanghai what Fifth Avenue and the Champs-Elysées are to New York and Paris – shopping heaven! In addition to major global brands, we can find local handicrafts and traditional food here.
Later, we’ll meet an icon: the Bund, the renowned waterfront area and protected historic district that is Shanghai’s most famous landmark. The word ‘bund’ is of Anglo-Indian origin, meaning embankment on the waterfront, and is a legacy of British colonial rule. This symbol of the city is also the most stunning place to experience Shanghai at night. As the sun sets, the city's skyline lights up with vibrant colors that reflect and shimmer on the surface of the Huangpu River. From here, we’ll have a fabulous view of the famed Oriental Pearl TV Tower, rising 468 meters above the crowded streets.
In the evening, we’ll enjoy a river cruise and stroll along the banks of the river.
DAY 3 // 30 Dec // Zhujiajiao & Shanghai
Today we’ll take a break from the city and visit Zhujiajiao, an ancient “water town” known as the Venice of Shanghai due to the network of canals winding its way through the village. With a history going back more than 1,700 years, it is the best-preserved of the four ancient towns in Shanghai. Set amid a landscape of lakes and mountains, charming Zhujiajiao is best known for its historic bridges, built during Ming and Qing Dynasties, and made of wood, marble and stone. Spanning waterways large and small, the bridges allow residents and visitors to traverse the town – and happen to make for great pictures! We’ll feel like we’ve gone back in time as we take a tranquil boat ride though the watery “streets”, passing through the shade of weeping willows and connecting with small-town life.
After a fascinating day, we’ll drive back to Shanghai and head to People’s Square, a large space in central Shanghai that was once the horse racing track of the Shanghai Race Club. Surrounded by many of Shanghai's most recognizable skyscrapers, People's Square is an important meeting place and public space, and home to major institutions such as the Shanghai Grand Theatre, the Shanghai Museum and the Shanghai People's Government.
In the evening we’ll explore popular Xintiandi, an upmarket entertainment and shopping complex modelled on traditional lòngtáng (alleyway) homes. If we’re in the mood for more shopping later, we can make a visit to AP Plaza, one of the city's biggest counterfeit markets, and practice our haggling skills.
DAY 4 // 31 Dec // Shanghai & NYE
In the morning we’ll head to the Lujiazui Financial District to see the Jinmao Tower, a symbol of modern China and one of the most recognizable buildings in Shanghai. Its unique stainless steel and glass design is thoroughly modern yet inspired by traditional Chinese architecture, with an octagonal shape and tapered form that resembles a pagoda. We’ll then make a visit to the Shanghai Museum, learning more about Chinese art and cultural expression by exploring its rich collection spanning bronzes, ceramics, calligraphy and painting, sculpture, furniture, embroidery and much more.
In the afternoon we’ll get creative in the artsy area of Tianzifang, a place where old and modern Shanghai meet. We’ll wander the streets lined with restored 1930s Shikumen residences, now housing an array of design and art studios, antique shops, art galleries and craft stores, alongside trendy cafes and eateries.
Next, we’ll treat ourselves to a walk through the historic Yu Garden, first built in 1559 during the Ming dynasty. Having gone through a number of redesigns and restorations over the years, this garden remains a serene haven. Known as the *‘*Garden of Happiness’ or ‘Garden of Peace and Comfort’, we’ll find dozens of scenic spots, all connected by corridors and passageways – including pavilions, rock formations, ponds and its centrepiece, the five-ton Exquisite Jade Rock.
It is in these enchanting surrounds that we will mark the New Year with a unique cultural highlight: the Yu Garden Lantern Festival. Vibrant lantern displays promise a magical atmosphere and a celebration to remember as we say hello to New Year.
DAY 5 // 1 Jan // Shanghai to Beijing on bullet train
After breakfast, we’ll transfer to the train station for our bullet train to Beijing. Check-in to hotel and free time: to rest or explore.
