Overview

Mustang is the name of a district in the far north west of Nepal.. One of the most remote areas, it is a geographic extension of the Tibetan plateau, a windswept land of mountains preserving the last authentic remains of Tibetan culture. This area was completely isolated from the rest of the world, and only opened to trekking groups in 1991. The barley, potatoes and buckwheat grown here are the staple diet around the major villages of Ghame & Tsarang. We continue till we come to the ancient walled fortress city of Lo Manthang. From here the border of Tibet is just a stone's throw. after this we back from same trail or possible to we head back towards Jomsom via sacred pilgrimage site of Muktinath.

History

"Mustang is one of the few places in the Himalayan region that has been able to retain its traditional Tibetan culture unmolested… authentic Tibetan culture now survives only in exile and a few places like Mustang, which have had long historical and cultural ties with Tibet." -The Dalai Lama

Closed to foreigners until 1992, the ‘Forbidden’ Kingdom of Mustang is where today collides with medieval Asia; where a vibrant culture, dating back over a thousand years is coming to terms with a twenty-first century road. Fortunately, the communities and their traditions are resilient, as are their mud-walled towns and monasteries covered in original frescos, for now.  A recently built road from Tibet runs through the heart of Mustang to Jomsom and on to Pokhara; it offers unprecedented change to this unique and ageless place. Jeeps and motorcycles have replaced decorated horses, and art experts are assessing the potential dangers of traffic vibrations to fragile artworks. Mustang may not last forever, see it while you can.

Lying to the northwest of the Annapurnas and extending onto the Tibetan Plateau, Upper Mustang is a large mountain-fringed basin home to the headwaters of the Kali Gandaki. The main trail runs north-south from Lo Monthang to Jomsom with some side trips en route, but none that conveniently connect to other trekking routes. So, until some serious trail work is completed there isn’t a reliable route option through Upper Mustang for the GHT. Trails from Naar and Phu to Upper Mustang have sporadic water sources, are rugged and some require technical alpine skills. However, there is a good trail from Ghemi to Chharka Bhot in Upper Dolpo, but it can only be used only in October or November. The locals in Ghemi restrict access to this route, as they believe that the mountain spirits will be offended and prevent rain from falling on their fields if anyone disturbs the pass from December to September. They have been known to violently defend this belief.

Mustang is part of the Annapurna Conservation Area Project (ACAP), which is the largest protected biodiversity area in Nepal.  Referred to as a Trans-Himalayan Ecosystem (the lower, lush valleys of the mid-hills are linked with the arid Tibetan plateau), this is a culturally and environmentally sensitive and fragile region, which demands the utmost respect and care. Please take all precautions to tread softly and follow the Great Himalaya Trail Code.

In October 2008, King Jigme Palbar Bista’s (b. 1930) reign over Mustang ended by Nepali Government order, which effectively terminated the monarchic tradition established in AD1350.

Grade

Grade & Acclimatisation

Grade: Trekking - Moderate

This trek is suitable to all and can be achieved by a beginner with training. A good level of fitness and some experience on a mountain is recommended prior to departure. You will enjoy your trip a lot more if prepared well. We recommend that you attend our free meet day to join your group and our experienced guide to go for a preparatory hill-walk. This provides a good opportunity to get any questions answered or concerns that you may have dealt with in relation to the trip. Tips on gear, altitude and conditions will be also covered. We also run Fitness assessment and Hill-walking weekends that are ideally suited for those who need a little more preparation. We recommend these options to ensure a good level of understanding of the requirements for the upcoming trek.

Acclimatisation

The major problems occur when climbing Kilimanjaro, where due to the costs being based on the number of days you are on the mountain, many organised groups ascend far faster than the recommended 300m per day. Although the climb is possible in 5 or 6 days, at Irish & Worldwide Adventures we have agreed a 7 day climb allowing 1 extra day for acclimatisation or rest purposes. It is worth spending a bit extra to stay safe and achieve your goals. It is possible to spend time on some of the adjacent mountains to help acclimatise before tackling the main summit. In the past we climbed Mt. Meru prior to the main climb but in recent years we have found that the extra duration and cost asscociated were making it less attractive to our clients. Please enquire about Mt. Meru if you would like to include it on your Itinerary. More detailed information on Acclimatisation, Health Guidelines and Personal Safety Guidelines will be available on signup.

