If you really want a challenge, have you thought about taking on trekking tours at high altitude? Popular destinations include Mount Kilimanjaro in Tanzania, Nepal and Peru’s Inca Trail. Here are some unusual trekking destinations that you may never have thought of, at 4500m – 6000m.
You need to consider health and safety while trekking at high altitude as everyone’s acclimatization is different. If you have never been to high altitude, you need to arm yourself with knowledge. Start with BenefacTours’ blog for a bit more on this issue.
Ethiopia – Simien Mountains Trek – 4543m, 13 days from $3230 CAD($2529 US). The dramatic skyline of peaks and jagged volcanic plugs which tower over the highland plateaux of the Simien Mountains compete with rugged gorges and deep gullies to form what is, arguably, the most awe-inspiring landscape in Africa. As we trek through this distant mountain range we pass small hamlets where villagers eke out an existence from the limited arable land. We may come across large troops of Gelada baboons foraging on the escarpment; and, with luck, spot Walia ibex and Ethiopian wolves.
Ecuador – Avenue of the Volcanoes – 5897m, 15 days from $2960 CAD ($2318 US). Ecuador is liberally sprinkled with some of the world’s highest peaks. Our acclimatization starts with the Pinan Trek in the highlands of the Cotacachi-Cayapas Reserve before we head south to discover Otavalo Indian market and relax in the hot springs, ready for our first climb of Imbabura Volcano. Ice skills practice on Cayambe’s glaciers will prepare us for the tough (but optional) ascent of Cotopaxi, the world’s second highest active volcano. On Cotopaxi we climb with a ratio of one guide to every two trekkers to maximize our chance of summiting.
Peru – Trekking the Huayhuash Circuit 5030m max. 13 days on sale now $1844 CAD ($1444 US). Select Departures June 20 – Jul 31, Expires in 28 days. Take in the glacial alpine scenery along the Huayhuash Circuit, challenge yourself conquering the high-altitude mountain passes, sleep in tents under the stars in the remote wilderness.
Chile – Patagonia Trekking – 10 days from $3770 CAD ($2952 US). Visit South America and travel to Patagonia to experience the ‘W’ Trek in Torres del Paine National Park. Experience Chile and Argentina’s best wilderness on this trekking adventure.
France – Mont Blanc Ascent – 4810 m, 8 days from $3800 CAD. Looming over the climbing mecca of Chamonix, the majesty of Mont Blanc has captivated climbers for centuries and calls all would-be explorers to join them atop of Western Europe’s highest peak. Attempted over three days, this itinerary is designed to give you the very best chance of reaching the summit.
Contact us for information on these and any other trekking destinations you are interested in.