DAY 6 // 2 Jan // Beijing
We’ll begin our exploration of Beijing with a visit to the biggest public square in the world. The impressive Tiananmen Square conquers you with its grandeur at first sight, covering a vast 53 acres. We’ll learn more about China’s tumultuous political history as we tour the site of one of the country’s most tragic events of the modern era.
We’ll then head to the nearby Forbidden City, the famed palace complex that was the center of political power in China for over 500 years – and today is the largest preserved royal palace complex still standing in the world. Constructed in the early 15th century, this opulent imperial residence was home to 24 Ming and Qing dynasty Emperors, and is an outstanding example of traditional Chinese palatial architecture. Now a museum, we’ll wander some of the complex’s nearly 9,000 rooms, which feature an extensive collection of artworks and artifacts.
Later we’ll visit a religious site that was very special to those Ming and Qing Emperors: the Temple of Heaven. The size of this temple complex is staggering, with its network of buildings and gardens covering approximately 675 acres. Completed together with the Forbidden City in 1420, the complex’s layout symbolizes the relationship between earth and heaven – the human world and God's world. For centuries, the intricately and colorfully decorated structures saw worshippers petitioning the spirits and animals slaughtered and burned as sacrifices to Shangdi, the Supreme Deity.
In the afternoon we’ll learn about another icon of China – the pearl, a precious commodity which is embedded in the tales and lore of the country. In ancient China, pearls were believed to offer protection from fire and fire-breathing dragons, and many believed that they fell from the sky when dragons fought amongst the clouds. Today, China is the leading producer of freshwater pearls, and we’ll visit a factory to see for ourselves how these iridescent gems are cultured and harvested.
We’ll end our day with a bit of shopping at Hongqiao market, Beijing’s largest and most popular market for pearl jewelry, where we’ll try and find a bargain.
DAY 7 // 3 Jan // Beijing
After yesterday’s pearly escapades, today it’s time to earn about jade, another material which is hugely important to Chinese culture. Prized for its durability and beauty, over the centuries jade became associated with conceptions of the soul and immortality, and along with gold, was considered a symbol of heaven. We’ll head out of the city and visit a jade factory to see how this hardstone is delicately carved and fashioned into an endless array of jewelry and decorative items.
At our next stop, we will meet China’s greatest cultural icon: the Great Wall. This awe-inspiring symbol of the country and the ingenuity of its people is known as one of the seven wonders of the world, not only for its long history but for its massive size and unique architectural style. First built between 770 – 476 BC, this feat of engineering was realized over a period of 2,000 years.
We’ll be visiting at the Juyong Pass, the first of three impregnable passes along the Great Wall. Situated in a mountain-flanked valley, this military stronghold protected the northern borders from Mongol invasions. As we climb this architectural marvel and look out on sweeping vistas, we can imagine the lives of soldiers of the past and wonder what it must have been like to see the enemy descending.
In the afternoon, we’ll visit the final landmark of our trip: the Summer Palace, created during the Qing dynasty as a vast imperial retreat featuring numerous lakes, gardens and palaces. Covering an expanse of 2.9 sq km (1.1 sq mi), three-quarters of which is water, it contains over 3,000 ancient buildings that house a collection of over 40,000 relics from various dynasties. Considered by UNESCO as "a masterpiece of Chinese landscape garden design”, this World Heritage Site invites exploration and will leave us in awe of the artistry and craftsmanship of days gone by.
Later, a final chance for some shopping at the famed Silk Street market before we say bye-bye to Beijing with a last night out on the town.
DAY 8 // 4 Jan // Departure
After breakfast at the hotel, we’ll be transferred to the airport for our flight home.
Activities: Walking, sightseeing.
Grade: Easy, available for everyone.
Accommodation and meals: 4 star hotels – double sharing. Meals excluded.
Cost: 5,850 AED excl. flights or 8540 AED incl. flights until DEC 25th. Past this date please inquire about the cost.
Visa: Several EU countries, UAE, AUS + NZ visa free.
Visa support through third party agency only.
More info here: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Visa_policy_of_mainland_China
See yah in China x
Trekkup Crew
050 4848238 / docs@trekkup.com6 attendees
Past events
2247