Prices

All-In Group €3700 inc of International Flights on Land Only Itinerary set out below ** Please allow additional flight days to be added

Land Only €2790

Cost Includes:

1.       Airport Transfers

2.       Hotel accommodation on B/B Basis. 4 night in Kathmandu and 2 nights in Pokhara

3.       Domestic flight ticke. Jomsom/Pokhara/Jomsom/Kathmandu

4.       National Park Fee

5.       TIMS permit

6.       All necessary permits

7.       All camping and meals during the trek

8.       Transportation of food from Beni to Jomsom

9.       Transportation from Kathmandu to Pokhara by bus

Cost Excludes:

1.       Meals in Kathmandu

2.       Members insurance and emergency rescue

3.       Drink and beverages including mineral waters

4.       Any extra night hotels other than 4 nights in Kathmandu and 2 nights in Pokhara

5.       Sightseeing in Kathmandu and Pokhara

Guides

Tony Nation, Trekking Guide & Trainer

Tony's love for adventure has taken him to many regions of our planet,  he enjoys leading groups in Africa, Russia, Nepal and South America.

Like many of our adventure guides and trainers his passion is that of communication and instilling the culture of the places we visit to those that join in our our adventures and courses.

He is also one of our leading Irish guides with special knowledge in the Cork and Kerry hills and mountains.

He is a father of  four Sean, Damien, Sara and Timothy and from a very early age to instill adventure to his children became involved with his wife Mary as a leading light in Scouting Ireland, giving of his time voluntary for over 20 years to promote the adventurous spirit in children.

He is a County Commissioner for Cork South and heavily involved in training new Leaders and delivering Mountain Skills training to all Leaders and Scouters.

Tony is a good story teller, has a passion for the outdoors, enjoys good food and after a hard day on the hills a few pints in good atmosphere.

Tony is also a manager/trainer in our Health, Safety and team-building Corporate division

Info on Sherpa's

We at Irish and Worldwide Adventures ensure that all our agents in every destination value and treat their employees with respect and ensure their working rates and conditions are adhering to the local employment and Health & Safety guidelines. We have built up a good relationship’s with all of our operators to ensure the welfare of their team is priority. For more guidelines and information on Sherpa's please contact us.

Itinerary

Here is a sample daily Itinerary, on booking you will be issued a more detailed version.

Day 01 : Meeting upon arrival at Kathmandu International airport (1350n) Bus to Pokhara (920m) Overnight in Hotel

Day 02: Fly to Jomsom (2710m) and trek to Kagbeni (2800m) Overnight at Camp

Day 03 : Trek to Chussang (2920m) Overnight at Camp

Day 04 : Trek to Syangboche (38000m) Overnight at Camp

Day 05 : Trek to Charang (3510m) Overnight at Camp

Day 06 : Trek to Lo Mangthang (3770m) Overnight at Camp

Day 07 : Rest Day

Day 08: Trek to Ghiling (3500m)) Overnight at Camp

Day 09: Trek to Samar (3660m) Overnight at Camp

Day 10 : Trek to Yekle Bhatti (4100m) Overnight at Camp

Day 11 : Trek to Muktinath Overnight at Camp

Day 12 : Trek to Thorang La Overnight at Camp

Day 13 : Climbing 6000m peak in Thorong La & Back to Muktinath Overnight at Camp

Day 14 : Trek to Jomsom (2710m) Overnight at Hotel

Day 15 : Fly to Pokhara (920m) Overnight at Hotel

Day 16: Free Day in Pokhara (920m) Overnight at Hotel

Day 17: Fly to Kathmandu

Preparation

Preparation, Passports / Visa's

Preparation - We have selected a walking weekend to help you adjust to the goal of the trek. The weekend has two walks with advice and techniques for clothing and gear given also. On the Saturday we will climb one of Irelands highest peaks during a day hike and on Sunday morning early we will go on a night hike simulating the requirements on the summit day of a trek which takes you out of your comfort zone prior to the real thing. This method allows your body and mind to adjust to the challenge ahead. For more info on this We also run Fitness assessment and Hill-walking weekends, go to our Irish training section.

We suggest a training program of at least 6 months intensive to comfortably trek this trail

Months 1-2 This should include weekly/fortnightly hillwalking for 3hrs+ with a small/medium pack of weight of 5-10kg approx

Months 3-4 This should be increased to include longer days (6hrs+) and pack weight of 10kg approx. Attend our Free meet day!

Month 5 Two days walking back to back twice giving 4 days total. Example: Saturday 7hr & Sunday 6hr = 13hrs walking. Avoid injuries at all costs!!

Month 6 Continue with some walking but reduce to lower peaks and durations of 4hrs, avoid injuries at all costs!!

Passport / Visas
You will need a valid full passport, please ensure it at least have six months before expiring before we leave. Before applying for Visa please check dates on passport. Please bring 4-passport photos for visas. 

We will need to get visa and this can be got on entry.

Gear

For general wear on trek: cotton pants, t-shirts and if you have light thermals these will be ideal.

• *One pair of trekking boots for trek. These boots can be used for good wear. If you have a hillwalking pair of boots you can also bring them.  If you like comfort we recommend boots with extra insulation in sole around 150euro with vibram or similar sole.
• *Four pair of warm trekking stockings. (Thorlo or similar)
• *Adjustable ski poles: these take a lot of pressure off the body and makes walking less tiring. Some use two spring loaded ones as it takes 36 ton of pressure off you knees per day as well as allowing you to have a crutch to lean on when you are tired.
• *Thermal under-wear heavy gauge: 2 Tops and 2 bottoms. Dryflo etc.
• *1 fleece or pile jacket. Windproof is good.
• *Wind and water proofs (Gortex or similar): Top jacket and bottoms.
• *Sleeping bag range to - 15/20 degrees make sure it packs small.
• Also for sleeping it is important to bring an insulating sleeping mat. I usually bring a Thermarest full-length non-slip. There is insulating mattresses provide on trek but for extra comfort bring a Thermarest.
• *1 Water bottles with wide neck and one with narrow neck (Nalgene or similar) or one Platypus container, the platypus is ideal for trekking as you can stay hydrated by drinking from a tube as you walk.
• *Gloves: 1pair of thermal and 1 pair over gloves or mitts, no harm in bringing spare sets.
• *Headtorch, Petzl with spare batteries and bulbs. I cannot stress the importance of this to have in good working order. (New LED versions are also lighter and smaller)
• *Peak hat for the lower regions to protect your head from the sun. (bandana or neck gaiter also)
• *Ruck sack 30 liters daypack for mountain to carry your camera food and day gear.
• *For traveling, 70-100 liters rucksack or strong gear bag- this will also do to give to porters on trek to carry your general gear.
• *Optional for night up high for cold, a light down top or extra fleece.
• *Personal first aid and medicine kit. (All our guides will have these for emergencies only)
• *UV sunglasses – Cat. 3 or Cat. 4 recommeded if there is a lot of time in or near snow.
• *2 x Earplugs pairs – If you have an inside pocket in sleeping bag, leave one there fulltime.

Miscellaneous items:
Sun-block (very important and use it!!)
Backpacking towel and general toiletries.
Insect repellent
Extra Clothes for travelling and/or socialising.

Tips on Gear

Make sure your boots are well broken in. For the mountain, a layering system works best to allow you to cool down or warm up with ease - Tshirt or thermals, shirt or warm top, a good fleece and good heavy-duty waterproofs if you intend doing more treks in future. Gloves and hats are vital. Bring waterproof gear that is made of breathable material. You can use a normal 3 season sleeping bag. If you tend to get cold very easily, you can add in a sleeping bag liner. Remember that sleeping bags work on trapping layers of air so wearing clothes in your bag doesn't help. If you wear contact lenses take plenty of saline and comfort drops as the paths are dusty. Also glasses are essential for summit night as temperature and altitude may effect eyes if contacts worn. Common first aid complaints are headaches, dehydration, stomach bugs, diarrhoea, sunburn and occasional mouth ulcers. Looking after yourself with plenty of fluids, rest and enjoying the gentle ascending pace will assist in avoiding these. Your personal first aid kit should contain treatments for these minor aliments. Please get advice from your GP before departure. Money can be left in the Hotel safe. All currency can be easily changed to local currency in the cities you will be staying in. The only money you will need to carry for your treks will be to cover porter and guide tips and bottled water if you choose to purchase. (Hotels offer Launderette facilities if you wish to wash clothes following trek otherwise there is no opportunity to wash clothing. Digital cameras will cope fine with the conditions if you keep them warm close to your body where possible especially on summit morning or when reaching you highest day, otherwise batteries can run down. Spare batteries are a must.

Highlights

• Stay in rural towns and villages, some dating back to the 9th century with remain of Romanesque churches, bridges and early pilgrim hostels
• Walk on well maintained tracks and paths through meadowlands and forests of poplars and eucalyptus
• Enter the World Heritage City of Santiago and visiting they many historic buildings including the imposing Cathedral which evolved into the magnificent structure. It is today over 100's of years
• Enjoy the company of fellow walkers from far and near along the way, or as we relax after each walk

Portomarin

Sometimes it is necessary to alter the location of the overnight stay There will be notes on the history and traditions of places of interest along the way

Sarria

Sometimes it is necessary to alter the location of the overnight stay. There will be notes on the history and traditions of places of interest along the way

Grade

Walk: Moderate These are primarily walking holidays and require a reasonable level of fitness in order to get the most enjoyment from your week on the Camino. There is expert advice on hand to talk to you about the best footwear, clothing, etc for your walk

Tips&Gear

• Choose your walking shoes or light boots carefully. They should be designed for support, comfort and grip. Most blisters are as a result of poorly fitting socks of dubious quality
• Set out a training programme for yourself. Get used to walking continuously for four hours or so once a week. Speed or distance isn't important at the beginning, just keep moving at a steady pace and build up to longer walks over varying terrain
• Use a walking pole if you feel it gives you support over rough ground. Choose one which folds easily and fits into your luggage case when travelling
• Spend -time choosing your rucksack, and beware of features that you don't need. A 45ltr capacity is ideal for a couple of week's walking carrying your own gear. A rain cover is essential, although an internal waterproof bag is more effective
• Food and drink: Generally speaking eat what ever you like best, just eat plenty of it. And remember that you're eating today for tomorrow, so a substantial meal late at night is often a good thing for an early start and a long distance. Have a few bars or biscuits for a snack. Keep hydrated, a little and often, and water is best
• Plan tomorrow's walk: Check the map or the route, know the distance, tick off the coffee stops or rest breaks, be aware of steep climbs coming up. Be aware of any history or culture associated with the route and look around you to take in the sights
• Carry a basic first aid kit. Bandage for sprains, wipes and a selection of plasters for cuts or grazes, blister pads for the feet. If you are taking medication with you make sure that you have enough for the entire stay - and an extra supply in case of delays or emergencies

Your Guide

Dates&Prices

Sarria: May 4th - May 11st 2013 €615pp

Sarria: Jun 15th - Jun 22th 2013 €615pp

Sarria: Juln29th - July 6th 2013 €615pp

Sarria: Aug 31th - Sept 7th 2013 €615pp
Sarria: Sept 07th - Sept 14th 2013 €615pp

Portomarin: May 11th - May 18th  2013 €565pp
Portomarin: July 20th - July 27th  2013 €565pp
Portomarin: Sept 14th - Sept 21th  2013 €565pp

Price includes:

• B&B in Hotels along the way (Twin Sharing)
• Private transfer to/ from Airports
• Luggage transfers to the next Hotel along route
• Walk Leader

• Personal items
  
• International flights to/from Spain
• Single Supplements apply

Camping

3 Day Course

Stag /Hen/ Occassion

Family/ Group Adventure

Team Building

Itinerary

Grade

Date

Prices

Gear

Extras

Overview

Dates

Itinerary

Prices

Grade

Gear

Route

Grade

Gear

• Good walking/mountaineering boots. Waterproof for wet and/or cold
• Socks (Thorlo, Thermolite or similar)
• Thermal top base (dryflo, capilene or sports top) and mid layers (In winter several layers may be needed)
• Good fleece or softshell
• Trekking pants in summer, Thermal fleece pants in winter (Softshell pants are quite common also)
• Wind and water proofs (Gore-Tex or similar): Jacket and Trousers
• Head gear: thermal hat and/or sunhat. (Buff, neck gaiter, optional) or balaclava in winter
• Adjustable ski poles, Leki or similar: these take a lot of pressure off the body and makes walking less tiring. I usually use two Leki spring loaded as it takes 36 ton of pressure off you knees per day as well as allowing you to have a crutch to lean on when your tired *Optional
• Gloves: 1pair of thermal and 1 pair over gloves or mitts(optional), no harm in brining spare sets. I always bring a pair of fleece and buffalo mitts for high on the mountain as it can get very cold and by having your fingers together it keeps them warm
• 1/ 2 Lt Water bottle or platypus in its own plastic bag
• Lunch consisting of sandwich/snack and sweets, seeds, oatbars or fruit (keep in plastic bag)
• Small Rucksack big enough to carry your spares and Lunch. (Line this with strong black bag)
• Spare Top mid layer, socks and gloves
• Camera with good battery and memory capacity
• 1 x Flask with hot drink *Optional
• Map OSI 78 and Compass (silva type 4) *Optional

Private Groups

The most popular option for many of our clients.

We reguraly organise day long excursions,weekend & mid-week breaks and outings for individuals, coporate groups, sports teams, families and friends. The benefits are endless and we can organise all the logistics for you, from transport to accommodation, team building, military bootcamps, walking, trekking, abseiling....the activities are endless. We are your one stop adventure company who pride ourselves on providing the best of adventures in some of the most beautiful locations in the world.

Please contact our office to further discuss the benefits of a private course or guided walk/expedition you would like to challenge your team, group, family or friends with!

Route

Grade

Prices

Itinerary

Preparation

Gear

Overview

Cunningham Inlet is one of the best spots in the world to observe beluga whales. Arctic Watch was initially built as a whale-watching lodge. Two thousand beluga whales congregate in Cunningham Inlet from approximately early July to August 10th. The majority of the whales group at the mouth of the Cunningham River to molt play and nurse their young. The premier whale watching locations are only a fifteen-minute walk from the lodge. Beluga whale watching can be done at any time.

Hiking and Walking: With mountains to climb and numerous canyons to explore on Somerset Island, hiking and walking are one of the most popular activities. It is an excellent method to approach the local wildlife, view wild flowers and hunt for fossils. Historical Site Viewing: 
Dotted throughout Somerset Island and within the vicinity of Arctic Watch, numerous historical and archeological sites are easily accessible by foot, ATV or kayak. The majority of the sites, being Thule (AD 1000 – 1400) and paleo-eskimo, are well known for their simple stone construction.

Fishing: Inuskshuk lake, located within a two hour ATV drive from Arctic Watch, is a well known place for Arctic Char. Char, “the best tasting fish”, is a member of the trout and salmon family. The fish at Inukshuk lake generally run from 3 to ten pounds. Several other locations are easily accessible from arctic watch where one can fish for char. Creswell Bay, located on the southern tip of Somerset Island, boasts world-class char fishing. On a four-hour time period, several hundred char have been cought and released-All ranging from 15 to 25 pounds.

Birding: For the avid birder at Arctic Watch; special trips are made by foot, sea kayak and ATV. A summer home for many species of marine and land birds, Northern Somerset is home to nearly 50 different species:

• Loons: Common, Arctic, Red-throated
• Geese: Snow, Canadian, Brant
• Ducks: Northern Pintail, Eider
• Rough legged hawk
• Peregrine Falcon
• Plovers: Black-bellied, American Golden
• Sand Pipers
• Jaegers: Parasitic, Long-tailed, Pomarine
• Gulls: Herring, Black-legged Kittiwake, Sabine’s, Ivory
• Arctic Tern
• Black Guillemot
• Snow Owl
• Snow Bunting

Kayaking: A pleaseant and highly popular choice of excursion amongst guests at Arctic Watch, we offer two different kayak tours. Both are offered with the safest and most reliable equipement; Current Design fiberglass kayaks, Seavivor folding kayaks, paddles, life-jackets and dry suits.

The first tour, starting on the banks of Cunningham Inlet, runs along the bay amongst the ice, seals and beluga whales. A guest can photograph belugas swimming underneath the boats, watch seals bob amongst the ice and view the various marine birds fly past.

The second option, equally popular, is to paddle the lower section of the Cunningham River. The river, crystal clear, snakes through a large canyon. A pair of rough-legged hawks nest along the cliffs, enabling us to get a good view. The canyon, teaming with fossils, bends a magnificent 180 degrees and heads towards Arctic Watch. The river is deemed class 1 and 2, meaning swift water, with no rapids. The easy paddle takes roughly 3 hours.

Rafting: Arctic Watch raft trips are run with two inflatable rafts. The first tour runs through the lower canyon of the Cunningham River. A remarkable canyon, carved through the hillside makes for stunning photos. Muskox are frequently seen grazing along the banks and cliff tops. Again, the tour runs along a swift flowing, safe and rapid free route. This voyage takes approximately three hours.

All Terrain Vehicles (ATVs): At Arctic Watch, we are equipped with 9 ATVs, including several auto shifting vehicles. The Island is home to rolling terrain, and packed gravel-like surfaces. The condtions are ideal for traveling on ATVs. The vehicles are used to reach interesting places to hike, reach birding sites, visit archeological sites, find muskox and explore the vast island.

Grade

Grade is: Trekking – easy  to walk the Arctic plains.
Easy trek at group pace, with many stops to observe arctic mammals and flora.  Day hiking only.

Prices

Land Only  $7900 + GST 2.5% Book Now for 2011 or 2012!!

Please contact us to discuss flights, and additional accomadation required for getting to yellowknife. (Cork, Shannon or Dublin Departures)

Inclusions

• All transfers
• Hotel accommodation in Calgary 1 night
• Hotel accommodation in Yellowknife , 2 nights
• Private charter from Yellowknife to Somerset Island, Nunavut
• 7 days at Arctic Watch lodge
• Chef, meals & all equipment  at Arctic Watch
• Guides

Exclusion:

• Fully escorted from/to Ireland
• Flights from/to Ireland
• Meals en route
• Bar Bills & laundry
• Travel Insurance
• Bar bills at Arctic Watch

Optional Extra’s: 

Whale watching trip and hiking in Charlevoix, Quebec - 4 days - € PRICE - Please contact us.

• - Return flight with a Transit to Quebec or Montreal airport
• - Shuttle to Charlevoix
• - Whale watching tour or sea kayaking guided tour with the St. Lawrence whales
• - Guided trek to Les Hautes Gorges, park entrance fees included
• - 3 nights Hotel Accommodation Full board

, we only use the best hotels with excellent rooms and food.

Guides

Richard Weber and Josée Auclair

Richard and Josée started arctic tourism with the world’s first commercial North Pole trek in 1993, hiking and kayaking trips on Baffin Island. In 2000, they opened “Arctic Watch Wilderness Lodge”, Canada’s most northerly lodge on Somerset Island in Nunavut. Arctic Watch Lodge is Nunavut’s largest and most unique tourism operation.

Josée and Richard both started skiing at an early age. Richard was competing by age six and a member of Canada's National Cross Country Ski Team by age eighteen. He retired in 1985 with twenty national titles. Richard has a bachelor degree in mechanical engineer from the University of Vermont. Richard has co-authored two books about his adventures. Josée also spent some years competing for Canada on the National ski team. She has a Bachelor of Science degree in Botany from the University of Vermont and a teaching certificate from the University of Quebec. Richard and Josée met while ski racing.

Richard’s Expedition Highlights
:

Richard made his first arctic expedition in 1985, his first North Pole journey in 1986. In 2007 he completed his sixth journey to the North Pole, starting from land. He has made more successful treks to the Pole than anyone in history.

• •    First North Pole trek with no re-supplies; 1986 Steger International Polar expedition
• •    First surface crossing of the Arctic Ocean from Russia to Canada; 
1988 Polar Bridge Expedition
• •    First commercial North Pole Trek; 1993 North Pole Dash – last degree
• •    First and only journey to the North Pole and back with no outside assistance; 
1995 Weber-Malakhov Expedition
• •    First snowshoe trek to the North Pole; first guided unsupported North Pole trek; 
North Pole classic 2006
• •    Richard has participated in more than 50 arctic and North Pole expeditions

Josée’s Expedition Highlights

Josée made her first arctic expedition in 1988, a first crossing of the Penny Ice Cap on Baffin Island. Her first North Pole experience was in 1999.

• •    1999 – 2004 Annual treks covering the last degree to the North Pole
• •    Woman Quest; an all woman trek to the North Pole in 2001
• South Pole; 2007 an all woman trek covering the last degree to the South Pole

Food & Water

Nutritionally Balanced (Vegetarian Food Available)

Water purified daily for trekkers

Itinerary

Here is a sample daily Itinerary, on booking you will be issued a more detailed version. We can also customise the itinerary to your needs if required.

Day 1: Leave Ireland - Arrive in Calgary Airport in the afternoon- Hotel & rest

Day 2: Flight to Yellowknife - Cultural tour, country specialty food - Hotel

Day 3: Early morning private charter to Arctic Watch - 4 hours flight with a stop in Cambridge Bay Inuit airport for refueling, welcoming activities at the Arctic lodge, great meal, evening walk to the whales, and rest.

Day 4 to Day 10: All different day trips depending of the weather conditions
-    Sea kayaking with the belugas
-    Hiking and bird watching in the canyons
-    Scenic rafting in Cunnigham river and muskoxs observation
-    ATV to Polar Bear point
-    Fly fishing at Inukshuk lake
-    Hiking the Cunningham Bay and

Day 10: Half day activity of choice, and private charter back to Yellowknife.

Day 11: Flight back to Ireland - option to transit by Montreal or Quebec for the whale watching option (4 additional days)

Day 12: Arrive Ireland

Preparation

Preparation, Passports / Visa's

Preparation - A person looking at this trip will already be able to walk/trek comfortably for at least 2 hours. The trip does not require previous experience for the activities involved and is quite relaxed. If you are a total beginner to walking then a 3-6 month training program is recommended and would require notifying us prior to booking this trip. Please discuss this progression with us if you are a total beginner prior to booking this trip. For more info on our Fitness Assessment and day walks, go to our Ireland section.

Passport - You will need a valid full passport, please ensure it has at least have six months before expiring before we leave.

Vaccinations and medical precautions: Please ask your doctor about travelling to Canada, they should be able to offer you the most sensible and up-to-date advice. A dental check-up before you go is also most important, as facilities on the trip are non-existent.

Customs:
Currency:
Electricity:

Gear

• More details to follow....
• A light down top or extra fleece.
• Personal first aid and medicine kit. (All our guides will have these for emergencies only)
• UV sunglasses – Cat. 2 or 3 recommended.
• 2 x Earplugs pairs – If you have an inside pocket in sleeping bag, leave one there fulltime.

Miscellaneous items:

• Sun-block (very important and use it!!)
• Backpacking towel and general toiletries.
• Extra Clothes for traveling and/or socialising.
• Camera with wide lense and telephoto of 200-600mm, extra memory and battery. Battery depletes faster in the cold.
• Binoculars